Breaking News: Lee Mijoo and Park Jin Joo Leave 'Hangout with Yoo' - Fans React to All-Male Cast Restructuring

The End of an Era: Lee Mijoo and Park Jin Joo Depart from 'Hangout with Yoo'

In a significant shake-up for one of South Korea's popular variety shows, MBC's 'Hangout with Yoo' announced that cast members Lee Mijoo and Park Jin Joo will be leaving the program. The production team confirmed on May 22, 2025, that after discussions beginning earlier this year, both entertainers filmed their final episode today, with their last appearance set to air on May 31, 2025.

The announcement marks the end of a substantial run for both performers on the show. Lee Mijoo joined 'Hangout with Yoo' as an official member in August 2021, while Park Jin Joo became part of the cast in September 2022. This means Mijoo has been with the program for nearly four years, while Jin Joo contributed for almost three years.

In their official statement, the production team expressed gratitude to both members: "After considering their future activities together, we mutually agreed to part ways with warm support. We sincerely thank Park Jin Joo and Lee Mi Joo for illuminating 'Hangout with Yoo' during their time on the show." The program will continue with a restructured four-member team consisting of Yoo Jae Suk, Haha, Joo Woo Jae, and Lee Yi Kyung.

Behind the Scenes: Producer Explains the Decision

Kim Jin-yong, the producer of 'Hangout with Yoo', provided additional context about the departure in a conversation with media outlet OSEN on May 22. He revealed that the decision to move to a four-person system came after considerable deliberation that began in early 2025.

"The departure of Park Jin-joo and Lee Mi-joo, and the transition to a four-person system were decided after much consideration in the process of discussing a reorganization since the beginning of the year," Kim explained. He acknowledged the show has been receiving mixed reactions from viewers, which served as a catalyst for these discussions.

The producer emphasized that the decision wasn't made hastily: "As discussions continued, talks first proceeded with the two individuals' agencies. Afterward, decisions were made following sufficient discussions with the other members and production team."

Contrary to what some might expect, Kim described the atmosphere during the final filming as positive rather than emotional: "It was not at all a tearful or crying atmosphere. Rather, it was concluded cheerfully in the sense of, 'Our Jin-joo and Mi-joo can do whatever they want.'" He also noted that the deep bonds formed among cast members would continue outside the program.

The Legacy of Mijoo and Park Jin Joo on the Show

During their tenure on 'Hangout with Yoo', both Lee Mijoo and Park Jin Joo made significant contributions to the program's energy and appeal. Mijoo, who first gained fame as a member of the girl group Lovelyz, brought her vibrant personality and candid nature to the show. As the youngest member of the cast, she was known for spreading laughter and vitality with her lively and honest charm.

Park Jin Joo, who has built a career as both an actress and entertainer, impressed viewers with her versatility. She showcased not only her acting skills but also revealed surprising talents in singing and comedy that resonated with audiences. Together, they formed a duo known as 'JuJu Secret' during their time on the show, creating memorable moments for fans.

Both entertainers helped diversify the program's appeal, bringing different perspectives and energy to complement the established chemistry between veteran entertainers like Yoo Jae Suk and Haha. Their departure represents a significant shift in the show's dynamic, as they were the only female cast members remaining after previous cast changes.

Mixed Reactions from Netizens

The announcement of the cast change has generated divided opinions among Korean netizens. Many viewers expressed understanding about the decision, pointing to what they perceived as ambiguous roles for the female cast members in recent episodes.

Comments supporting the change included observations like: "I haven't watched the show in so long," "The female members' roles were a bit awkward," and "I want to see Jin Joo in more acting projects." Some viewers noted that the format of 'Hangout with Yoo' has been inconsistent, making it difficult for cast members to consistently showcase their strengths.

However, other fans expressed disappointment that the show would now feature an all-male cast. Critical comments included: "Only the male cast is left again...", "All the female cast have left, leaving only the male cast," and "The show itself is awkward... not the members." Some questioned whether member changes would address what they see as more fundamental issues with the program's direction and concept.

A recurring criticism focused on the fact that only female members were departing, with one netizen commenting, "Going round and round, it's funny that only male members remain," while another stated, "Member reorganization isn't the issue; the entire concept needs to be rethought from scratch. What's the point of only female members leaving?"

A Pattern of Restructuring

This isn't the first time 'Hangout with Yoo' has undergone significant cast changes. In June 2023, cast members Jung Joon-ha and Shin Bong-sun left the program, and the main PD was replaced as part of a major reorganization. That process reportedly wasn't entirely smooth, with departing members expressing some regrets about how things unfolded.

After those departures, Joo Woo-jae joined the cast, and the show underwent a two-week period of restructuring. However, according to reports, these changes didn't result in significant ratings improvements. Some viewers are skeptical that the current reorganization will lead to better viewership numbers, though others suggest waiting to see how the four-member format develops before making judgments.

The pattern of cast changes raises questions about the show's ability to maintain a stable format and identity. Since its inception in 2019, 'Hangout with Yoo' has experimented with various concepts and cast combinations, sometimes struggling to find its footing with audiences despite the star power of its host, Yoo Jae Suk.

The Evolution of 'Hangout with Yoo'

To understand the current changes, it's helpful to look at the show's history and evolution. 'Hangout with Yoo' premiered on July 27, 2019, as a collaboration between Yoo Jae Suk and producer Kim Tae Ho, who had previously worked together on the hugely successful 'Infinite Challenge' for 13 years.

The show initially struggled to connect with viewers due to its experimental format, which involved passing handheld cameras between celebrities and ordinary people. However, it found its stride when it began focusing on music-related content, particularly a project called 'Yoo Plash' where Yoo learned to play the drums and collaborated with various musicians.

Over the years, the program has continued to evolve, trying different formats and cast combinations. The show's willingness to reinvent itself has been both a strength and a weakness – allowing for creative freedom but sometimes lacking a clear identity that resonates consistently with viewers.

With this latest restructuring to a four-member male cast, 'Hangout with Yoo' enters yet another phase in its ongoing evolution. Whether this change will help the show find a more stable footing remains to be seen when the new format debuts following the May 31 farewell episode.

What's Next for Lee Mijoo and Park Jin Joo?

While the departure from 'Hangout with Yoo' marks the end of a chapter for both entertainers, their careers continue to develop in various directions. Lee Mijoo has established herself as a versatile entertainer beyond her origins as an idol. After leaving Woollim Entertainment in November 2021, she joined Antenna and made her solo debut with the single album 'Movie Star' in May 2023. She has appeared on numerous variety shows including 'Sixth Sense' and 'Learn Way', building a reputation for her entertaining personality and candid charm.

Park Jin Joo has maintained a dual career as both an actress and entertainer. With her acting background and proven comedic abilities, she's likely to continue appearing in both dramas and variety content. Many fans expressed hopes of seeing her in more acting projects following her departure from the show.

According to producer Kim Jin-yong, the decision to part ways included consideration of both performers' future activities, suggesting they may have new projects lined up that contributed to the timing of their departure. While specific details about their next moves haven't been announced, both have established strong individual brands that should serve them well in Korea's competitive entertainment industry.

The Future of 'Hangout with Yoo'

Moving forward, 'Hangout with Yoo' will continue with its four-member team of Yoo Jae Suk, Haha, Joo Woo Jae, and Lee Yi Kyung. The production team has indicated that there are no immediate plans to add new fixed cast members.

This core team brings together a mix of veteran and newer entertainers. Yoo Jae Suk, often called the "Nation's MC," remains one of Korea's most beloved and skilled variety show hosts. Haha brings years of experience from shows like 'Infinite Challenge' and 'Running Man.' The younger members, Joo Woo Jae and Lee Yi Kyung, have been developing their variety skills and establishing their own entertainment personas.

The production team expressed confidence that the four members will leverage their unique personalities and strong teamwork to continue driving the program's success. However, they face the challenge of reinvigorating a show that has seen fluctuating ratings and multiple format changes.

For viewers, the May 31 broadcast will be particularly significant as it marks the final appearance of Lee Mijoo and Park Jin Joo. According to the production team, this episode will include their farewell messages to the audience who have supported them throughout their years on the show.