How a failed civil servant became South Korea's most influential TV producer
In short: Na Yeong-seok, known as Na PD, transformed Korean variety television by introducing the road trip format. From his early days struggling with current affairs tests to creating cultural phenomena like 2 Days & 1 Night, his unique ability to analyze what makes content enjoyable has redefined the landscape of reality programming.
Before becoming a household name, Na Yeong-seok faced significant professional hurdles. After a brief, unsuccessful stint as an assistant director at a bankrupt film company, he worked as an academy instructor while preparing for media roles. His path to success began in 2001 when he applied to KBS, driven by a rigorous analytical method: he spent his time dissecting why specific programs were enjoyable and how they could be modified to improve them. He initially studied public administration at Yonsei University after his father, a civil servant, suggested the career path. Before joining KBS, he had even applied for a position as a sitcom writer.
Na's breakthrough came in 2007 with the launch of 2 Days & 1 Night. This program introduced the road trip format to Korean reality television, featuring a regular cast of entertainers visiting various towns to spend one night and two days there. The show became a national pastime, reaching a peak viewership rating of 40%. This success turned Na into a recognizable figure, earning him the affectionate nickname "Na PD." The program's popularity was so immense that Na himself became a household name. His fame grew as he frequently appeared on screen during interactions with the cast.
In 2013, Na moved to the cable network tvN, seeking greater creative control. He immediately challenged industry norms with Grandpas Over Flowers, a show that cast four actors in their seventies for a backpacking trip. By placing veteran actors in exotic settings like France and Switzerland, Na created unexpected comedic elements that resonated with younger generations. This success sparked a trend of senior-themed shows across rival networks and proved the immense potential of cable television in South Korea. This innovative approach led to successful spin-offs like Sisters Over Flowers and Youth Over Flowers. These programmes further expanded his influence across various cable networks.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Na Yeong-seok
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