During a recent episode of JTBC’s “Famous Singers and Street Judges” aired on March 6, Lee Seung-gi expressed his surprise when his teammate, Shin Hae-sol, professed admiration for the show “New Journey to the West”, saying he shared a team with Kyuhyun because of it. In a lighthearted response, Lee Seung-gi claimed, “I’m the one who first created ‘New Journey to the West’ with (Na) Young-seok.“
The popular series “New Journey to the West,” which started airing on tvN in 2015, offers a whimsical retake on the Chinese literary classic, gathering a significant fan following. The cast, initially made up of “2 Days & 1 Night” alumni Kang Ho-dong, Lee Soo-geun, Eun Ji-won, and Lee Seung-gi, eventually saw several changes across its eight seasons.
![Lee Seung-gi Remarks on Originating the Concept for ‘New Journey to the West’ 3 Lee Seung-gi](https://i0.wp.com/theubj.com/uae/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Lee-Seung-gi-1-070324.jpeg?resize=530%2C750)
Reflecting on the origin of the series, it was revealed at a press conference before its 2015 launch that the concept was indeed sparked by Lee Seung-gi, as confirmed by producer Na Young-seok. Initially proposing a simple shared trip, the idea evolved into a more structured show tailored for online audiences.
Kang Ho-dong, Lee Soo-geun, Eun Ji-won, and Na Young-seok, linking up once again due to the popularity of “2 Days & 1 Night”, created an anticipated buzz for “New Journey to the West.” Lee Seung-gi, at the center of this anticipation, helped fuel the show’s success with his humor and charm.
Lee Seung-gi embraced the internet broadcasting platform with his engaging banter, reuniting with his former co-stars for a memorable adventure. After completing the first season, he departed to fulfill his military service, making room for new members like Ahn Jae-hyun, P.O, Song Mino, and Kyuhyun. Many fans longed for his comeback post-military, but Lee Seung-gi knew the right moment to step back.
PD Na Young-seok himself has acknowledged Lee Seung-gi’s irreplaceable role, suggesting that not even the acclaimed Yoo Jae-suk could fill his shoes. Consequently, Shin Hae-sol’s shoutout to “New Journey to the West” understandably took Lee Seung-gi by surprise, as his investment in the series runs deep. His interaction with a fellow artist born in his debut year of 2004 added a delightful layer to the dynamic of “Famous Singers and Street Judges.”
FAQs about Lee Seung-gi and ‘New Journey to the West’
- Who originally came up with the idea for ‘New Journey to the West’?
According to producer Na Young-seok, the original idea for the show was conceived by Lee Seung-gi. - What is ‘New Journey to the West’ about?
It’s a variety show that reinterprets the Chinese classic ‘Journey to the West,’ combining travel with comedic and entertaining elements. - Who were the original members of ‘New Journey to the West’?
The original lineup included Kang Ho-dong, Lee Soo-geun, Eun Ji-won, and Lee Seung-gi. - Why did Lee Seung-gi leave the show?
He enlisted for his mandatory military service after the first season, creating an opening for new members to join the cast. - Did Lee Seung-gi return to the show after his military service?
Despite fans’ hopes, Lee Seung-gi has not returned to the show, acknowledging the right time to step back and let new talent shine.
Conclusion
In a playful exchange on JTBC’s “Famous Singers and Street Judges,” Lee Seung-gi reminded viewers of his pivotal role in the conception of “New Journey to the West,” a series that successfully melded laughter, camaraderie, and cultural heritage into a beloved travel-reality show. His remarks not only showcase his creative influence but also the deep ties he has with the project and its cast members. The show’s legacy and Lee Seung-gi’s integral part in its inception stand as a testament to his versatility as an entertainer and creator.