The SBS variety show ‘Thumb Man Then’ delivers thrilling thumb wrestling battles among passionate competitors, captivating audiences with its unique format.
Recent data from Nielsen Korea shows the January 10 episode achieving top ratings of 5.6% overall and 1.9% among viewers aged 20-49. Producers aim to boost the key demographic to claim the No. 1 spot in entertainment programming.
Intense Team Showdown
In the January 17 episode, MCs Yoo Jae-suk and actor Yoo Yeon-seok team up against Ji Ye-eun, who assembles a powerhouse lineup of male celebrities including Seph, Gaeguman, a former baseball player, and others. Her strong allies overwhelm the rivals with dynamic thumb action and infectious energy, turning the arena into a hub of excitement and dopamine-fueled fun.
Ji Ye-eun Targets Yoo Yeon-seok
Ji Ye-eun sets her sights on Yoo Yeon-seok as her latest target. Spotting his caring gestures, she exclaims, “You’re so sweet!” unable to hide her smile. As they board a bus together in a casual, date-like vibe, she confesses, “I watched ‘Hospital Playlist’ and loved it so much.”
Yoo Yeon-seok responds directly, asking her group, “Do you know my character’s name from the show?” Ji Ye-eun quips back, “President’s wife?” with a playful eye smile, sparking uproarious laughter.
When Yoo Yeon-seok makes repeated slip-ups, Ji Ye-eun teases, “Isn’t it because you’re totally smitten with the limited-time offer?” Yoo Jae-suk fires back, “Practice brings no such feelings,” before adding, “There are plenty of others in entertainment who like you, Ji Ye-eun—Dolly AI, Mickey Kwang-soo, Yoo Hye-kwan.” Ji Ye-eun erupts in mock fury, heightening the fun.
Revealing Resentments and Emotions
Ji Ye-eun unleashes her pent-up frustrations toward award winners at the ‘2025 SBS Entertainment Awards,’ admitting she holds a “bag of resentment” from past ceremonies where tears eluded her despite deep emotions.
She shares a heartfelt moment: “Even glancing at the ‘Running Man’ cast brings tears. I hugged every one of them.” Highlighting full embraces from Yoo Jae-suk’s circle, she notes how they left her profoundly moved, effectively cornering the MC.
Ji Ye-eun’s sharp flirting and raw sentiments resonate strongly with viewers, solidifying her standout presence on ‘Thumb Man Then.’
