Hong Jin-hee Reveals Close Friendship with Jo Hye-ryun and Kim Hye-soo

On December 26, 2024, during the KBS2 show 'Park Won-sook's Let's Live Together' (박원숙의 같이 삽시다), actress Hong Jin-hee shared her close friendships with fellow entertainers Jo Hye-ryun and Kim Hye-soo. The episode featured the existing cast members Park Won-sook and Hye-eun, along with comedian Lee Kyung-ae and Hong Jin-hee, completing the fifth season of the show.

Hong Jin-hee, who debuted in 1981 as a contestant in the 'Miss MBC' pageant and became a sex symbol in the 1990s, surprised viewers with her new blonde hair. When Park Won-sook complimented her beauty, Hong Jin-hee humorously explained, "I had to bleach my hair because of the gray strands."

She also revealed that she has been unemployed for over a decade, living frugally off her savings. Park Won-sook and Hye-eun pointed out that her glamorous appearance contradicted her claims of frugality. In response, Hong Jin-hee clarified, "I only spend money on my nails, getting a manicure once a month for about 30,000 to 40,000 won, which brings me joy."

She expressed her comfort in wearing pajamas bought from the market, stating, "I don’t mind wearing them; they’re comfortable and nice. When I was younger, I liked luxury brands, but now I can’t even carry them because they’re too heavy. I buy according to my means."

Hong Jin-hee also shared a humorous exchange with Jo Hye-ryun, who once worried about her financial situation, asking, "What will you do if you’re not active in the entertainment industry?" Hong Jin-hee retorted, "Unless you’re going to give me money, don’t say that."

Despite the teasing, she praised Jo Hye-ryun for organizing her 60th birthday party and providing her with allowances on Parents' Day, showing her caring nature.

She then spoke fondly of Kim Hye-soo, mentioning their bond formed through the show 'Couple' (짝), which has lasted for about three years. Kim Hye-soo regularly shops for groceries and sends food to Hong Jin-hee once a month, which touched her deeply. Hong Jin-hee recounted, "I felt bad for receiving so much, but she insisted that it helps us stay connected, even if we can’t meet often. She told me not to worry. Once, when I injured my arm, she even sent me a robot vacuum cleaner."

In the broadcast, Hong Jin-hee reflected on her career, stating, "I’ve played many silly roles in my projects, but that’s not my true personality. I’ve heard rumors about having sponsors due to my glamorous looks, but that has never been the case. Now that I’m older, it’s nice that such comments have faded away."