Kim Jong Kook has once again left fans stunned after revealing just how far his famous frugality goes during a trip to Japan with Joo Woo Jae. From drying and reusing wet wipes instead of throwing them away to confessing that food is practically his only expense, the veteran entertainer proved that his money-saving lifestyle is no joke. While some viewers praised his practical mindset, others couldn’t believe that one of Korea’s biggest stars still lives with such extreme spending habits.

Kim Jong Kook has built a reputation over the years as one of Korea’s most disciplined celebrities—not only when it comes to fitness but also with his finances. That reputation was on full display once again in a newly released YouTube video documenting his trip to Japan alongside entertainer Joo Woo Jae, where fans were reminded that the singer’s legendary thriftiness remains just as strong as ever.

Before the group even boarded their flight, Joo Woo Jae jokingly warned the production staff about something they absolutely needed to remember during the trip. According to him, everyone should think twice before using wet wipes because Kim Jong Kook had a very specific philosophy about them.

“Please remember this,” Joo Woo Jae laughed. “Don’t use wet wipes carelessly during this trip. It’s really important. If you use one, dry it in the bathroom and use it again the next day.”

The remark immediately made everyone laugh because longtime fans already knew exactly what he was referring to. Kim Jong Kook has previously admitted on several television shows that he often washes or dries wet wipes instead of throwing them away after a single use.

Rather than denying the story, Kim Jong Kook calmly defended his habit.

“It’s fine if you use them when you really need to,” he explained before asking the production staff a question that left everyone speechless.

“Have you really never tried not using them?”

The comment perfectly summed up the mindset that has made Kim Jong Kook one of the most famously frugal celebrities in South Korea. To him, avoiding unnecessary waste isn’t strange—it’s simply common sense.

Although many viewers burst into laughter, others admitted they were amazed that someone with Kim Jong Kook’s level of wealth still pays attention to such tiny everyday expenses.

The conversation didn’t stop there.

As the group continued exploring Japan, the topic shifted toward shopping. Unlike Joo Woo Jae, who enjoyed browsing clothing stores and looking for new fashion pieces, Kim Jong Kook appeared almost completely uninterested.

When a staff member asked whether he normally enjoyed shopping, his answer came immediately.

“Not at all.”

He then explained why he rarely spends money on clothes despite working in the entertainment industry.

“Since I’m involved in the clothing business, I make the clothes I want to wear myself,” Kim Jong Kook said. “I don’t have any reason to go shopping.”

His explanation surprised even the staff members filming the trip.

For many celebrities, shopping for luxury brands or designer outfits is practically part of the job. However, Kim Jong Kook revealed that he has found a way to eliminate that expense almost entirely by creating the clothing he personally likes.

He then made an even more surprising confession about his spending habits.

“Other than food, I don’t really have any other expenses.”

That simple statement quickly became one of the most talked-about moments from the video.

Fans pointed out that Kim Jong Kook has earned millions throughout his decades-long career as both a singer and television personality, yet he continues living with an almost minimalist approach to spending.

Many viewers weren’t entirely surprised.

Throughout his career, Kim Jong Kook has frequently shared stories about avoiding unnecessary purchases, maintaining strict financial discipline, and choosing practicality over luxury. Friends and fellow celebrities have often teased him for being extremely careful with money, while variety shows have repeatedly highlighted his unusual habits.

His reputation has become so well known that Joo Woo Jae’s joke about wet wipes immediately made sense to viewers before Kim Jong Kook even spoke.

Social media quickly filled with reactions after the episode aired.

Some fans praised him for setting an example in a world where celebrities often promote extravagant lifestyles.

Others argued that reusing wet wipes might be taking thriftiness a little too far.

Still, many admired the consistency of his personality, noting that despite decades of fame, Kim Jong Kook has never appeared interested in showing off wealth or spending money simply because he can.

His comments also sparked conversations about consumer culture, with some viewers saying his approach encourages people to think more carefully before wasting everyday items.

Whether people see his habits as inspiring or amusing, one thing remains undeniable: Kim Jong Kook has stayed remarkably true to himself.

In an industry where expensive fashion, luxury vacations, and lavish lifestyles often dominate headlines, the singer continues to surprise audiences by finding satisfaction in simplicity instead of excess.

And judging by fans’ reactions, his legendary reputation as Korean entertainment’s most frugal celebrity isn’t disappearing anytime soon.