The entertainment world is buzzing as famous producer Na Young Suk, often called Na PD, officially brings together a fan-favorite trio for a brand-new reality program. Actors Park Seo Joon, Jung Yu Mi, and Choi Woo Shik have confirmed their participation in this upcoming project, which serves as a spiritual successor and spin-off to the hit series Jinnyโs Kitchen. This reunion marks a significant shift in the franchise’s history, as it will be the first time these stars lead a show together without their longtime “boss,” Lee Seo Jin.
Filming for the program began in February 2026, with the production team focusing on locations within South Korea. According to official statements from tvN, the show is scheduled to air during the first half of 2026. While the specific titleโreferred to by some insiders as a “Limited Edition” style gatheringโis still being finalized, the core mission is to provide a relaxing “break” for the cast members who have worked tirelessly across multiple seasons of restaurant and travel shows.
The Jinnyโs Kitchen Staff Reunite Without Lee Seo Jin
One of the most talked-about aspects of this new show is the absence of Lee Seo Jin. For years, Lee Seo Jin has been the central figure and “persona” of Na Young Suk‘s variety programs, moving from an intern to a CEO. In this new format, the focus shifts entirely to the chemistry between the younger “staff” members. Park Seo Joon, Jung Yu Mi, and Choi Woo Shik have built a deep bond through Younโs Kitchen, Younโs Stay, and Jinnyโs Kitchen, and viewers are eager to see how they handle tasks without their strict leader.
A representative from tvN shared a brief update regarding the casting:
“It is correct that Park Seo Joon, Jung Yu Mi, and Choi Woo Shik will appear in PD Na Young Suk’s new variety show. The programming on tvN is confirmed, though specific details regarding the concept and exact broadcast dates are still being decided.”
The decision to move forward without Lee Seo Jin is not due to any conflict, but rather a scheduling and concept shift. Lee Seo Jin is currently working on his own solo travel project titled Lee Seo Jinโs Dalla Dalla, which is expected to launch on Netflix later this year. This allows the trio of Park Seo Joon, Jung Yu Mi, and Choi Woo Shik to explore a different, more relaxed energy that leans into their real-life friendship.
Production Background and Filming Locations
Na Young Suk is known for his “kidnapping” style of variety where he surprises actors and takes them on unexpected journeys. While this show is a spin-off of the Jinny’s Kitchen universe, it draws inspiration from the Youth Over Flowers series, which emphasizes the “youthful” and carefree nature of travel. Unlike previous seasons that took stars to Iceland, Africa, or Australia, this particular edition is primarily being filmed domestically in South Korea to showcase the beauty of local hidden gems.
The production started in early February 2026. Industry insiders suggest that the show will focus more on the castโs personal interactions and leisure time rather than the high-stress environment of running a restaurant. This change comes after the intense filming of Jinnyโs Kitchen Season 2 in Iceland, which aired throughout 2024 and 2025.
Global Release and Streaming Details
Fans worldwide are looking for ways to watch the reunion of the “Wooga Squad” members and Jung Yu Mi. tvN has confirmed that the show will occupy a prime time slot in the first half of 2026. For global audiences, the streaming distribution is expected to follow the pattern of previous Na PD hits:
- South Korea: The show will air on the tvN cable network and stream on the local platform TVING.
- USA, Canada, and Australia: Historically, Amazon Prime Video has held the global rights for the Jinny’s Kitchen franchise. It is highly likely this spin-off will follow suit.
- India and Southeast Asia: Platforms like Viu or Prime Video are expected to provide subtitled versions shortly after the Korean broadcast.
- UK and Europe: Digital distribution is expected via major global OTT platforms, ensuring fans in the UK can access the content.
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Cast History and Fan Expectations
The chemistry between these three actors is a proven formula for success. Jung Yu Mi and Park Seo Joon first worked together in 2017 on Younโs Kitchen Season 1. Choi Woo Shik joined the family later during Younโs Stay in 2021, and the three have been inseparable in the variety world ever since.
Fans on social media have expressed excitement about the potential for Jung Yu Mi to take on a “CEO” or “Manager” role in this edition. One popular fan comment on a Korean variety forum noted:
“I’ve been waiting for this trio to have their own space. Without the stress of the kitchen, their natural humor and friendship will really shine. It feels like a long-awaited gift for the viewers.”
The project is part of a busy 2026 slate for Na Young Suk, who is also managing the 10th Anniversary celebrations for Reply 1988 and other spin-offs. Despite his heavy workload, the producer is focusing on “healing” content that resonates with a global audience looking for easy-to-watch, relatable entertainment.
As of February 24, 2026, the cast is reportedly in the middle of filming, and more teaser clips are expected to be released by tvN in the coming weeks. The show aims to capture the same magic that made the original series a global hit while offering a fresh perspective on the lives of these top-tier Korean actors.
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