Ahn Jung-hwan's daughter Ri-won starts first job in Korea after NYU graduation

Ri-won, the daughter of football star Ahn Jung-hwan, has returned to Korea to begin her professional career after graduating from New York University (NYU). As news broke that Ri-won, who has been known to the public through television since her childhood, has moved beyond her college years to open a new chapter as a professional, Ahn reverted to "dad mode," leaving Yoo Jae Suk visibly surprised.

In the upcoming episode of the MBC variety show 'Hangout with Yoo' airing on the 12th, a special travel itinerary will be revealed for commentator Ahn, who is preparing to depart for the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. As Ahn temporarily sets aside his charismatic persona as a football commentator to share family stories, the current lives of his two children, who have grown up so quickly, will be naturally revealed.

The concept of the trip Ahn takes with the cast members is "Italy in Korea." While enjoying a trip centered around locations and cuisine that hold special meaning for Ahn, who played professionally in Italy, the conversation naturally shifts toward his family.

During the trip, Ahn shares updates on his daughter, Ri-won. He reveals, "My daughter Ri-won graduated and returned to Korea. She got a job and is on her second day of work today." Having completed her university studies in the United States and returned to start her career, his emotions as a father are understandably profound.

In particular, Ri-won's growth makes viewers who have followed the Ahn family feel the significant passage of time. Having appeared on broadcasts with her parents during her childhood, Ri-won has moved from studying abroad in the U.S. to graduating university and now stepping into her own professional role.

Ri-won previously drew significant attention when it was announced she had enrolled at New York University. As she has been a familiar face to the public through the television appearances of her parents, Ahn and Lee Hye-won, her academic journey has been a consistent topic of interest. It was also noted that she has lived in international educational environments since her time at an international school.

It is also noteworthy that after reaching the milestone of graduating from a U.S. university, she chose to begin her career in Korea. The decision to return to Korea for employment rather than staying abroad highlights Ri-won's commitment to her own career path and life foundation.

Yoo Jae Suk was even more stunned by the news. Having indirectly watched Ahn's children grow up, the news of Ri-won's employment was a moment that made him realize how fast time flies. He reacted with great surprise, asking, "Ri-won already got a job?"

Yoo's reaction captured both the humor of the variety show and a sense of nostalgia. The fact that Ahn's children, whom he has seen on screen for years, have suddenly become working professionals highlights the distance between Ahn's current life and his days as a sports star in the 1990s and 2000s.

Along with news of his daughter, Ahn also shares updates on his son, Ri-hwan. Regarding Ri-hwan, who is now a high school senior preparing for exams, Ahn jokingly lamented, "He doesn't play with his dad anymore," drawing laughter from the cast.

From a father's perspective, his two children have entered opposite stages of life. One has entered society as an independent adult, while the other is facing the critical gateway of college entrance exams. The complex emotions of a parent witnessing such rapid growth are naturally revealed through the show's banter.

The members offer their congratulations to Ahn. In a typical variety show moment, they tease him, suggesting that since his daughter got a job, he should treat them to a "celebratory meal" to lighten his own wallet.

However, Ahn does not back down easily. He counters by asking, "My daughter got a job, so why should I pay for the meal?", appealing his grievance as a father. This moment showcases Ahn's character—a direct way of speaking and a unique competitive spirit that has defined him since his athlete days.

Since his retirement, Ahn has expanded his career as a broadcaster and football commentator. As an MBC commentator appearing in World Cups and international tournaments, he has built a unique broadcasting persona that bridges the pitch and the studio.

His appearance on 'Hangout with Yoo' coincides with his upcoming professional duties. As Ahn prepares to serve as a commentator for the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, this broadcast highlights his role not just as an analyst, but as a husband and father.

The interest in the Ahn family's story lies in the fact that they are moving beyond the "star's child" framework. The children, once known primarily due to their parents' fame, are now making independent choices regarding their own education and careers.

Ri-won's employment is therefore more than just a family update; it marks the moment she steps into society based on her own merits rather than her parents' names. Ahn shares this milestone with his trademark blend of casualness and humor, making the moment relatable rather than overly sentimental.

With both Ri-won's first job and Ri-hwan's senior year of high school being discussed, the episode illustrates how quickly time is passing for Ahn. He finds himself simultaneously celebrating a daughter's career and worrying about a son's upcoming exams.

Once known as the "Terriuer" on the pitch, Ahn now speaks of his children's careers and exams, reflecting the passage of time. His current life is being viewed through the lens of his family's growth rather than his own glamorous peak.

Whether Ahn's wallet will truly be opened for a celebratory meal, and what kind of comedic tension will ensue between him and Yoo, can be seen in the upcoming broadcast. 'Hangout with Yoo' airs on the 12th at 6:30 PM.