KBS2’s beloved parenting show The Return of Superman will spotlight the adorable transformation of Shim Hyung Tak’s son Haru in its 595th episode, The Super Challenge That Helps You Grow!, airing on Wednesday. The 254-day-old Haru will charm viewers with three heartwarming looks—a rabbit, Woody, and a little chef. Since its 2013 debut, The Return of Superman has become a fixture of Korean family entertainment, enjoying renewed popularity in 2023 as cast member Jung Woo ranked in the top 10 for two consecutive weeks, while Shim Hyung Tak and Haru also entered the top 10 in mid-August. The program’s cultural impact was further recognized when it received a presidential commendation during the 14th Population Day ceremony in July, reaffirming its status as Korea’s leading parenting variety show.
This week’s episode promises a visual delight, featuring Haru in a bunny-shaped safety helmet, hopping playfully with tufts of fluffy hair peeking out, before channeling Woody in a checkered shirt and red bandana and finally donning a white apron and toque for his mini chef debut. The show also documents Haru’s first sensory play session, as Shim Hyung Tak prepares puffed rice, tofu, and noodles to stimulate his son’s developing senses. Amusingly, Haru chooses to explore the puffed rice with his mouth rather than his hands, prompting Shim’s gentle laughter as he encourages, Haru, use your hands, not your mouth. Viewers can catch Haru’s endearing antics and transformations on The Return of Superman airing at 8:30 PM on KBS2 this Wednesday.
The Power of Sensory Play and Father-Son Bonding Beyond the delightful costumes, this episode emphasizes the crucial aspect of sensory development in early childhood. Shim Hyung Tak’s dedicated effort to prepare the raw materials for Haru’s first tactile experience underscores the show’s commitment to highlighting positive parenting trends. While Haru’s natural instinct to taste rather than touch provided a moment of comedic relief, it beautifully captured the authentic, sometimes challenging, reality of raising a baby. This focus on genuine, hands-on bonding moments is why the show continues to resonate deeply with audiences, offering both entertainment and valuable insights into the father-son dynamic.
Cultural Impact and Anticipation for Future TrendsThe Return of Superman‘s enduring appeal lies in its ability to consistently introduce lovable personalities like Haru, who quickly become cultural trendsetters. Given the viral nature of Haru’s previous appearances—driving the show into the top 10 rankings—this week’s three-part transformation (Bunny, Woody, Chef) is expected to dominate social media. Fans are already predicting that the “Bunny Safety Helmet” will become the next must-have item for K-moms, further solidifying the program’s role not just as entertainment, but as a significant influencer of lifestyle and parenting trends across South Korea.
