HAHA Reveals Past Panic Attacks, Alcoholism During 'Infinite Challenge,' Credits Yoo Jae-suk's Daily Visits for Recovery

Korean entertainer HAHA (하하) recently spoke candidly about a challenging period during his past appearance on the classic variety show 'Infinite Challenge' (무한도전). He revealed that the immense pressure from the program led to symptoms of panic disorder, and it was fellow entertainer Yoo Jae-suk (유재석) who helped him through that difficult time.

In the KBS 2TV variety show 'The Boss Has Donkey Ears' (사장님 귀는 당나귀 귀), which aired on the afternoon of June 6, HAHA appeared as a new 'boss.' He filmed YouTube content titled 'Busan Expedition Team' with comedians Kim Won-hyo (김원효), Park Young-jin (박영진), and Yang Sang-guk (양상국).

After wrapping up filming, the four gathered for a meal. During dinner, Park Young-jin praised HAHA, saying, "Hyung, you are truly active on terrestrial TV." He continued, "It's amazing to be a regular on variety shows for over 10 consecutive years. Can you teach me some tips for doing well on weekend variety shows?"

HAHA humbly responded, "Actually, that's not something I can decide. If the viewers like it, I naturally continue to appear."

Discussing his variety show career, HAHA also shared his feelings during his time on 'Infinite Challenge.' He revealed that the show was regularly filmed every Thursday, but from Tuesday evening, he would feel immense pressure about the upcoming recording, causing his "heart to pound constantly."

HAHA recalled, "Looking back now, that must have been a panic attack." He also admitted that after every Thursday recording, he "would definitely drink," a habit that greatly worried Yoo Jae-suk.

Responding to HAHA's memories, Yang Sang-guk curiously asked, "How did you overcome it then?" HAHA stated that he was able to get through that low point because he "had many good people around him," with Yoo Jae-suk playing a crucial role.

HAHA emotionally recounted, "At that time, Jae-suk hyung was like a strict mother, constantly pushing me with a whip, even coming to my house every day." He revealed that he didn't want to do anything back then, but Yoo Jae-suk repeatedly reminded him, "If you do nothing, nothing will happen. You have to do something, at least, so I can scold you or help you. You need to wake up yourself."

These words became a turning point for HAHA to pull himself together. He confessed, "From then on, I think I woke up and have been working like crazy ever since."

HAHA also took the opportunity to thank those who supported him along the way. Yoo Jae-suk's seemingly strict guidance at the time was crucial support for him, becoming a significant force that helped him overcome his struggles and get back on his feet.