Before venturing into the world of TV, Leeteuk was already basking in his success as a musician and leader of legendary K-pop act Super Junior. But when he found his next big talent as a TV host, his life took another turn. He became one of the most popular idol-turned-hosts on the scene, featuring in programs like SBS’ “Strong Heart,” “Star King” and “We Got Married.”

On the Wednesday episode of the MBC talk show “Radio Star,” Leeteuk opened up about his TV success.

“I’d finally made a debut after five years of practice, and my manager suggested that I learn managing tasks as my career as a musician didn’t guarantee success,” he said.

According to the singer, his manager then showed him a timetable for popular Korean variety programs and taught him how to select shows that were worth appearing on.

“My manager had told me to aim for ratings rather than popularity for the programs. There was a variety program called ‘Super Junior’s Full House’ at that time, which aired on Saturday during prime time, but I chose to host a program run by the Traffic Broadcasting System,” he continued.

Leeteuk also said he was responsible for selecting potential guests when he hosted Mnet’s “I Can See Your Voice.” He approached the task by searching for good vocalists among noncelebrities and introducing them to the program director.

He went on to surprise the other “Radio Star” guests by revealing that his individual engagements outnumber his group activities by 9 to 1.

“I am a host who finds his own opportunities,” he added.

Leeteuk is set to host the 2018 Korea Popular Music Awards on Thursday evening at Ilsan Kintex, Goyang, Gyeonggi Province.

(lotus@heraldcorp.com)