
TV Chosun’s Modern People History Mr. Lee will reveal the story behind an original “gateway to stardom” audition that helped introduce several famous Korean stars.
On the April 26 broadcast, the show will look back at key moments in South Korea’s textile industry, which played an important role in the country’s industrial growth. The episode will also explain how major companies such as SK and Samsung were connected to fashion and school uniform businesses.
One of the most interesting parts of the episode is the story of Sunkyong Group’s school uniform model contest. The audition became known for producing stars such as Song Hye Kyo, Lee Jong Suk, Go Joon Hee, and Seolhyun.


At the time, Sunkyong’s school uniform brand Smart and Samsung Cheil Industries’ Elite were major rivals. Their competition helped turn school uniform models into an important part of star marketing.
The cast will also share their own memories of school uniforms, while a photo of MC Lee Kyung Kyu from his middle school days will be shown.
The episode will also talk about Samsung founder Lee Byung Chul’s interest in wool fabric, Cheil Industries’ fashion brands such as Galaxy and Beanpole, and how Beanpole became known for its stylish image. Lee Kyung Kyu recalled, “About 10 years ago, I met chairman Lee Kun Hee at a restaurant in Gangnam, and I think the clothes he was wearing at that time were from this brand.”
The final episode of Modern People History Mr. Lee will air on April 26 at 9 PM.
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