Kang Ho-dong exits 'The Great Escape' after 8 years to pass torch to juniors

‘The Great Escape,’ which has established itself as a flagship escape-themed variety show, is entering a new era. As the 'big brother' who has led the series for eight years, Kang Ho-dong has decided to step down for the upcoming season, signaling a fresh start with a new lineup of escapists.

In the new season of ‘The Great Escape’ produced by CJ ENM, Kim Jong Min, Gim Dong-hyeon, Shin Dong, Yoo Byung Jae, Go Kyung-pyo, and SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan will join the massive escape project in place of Kang.

First released on tvN in 2018, ‘The Great Escape’ demonstrated the expansive potential of Korean variety shows by combining massive sets, a meticulous worldview, and cinematic storytelling that goes far beyond simple room-escape entertainment. Following its success through Season 4, it solidified its position as a premier seasonal variety IP by showcasing an even larger scale and narrative through last year's TVING original ‘The Great Escape: The Story.’

At the center of it all, there was always Kang.

As the leader who guided members through the program's signature tension, and the one responsible for laughter with his clumsy charm, Kang was a symbolic presence of ‘The Great Escape.’ However, ahead of the new season, he chose to step down to open new opportunities for his juniors.

“Every moment of ‘The Great Escape’ was a great joy and happiness for me,” Kang said. “I believe that my colleagues and juniors, who possess even greater imagination and wisdom than I do, will do their best to ensure success this season.”

He offered meaningful advice to the junior escapists, adding, “I truly want to convey the message that ‘a clue always exists somewhere.’”

The revamped ‘The Great Escape’ will feature a harmony between the original members beloved by fans and fresh new faces.

Kim Jong Min is expected to play the role of 'Kim Discovery,' finding decisive clues amidst his signature eccentricity. Shin Dong, known as 'Captain Shin' and 'Shin Zhuge Liang,' will continue his role as the group's brain with his excellent observation and reasoning skills.

Gim Dong-hyeon has teased a strong performance in various missions based on his overwhelming physicality, while Yoo Byung Jae will add entertainment value through his unique ability to interpret stories and his sharp wit. Go Kyung-pyo is expected to create new chemistry through his high level of immersion and passionate participation.

Additionally, SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan joins as a new escapist. With his excellent sociability, empathy, and variety skills including comedy skits, attention is focused on the chemistry he will build with the existing members.

Kang's absence will certainly be felt. However, just as ‘The Great Escape’ has constantly expanded its unique worldview, this transition appears to be a strategic choice for a new leap forward.

What Kang, who has anchored the program for eight years, is passing on is more than just a position. He is willingly yielding the stage so that the next generation of entertainers can expand the world of escape he helped create.

The new season of ‘The Great Escape,’ returning with a new legion of escapists, is set to be released on TVING in the second half of 2026.