Kang Ho-dong, Kim Gu-ra to make comeback

By Rachel Lee

Popular emcees Kang Ho-dong, 42, and Kim Gu-ra, 41, are to return to the small screen after a hiatus following respective scandals.

Kim is likely to host a program in September on a cable network, according to a staff member of tvN. The comedian is reportedly also considering going back to other programs including MBC's "Three Wheels" and "Golden Fishery Radio Star".

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He is a well-known wit and raconteur and famous for his unflinching criticism. He stepped down from all broadcast activities in April due to an avalanche of criticism over his past ill-considered remarks on former sex slaves.

Kim Gu-ra gained popularity on the Internet by making scathing remarks against politicians and entertainers, sometimes using vulgar language, before advancing to major TV stations in 2004. He once called President Lee Myung-bak "a construction jerk" and "an anchovy" when he was running for the presidency.

Awarding-winning host Kang, who left the industry in September last year, signed a contract with SM C&C on Aug. 17, according to the agency. The former "ssireum", or Korean wrestling, champion is reportedly mulling over a return to programs including SBS's "Star King", which he hosted before he announced a tentative retirement following a tax evasion scandal.

Kang was on top variety shows like "1 Night, 2 Days", which he hosted for the last four years, the highest-rated program on weekend primetime television since its inception in 2007.

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