Kim Jong-kook’s 6.2 Billion Won Mansion Move: The Ultimate Frugal Idol? Why He’s Refusing Moving Services

Kim Jong-kook’s New Home: A 6.2 Billion Won Statement

Did you know that Kim Jong-kook, the famous Korean singer and entertainer, recently purchased a luxury villa in Seoul’s Gangnam district for a staggering 6.2 billion won, all in cash? The property, located in the exclusive Nonhyeon Apelbaum complex, is known for its top-tier security and celebrity residents like Jang Geun-suk and Lee Yo-won. This purchase alone would be headline news, but what truly shocked fans and the public was not just the price tag, but how Kim Jong-kook approached his move.

The Legend of Kim Jong-kook’s Frugality

In Korea, Kim Jong-kook is more than just a star—he’s a cultural icon of thriftiness. His frugal habits have been well documented on shows like ‘My Ugly Duckling’ and ‘Running Man.’ From reusing plastic bags to wearing affordable clothes and even washing and reusing wet wipes, his lifestyle has earned him the nickname ‘the king of saving.’ His mother once joked on TV that his thriftiness comes from his father, and fans often debate whether his habits are extreme or inspirational. This cultural phenomenon reflects a broader societal admiration in Korea for self-discipline and financial prudence, especially among celebrities.

Running Man: The Self-Move That Shocked Everyone

On the June 22 episode of SBS’s ‘Running Man,’ Kim Jong-kook revealed he was preparing for his move to the new mansion. When fellow cast members asked if he had hired a moving company, Kim stunned everyone by declaring he would do the move himself. He confessed to staying up all night packing and even running out of bags, resorting to reusing old ones from recycling. His insistence on not hiring professional movers, despite the physical challenge and the value of his possessions, became a hot topic among the cast and viewers alike.

Why Not Just Hire Movers? The Cultural and Personal Logic

For many overseas fans, it might seem strange that a wealthy celebrity would refuse such a basic convenience. But in Korea, there’s a cultural respect for humility and self-reliance, especially when it comes from someone as physically strong and disciplined as Kim Jong-kook. He explained that the new house is very close to his current place, making it feel unnecessary to spend money on a moving service. Instead, he considered asking his equally muscular friends for help—a move that had his castmates both worried and amused. This episode sparked online debates about the value of money, the meaning of hard work, and the image of celebrities in Korea.

Fan and Community Reactions: Laughter, Admiration, and Debate

The Korean internet exploded with reactions. Many fans praised Kim’s dedication to his principles, calling him the ultimate ‘thrifty idol.’ Comments ranged from admiration for his self-discipline to playful teasing, with some joking that he must have saved for his mansion by collecting plastic bags. Others, including his fellow ‘Running Man’ members, urged him to reconsider for the sake of his health and sanity. The story quickly became a trending topic on portals like Naver and Daum, with blog posts and articles dissecting every detail of his moving strategy and frugal mindset.

Kim Jong-kook’s Financial Philosophy: Beyond Just Saving

Kim’s approach to money isn’t just about cutting costs—it’s a lifelong philosophy. He’s publicly stated that he saves almost all his income, avoids risky investments like stocks or crypto, and prefers to spend only on essentials, especially health and fitness. His financial discipline even earned him a presidential commendation for promoting the importance of saving. For international fans, this may seem unusual for a star, but in Korea, he’s seen as a role model for responsible living. His story resonates with a generation facing economic uncertainty and looking for practical inspiration.

The Broader Impact: What Overseas Fans Should Know

Kim Jong-kook’s moving saga is more than just a quirky celebrity anecdote—it’s a window into Korean values and the unique pressures of fame in the country. His actions reflect a deep-rooted belief in self-reliance, humility, and the importance of not flaunting wealth, even when you have it. For overseas fans, understanding this context adds depth to the humor and surprise surrounding his decision. It also highlights how Korean idols and celebrities are often expected to set examples not just in talent, but in everyday life choices.

Conclusion: The Frugal Idol’s Legacy

Whether you find Kim Jong-kook’s self-move admirable or amusing, there’s no denying its impact. He’s sparked conversations about money, values, and the realities of celebrity life in Korea. His story reminds us that sometimes, the most surprising thing about a superstar isn’t their wealth or fame, but their commitment to living by their own rules—even if it means carrying their own fridge to a 6.2 billion won mansion. What do you think—would you do the same in his shoes?