Where Are They Now? 'Dad! Where Are We Going?' Child Stars Return as College Students and Rising Actors

The children who once stole hearts on MBC's beloved family variety show Dad! Where Are We Going? are all grown up, and their transformation from adorable toddlers into ambitious young adults has become one of Korean entertainment's most heartwarming ongoing stories. The premiere of tvN STORY and E Channel's My Kid's Dating 2 on February 25 brought several of these familiar faces back into the spotlight, proving that time flies but public affection endures.

Yoon Hoo: From Jjajang Ramyeon to NYU Business

Perhaps the most dramatic transformation belongs to Yoon Hoo, son of singer Yoon Min-su. The boy once beloved for his adorable instant noodle mukbang has grown into a striking young man who now studies business at New York University. Appearing on My Kid's Dating 2 with a noticeably muscular build — the result of working out six times a week, over two hours per session — Yoon Hoo had viewers doing a double take.

His appearance prompted an emotional reaction from show host Kim Sung-joo, who remarked, "I can't believe I'm seeing our Hoo like this," while actor Lee Jong-hyuk added with a laugh, "He used to cry all the time." Yoon Hoo also spoke candidly about his romantic experiences, showing a maturity that underscored just how far he has come from his variety show days.

A Generation of Overachievers

Yoon Hoo is far from the only former child star charting an impressive path. Kim Min-guk, son of broadcaster Kim Sung-joo, drew attention during the original show for his intellectual demeanor. He enrolled at New York University in 2023 to study film, choosing to focus on his academic pursuits rather than returning to television. He is reportedly attending the same university as Ahn Ri-won, the daughter of former soccer star Ahn Jung-hwan, adding another layer of nostalgic interest for longtime fans.

Actor Lee Jong-hyuk's two sons have both pursued the performing arts, following in their father's footsteps. Lee Tak-su, the elder son, is currently studying in the theater department at Dongguk University, while younger brother Lee Jun-su recently gained acceptance to Chung-Ang University's College of Arts, majoring in theater and acting. Lee Jun-su also received offers from Seoul Institute of the Arts and Sejong University, demonstrating his considerable talent. Standing at over 190 centimeters tall with a warm, photogenic presence, the former show's cheerful youngest member is now positioned to become a professional actor himself.

Diverse Paths, Shared Growth

The updates extend beyond these headline stories. Im Chan-hyung, son of actor Ryu Jin, was accepted to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in the United States, showcasing a musical talent that apparently runs in the family. Sung Jun, son of veteran actor Sung Dong-il, enrolled at Hanyang University. Meanwhile, Song Ji-wook, son of former national soccer team player Song Jong-kook, is continuing to pursue a career in professional soccer.

What makes these growth stories resonate so deeply with Korean audiences is the authentic connection viewers feel with these young people. Having watched them throw tantrums and shed tears as children on national television, the public has developed something akin to an extended family bond with these individuals. Their achievements feel personal to the millions who followed their early years.

As these former child stars continue to carve out their own identities — in classrooms, on stages, and on athletic fields — they represent something more meaningful than a simple "glow-up" narrative. Their journeys reflect the genuine process of growing into adulthood, making choices, and pursuing passions, all under the warm gaze of an audience that has been cheering them on since day one.