Kim Young-kwang: "I promoted my YouTube even during accident settlements"

Former national team goalkeeper Kim Young-kwang will share a hilarious anecdote about how he promoted his YouTube channel even while settling a traffic accident. The episode, which showcases how he has carried the same tenacity from the pitch to content creation and broadcasting, is expected to draw plenty of laughter.

The MBC variety program 'Radio Star,' airing on the 22nd, will feature a 'Wipe Away the Tears Now' special with guests singer Shin So-yul, former footballer Kim Young-kwang, footballer Lee Seung-woo, and Jung Seung-hwan.

During the show, Kim will discuss his recent transition into broadcasting and digital content following the conclusion of his professional playing career.

Having brought promotional fans made specifically for him by his supporters to the studio, Kim expressed a fierce desire to enter the variety show circuit, telling the cast, "Just call me anytime. I am ready to die," which drew laughter from the panelists.

He also spoke candidly about the motivation that led him to pursue broadcasting in earnest.

While he initially had little interest in variety shows immediately after retirement, his perspective shifted after receiving his first appearance fee from filming YouTube content.

Recalling that moment, Kim said, "At that moment, I thought, 'This might be my path,'" turning the studio into a sea of laughter.

The most striking part of his story is the unusual promotional strategy he employed to grow his YouTube channel.

Kim revealed, "I always carried YouTube business cards with the goal of reaching 100,000 subscribers," confessing that he even pulled out his business cards during a meeting to settle a traffic accident.

He surprised the cast by revealing that he handed his channel business cards not only to the other driver involved in the accident but also to the family members traveling in the vehicle.

The segment is intended as a lighthearted recollection of the situation, highlighting his extraordinary passion for content creation rather than treating the accident itself lightly.

Kim also shared behind-the-scenes stories from his playing days.

He confessed that due to his strong physique and imposing presence, he received several scouting offers not only from the football world but also from the so-called 'fist world' during his school years.

However, he recalled being the type of person who could not stand by when weaker friends were being bullied, a sentiment supported by testimonies from his former classmates.

Even after retirement, the goalkeeper's ingrained reflexes remain sharp.

Kim explained that he still frequently catches a spoon dropped by someone at a restaurant before it hits the floor, or instinctively snatches objects that enter his field of vision.

Citing wide vision and excellent dynamic visual acuity as essential goalkeeper skills, he boasted, "Even if the ball flies right in front of my face, I don't close my eyes."

In response, an impromptu 'Don't Close Your Eyes Challenge' was held in the studio. Kim explained that he has practiced maintaining his gaze even when a ball comes directly at his face since childhood.

He further piqued the curiosity of the cast by claiming he can even keep his eyes open underwater.

Recently retired sports stars are increasingly expanding their reach to various platforms, including broadcasting and YouTube. This aligns with a broader trend in the sports entertainment industry, where professional expertise and public recognition are leveraged within the new media landscape.

With his characteristic wit and honest personality, Kim is carving out a new path as a broadcaster. This upcoming broadcast is expected to showcase his unique charm through unexpected and humorous episodes.