Airing on March 4, 2025, the JTBC show ‘I Know Foreigners’ featured notable foreign entertainment figures Amy, Nickkun, Julian, and Fabian, discussing their experiences and the cultural significance of their identities within the industry. This episode not only highlighted their various backgrounds but also offered insights about the popularity and challenges faced by foreigners working in Korean entertainment.
Amy, known for her vibrant personality and career since 2002, openly reflected on her upbringing, asserting, "I was born in Japan, but I am Jeonju Lee. I debuted in 2002 and kept saying this, but people reacted, ‘Was she Korean?’" Her comments evoked laughter as she expressed frustration at the confusion surrounding her nationality. Despite her Japanese roots, Amy's connection to Korea is evident, prompting her to feel more aligned with her Korean identity.
On the same show, Nickkun, whose fame stretches across Asia, was highlighted by fellow participant Minnie. She exclaimed, "He is really like the prince of Thailand. There is no one who doesn’t know him. When you mention Nickkun oppa, everyone says Nichkhun, Nichkhun." This enthusiasm for Nickkun’s status reflects not only his success but also the deep admiration he garners from fans and peers alike.
Delving more deeply, the conversation turned to Nickkun’s involvement (or lack thereof) with the Thai entertainment industry. When asked by Boom about the existence of exclusive Thai celebrity group chats, Nickkun clarified, saying, "I know about the group chat, but I was not part of it." He explained this decision by noting the age gap among industry peers, which he felt justified his absence. This sentiment added layers to discussions about age dynamics within celebrity cultures.
During the discussion, the humor reignited as Sakura playfully questioned, "Isn’t it okay if I just gave him my card?" responding to the banter about celebrity networks. Boom’s witty remark, "But the juniors are doing so well anyway," only added to the lighthearted atmosphere of the show, emphasizing how the current generation of entertainers continues to thrive.
Collectively, the stars of this episode illustrated the intersection of Korean and foreign cultural influences, reflecting on their journeys and the recognition they have received along the way. The fusion of different cultural experiences contributed to the representation of diverse identities within Korean entertainment, lending depth to their stories and paving the way for future aspirants.
Through humor and camaraderie, the episode of ‘I Know Foreigners’ reaffirmed the significance of cross-cultural engagement within the entertainment industry, ensuring audiences not only enjoy the entertainment but also appreciate the personal stories behind each star's success. With Amy, Nickkun, Julian, and Fabian leading the conversation, it was clear the show offers more than merely entertainment; it serves as a bridge for cultural exchange and mutual respect amid diversity.