The drama isn’t just on the field it’s brewing on the sidelines, too.
On June 12, a behind-the-scenes media day was held at Yongin Mir Stadium in Gyeonggi-do, offering an early glimpse into the much-anticipated return of Coupang Play’s hit soccer entertainment show, ‘Shooting Star Season 2’. In attendance were familiar faces and new icons: Director Choi Yong-soo, Head Coach Seol Ki-hyun, Koo Ja-cheol, Lee Keun-ho, global legend Patrice Evra, and the show’s producer Jo Hyo-jin.
Following a breakout first season that racked up over 3 million views on Shorts and Reels, ‘Shooting Star 2’ is back with bigger ambitions and an even brighter cast. As Korea’s only full-time growth-based soccer reality show, it uniquely blends professional-level football with entertainment, pitting a team of retired legends against active K3 League teams under the leadership of General Manager Park Ji-sung.
Now promoted to compete in the fiercely competitive K3 League the bridge between K League 2 and K League 1 FC Shooting Star is no longer the underdog. Reinforcements like Koo Ja-cheol, who captained Korea’s national team and earned bronze in the 2012 London Olympics, and Lee Keun-ho, AFC Champions League MVP, now join returning fan-favorites such as Yeom Ki-hun and Yoon Young-sun. The lineup is so elite, it’s been dubbed a “dream team” by fans and insiders alike.
But the real story might be unfolding on the coaching bench.
Coach Choi Yong-soo, reflecting on his journey, shared:
“In Season 1, I was too focused on results. I now realize I should’ve connected more with the players, since they’re the heart of this story. This time, I want to focus on the journey, not just the wins.”
His right-hand man, Seol Ki-hyun, had a different perspective one laced with ambition.
“Honestly, in Season 1, I didn’t support Coach Choi properly. I treated it like I was still a player, and that caused some friction. But now we’ve found common ground. At first, I didn’t think he was an amazing coach but after working with him in Season 2, I’ve learned a lot.”
And then came the bombshell, wrapped in humor but laced with intent:
“The K3 League is no joke. There may come a moment when the head coach faces a crisis. If that happens… I’m ready,” said Seol, grinning hinting at aspirations for Choi Yong-soo’s seat.
With pressure mounting, a deeper cast, and brewing competition both on and off the pitch, ‘Shooting Star Season 2’ promises to deliver more than just goals it’s set to spark headlines.
Premiere Date: Scheduled for release in the second half of this year, exclusively on Coupang Play.
