On February 22, 2025, JTBC's popular entertainment program, Ahn's Family, featured an engaging episode dedicated to individuals known as the 'second-tier' figures. The episode shed light on the intriguing lives of guests including former baseball star Yang Jun-hyeok, professional gamer Hong Jin-ho, model and TV personality Lee Hyun-yi, and singer Shin Seung-hwan, who all reflected on their careers overshadowed by prominent figures.
The episode's theme aimed to address the significance of second-place individuals, exploring their unique experiences and the societal perceptions they contend with. Featuring personal anecdotes and reflective discussions, the show provided insight not only on their careers but also on how they cope with being 'second best'.
Yang Jun-hyeok, who shared his perspective as someone often living under the shadows of sports legends such as Lee Jong-beom and Lee Seung-yeop, articulated feelings of triumph mixed with disappointment. “When I debuted, I always felt overshadowed by my competitors. It’s been 18 years of living as the second-best,” he remarked, as he recounted the challenges he faced throughout his illustrious career. Dishing on his highest salary at 1.4 billion won which dwindled due to factors like the IMF, he humorously noted, “I found out quickly being second isn’t the worst thing—there are perks too.”
Hong Jin-ho, another guest, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how the presence of stars like Lee Yohan lifted the overall standard of their craft, indirectly benefiting 'second-tier' gamers like himself. "(Yohan) got paid great, and so did I, as he brought attention to our field," he said. This notion resonates within competitive environments across various industries, extending beyond gaming to modeling and entertainment.
Meanwhile, Lee Hyun-yi candidly opened up about his personal struggles with narcolepsy. His admission came as quite the surprise to the viewers. “I have narcolepsy. I stayed two days at the medical center for tests and they confirmed it. The doctor said I am among the top 10% for narcolepsy,” he stated, adding with light humor how even during filming, he has fallen asleep at times. This brave confession illustrated not just the pressure of the public eye but also the personal battles many face, amplifying the episode's message about acceptance.
Shin Seung-hwan discussed his aspirations post-competition, indicating the motivation behind his drive, explaining, “Even as the runner-up on ‘Burning Trotman,’ I learned so much and aim to carve my own path.” This expressed belief among the guests—to find contentment as industry 'second-tier' figures—was pivotal to the episode's core message. Each guest, through their narratives, brought forth ideas of persistence, contentment, and the dynamics of rivalry.
The episode wrapped up with hearty laughter and camaraderie, showcasing how these individuals, often overlooked, find satisfaction and strength within their roles. Their stories resonate with the notion: being second doesn't merely denote defeat but also serves as valuable learning experiences, fostering networks and potentially leading to future triumphs.
Overall, Ahn's Family succeeded not just by entertaining its audience but by instilling messages of resilience, fulfillment, and acceptance. Through humor and heartfelt stories, it has opened up much-needed dialogues on how society perceives success, enhancing the emotional depth of what it really means to thrive as the 'second best.'