On a chilly February 22, 2026, viewers of SBS’s popular variety show My Ugly Duckling were treated to a delightful episode featuring two beloved figures of South Korea’s entertainment scene: Cool’s Lee Jae-hoon and the ever-witty Tak Jae-hoon. The episode, set against the picturesque backdrop of Jeju Island, offered a heartwarming mix of nostalgia, humor, and genuine camaraderie, drawing in fans both old and new.
The show opened with Lee Jae-hoon making his way to Tak Jae-hoon’s home in Jeju, a visit that would set the stage for an afternoon full of laughter, friendly teasing, and a bit of culinary flair. According to Sports Hankook, Lee Jae-hoon, who is six years older than Tak Jae-hoon but debuted just a year before him in the entertainment industry, wasted no time asserting his playful seniority. As soon as he arrived, he rolled up his sleeves and got to work preparing a barbecue feast, demonstrating a level of skill that didn’t go unnoticed.
Lee’s cooking prowess quickly became the talk of the table. Seo Jang-hoon, also present, remarked, “He must be good at this all the time,” while Shin Dong-yup chimed in, “Cool’s Lee Jae-hoon and Sung Si-kyung are uniquely talented when it comes to cooking.” Their comments, reported by News1, highlighted just how impressive Lee’s culinary skills are, especially for someone better known for his vocal talents than his kitchen exploits.
The menu for the day was nothing short of mouthwatering. Lee brined chicken legs with saline, then seasoned ribs with a blend of mustard, paprika powder, and pepper—a combination that promised bold flavors. He then placed the meat on the grill, noting that it would need to smoke for a full three hours to reach perfection. With time to spare, the banter between the two friends began in earnest.
As the barbecue sizzled away, Tak Jae-hoon’s hunger got the better of him. He confessed, “I’m hungry. Doing this has made me even hungrier!” Not missing a beat, he nudged Lee Jae-hoon, “Why don’t you sing a song?” Lee, ever the senior, shot back, “I’m the senior here, so the junior should sing!” The friendly back-and-forth, as detailed by Sports Hankook, was a classic display of Korean entertainment’s unique approach to seniority—a blend of respect, rivalry, and relentless teasing.
But the good-natured ribbing didn’t stop there. When Lee Jae-hoon asked, “What should we do now?” Tak replied, “Sing a song,” prompting Lee to again deflect the request back to his ‘junior.’ The pair’s chemistry was on full display, their playful arguments and laughter filling the air and charming the show’s audience.
With the barbecue still hours from being ready, Lee suggested a spontaneous adventure: “Shall we go see the snow?” The two hopped in the car and set off toward Hallasan, Jeju’s highest peak, windows down, the winter air swirling around them. As they drove, Lee asked, “What is the highest mountain in our country?” Tak, ever quick with a joke, replied without hesitation, “Real estate.” He went on, “I’ve never seen anyone reach the top of real estate,” a sharp, satirical jab at South Korea’s notoriously challenging property market. The quip, highlighted by News1, drew laughter from everyone present and resonated with viewers, many of whom are all too familiar with the frustrations of the real estate game.
It wasn’t all jokes and food, though. The drive became a trip down memory lane as the pair rolled down the windows and belted out some of Cool’s biggest hits from the 1990s. For long-time fans, it was a nostalgic treat—a reminder of the era when Cool’s catchy tunes were the soundtrack to countless summers. According to Sports Hankook, Lee Jae-hoon even revealed an exciting update: he would be holding a solo concert on February 28, 2026. In a lighthearted twist, he asked Tak Jae-hoon to take on the role of DJ for the event, further cementing their enduring friendship and partnership.
The episode’s charm lay in its authenticity. There was no forced drama or over-the-top antics—just two old friends enjoying each other’s company, sharing stories, and poking fun at life’s absurdities. Their interactions, from the kitchen to the car, were punctuated by moments of reflection and genuine affection, offering viewers a rare glimpse into the personal side of these public figures.
Lee Jae-hoon’s culinary skills, which drew praise from both Seo Jang-hoon and Shin Dong-yup, added an unexpected twist to the day’s events. It’s not every day that a pop star is celebrated for his cooking as much as his singing, but Lee’s deft handling of the barbecue proved he’s a man of many talents. His willingness to take charge in the kitchen, coupled with his easy rapport with Tak, made for compelling television.
Tak Jae-hoon, for his part, showcased the quick wit and humor that have made him a mainstay on Korean variety shows. His joke about real estate being the nation’s highest peak was more than just a punchline—it was a clever commentary on a social issue that hits close to home for many South Koreans. By transforming his own “real estate misfortunes” into comedy, as noted by News1, Tak once again demonstrated his knack for turning life’s challenges into relatable entertainment.
The episode also served as a reminder of the power of nostalgia. Hearing Cool’s hit songs echo through the car as Lee and Tak drove toward Hallasan, viewers were transported back to the heyday of 1990s K-pop—a time when the world seemed a little simpler and the music a little sweeter. It was a fitting prelude to Lee’s upcoming solo concert, an event sure to draw fans eager to relive those golden years.
As the sun set over Jeju, the barbecue finally ready, Lee and Tak wrapped up their day with full stomachs and fuller hearts. Their laughter, camaraderie, and willingness to poke fun at themselves and each other offered a refreshing break from the usual TV fare. For one evening, at least, viewers were reminded that sometimes, the best stories are the simplest ones—rooted in friendship, good food, and a shared love of music.
Episodes like this one on My Ugly Duckling are a testament to the enduring appeal of genuine connection and lighthearted fun. With Lee Jae-hoon’s solo concert just around the corner and Tak Jae-hoon’s humor as sharp as ever, fans have plenty to look forward to in the weeks ahead.