Kim Jong-kook Still a Tightwad After Marriage: "I Don't Shop at All"

Singer Kim Jong-kook has once again become a hot topic by revealing his unchanging 'frugal DNA' even after marriage. During a trip to Japan, he demonstrated lifestyle habits that prioritize value and efficiency over consumption, once again proving the 'stingy character' that the public has been familiar with for a long time.

On the 28th, a video titled 'A Decorating Trip with Jong-kook Hyung: Bone & Muscle Journey in Tokyo Episode 1' was released on the YouTube channel 'Today's Joo Woo-jae.' In this video, Kim Jong-kook and Joo Woo-jae traveled to Tokyo, Japan, providing laughter by showing their contrasting spending tendencies and travel styles.

Even before departure, Joo Woo-jae's jokes targeting Kim Jong-kook's frugal habits continued. Joo Woo-jae told the production crew, "Everyone must keep this in mind. You must not use wet wipes recklessly during this trip," adding, "It will be a real problem."

He continued, "If you use a wet wipe, go to the bathroom, wash it, and dry it. You have to use it as a dry towel the next day," wittily referencing Kim Jong-kook's lifestyle, which previously drew attention when it was revealed that he washes and reuses wet wipes.

In response, Kim Jong-kook said, "It's okay to use them when you need to," but then turned to the production crew and asked, "But have you really never used them like that?" causing laughter. It was a moment that once again revealed his tendency to treat frugality not just as a broadcast image, but as an actual lifestyle habit.

Kim Jong-kook's unique standards were also firm regarding food preferences. While the two visited restaurants, Joo Woo-jae enjoyed bread and drinks, while Kim Jong-kook drew attention by stating, "I do not eat things that have no value."

He explained his philosophy that he doesn't just save unconditionally, but consumes according to his own standards, saying, "I eat if I am truly hungry or if it is a famous food."

A stark difference between the two was also evident in shopping. While Joo Woo-jae enjoyed the pleasures of travel by looking at shoes and clothes, Kim Jong-kook declared, "I don't shop at all."

He further revealed, "Since I run a clothing business, I have no reason to shop," and added, "Aside from eating, I have almost no expenditures."

Famous for muscle management and self-care, Kim Jong-kook has previously revealed lifestyle habits such as reducing water and electricity usage and a philosophy of reducing unnecessary consumption through broadcasts. Beyond simply saving money, he has demonstrated his own frugal philosophy as a 'way of life that distinguishes between what is necessary and what is not.'

Kim Jong-kook, who debuted with the group Turbo in 1995, has not only succeeded as a solo singer but has also maintained long-standing popularity by exerting an unrivaled presence in variety shows. In particular, he has built a unique character by combining his image as a 'frugal star' with thorough self-management.

Kim Jong-kook, who reached a new turning point in his life by holding a private wedding with a non-celebrity woman last September, continues to maintain his friendly charm with fans by showing that his spending habits and life philosophy remain unchanged even after marriage.