Knowing Bros Welcomes First Female Cast Member, Original Member Goes on Hiatus

Kim Heechul is stepping away from Knowing Bros temporarily due to health issues. The original member since the show started in 2015 will be absent starting May 9.

A JTBC rep told OSEN:

“Kim Heechul will be taking a break due to health reasons. The exact length of the break is not determined yet, but he will be resting for the time being. However, he is not leaving the program and will be absent starting from the May 9 broadcast.“

At the same time, the show just made history by adding its first-ever female regular member, comedian Kim Shin Young. She officially joined the cast on April 29.

Known for her sharp wit and bold humor as a recurring transfer student, Kim Shin Young quickly won over fans and cast members alike with her energy and quick responses.

The production team said:

“Even in the recent recording, Kim Shin Young immediately took over the classroom atmosphere with her unique energy. Her sharp reactions and flawless back-and-forth exchanges with the existing members naturally blended in and brought new vitality to the program. Based on the experience she gained from appearing as a transfer student five times, she quickly adapted to the ‘brother school.’ We expect her distinctive sense and wit to bring a fresh change to the show.“

Knowing Bros holds the record as JTBC’s longest-running entertainment show, dominating Saturday night TV for over a decade.

Fans have mixed feelings seeing Kim Heechul stepping back, but since it’s a temporary health break, a comeback is expected.

Watch Kim Shin Young’s hilarious Knowing Bros moments

No official updates yet on Kim Heechul’s return date. Monitoring the situation.