Im Ha-ryong Reflects on Career as Comedian, Actor & Artist

South Korean entertainer Im Ha-ryong showcased his signature “Diamond Step” dance and recounted stories from his decades-long career during an appearance on the MBN talk show “Kim Ju-ha’s Day & Night” on February 28, 2026, drawing a peak viewership of 3.5%, according to Nielsen Korea.

The 70-year-old comedian, actor and painter revisited the iconic dance move that defined a significant portion of his career, even demonstrating it on the program. He noted that a doctor once remarked on the unusual wear and tear on his ankle joint, stating it was atypical for patients who usually present with knee problems, as reported by Topstar News.

Im Ha-ryong also discussed his two KBS Comedy Awards wins in 1989 and 1991, recalling a surge in work opportunities following the accolades. He playfully referred to himself as “the Midas of the comedy world,” highlighting his ability to consistently produce popular comedy segments. His successful partnership with Shim Hyung-rae during that period was also a topic of conversation, according to Topstar News.

The program also touched upon Im Ha-ryong’s transition from comedy to acting, including his 2006 Blue Dragon Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in “Welcome to Dongmakgol.” He attributed his success in film to being “in the right place at the right time,” as reported by Topstar News.

Im Ha-ryong revealed he has approximately 13,000 contacts stored in his mobile phone, a testament to his extensive network within the entertainment industry, according to MSN Korea. The broadcast also addressed the circumstances surrounding his professional split from Shim Hyung-rae, who declared bankruptcy in 2026 after accumulating 17.9 billion won in debt, as reported by Daum News. Im Ha-ryong described his feelings toward Shim Hyung-rae as “affectionate,” but did not elaborate on the specifics of their separation.

During the show, Im Ha-ryong shared a memory of his first encounter with Kim Ju-ha when she was a latest announcer at MBC, noting her resemblance to actresses Woo Hee-jin and Kim Hye-soo, as reported by Topstar News.