57-Year-Old TV Star Joins Dating Show For The First Time In Her Life—Immediately Finds A Man Who Had A Crush On Her For 20 Years

Will comedian Lee Young Ja find love in 2025?

She, along with fellow single celebrities, is now a “contestant” on the KBS channel’s Pursuing Old Encounters (오래된 만남 추구), a dating show designed by her fellow comedians Song Eun Yi and Kim Sook to create space for their long-time friends to mingle and discover new relationships.

In the first episode, which premiered January 26, 2025 (KST), Lee Young Ja appeared on set, stating “This show might be the last chance I get at love for the rest of my life.” And soon, she was introduced to actor Hwang Dong Joo…

…a 50-year-old man who has had a crush on Lee Young Ja forever!

The two first met on Hello Counselor, where Hwang Dong Joo had already told Lee Young Ja about his feelings.

Reunited at Pursuing Old Encounters, Hwang Dong Joo could not keep his eyes off Lee Young Ja again!

I’ve had a crush on her since even before I debuted. I’m such a huge fan. I had the honor of meeting her once on an entertainment program…

…Seeing her again makes my heart race. I’m flustered. I’m glad I didn’t hesitate to appear on this show. This feels like meant to be.

— Hwang Dong Joo

Things might not have worked out on Hello Counselor. But could the new dating show finally bring Lee Young Ja and Hwang Dong Joo together? Viewers are hopeful as they root for the two.

• “Rooting for Lee Young Ja and Hwang Dong Joo to turn into something good!”
• “I hope Lee Young Ja and Hwang Dong Joo can become a couple. Wishing her the happiest relationship!”
• “Lee Young Ja and Hwang Dong Joo look alike when smiling. I hope they start dating.”

Watch the full clip here: