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Jeon Yoo-sung, 76, referred to as the “father of comedy,” died around 9 p.m. on the 25th at Jeonbuk National University Hospital, where he was being treated. He had been receiving care following a recent deterioration in his pneumothorax condition.

After completing his studies in Theater Direction at Seorabeol College of Arts, he began working as a specially hired comedy writer for TBC Dongyang Broadcasting in 1968. He then shifted to becoming a comedian, participating in shows like *‘Humor No. 1’* and *‘Show Video Jacky’*, and became a leading figure in the Korean comedy scene during the 1980s.

Jeon was the pioneer who coined the term “gagman.” In contrast to the slapstick comedy that dominated the scene, he brought forth a fresh approach that challenged “wordplay.” His groundbreaking satire and engaging interaction with the audience elevated the public’s perception of comedians. During the 1980s, he made the phrase “What is this, can’t say anything?” widely known through the social satire segment *‘Nero 25 Hours’* on KBS’s *‘Show Video Jacky’*, which he appeared in alongside Choi Yang-rak.

He was also among the initial planners of the long-running KBS comedy show *‘Gag Concert’*. He linked small theater comedy, primarily performed in Daehakro, with public comedy broadcasts. He introduced significant changes to broadcast comedy through stage design and audience involvement. “One must do something new that others haven’t done” was his guiding principle throughout his life. Believing that even rural areas should have access to comedians, he founded a performance venue in Cheongdo, North Gyeongsang Province, and ran the Cheongdo Dance Troupe, Magic Troupe, and Theater Troupe. He broadened the reach of comedy by organizing local small theater performances and offering stages for younger talents. He also wrote numerous books. These included the series *‘If You Do It for a Week, You Can Do It as Well as Jeon Yoo-sung’*, *‘A Tour of Others’ Cultural Heritage’*, *‘Life is More Enjoyable If You’re a Little Cowardly’*, and *‘Everything They Tell You Not to Do is Fun’*, all filled with distinctive concepts.

He wed singer Jin Mi-ryeong in 1993 and separated after 17 years in 2011. His remaining family consists of his daughter Jeon Je-bi, and his funeral will take place as a comedian’s funeral.