Actors Park Bo Gum, Lee Sang Yi, and Kwak Dong Yeon have officially opened a one-of-a-kind barbershop that trims both hair and hearts in tvN’s new variety show The Village Barber.

The premiere episode, which aired on January 30, captured the trio’s year-long preparation and the chaotic yet heartwarming first day of business. From the outset, Park Bo Gum shared his hope to “gift someone a magical moment in their life,” explaining that the shop was intentionally set in a neighborhood without a barbershop so it could become a place not only for haircuts, but also for shared joy.

Their commitment showed in the intense prep. Despite a packed schedule, Park Bo Gum challenged himself to obtain a national barber’s license to offer more services, while Lee Sang Yi surprised everyone by studying for a nail technician license on his own. Youngest member Kwak Dong Yeon promised to take charge of winter treats, even seeking out a master fish-shaped pastry maker to ensure the shop would be full of delights.

After months of effort, the self-proclaimed “Gumdongyi” trio Park Bo Gum, Lee Sang Yi, and Kwak Dong Yeon finally stood before their completed barbershop, barely able to hide their excitement. Lee Sang Yi proudly unveiled his framed nail technician certificate, while Kwak Dong Yeon presented homemade syrups for welcome drinks, instantly setting the opening-day mood.

But amid the celebrations came a bittersweet confession. Park Bo Gum revealed that he had failed the barber’s license exam, recalling the nerve-wracking practical test where time ran short and all eyes were on him. The story drew laughter from his co-hosts, and Kwak Dong Yeon gently reassured him, saying, “You’re still the boss here.”

An unexpected visitor soon added warmth to the day: a grandmother from next door wandered in naturally on the eve of the opening. After a brief moment of surprise, the trio launched into a practice run of welcoming customers, exchanging gifts and even receiving homemade kimchi quickly becoming part of the neighborhood.

As night fell, Park Bo Gum returned alone to the shop, practicing late into the night on the eve of opening day. The next morning, the first customer arrived for gray hair coverage and a haircut ahead of a family gathering. Tension filled the room as rookie barber Park Bo Gum began cutting only to accidentally nick his finger with the scissors. Blood welled up, but he calmly handled the situation, making sure the customer was never inconvenienced, earning quiet cheers from viewers.

With its gentle humor, genuine preparation, and the caring bond among its three hosts, The Village Barber made a warm and comforting first impression. The trio’s attentiveness to one another and to their customers sets the tone for a healing, feel-good series.

Park Bo Gum, Lee Sang Yi, and Kwak Dong Yeon’s cozy barbershop journey continues every Friday at 8:40 p.m. KST on tvN’s The Village Barber.

Sources: Nate