퇴사 후에도 이어지는 기안84식 의리, ‘인간 개조 프로젝트’가 던지는 메시지 > K-wave Trends

The inception of this project stemmed from the regret Kian84 felt after witnessing the deteriorated health of his former staff. Instead of merely advising them to stay healthy, he provided a practical incentive that allowed them to experience change firsthand. He set a six-week period with goals of systematic weight loss and muscle building, offering exceptional rewards for success: a significant prize of 3 million won, a body profile photoshoot, and opportunities to promote their personal channels. It is, in essence, a "life reset" project designed to breathe vitality back into the lives of his former employees and help them experience a sense of accomplishment.

The approach Kian84 displayed during the project was both unique and direct. Before starting the workouts, he had them chant, "I am trash," which can be interpreted as an extreme psychological device to completely reject their past, lazy selves and forge a strong will to be reborn. Although the staff complained of pain and even talked about giving up the prize money in the face of high-intensity workouts, Kian84 provided additional support of 100,000 won per week, showing meticulous care to ensure they wouldn't give up. This process demonstrates a bond that goes beyond a simple trainer-trainee relationship, reflecting a partnership where they run toward a goal together.

The reason Kian84's actions resonate so deeply with the public is due to the "continuity of relationships" he demonstrates. Unlike the modern social norm where relationships are severed the moment someone resigns, he cherishes the time they spent working together and sincerely supports their lives after departure. His anecdote from last year, where he gave a large sum of money to an employee who had been with him through thick and thin for six years, already proved his warm humanity. This health project, too, differentiates his leadership by providing "growth support"—helping others restore their health and boost their self-esteem—rather than just offering material aid.

Meanwhile, Kian84 is expanding his scope beyond his main career as a webtoon artist and broadcaster into the music industry. The news that he is collaborating with Kangnam for an album release in July highlights his versatility and relentless spirit of challenge. The fact that he takes care of the health of those around him even while juggling a busy broadcast schedule and preparing for new projects is proof of how much he prioritizes people-centered values. Not settling for his own success, but looking after those around him and exerting a positive influence, is likely one of the reasons the public continues to be so enthusiastic about him.

This "Liz Project" (a project to reach one's prime) is not simply aimed at external changes like losing weight or building muscle. As Kian84 emphasized, the sense of achievement after running and the energy that comes from a healthy body are invaluable assets that money cannot buy. By telling his staff, "The changed version of myself is something money cannot buy," he is teaching them how to control and cultivate themselves. While six weeks may be a short time, what the employees will gain from this project is not just the 3 million won prize, but self-assurance that they can achieve any difficult goal and a healthy attitude toward life.