My Ugly Duckling Features Tense Celebrity 3 On 3 Blind Date

On the evening of July 6, 2025, SBS's popular variety show My Ugly Duckling delivered a fresh twist to its usual lineup with a highly anticipated 3-on-3 blind date event that captivated viewers and stirred excitement both in the studio and among fans nationwide. The episode brought together three well-known male celebrities—actor Choi Jin-hyuk, comedian Heo Kyung-hwan, and former badminton star Lee Yong-dae—in a unique group dating format that promised sparks and surprises.

For many, the highlight was the dynamic and tension-filled interactions among the participants, who faced off against three accomplished and visually striking women: doctor Shim Ha-yul, startup employee Choi Hyang-gi, and haegeum musician Go Soo-jung. Their impressive credentials and charm set the stage for what was quickly dubbed one of the most memorable matchmaking episodes in the show's history.

From the outset, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Heo Kyung-hwan voiced a humorous yet pointed concern about the physical stature of the men, lamenting, "All the sons are 180 [cm tall], isn't that wrong?" This comment highlighted the playful competitiveness and light-hearted frustrations that peppered the evening. Meanwhile, both Choi Jin-hyuk and Lee Yong-dae appeared noticeably nervous, as it was their first time participating in a blind date setting, adding an authentic human element to the proceedings.

The studio, filled with the participants’ mothers—affectionately known as the 'Mother Avengers'—watched intently, their emotions fluctuating with every interaction. Heo Kyung-hwan's mother openly expressed concern, remarking, "Comparatively, our sons are too disadvantaged," a candid reflection that brought laughter and empathy from viewers. The mothers’ invested reactions amplified the emotional stakes, turning the blind date into a family affair.

The format of the evening was a 'rotation meeting,' expertly explained by host Oh Jung-tae: each participant was allotted 10 minutes to engage in one-on-one conversations, allowing for genuine connections to form amid the group dynamics. This setup led to revealing and heartfelt exchanges, where even brief dialogues were enough to kindle a 'pink' atmosphere—an unmistakable sign of romantic interest.

As the night unfolded, a subtle but palpable tension emerged when both Lee Yong-dae and Heo Kyung-hwan found themselves drawn to the same woman, sparking a quiet rivalry that intrigued both the participants and the audience. This emotional entanglement became a focal point, with the mothers and viewers keenly observing the delicate balance of affections and the undercurrents of competition.

Adding depth to the evening’s narrative was special MC Kim Yi-na, a seasoned lyricist and self-proclaimed 'love expert,' who astutely read the nuanced emotions swirling among the six participants. Her keen observations and candid remarks provided insightful commentary that enriched the viewing experience. Yet, even with her expertise, Kim Yi-na admitted, "It's too confusing," when faced with the complex web of feelings, underscoring the unpredictable nature of love and human connection.

The female participants themselves brought a remarkable blend of talent and allure to the event. Shim Ha-yul, a practicing doctor, combined intelligence with grace; Choi Hyang-gi, immersed in the fast-paced world of startups, radiated ambition and modernity; and Go Soo-jung enchanted with her mastery of the traditional Korean string instrument, the haegeum, adding cultural depth and artistic flair to the mix. Their presence not only elevated the quality of the blind date but also captivated the studio audience, who dubbed them the 'My Ugly Duckling Visual Line' for their striking looks and impressive backgrounds.

Throughout the rotation meetings, the participants engaged in earnest conversations, revealing facets of their personalities that went beyond their public personas. The blend of nerves, excitement, and genuine curiosity created moments of warmth and humor, making the interactions relatable and engaging. The mothers, watching closely, found themselves emotionally invested, their reactions ranging from hopeful anticipation to playful skepticism.

The climax of the episode centered around the mid-point selection results, which brought a wave of mixed emotions among the mothers—joy for some, disappointment for others—highlighting the unpredictability and bittersweet nature of matchmaking. This emotional rollercoaster was a testament to the authentic connections and tensions that had developed over the course of the evening.

Ultimately, the episode promised to reveal the final pairings during the broadcast, keeping viewers on edge and eager to see how the intertwined affections would resolve. The blend of celebrity charm, heartfelt moments, and family dynamics made this 3-on-3 blind date a standout event in My Ugly Duckling's run, offering a compelling look at love's complexities in the spotlight.

As the night wrapped up, the show's unique combination of humor, sincerity, and emotional depth left a lasting impression, reminding audiences that even in the world of entertainment, the search for connection remains a universal and deeply human experience.