Actor Lee Yi-kyung appeared on MBC's "Hangout with Yoo" to meet with viewers. The episode aired on the 25th under the subtitle "Pause, Club Autumn Gathering," and was hosted alongside Yoo Jae-suk, Haha, Joo Woo-jae, Heo Kyung-hwan, and Ha Dong-kyun. In this broadcast, Lee Yi-kyung appeared under the nickname "IMF." He shifted from his usual "insider" character to a more introverted persona.

Lee Yi-kyung said, "I felt down during the IMF period, but I am trying to renew myself and make up for it." Haha asked, "Why are you like that, young guy? Try shouting once," and Yoo Jae-suk encouraged him, saying, "Straighten your chest and do it." When Lee Yi-kyung let out a shy roar, Yoo Jae-suk said, "It might take some time," lightening the mood and making everyone laugh.

Interest in Lee Yi-kyung's appearance stemmed from the difficulties he recently faced due to a "privacy controversy." On the 20th, a whistleblower named A, who called themselves "German," posted on a blog titled "Exposing Lee Yi-kyung's true self," revealing KakaoTalk and DM screenshots exchanged with Lee Yi-kyung. The content included obscene language asking about body measurements, personal contact information, and requests for body photos, causing shock.

Lee Yi-kyung's agency, Sangyoung ENT, stated, "We are preparing legal action regarding the false information and malicious rumors being spread mainly on online communities and SNS, which have caused damage." However, A opened an X (formerly Twitter) account and released additional evidence, escalating the controversy.

On the 22nd, A admitted, "I posted several photos and writings related to Lee Yi-kyung recently, but I acknowledge that they were not true. It started as a simple joke, but it gained more attention than expected and gradually felt like a real situation. I even used AI photos and got caught up in the delusion myself." He apologized, saying, "I became overly emotionally involved in something that began with fan feelings. I apologize for causing harm to Lee Yi-kyung. I will take responsibility if there is anything I must bear."

Through this broadcast, Lee Yi-kyung showed efforts to recover a positive image. He revealed his new side to viewers and expressed his determination to overcome past controversies. His appearance is expected to serve as a positive turning point for his future activities.