Ive’s An Yu-jin Returns to TV with Explosive Humor in ‘ppongppong Earth Arcade Season 3’

K-pop sensation An Yu-jin of Ive is back on television, gracing viewers with her quirky charm in tvN’s latest variety series, ‘ppongppong Earth Arcade Season 3’. Premiering today, the show welcomes a revamped multiverse adventure with four female warriors—including An Yu-jin—on a mission to capture a moon rabbit that has escaped to Earth.

In this action-packed hybrid variety series, An Yu-jin reprises her role as ‘An Yu-myeong,’ a secret agent tasked with chasing a mischievous character known as ‘Torongi’, who absconded with the Jade Emperor’s corporate credit card. She joins co-stars Lee Eun-ji, Mimi, and Lee Young-ji in what is sure to be another riotous season.

An Yu-jin has quickly become a fan-favorite in the variety scene. Nicknamed the ‘Daughter of Na PD’ for her chemistry with producer Na Young-seok, her quick wit and unique delivery made her stand out since her debut in Earth Arcade 1. Her most iconic moments—from hilariously correcting Na PD during a slang quiz to creating viral phrases like ‘Chi-seong-ppae’—have solidified her as a ‘variety blue chip’ in South Korea’s competitive entertainment industry.

Recent teasers have only amplified excitement for the new season. In one clip, An Yu-jin shows off contrasting sides—switching from refined idol to spirited comedic actress—sparking laughter with exaggerated facial expressions during an impromptu performance led by Lee Eun-ji. Fans can expect more unscripted hilarity from An, who continues to push boundaries in every episode.

Speaking through her agency, Starship Entertainment, An shared, “It’s an honor to be part of ‘Earth Arcade’ again. I had so much fun filming with my sisters and the production crew. I hope Dive and viewers enjoy it too. Please show lots of love!”

Outside of broadcast TV, An’s variety prowess has been officially recognized. She won the ‘U+ Why Not Award’ at the 3rd Blue Dragon Series Awards and nabbed the popularity award at the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards. Moreover, she clinched ‘Female Variety Idol of the Year’ at the Brand of the Year Awards for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024).

In music, An Yu-jin remains a force with Ive. Their February mini-album ‘Ive Empathy’ featured the pre-release hit ‘Rebel Heart’, which swept Korea’s music charts with a “Perfect All-Kill.” Combined with the title track ‘Attitude’, the group claimed 15 music show wins, reinforcing their popularity across the industry.

Proving her versatility once more, An recently made her OST debut through ‘Sunny Day’, a track for the tvN drama ‘A Young Doctor’s Notebook’. Her vocal performance showcases another side of her multi-dimensional talent.

Whether it’s acting, singing, or cracking up audiences on television, An Yu-jin is carving out a dominant path in Korean entertainment culture. All eyes are on her continuing transformation from idol to all-around entertainer.

‘ppongppong Earth Arcade Season 3′ airs every Thursday at 8:40 p.m. on tvN.