Heo Kyung Hwan hides in Japan to avoid crowds of Korean tourists

Comedian Heo Kyung Hwan encountered an unexpected obstacle while shopping in Japan, forcing him to halt filming for his latest video. He explained that the sheer number of Korean tourists in the area made it difficult to film openly with a camera.

In a video released on his YouTube channel on the 20th, Heo introduced skincare products, scalp care items, and toothpaste he purchased during his trip. Known for his dedication to self-care, the video focused on the various grooming items and daily necessities he bought directly in Japan.

Offering shopping tips to viewers, he advised, "Everything is available if you go to a Japanese drugstore," adding, "If you dislike crowds and want to buy what you want quickly, just go to a quiet drugstore nearby."

However, the crowds proved to be the main issue. Heo confessed to the difficulties of filming on-site, stating, "Other places were so crowded that I felt awkward filming videos."

In the footage, after arriving at a Japanese shopping mall, Heo can be seen cautiously scanning his surroundings before picking up his camera. He described a situation reminiscent of undercover reporting, saying, "There are so many people here right now that I am filming while hiding."

Heo even explained why he was wearing sunglasses. Looking into the camera, he said, "I apologize for wearing sunglasses right now," explaining, "I wore them because there are so many Koreans here."

He noted that he wore the sunglasses specifically to avoid being recognized by Korean tourists. As major Japanese tourist attractions have become increasingly popular destinations for Korean travelers, the unexpected struggles faced by Korean celebrities filming on-site have provided a moment of humor.

Ultimately, Heo decided it was too difficult to continue. He declared, "I gave up while filming this video. I will buy the items here and explain them once I get back to my accommodation. Mission failed."

Despite the importance of on-site footage for YouTube content, Heo chose to stop filming to avoid drawing attention from those around him. It serves as a paradoxical moment where vlog-style content, designed to show a celebrity's daily life up close, faces real-world constraints due to their fame.

Born in 1981, Heo debuted in 2007 as a comedian from the 22nd KBS open recruitment class. He built public recognition through various segments on KBS 2TV's "Gag Concert," such as "Dignity of a Beggar," "Do-Cups," "Four Things," and "Bongsunga School," using his unique appearance and self-boasting as comedic material.

Heo has since expanded his career beyond comedy to become a businessman and broadcaster. His physique, maintained through consistent exercise, has become a core part of his television persona. Recently, he has continued to showcase his signature humor—characterized by bluffing and clumsy charm—on various variety shows such as "Hangout with Yoo" and "Radio Star."

In this Japan shopping video, Heo's signature self-care and humor were on full display, alongside the unexpected inconveniences of being a famous celebrity. For Heo, avoiding Korean tourists proved to be a bigger challenge than the shopping itself.