*Don't Stop People*, UBS’s flagship variety show, aired during the prime Sunday evening slot. Its cast included actors, singers, comedians, and other entertainment figures, and its guest list was always filled with high-profile celebrities.

No other show could match *Don't Stop People* in terms of public interest, and its ratings were consistently impressive.

However, the show's signature segment, "Name Tag Chase," and other games typically demanded physical activity, often leading to cast and guest members ending up in funny and sometimes ridiculous situations. In fact, the entertaining mishaps and human moments these celebrities showed while facing difficult challenges were key to the show's appeal.

"Still, don’t you think it's a bit much to have an elementary school kid play Name Tag Chase, Soo-hyuk?" 

Despite the importance of ratings, MC and regular cast member Seong Yoo-seok expressed concerns over the segment plan presented by Producer Choi Soo-hyuk.

"I think it would be better to place her in the role of a referee rather than a participant."

"Neither you nor the other members will go all-out against Ha-eun. And you won’t know her hiding location until the end of the recording, so there’s little chance of her feeling overwhelmed."

Producer Choi reassured Yoo-seok, explaining additional adjustments made specifically to accommodate Ha-eun’s age. They had minimized any elements that could be challenging for her.

"Alright, Soo-hyuk, if you’ve really thought it through. Still, I can’t shake the feeling she might be a bit uncomfortable with the chase segment."

"Actually, she specifically requested to participate in it. She said it seemed really fun!"

"...Really? You’re serious?"

"Would I lie to you, hyung?"

Seong Yoo-seok finally relented, accepting that the setup was designed to suit Ha-eun’s requests and ensure her safety. 

Having Ha-eun on the show was a big win; she was the main force that had propelled *My Love From the Stars* to incredible heights. There was no telling how many new viewers would tune in just to see her appearance, making this a golden opportunity for UBS’s entertainment division.

However, Yoo-seok remained cautious, primarily due to Ha-eun’s young age.

‘...Gun-yeol will really need to support her.’

Even though Producer Choi had arranged accessible missions for her, the show would include a lot of conversations with the regular cast, requiring wit and charm.

Most celebrities who appeared on *Don't Stop People* had unique stories to share, making it easy for them to engage with the cast. But at just twelve years old, it was uncertain if Ha-eun would be able to captivate audiences with her words alone.

Fortunately, one of the regular members, Lee Gun-yeol, had known Ha-eun for quite some time, so he could take the lead in sharing stories and make things easier for her.

Finally, the day of the [Don't Stop People: *My Love From the Stars* Special] recording arrived.

"Why does my hat not hide my funny face?" Yoo-seok grumbled as his coordinator joked with him while they waited for Ha-eun and the other members to arrive.

Not long after, more members began arriving, bringing similar light-hearted teasing his way.

"Hey, I’m not the only one, okay? Do you all think you’re much better?"

"Well… we’re not *that* funny-looking, hyung," another member quipped.

"If my face were that funny, I would’ve been a comedian instead of a singer."

Surrounded by laughs and jabs, Yoo-seok was left to shake his head in defeat.

Soon after, a mix of familiar and new faces joined them in the waiting room.

"Make way for the most lovely young lady, Lady Han Yoo-hwa!"

- Pinch.

"Ow, ow! Sorry, Ha-eun! I apologize!"

Lee Gun-yeol yelped, clutching his side after receiving a swift pinch. As he leaned over, Ha-eun gave a polite bow to Yoo-seok and the other members. Her courteous introduction was memorable, although whether that was in a good or bad way remained to be seen.

"Feels like it was just yesterday I saw her in *The Neighbor Uncle*. She’s really grown beautifully."

"If Se-young says she’s beautiful, then it must be true."

"Hey, Ha-eun, would you mind taking a photo with me later? My mom’s a huge fan."

With the members all welcoming her warmly, Yoo-seok felt optimistic about the start of the show.

After changing into a hanbok in the dressing room, Ha-eun emerged as the epitome of elegance. Though he was tempted to voice his admiration, Yoo-seok decided to hold back, remembering Gun-yeol’s recent fate.

"She’s like Han Yoo-hwa come to life."

"Absolutely Han Yoo-hwa."

"That’s really Han Yoo-hwa!"

The other members couldn’t help but gasp at her beauty in the hanbok, and Yoo-seok didn’t stop them—Ha-eun did look like young Han Yoo-hwa, straight out of *My Love From the Stars*.

To prepare for the recording, Yoo-seok arranged a quick Q&A session with Ha-eun to confirm topics for the show.

"Ha-eun, can I ask you some questions about your acting?"

"About my acting…? What kind?"

"Just things like what you were thinking during certain scenes, or maybe any acting tips you have."

Though she had readily answered questions about her family and hobbies, Ha-eun’s expression stiffened at the topic of her acting.

"We don’t have to go too deep. Just a simple answer about how you get into character is fine."

Yoo-seok was puzzled by her hesitation, as most actors were eager to discuss their craft in detail.

‘Well, I suppose she has her reasons.’

It was his responsibility as MC to steer clear of questions that might make guests uncomfortable, so he decided to focus on other topics Ha-eun had approved.

As he finished briefing her on the show, less than ten minutes remained before filming.

Just then, Ha-eun hesitantly approached Yoo-seok.

"Mr. Yoo-seok, may I ask one question?"

"Of course! Feel free to ask anything about the filming."

"Actually… it’s not about the filming. It’s a personal question. Is that okay?"

"Hmm… go ahead."

Delaying attaching his microphone for a moment, Yoo-seok turned his attention fully to her.

"Mr. Yoo-seok, when you became famous, did people start recognizing you at cafes or grocery stores?"

"Well, yes, I suppose."

"Do you find it uncomfortable? It can’t be easy to relax with that kind of attention."

Although he didn’t understand her exact reason for asking, he could tell it wasn’t a lighthearted question.

"Well, that’s part of the responsibility that comes with fame. It’s not as easy as it was before, but as long as I can manage, I try to handle it."

Yoo-seok answered without a hint of his usual playfulness, offering her honest advice. Ha-eun’s thoughtful expression showed she was absorbing his words.

"Thank you, Mr. Yoo-seok. I appreciate the advice."

Satisfied that he’d offered her some reassurance, Yoo-seok hoped her worries would ease.

Soon, Producer Choi Soo-hyuk’s voice called for standby, signaling the start of recording. Within seconds, the cameras were rolling.

"Thank you all for waiting! Today’s special guest is none other than Lee Ha-eun!"

As the MC, Yoo-seok welcomed Ha-eun with genuine enthusiasm.

At that moment, however, he had no idea just how much Ha-eun would dazzle everyone during the recording.

TL NOTE: Please don't skimp on the stars for the translation - it inspires me and gives me the strength to write more. Thank you~!

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