Former announcer and congressman Byun Woong-jun, who left a deep mark on the Korean broadcasting and political scenes, passed away on November 23, 2025, at the age of 85. His passing has brought deep condolences and memories to many. Born in Seosan, South Chungcheong Province, and graduated from Chung-Ang University with a degree in psychology, he began his broadcasting career as an announcer for KBS in 1963, captivating the public with his unique wit and friendliness. We look back on his life and achievements, which defined an era, and pay tribute to the warm footsteps he left on our society.
After moving to MBC in 1969, former announcer Byun Woong-jun established himself as the 'Nation's MC'. He led the golden age of Korean entertainment programs, especially hosting 'Cheerful Blue and White Battle', 'Feat of Skill Parade', and 'Cheerful Sports Meet', which was loved by the entire nation. His signature hearty laugh and clean yet humorous hosting style was like magic, bringing the whole family in front of the TV every Saturday morning. He also contributed to nurturing 후배s, discovering and launching 'Popeye' Lee Sang-yong into the entertainment industry. His image of communicating with the people through broadcasting and providing laughter and emotion will remain forever in the memories of many.
After 30 years of successful career as a broadcaster, former announcer Byun Woong-jun entered politics in 1995 as the spokesperson for the Preparatory Committee for the Liberal Democratic Union. This was more than just a career change; it showed his strong will to serve the people directly, based on the public trust and recognition he had gained through broadcasting. He was elected as a three-term member of the National Assembly, winning the 15th, 16th, and 18th terms in the Seosan-Taean district of South Chungcheong Province, his hometown.
As a member of the National Assembly, former Representative Byun Woong-jun served as the chairman of the Health, Welfare and Family Affairs Committee and worked to improve the welfare of the people, and also led the Liberal Forward Party as its representative. He showed a deep interest in policies for the socially disadvantaged and marginalized, and strove to bring about real changes through legislative activities. His friendly image from his broadcasting days, along with his sincerity as a politician, proves that he was not just a celebrity, but a true servant for the people. His activities in the National Assembly have decorated an important page in Korean political history.
Former Representative Byun Woong-jun breathed with the public, crossing broadcasting and politics. In particular, he was a hot topic in 2008 for officiating the wedding of the nation's MC Yoo Jae-suk and announcer Na Kyung-eun. This is an anecdote that shows at a glance his reputation built in the broadcasting industry and the respect of his 후배s. His life was always with the public, and his warm advice and encouragement were a great source of strength to many. He was not just a person who stood in front of the camera or sat in the National Assembly seat, but a person who created the flow of the times by sharing important moments in our society.
Former announcer and congressman Byun Woong-jun passed away at the age of 85, but the footsteps he left behind will be remembered forever in our society. Announcer Byun Woong-jun, who brought great laughter to the people through 'Cheerful Sports Meet', and politician Byun Woong-jun, who dedicated himself to the lives of the people. His name will continue to live in the hearts of many for a long time to come. We pray for his soul, and we will remember forever the precious legacy he left us. His mortuary is located in Funeral Hall 35 of Seoul Asan Hospital, and the departure will be at 8 am on November 27, and the burial site is Pangyo Jahayeon.
A1: Former announcer Byun Woong-jun was loved as the 'Nation's MC' by hosting popular entertainment programs such as MBC's 'Cheerful Sports Meet', 'Cheerful Blue and White Battle', and 'Feat of Skill Parade'.
A2: He entered politics in 1995 as the spokesperson for the Liberal Democratic Union and served as a member of the National Assembly for the 15th, 16th, and 18th terms in the Seosan-Taean district of South Chungcheong Province, and served as the chairman of the Health, Welfare and Family Affairs Committee and the representative of the Liberal Forward Party.
A3: Former announcer Byun Woong-jun played an important role in launching 'Popeye' Lee Sang-yong into the entertainment industry through 'Cheerful Blue and White Battle'.
A4: Former announcer and congressman Byun Woong-jun passed away on November 23, 2025, at the age of 85.
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