Kang Ji-young Debuts on Variety Show with Candid Charm
[CBC News] Former JTBC announcer turned freelance broadcaster Kang Ji-young has officially entered the variety show scene—and with great success. Appearing on MBC’s hit talk show Radio Star on June 26, she impressed viewers with her candid personality and unexpected wit.
Under the theme “Business Is Booming!”, Kang Ji-young shared her post-announcer life, including why she decided to go freelance and what she’s up to these days—YouTube, singing, and more. Her honest and bright personality quickly won over the audience.
“Free at Last”: A Bold Career Move
Kang started her segment with the energetic introduction, “I’m the free-spirited Kang Ji-young!” She joined JTBC as part of its first special newscaster recruitment and went on to become a weekend anchor for the network’s flagship show Newsroom. Looking back, she said, “I achieved all my dreams in the 12 years I was there.”
She fondly recalled meeting Hong Kong actors Andy Lau and Tony Leung during her anchoring days, noting that Tony Leung kneeling to sign an autograph was a moment she would never forget. “It still gives me goosebumps,” she said, gaining nods and laughs from the show’s MCs.
YouTube, Quirks, and the ‘Myeong-eon Song’
These days, Kang Ji-young is active on her YouTube channel Gonari-ja, where her motivational quotes have earned her the nickname “Quote Machine.” She revealed that indie duo Okdal even wrote her a song filled with her quotes, which she humorously performed on the spot. Though her pitch may have faltered, the melody’s charm and her upbeat delivery brought out the laughs.
The chorus line “Hold on!” was especially popular, with MCs and guests borrowing it for their own punchlines—it seems Kang’s quirky charm is infectious.
Anchor Turned Interviewer, Even as a Guest
Despite being a guest, Kang couldn’t help but slip into “anchor mode,” firing off sharp questions to fellow guests. The production team even created a parody caption “Ras-Room(?)” and used CG to highlight her transformation from serious anchor to free-spirited entertainer.
Living the Freelance Life
Kang also spoke openly about the ups and downs of being freelance. “I’m enjoying my freedom without an agency,” she said, adding with a smile, “I’m open to working with all networks, so if you like what you see, let me know!”
Her proactive attitude and natural charisma made a strong impression, establishing her as more than just a former news anchor. With success on YouTube and a promising start in variety, Kang Ji-young’s next steps are definitely worth watching.
What’s Next for Kang Ji-young?
With her background in news, growing presence on YouTube, and now a successful variety show debut, Kang Ji-young is carving a new path in South Korea’s entertainment world. Whether it’s anchoring, vlogging, or singing motivational songs, her versatile talents promise more fun surprises ahead.
