Actress-turned-inventor Koo Hye-sun made a highly anticipated return to MBC’s talk show Radio Star on January 21, greeting the studio with her trademark humor: “It seems like I appear every New Year.” True to her words, Koo has successfully brought last year’s on-air idea—a line of hair rollers—to reality. This year, she shares fresh updates, offering viewers a glimpse into her evolving journey beyond acting.
The episode, titled “2026 Words: As Spoken!”, features Koo alongside Lee Geum-hee, Yeom Kyung-hwan, and Jeon Min-gi, under the direction of Yoon Hye-jin, Hwang Yoon-sang, and Byun Da-hee.
Koo Hye-sun recounted her academic achievements, graduating as valedictorian from Sungkyunkwan University and completing early graduation from KAIST Graduate School. She attributed her success to her guiding principle: vocalizing her goals and keeping them as promises to herself. “If you don’t speak, you end up giving up,” she told the MCs, leaving a lasting impression.
The broadcast also highlighted Koo’s striking new appearance. With her weight starting with the digit 4, paired with a fresh hairstyle and floral accessories, her look evoked memories of her beloved Boys Over Flowers character, Geum Jan-di, instantly lifting the studio’s energy.
Fans also got an inside look at her musical endeavors, as Koo shared behind-the-scenes stories of her composer work and welcomed singer Lee Jick to the show. She even performed a song live, humorously summarizing her diverse career as an actor, film director, painter, composer, and inventor with her signature candid storytelling.
Koo also addressed moments of public scrutiny, sharing how she handled misunderstandings and neutralized antagonistic fans with grace and humor. The studio erupted in laughter at her entertaining anecdotes. She further recalled her decisive audition for Boys Over Flowers, explaining how her bold actions secured her iconic role.
Koo Hye-sun’s real-life journey of turning her words into tangible achievements continues to inspire fans. Viewers can watch her full story tonight (January 21) at 10:30 p.m. on Radio Star.
MBC’s Radio Star remains a beloved talk show, celebrated for the MCs’ sharp wit and their ability to draw out authentic stories from guests.
