On July 6, 2025, SBS's popular variety show My Little Old Boy (미운 우리 새끼, or "My Ugly Duckling") aired a highly anticipated episode featuring a unique 3-on-3 blind date that had fans buzzing. The episode brought together three well-known male celebrities—actor Choi Jin-hyuk, comedian Heo Kyung-hwan, and former badminton star Lee Yong-dae—for an unprecedented group dating event with three accomplished and visually striking women. The female participants were doctor Shim Ha-yul, startup employee Choi Hyang-gi, and haegum (traditional Korean string instrument) performer Go Soo-jung, aged 31.
The setup was anything but ordinary. The trio of men, each preparing meticulously for the occasion, arrived at the venue exuding a mix of excitement and nervousness, especially for Choi Jin-hyuk and Lee Yong-dae, who were participating in a blind date for the first time. Their expressions revealed a palpable tension as they faced the prospect of finding new romantic connections under the watchful eyes of cameras and, notably, their mothers.
Back in the studio, the mothers of these celebrities were fully engrossed in the unfolding drama. Heo Kyung-hwan's mother, in particular, voiced humorous concern, remarking, "Our son is at a relative disadvantage compared to Choi Jin-hyuk and Lee Yong-dae," which lightened the mood and elicited laughter from the audience. The mothers’ emotional investment added an extra layer of warmth and relatability to the broadcast, as viewers saw a blend of maternal protectiveness and hopeful anticipation.
The three female participants brought not only charm but impressive credentials to the table. Shim Ha-yul introduced herself as a doctor, lending a sense of professionalism and poise. Choi Hyang-gi, who works at a startup company, represented the dynamic and innovative spirit of younger professionals. Finally, Go Soo-jung, a skilled haegum player, added a cultural and artistic flair to the mix. Their presence ignited a lively atmosphere within the studio, with many commentators dubbing the event "the greatest blind date in the history of My Little Old Boy."
The format of the blind date was a rotation style, allowing each participant to engage in one-on-one conversations with different partners. Despite the brief encounters, a pink-hued atmosphere of budding romance was evident. The conversations were described as sincere and meaningful, suggesting that genuine connections were forming amidst the playful competition.
One of the most intriguing dynamics arose when both Heo Kyung-hwan and Lee Yong-dae found themselves attracted to the same female participant, sparking subtle tension between the two men. This unexpected twist added a layer of complexity and suspense, keeping both the participants and the audience on their toes.
As the event progressed, the mothers’ reactions to the interim selection results became a focal point of the broadcast. Their shifting emotions—from joy to disappointment and back—provided a heartfelt glimpse into the personal stakes involved. These moments underscored the blend of entertainment and genuine human experience that makes My Little Old Boy resonate with viewers.
Adding expert commentary to the mix was special MC Kim Yi-na, known for her keen insights into relationships and dating. She demonstrated her reputation as a "love expert" by accurately reading the subtle emotional cues among the participants. However, even she admitted to being perplexed by the tangled web of feelings, candidly stating, "It's too confusing," as she found it difficult to predict the final outcome.
The climax of the episode—the final selection moment—was set to air at 9 PM on the same day, leaving viewers eager to see which couples would emerge from this intricate dance of attraction and choice. The anticipation highlighted the show's skill in blending lighthearted entertainment with authentic emotional storytelling.
Behind the scenes, the blind date was arranged by Oh Jung-tae, who carefully curated the participants to ensure a balanced and engaging interaction. The event not only showcased the personal sides of these celebrities but also spotlighted the diverse talents and careers of the women involved, from medicine to startups to traditional music.
As the episode aired, social media and fan forums lit up with discussions about the chemistry between the participants, the mothers’ reactions, and the unique format of the group blind date. Many praised the show for pushing the boundaries of conventional dating programs by introducing a multi-person dynamic that captured complex human emotions and relationships.
Ultimately, this special episode of My Little Old Boy was more than just a blind date; it was a vivid portrayal of modern romance, family bonds, and the unpredictable nature of love. With its combination of humor, heartfelt moments, and cultural richness, the broadcast reaffirmed the show's place as a beloved fixture in South Korean entertainment.
