“Knowing Bros” Adds Female Cast Member For The First Time, One Original Cast Member Takes Break

A comedian has become the first female regular member of Knowing Bros, while an original member since the show’s inception, will be stepping aside temporarily.

On the 30th, a representative from JTBC’s Knowing Bros told OSEN, “Kim Heechul will be taking a break due to health reasons. The exact length of the break is not determined yet, but he will be resting for the time being. However, he is not leaving the program and will be absent starting from the May 9 broadcast.”

Previously, on the 29th, the show announced that Kim Shin Young would be joining as a regular member.

Since its first broadcast in 2015, Knowing Bros has been JTBC’s longest-running entertainment program, owning Saturday nights for over 10 years. This marks the first time a female has joined the show as a regular member.

Kim Shin Young has consistently made her presence felt with her quick wit and bold commentary whenever she appeared as a transfer student. She has drawn laughter and positive responses from both viewers and the other members through her unique ad-libs and relatable stories. This success paved the way for her to become a full member.

The production team said, “Even in the recent recording, Kim Shin Young immediately took over the classroom atmosphere with her unique energy. Her sharp reactions and flawless back-and-forth exchanges with the existing members naturally blended in and brought new vitality to the program. Based on the experience she gained from appearing as a transfer student five times, she quickly adapted to the ‘brother school.’ We expect her distinctive sense and wit to bring a fresh change to the show.”

However, alongside Kim Shin Young’s arrival, Super Junior‘s Kim Heechul, an original member since the first episode, will temporarily leave, which is bittersweet news for fans. Nonetheless, since his absence is health-related and not a departure, he is expected to return soon. He will be absent starting from May 9.