In a recent episode of the popular variety program You Quiz on the Block (Episode 359), South Korea’s beloved entertainer Yoo Jae Suk surprised viewers by sharing a deeply personal story from his past. Known as the “Nation’s MC” for his professionalism, kindness, and flawless image built over decades in the entertainment industry, Yoo Jae Suk openly talked about his former smoking habit and the challenging process he went through to finally quit.

His confession was more than just an amusing story from the past. It revealed the hidden struggles and tremendous self-discipline behind the perfect public image of one of South Korea’s most respected comedians. Through his honest reflection, viewers were able to see another side of Yoo Jae Suk — not only as a famous entertainer, but also as an ordinary person who had to fight against a difficult habit and overcome personal weaknesses.

The origin of Yoo Jae Suk’s smoking habit came from a reason that was both humorous and nostalgic. During the episode, actress Lee Jung Eun shared her admiration for legendary Hong Kong actor Chow Yun Fat. She explained that after watching the classic film A Better Tomorrow during her high school years, she became such a passionate fan of the actor that it eventually influenced her decision to pursue a career in the film industry.

Hearing her story, Yoo Jae Suk immediately related to those feelings. He admitted that he was also a huge admirer of Chow Yun Fat when he was younger. During the 1980s and 1990s, Chow Yun Fat’s iconic image — often appearing on screen with a cigarette or a signature stylish attitude — became a powerful symbol of charisma and coolness. His characters, especially those carrying a cigarette with confidence and sophistication, left a strong impression on many young people at the time.

However, Yoo Jae Suk jokingly admitted that he ended up learning the wrong thing from his idol. Instead of following the actor’s dedication, artistic spirit, or other admirable qualities, he accidentally copied the habit of smoking. He humorously reflected that he should have learned many other things from Chow Yun Fat, but instead, he picked up smoking.

The influence of Hong Kong cinema during that era was strong enough to shape the preferences and behaviors of many young people. For Yoo Jae Suk, that cultural impact unintentionally led him toward a habit that would later become a difficult challenge to overcome.

After becoming a smoker for many years, Yoo Jae Suk eventually realized that quitting was necessary. As an entertainer whose career depends heavily on physical condition, stamina, and vocal ability, he understood the importance of protecting his health. However, leaving behind a long-standing smoking habit was far more difficult than he had expected.

Yoo Jae Suk revealed that he tried various methods to quit smoking, including the common approach of gradually reducing the number of cigarettes he smoked each day. He once tried to convince himself, saying that he would only smoke five cigarettes a day instead of continuing his previous amount.

However, this method repeatedly failed. Despite his efforts, simply lowering the number of cigarettes did not allow him to completely break free from the habit. His experience showed how difficult it can be to overcome an addiction when a person continues to leave themselves room for compromise.

For someone who had smoked for years, the attachment was not only physical but also psychological. Even when the number of cigarettes decreased, the desire and dependence remained. Yoo Jae Suk’s struggles reflected the reality that quitting a habit often requires more than just small adjustments — it requires a firm decision and strong determination.

After realizing that gradually reducing cigarettes was not working, Yoo Jae Suk finally made a decisive choice: he would quit completely and immediately. Rather than continuing to negotiate with himself, he chose the “cold turkey” approach and stopped smoking altogether.

The early period was extremely challenging. He admitted that he had to face many temptations and uncomfortable moments after quitting. Even when he saw other people smoking, there were times when memories of the past returned and he briefly thought that smoking once seemed stylish or enjoyable.

Despite those moments of temptation, Yoo Jae Suk relied on the same discipline and determination that have helped him maintain his successful career for decades. His ability to control himself and stay committed allowed him to overcome the difficult period and permanently leave smoking behind.

Today, Yoo Jae Suk has successfully remained smoke-free for 20 years. He explained that after five years and then ten years without smoking, both his body and his feelings toward cigarettes changed completely. Now, he no longer feels any attachment to smoking and even finds the smell of cigarette smoke unpleasant.

Yoo Jae Suk’s story on You Quiz on the Block was not simply a funny memory from his younger days. It became an inspiring reminder of the power of determination and self-control. His experience showed that even habits formed during youth or influenced by admired figures can be overcome with courage, discipline, and persistence.

Behind the image of the “Nation’s MC” is a person who, like everyone else, has faced personal struggles and weaknesses. His 20-year journey of quitting smoking proves that meaningful change is possible when someone is willing to confront their challenges and remain committed to becoming a healthier version of themselves.