From Rising Star to Loving Dad: Choi Dae-hoon’s Heartfelt Journey on ‘You Quiz on the Block’

Choi Dae-hoon Steps Into the Spotlight

Choi Dae-hoon, who captured hearts as the stern Mr. Hak in Netflix’s ‘Bustling Belated Confessions’, is now taking center stage on tvN’s beloved variety show ‘You Quiz on the Block’. In the show’s 290th episode teaser, viewers are invited into the life of the actor whose off-screen personality might surprise fans.

The Star Behind Mr. Hak

In ‘Bustling Belated Confessions’, Choi portrays Bu Sang-gil—a character that left a lasting impression nationwide. When asked if he’s feeling the buzz of his growing popularity on You Quiz on the Block, Choi responded in his signature quirky fashion, “It’s nice. I love it.” Even Yoo Jae-suk, the show’s host, brought up Choi’s new nickname, to which Choi recalled his daughter saying, “Hak-ssi, what do you even do?” while doing homework—blending fame into fatherhood humor.

More Than an Actor—A Family Man

Choi shared a heartfelt anecdote of a moment with his wife. He recalled a time when she answered a phone call saying, “My husband will drive me. He’s Gwan-sik, my husband”—referring to a character closer to his real-life affectionate persona. Though widely known as Mr. Hak, Choi identifies more with his gentle, loving side.

Reflecting on His Journey

The path to fame wasn’t easy. Choi Dae-hoon revealed that he lived with his parents until the age of 35 during his struggling years as an actor. When remembering his late father, Choi became emotional, noting that during a makeup session for a role, he fleetingly saw his father’s face in the mirror. “My sisters cried watching that episode,” he said. “I once told my father, ‘Give me 12 years. I’ll buy you a car, give you everything,’ but I couldn’t.” He added, teary-eyed, “If he were alive now, he would be so happy to see me walking this path.”

Tune In for More

Don’t miss the full episode airing on tvN this May 23 at 8:45 PM KST. Witness the touching, funny, and inspiring side of Choi Dae-hoon as he reconnects with fans and shares his untold story.