SBS Plus’s variety show The Way of the Manly Man in Kyushu offers a unique and thrilling travel diary where macho men embrace life in the most instinctive ways. The show follows the journey of three muscular figures—Choo Sung Hoon, Kim Jong Kook, and BIGBANG’s Daesung—as they explore Kyushu, engaging in intense activities that highlight their masculinity and playful personalities. Their adventures are filled with humor, surprises, and moments of fierce competition, all while showcasing the bonds between the three men.

In the second episode, which aired on the 28th, the trio embarks on an energetic adventure that begins with a visit to a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. The episode’s storyline takes a humorous turn when, after discussing the importance of protein following a workout, the men take part in a fast-paced sushi-eating competition. The conveyor belt sushi restaurant becomes the setting for a moment of reality shock when the trio realizes just how quickly the customers at the next table are consuming sushi. As the challenge escalates, BIGBANG’s Daesung declares, “A man can’t lose in a competition,” and dives into eating as swiftly as possible. He impressively consumes 73 plates of sushi, which is equivalent to 13 bowls of rice, eventually surprising even himself with the sheer amount of food he devours. This feat draws laughter from the crew and viewers alike, adding an element of light-hearted competition to the show.

The next part of the episode takes the trio to Kagoshima, where they visit a well-established local restaurant known for its hormone meat. True to their insatiable appetites, Choo Sung Hoon, Kim Jong Kook, and Daesung order continuously, showing no signs of stopping. Even after they’ve consumed 20 servings of meat, they are still hungry and demand more. The crew, anticipating the end of filming, tries to wrap up, but the trio insists on continuing their feast. This leads to a hilarious moment when the restaurant staff, unable to stop them, decides to leave the premises, leaving only two cameras rolling. The unexpected and comical scene adds to the show’s charm and sparks curiosity among viewers about the staggering cost of the trio’s “record-breaking eating spree.”

Choo Sung Hoon, who represents the “wild” aspect of the group, stands out as the embodiment of macho energy. His behavior often shocks his companions, and his actions seem to defy common sense. In one memorable moment, he casually stirs a hot matcha tea with his fingers and flips sizzling meat on a charcoal grill using his bare hands instead of tongs. This fearless behavior surprises Kim Jong Kook and Daesung, who look on in disbelief as they try to imitate him. However, they are taken aback by the extreme heat, and they recoil in surprise. Observing Choo Sung Hoon’s fearless actions, they joke, “Does this hyung have no feeling in his fingers?” It is moments like these that highlight Choo Sung Hoon’s unique ability to push the limits of physical endurance and showcase his fearless masculinity.

While the show often focuses on the trio’s wild adventures, it also delves into the personal side of their relationships. One poignant moment occurs when Kim Jong Kook, who has known Daesung for many years, recognizes the extent of Daesung’s global appeal. As the trio travels through Kyushu, they encounter waves of fans who excitedly request photos with Daesung, proving just how popular he remains even after 18 years since their time together on Family Outing. Kim Jong Kook, noticing the overwhelming fan reaction to Daesung, has an unexpected realization. He turns to Daesung and sincerely apologizes, acknowledging that he had underestimated Daesung’s widespread influence. This moment, full of mutual respect and admiration, adds a layer of emotional depth to the show, showing the strong friendship between the three men.

The trio’s adventures, however, are not without moments of humor and lightheartedness. In one scene, a fan proudly displays limited edition merchandise for Daesung and Big Bang concert posters, while another fan breaks down in tears upon seeing Daesung in person. The fans’ emotional reactions highlight Daesung’s enduring popularity in Japan and his global influence. Kim Jong Kook, who had not fully appreciated the extent of Daesung’s fame, watches the scene with newfound respect. It is a touching moment that showcases how the bond between the men has evolved over the years, as they move from colleagues to genuine friends who understand and appreciate one another on a deeper level.

Throughout the show, the production team highlights the incredible chemistry between Choo Sung Hoon, Kim Jong Kook, and Daesung, which adds a unique charm to the series. The three men have distinct personalities, but their contrasting traits create a dynamic that keeps viewers engaged. Choo Sung Hoon’s wild, unpredictable nature, Kim Jong Kook’s disciplined and strong-willed demeanor, and Daesung’s worldwide popularity all play a crucial role in making the show a delightful watch. The series expertly blends humor, competition, and emotional moments, making The Way of the Manly Man in Kyushu a captivating exploration of masculinity and friendship.

As the show continues to air, fans are eagerly anticipating more of the trio’s adventures, curious to see how far their feats of strength, humor, and friendship will go. With each episode, the trio continues to push the boundaries of what it means to be a “manly man,” all while showcasing their deep bond and respect for each other. The show is not just about physical challenges; it’s also a celebration of the strong connections that form between men who share a unique understanding of one another. Through their adventures in Kyushu, Choo Sung Hoon, Kim Jong Kook, and Daesung remind viewers that true masculinity comes not only from strength but also from friendship, loyalty, and mutual respect.