In a delightful blast from the past, fans of Korea’s “Nation’s MC” Yoo Jae-suk were treated to a rare look at his 1985 elementary school graduation photo, featured during the July 24 episode of KBS’s variety program Neighborhood Exploration – Suyu-dong Edition. The episode turned into a touching tribute to Yoo’s humble beginnings and enduring friendship with fellow entertainer Ji Suk-jin.

Joined by comedians Kim Soo-yong and Yang Se-chan, Ji Suk-jin embarked on a nostalgic tour of Suyu-dong, the neighborhood he once called home. With infectious enthusiasm, Ji proudly listed himself and Yoo Jae-suk as the area’s most iconic celebrities. “Yoo lived just one bus stop away from me. We used to ride the bus together to hang out in Apgujeong,” he recalled, sparking laughter when asked if they were part of the so-called Orange Tribe — 1990s slang for trendsetters in Seoul’s wealthier districts.

“We didn’t even have cars,” Ji said with a chuckle. “We just got around however we could.”

The trio visited Ji’s former home — now an empty lot — and stopped by his elementary school before heading to Yoo Jae-suk’s alma mater. Standing in front of Yoo’s old school, Ji teased the crew, “Are you just trying to link everything to Jae-suk on purpose?” drawing playful laughs from the cast and staff.

The true highlight came with the reveal of Yoo Jae-suk’s graduation photo, a time capsule moment that touched viewers with its simplicity and nostalgia. Set against the backdrop of 1970s-era school architecture, the photo offered fans a rare look at the beloved entertainer long before his rise to stardom.

Yang Se-chan added a contemporary touch by pointing out how younger generations — especially millennials and Gen Z — are now embracing “newtro” trends by remodeling vintage homes in neighborhoods like Suyu-dong, blending past and present in stylish ways. With heartfelt memories, humor, and a look at Korea’s evolving cultural landscape, the episode beautifully captured the charm of Yoo Jae-suk and Ji Suk-jin’s youth and their enduring friendship — much to the delight of long-time fans.

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