Voted ‘No. 1 Ajusshi’: Ju Ji-hoon Beats Gong Yoo & Lee Jun-hyuk, Talks The Trauma Code with Yoo Jae-suk

Actor Ju Ji-hoon is set to make a long-awaited return to You Quiz on the Block (You Quiz) after five years.

The upcoming episode of tvN’s You Quiz on the Block, airing on March 12, will feature a special theme titled “Turning Imagination into Reality.” Guests include figure skater Kim Chae-yeon, a gold medalist at the 2025 Harbin Winter Asian Games, The Trauma Code’s original web novel author and ENT specialist Lee Nak-joon, and Ju Ji-hoon.

Lee Nak-joon, the ENT specialist-turned-writer who shocked the world with Netflix hit series The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call, will discuss how his medical drama became a global sensation. He will reveal why he originally wanted to be a surgeon but later changed paths, along with real-life medical cases that inspired the novel. Lee, who famously stated, “I can’t imagine anyone but Ju Ji-hoon as Baek Kang-hyuk,” will also share exclusive behind-the-scenes stories that didn’t make it into the drama.

Ju Ji-hoon, who solidified his status as a world-class actor with The Trauma Code, will also bring his signature charm to the show. From the moment he steps onto the set, he instantly channels Baek Kang-hyuk, making Yoo Jae-suk and Jo Se-ho burst into laughter. Returning to You Quiz after five years, Ju will talk about his immersive acting process, spending 12-hour days brainstorming with co-stars to transform the web novel into a thrilling action-packed drama. He will also share candid stories about bonding with his junior co-stars, unexpected struggles on set, and the flood of post-shooting gatherings that led to hilarious drinking stories.

Meanwhile, Ju Ji-hoon was recently crowned the ultimate Yoajung (The Epitome of Today’s Ajusshi) in a fan-driven poll by Max Movie, beating Gong Yoo and Lee Jun-hyuk with 43% of the votes. The term, originally associated with a popular frozen yogurt brand, has taken on a new meaning, celebrating actors who balance timeless appeal with ajusshi charisma. Despite their oppa-worthy visuals, stars like Ju Ji-hoon are now embraced by younger fans as the ultimate stylish ajusshis. Ju Ji-hoon also reacts to being mentioned alongside Cha Eun-woo, as the most likely to receive chocolates on Valentine's Day by fans.

Now in his 20th year in the industry, Ju Ji-hoon reflects on his career with the mindset, “Why can’t I be No.1 in the world?”—showcasing his passionate approach to acting. The episode will also take a nostalgic look at his legendary filmography, from Princess Hours and Along with the Gods to Kingdom, where nearly every webtoon-based project he has starred in became a massive hit. Fans can also look forward to a special performance of the Princess Hours OST, along with witty anecdotes about his longtime friend Kim Nam-gil, playful jabs at his talkative nature, and heartfelt conversations about his friendships, fans, and family.

You Quiz on the Block featuring Ju Ji-hoon airs tonight at 8:45 PM KST. Don’t miss it!