The identity of the TV program "The Boss Has Donkey Ears" is being shaken as it increasingly deviates from its original intent of examining boss-employee relationships and dismantling outdated hierarchical culture. Instead, the show is becoming more provocative, featuring the ongoing "hierarchy battle" among the cast members.

Recently, actress Kim Soo-mi joined KBS 2TV's entertainment show "The Boss Has Donkey Ears" as a new boss. She revealed the rehearsal site with her team members as the boss of the musical "Mother-in-Law."

Among the actors who worked with Kim Soo-mi, the most attention-grabbing was Kim Hyung-jun, a former member of SS501, who played the role of a son-in-law. Despite his polite approach, including a 90-degree bow, Kim Su-mi's reaction was not warm. She bluntly stated that she prefers another actor in the son-in-law role, revealing, "I don't like it when someone is too formal."

Kim Soo-mi was particularly cold towards Kim Hyung-jun, who tried to get closer by calling her "big sister" at a meal. She rebuked him, saying, "Why do you keep calling me 'big sister'? I'm your mother-in-law. Just stay still."

Even when Kim Hyung-jun presented her with a gift, Kim Soo-mi did not smile. After the performance, he visited her waiting room and handed her a bouquet of flowers. However, she made an uncomfortable expression when she saw her favorite white flowers were missing. Fellow actor Kim Suk suggested, "At least smile on the outside."

Regardless of Kim Soo-mi's seniority in the entertainment industry, it's hard not to feel embarrassed by her disregard for the feelings of a junior who has been in the business for 18 years. Although she briefly apologized after watching her own VCR, it was long after the damage had been done. This type of relationship is not right.

Chef Jung Ji-sun, who also appears on "Donkey Ears," has been treating young employees in a similarly condescending manner. The things he said to his staff were shocking.

Jung Ji-sun scolded an employee for making "the worst kimchi pancake" and criticized others for creating a group chat without him, demanding they not do so. He even complained about a healing trip planned by an employee, Kim Tae-guk, expressing his discontent with every aspect of the journey.

Jung Ji-sun's treatment of his employees seemed more like reproach than advice or teaching. As a self-employed chef, he needs to gain the trust of consumers rather than maintaining this offensive concept that alienates viewers and employees alike.

The original intent of the show, "Korean bosses voluntarily self-reflect to create a better working environment," seems to have been lost. The production crew should not ignore viewers' opinions that the program has gone too far.

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