Kim Won-hee: "I'm in menopause and took diet pills—I can't remember anything"

Actress and entertainer Kim Won-hee made a much-anticipated return to variety programming, delighting viewers with her signature wit and candid updates on her life. Reuniting with Yoo Jae Suk for the first time in approximately 15 years, she showcased her unshakable sense of humor and quick wit while also opening up about the changes she has experienced over the years.

In the episode of MBC variety show 'Hangout with Yoo' aired on the 1st, Yoo Jae Suk, Haha, Heo Kyung Hwan, and Joo Woo-jae—who are currently preparing for the production of a short-form drama Season 2—met with Kim to hold a casting meeting.

The most anticipated moment of the day was the reunion between Yoo Jae Suk and Kim. The two previously shared incredible chemistry during their long run together on the MBC variety show 'Come to Play.'

Upon seeing Yoo, Kim immediately joked, "Why are you acting like a director?" Yoo responded with ease, demonstrating their seamless "tiki-taka" banter that remained unchanged despite the passage of time.

The atmosphere on set brightened significantly due to their natural rapport, which felt as if no time had passed in 15 years.

Kim also spoke candidly about her recent life.

"I am living the life of an ordinary housewife," she said. "Lately, I have a tendency to disconnect from the media. I'm a bit out of the loop regarding the entertainment industry."

While she was once a star who dominated the broadcasting scene, she explained that she is currently seeking peace in her daily life rather than the glamorous life of a celebrity.

She then drew laughter with her characteristic humorous remark: "I can't remember anything because of menopause."

When Haha burst into laughter, Kim retorted, "Are you laughing at me?" She continued, "Women have a graph. I'm at the age where the line has dropped halfway, so I have no choice but to lie down. I have no energy, so I have to lie down to recharge."

Rather than hiding the physical changes and fatigue that come naturally with age, she addressed them with her unique sense of humor.

In particular, Kim showed a lack of focus during the meeting, revealing an unexpected reason.

"I took diet pills today, so my head feels foggy," she said, adding, "Shouldn't I eat something?" to the amusement of the group.

Yoo Jae Suk was surprised by her continued honesty and could not help but laugh.

Kim's unfiltered wit continued even during moments that evoked the past.

When she complimented Heo Kyung Hwan, saying, "You're still pretty," Yoo joked, "Won-hee has always been someone who cares a lot about looks." Kim quickly shot back, "If I didn't care about looks, you and I would have had a scandal," sending the set into fits of laughter.

The joke highlighted the deep, long-standing friendship between the two.

During the episode, Kim also touched upon the possibility of returning to acting.

"Many people around me ask why I don't act, given that I started as an actress," she revealed. "It has been 15 years since I last acted."

She added, "Sometimes when I watch a production and see a good character, I think, 'Shouldn't I start acting again?'"

When Yoo Jae Suk suggested she play the role of a wealthy lady, Kim offered an unexpected response.

"I don't want a role like that. I want to try playing a villain."

Having long been loved for her bright and friendly image, she expressed a desire to show a new side of herself.

She also showed confidence in action scenes, recalling her passion for acting in the past: "In my old movies, I did my own stunts without a body double."

Having debuted as an actress in the 1990s, Kim later became a highly recognized entertainer and MC due to her relatability and sense. Her comfortable chemistry with Yoo Jae Suk in their past programs remains fondly remembered by many viewers.

With her enduring wit, honest confessions, and a renewed desire to challenge herself in acting, Kim Won-hee's appearance was more than just a variety show appearance; it was a moment that reaffirmed her timeless charm.