Kim Hee Chul Joins 'Love War' After 'Knowing Bros' Hiatus: 'I Expected Criticism, But Glad Kim Shin Young Is Doing Well'

On the 23rd, during the online production presentation for the JTBC variety program 'Love War,' Super Junior's Kim Hee Chul announced his joining of 'Love War' following his departure from 'Knowing Bros.' Kwon Hae-bom (CP), Park Eun Young (PD), and MCs Lee Hyori, Seo Jang Hoon, and Kim Hee Chul attended the event.

'Love War' is a dating reality program where dating experts Lee Hyori, Seo Jang Hoon, and Kim Hee Chul decide whether couples on the brink of a breakup should continue their relationship or part ways amidst intense conflict.

Kim Hee Chul revealed that he had to temporarily leave 'Knowing Bros' this past April due to health reasons. He has been an original member of 'Knowing Bros' since its first broadcast in 2015. Appearing on a variety show from the same broadcasting station during his hiatus from 'Knowing Bros,' he confessed honestly, "Actually, it is something I should be criticized for."

Explaining his reason for leaving 'Knowing Bros,' he said, "'Love War' was already decided to happen since early this year, and 'Knowing Bros' is a very precious program to me. Isn't it the program that raised me this much? Because I was filming 'Knowing Bros' every Thursday, situations arose where I had to adjust my schedule for overseas trips and such. When filming two shows, I found myself unable to focus in the front seat. Like Kang Ho-dong hyung's mindset, even if I fly for 20 hours or feel tired, I shouldn't let the guests or viewers see that. I felt it was unprofessional, so I resolved to take a break and return to my original self."

He further shared his inner thoughts, stating, "When the casting offer for 'Love War' came in, I thought, 'What should I do? I'm going to get criticized a lot.' But fortunately, the 'Knowing Bros' production team is supportive, and thankfully, Kim Shin Young is doing so well." 'Love War' premieres this evening at 8:50 PM.