While the views on sexuality in Korea are still traditional in many ways, one person who has spent his career breaking down barriers is host Hong Seok Cheon.
Hong Seok Cheon | @tonyhong1004/Instagram
Over the years, he has made the topic of sexuality more accessible in Korea and is an activist in helping LGBTQ+ rights across the country. Through his activities, he is gaining a huge platform to share his message and make the subject less taboo.
One actor who has gained attention for his behavior with Hong Seok Cheon is popular actor Yoo Tae.
Actor Yoo Tae | @teoyoo/Instagram
On the recent episode of Hong Seok Cheon’s show, Yoo Tae was the guest and he made no jokes about how the actor is the first star to appear on the show who is already married.
Your browser does not support video.
Your browser does not support video.
While Hong Seok Cheon “complained” that he was the first married star, the host made sure that fans didn’t misunderstand. In particular, he pointed out that Yoo Teo’s wife is actually his best friend.
Your browser does not support video.
Toward the end of the show, Hong Seok Cheon asked the actor to pick a gem from his treasure box, and it read a forehead kiss.
Your browser does not support video.
When the two got up to complete the task, as Hong Seok Cheon went in for a cheek kiss, Yoo Teo turned his head and kissed the host on his lips before running away.
Your browser does not support video.
Hilariously, in the ending credits, the only thing on the actor’s mind was how to tell his wife that he kissed her best friend.
Your browser does not support video.
When the clip was shared, netizens loved how comfortable Hong Seok Cheon made guests feel while also loving that Yoo Teo was so secure with his masculinity that he could do it so naturally.
what goes on herepic.twitter.com/xq0TcMCBVS https://t.co/EhnXWx2wkt
— is watching DFF (@segasakii) January 17, 2024
taeyong’s cousin got to kiss teo yoo……. pic.twitter.com/k0Nv0vj2bs
— sufjan stiffens (@maramataeil) January 16, 2024
he kissed an openly gay man on national tv good for him good for himpic.twitter.com/xq0TcMCBVS
— is watching DFF (@segasakii) January 17, 2024
Yet, netizens also pointed out that it isn’t Teo Yoo’s first kiss with a man. Last year, he started in the hit K-drama Love To Hate You.
In the show, Teo Yoo plays actor Nam Gang Ho who can’t seem to trust women but has a very close bond with his best friend and manager, Do Won Jun. During one scene, the two were rehearsing one of the projects Gang Ho was filming, and it was a very romantic moment.
Your browser does not support video.
Your browser does not support video.
As things get intense, Gang Ho falls on Won Jun and accidentally kisses him on the lips.
Your browser does not support video.
Which they both find hilarious.
Your browser does not support video.
While it was a small gesture between Teo Yoo and Hong Seok Cheon, it gained attention because of the traditional views of sexuality in Korea. Hong Seok Cheon has worked his whole career to push LGBTQ+ acceptance and continues to break down barriers.
