Comedian Kang Ho Dong's New Variety Show off to a Good Start

Comedian Kang Ho Dong has made a return to KBS with its new variety show "Our Neighborhood Variety Sports." Finally back to the unconventional, physical show that is his forte, Kang Ho Dong has his work cut out for him along with a strong core that consists of Lee Soo Geun, Kim Byung Man, Kim Sung Ho, etc.

He is off to a good start. "Our Neighborhood Variety Sports" which premiered on April 9 recorded 6.2% TV ratings, highest of all TV programs during the time period. His previous show, "Moonlight Prince" which struggled and eventually flopped, started off with 6% as well. But the fact remains that "Our Neighborhood Variety Sports" beat out its competitors.

Certainly, Kang Ho Dong is at his best in outdoor activities rather than sedentary talk shows. In the first episode of the show, he sprinted and jumped across places during a ping pong match and made himself the butt of jokes by applying black ink on his face and turning into a 'spotted pig.'

The supporting cast of Lee Soo Geun and Kim Byung Man more than did their part as they contributed significantly with their spot-on jokes and self-deprecating humors. TVXQ!'s Max Changmin and SHINee's Minho add a fresh dimension to the show as well.

Not everything was perfect, however, as it was unable to offer anything new. The basic format of the show was largely similar to " 1Night 2 Days" and "Dream Team."

The show will likely live and die by the establishment of characters within the show. If it is able to create and maintain diverse personalities within the parameters of the show, success is well within sight. "Running Man" is a show that succeeded in such ways and became a huge hit.

Kang Ho Dong is one of the great comedians today. If used in harmony with the show, his command of flow and limitless energy leave his competitors in the dust. Well, that is for the staff of "Our Neighborhood Variety Sports" and the great host himself to figure out. We shall watch what unfolds.