Comedian Lee Jin-hwan, Once Famous for 'Absurd Gag,' Finds New Path as Sushi Chef

Lee Jin-hwan, a comedian who achieved stardom with his "absurd gag" in the early 2000s, has revealed his new career as a Japanese cuisine chef. Lee debuted in 2000 and quickly rose to fame with his unique comedic style, earning significant income from performances and advertisements at a young age.

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I went to the military a bit late. When I was discharged, the absurd gag had already been forgotten; it became a gag from the past.

However, his popularity waned after he enlisted for mandatory military service. Upon his return, Lee found that his signature "absurd gag" had become outdated and largely forgotten. Facing the need to support himself, he began working at a raw fish restaurant, eventually transitioning to become an omakase chef.

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Customers in the open kitchen would say things like, 'If you fail as a comedian, you end up running a small neighborhood business.' I overheard them.

Lee shared some of the difficulties he faces in his new profession. He recounted overhearing customers in the open kitchen commenting negatively about his career change, suggesting he was running a small local business after failing as a comedian. Despite these challenges, Lee expressed his determination to make a living without relying on others, focusing on earning enough to sustain himself.

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I just thought, 'Let's just make money.' I decided to earn just enough to live without asking for help from others.