Kim Tae Ri and Choi Hyun Wook drew mixed reactions from viewers after clashing over how to prepare their lessons for a reality TV show about an after-school drama class.
On the March 1st episode of tvN’s variety show Curtain Up, Class, Kim Tae Ri and Choi Hyun Wook were shown running a drama class together as the main teacher and assistant teacher. The episode focused on an outdoor class held on their third day, where their teamwork did not go as smoothly as expected.
Kim Tae Ri asked Choi Hyun Wook to lead an icebreaker activity at the start of the outdoor lesson. However, a problem with the music disrupted the plan, and the class quickly became disorganized.
Seeing the situation unfold, Kim Tae Ri stepped in, saying, “Let’s start without music,” and took over guiding the students and continuing the game.
In an interview, Kim Tae Ri said, “I felt the children were bored from the beginning,” expressing frustration about how the activity went. Choi Hyun Wook also reflected on the moment, saying, “I didn’t prepare enough. It’s on me.”
After the class, the two met for a feedback discussion. Kim Tae Ri stressed the importance of strong warm-up activities, explaining that they help capture students’ attention early. When Choi Hyun Wook mentioned plans to go running before the next class if nothing else was scheduled, Kim Tae Ri responded in surprise, asking, “What about lesson preparation?”
She continued, saying the time before class should be spent discussing and preparing lessons together, and eventually showed frustration, telling him, “You haven’t been taking this seriously enough.” Kim Tae Ri later added that she had not been “100% satisfied” with the parts he handled, while Choi Hyun Wook replied that although he prepared differently, he believed he had fulfilled his role.
knowing that she said “you’ve had it EASY until now” to him with her voice raised is so… kim taeri i need you so bad#CurtainUpClass #CurtainUpClassEp1 pic.twitter.com/ojwUwYsSHJ
— june! ֶָ֢𐚁๋࣭⭑ֶָ֢ (@dohyunize) February 23, 2026
Following the show’s air, viewers shared divided opinions online about the situation. Some criticized Kim Tae Ri’s approach, saying she appeared to be too emotional and that her on-screen image felt different from her usual acting persona.
Others said the atmosphere of the show felt uncomfortable, leaving comments such as, “It felt like watching a boss yell at employees,” “It was stressful to watch. Was that really necessary?” and “Why is she getting so angry on a variety show?”
There were also reactions expressing surprise at the pairing itself, with viewers asking why the two were matched together, describing Kim Tae Ri’s personality as unexpected, and questioning whether too much was being expected from an assistant teacher.
Meanwhile, during the online production presentation, cast member Kangnam commented on the filming experience, saying, “I’ve done many variety shows, but this was the first one that caused me this much emotional stress.” He added that he often had to be mindful of the team atmosphere, hinting at the intense environment behind the scenes.
In the meantime, watch trending K-dramas for free on Amasian TV.
