“Venerable Pomnyun’s Road: Monk and Guest” (hereafter “Monk and Guest”) has released character teasers for actor Lee Sang-yoon and Allday Project’s Woochan.
Premiering on May 19, SBS’s “Monk and Guest” is a road trip journey of “immediate questions and immediate answers” where “national mentor” Venerable Pomnyun, who has comforted countless hearts, and various guests search for their “true selves.” It is garnering anticipation as it marks Venerable Pomnyun’s first appearance in a road variety show and will reveal parts of his 34-year pilgrimage to India for the first time on a variety show. Moving beyond a simple travel show, it aims to provide unique fun and empathy through a differentiated concept blending spiritual practice, travel, and real-life concerns.
In the released character teaser, Lee Sang-yoon showed a surprising charm different from his usual elite image. Having met Venerable Pomnyun on a variety show in the past, Lee Sang-yoon expressed his joy at reuniting after 8 years, calmly starting the journey by saying, “I wonder if I can find answers through conversations with the monk.” However, once the journey truly began, he transformed into a “question bomber,” as if exploding with curiosity pent up for 8 years. Lee Sang-yoon showed complete immersion in the journey, constantly showering Venerable Pomnyun with questions during travel and breaks. He sparked laughter from both the monk and viewers by repeatedly asking, “Then, may I ask just one more thing?” every time the conversation seemed to be ending.
In Woochan’s character teaser, his free-spirited energy and genuine charm as the youngest member caught everyone’s attention. Even in the unfamiliar environment of India, Woochan didn’t shrink back, displaying the friendliness of a “Power E” (extrovert). From boldly talking to locals on the street to skillfully bargaining for prices, he fully played the role of the “golden youngest.” Lee Sang-yoon marveled, “A friend leading the MZ generation is indeed different,” and Noh Hong-chul couldn’t hide his surprise, asking, “What is your identity?”
In particular, Woochan completed a unique character with his confidence, not being intimidated even in front of Venerable Pomnyun. He showed his honest charm by asking the monk about the desired camera angle and freely sharing his thoughts and curiosities. Venerable Pomnyun burst into laughter at Woochan’s unexpected “MZ-style straightforward way of speaking.” The great chemistry between the two, overcoming a 50-year age gap, is expected to be another highlight of the program. The first episode airs on the 19th at 9 PM.
