TVXQ Yunho on The Seasons: "Lesson Uncle" Returns After Viral Thank U Comeback
TVXQ's Yunho embraces his unexpected 2025 viral fame on KBS music show, performing TVXQ classics with host 10CM alongside Jaurim, Balming Tiger, and LE SSERAFIM.
Four years after release, Yunho's 2021 solo track "Thank U" went viral across TikTok and Instagram Reels, thanks to its dramatic "lesson" lyrics becoming an internet sensation. On Friday's "The Seasons - 10CM's Sseudam Sseudam," the TVXQ member finally addressed the phenomenon that earned him an amusing new nickname.
From Passion Icon to "Lesson Uncle"
"These days, people call me 'Lesson Uncle,'" Yunho revealed during the November 14 broadcast, laughing about his track's unexpected resurgence. The song's theatrical delivery of lines like "This is the first lesson" and "Now, the second lesson" captured viewers' attention when streamer LookSam's reaction video went viral earlier this year.
The resurgence proved massive-Melon reported a 56-fold increase in listeners compared to early June averages. Fans flooded social media demanding the mythical "fourth lesson," turning Yunho's sincere 2021 performance into 2025's most quotable K-pop meme.
On the show, Yunho announced a playful "retirement ceremony" for the viral moment, performing the meme-worthy sections one final time before moving on. He then shifted gears for collaborations with host 10CM, delivering fresh takes on TVXQ's debut hit "Hug" and their iconic 2008 track "Mirotic."
Jaurim Opens With Nearly Three Decades of History
Rock veterans Jaurim kicked off the episode with "Hey, Hey, Hey," their 1997 breakthrough that launched them to mainstream success. Vocalist Kim Yuna, guitarist Lee Sun-kyu, and bassist Kim Jin-man have been making music together since the mid-1990s, establishing themselves as Korea's longest-running co-ed rock band.
Kim Yuna surprised viewers by revealing a vulnerable moment in the band's recent history. "There was a time when I stood at a crossroads, wondering if I could continue making music," she shared, explaining the renewed passion driving their upcoming album. The band credited fellow rock group Crying Nut as instrumental in their formation-an unexpected origin story for the legendary act.
Balming Tiger's Fearless Alternative Approach
Alternative K-pop collective Balming Tiger brought their signature unpredictability to the stage. The multi-member group, known for blending hip-hop, electronic, and experimental sounds, shared a humorous take on their early days.
"At first, we even performed at a festival held in a stable," they admitted, drawing laughter from the audience. When asked about their international success at major music festivals, they credited "groundless confidence"-the fearless attitude that defines their entire approach to music.
Member Sogumm shares musical history with 10CM from previous collaborations, and the two reunited for a distinctive duet that showcased their unexpected chemistry.
Birthday Celebration for LE SSERAFIM's Eunchae
The episode brought special celebration for LE SSERAFIM's youngest member, Hong Eunchae, who turned 20 years old (Korean age) just days before the broadcast. Host 10CM, a self-proclaimed fan of the group, surprised her with a custom birthday cake.
"Living 20 years, I never imagined a day would come when I'd receive congratulations from 10CM sunbaenim," Eunchae said emotionally. The host proved his fandom by instantly describing each LE SSERAFIM member's unique characteristics without hesitation.
LE SSERAFIM prepared a choreographed cover of 10CM's "Stalker," while the singer-songwriter responded with an acoustic version of their recent hit "SPAGHETTI." The mutual appreciation created one of the episode's most heartwarming moments.
Indie Music's 30-Year Legacy
The broadcast continues "The Seasons" ongoing celebration of Korean independent music's 30th anniversary. Jaurim's appearance-a band with nearly three decades of history-perfectly embodies this tribute to indie music's evolution and lasting influence on Korea's music scene.
"The Seasons - 10CM's Sseudam Sseudam" airs Fridays at 10 PM KST on KBS 2TV. Singer-songwriter 10CM (Kwon Jung-yeol) took over as the show's eighth host in September 2025, following actor Park Bo-gum's successful "Cantabile" season.