Broadcaster Maeng Seung-ji announces comedian retirement: 'No plans to return to the stage'

Maeng Seung-ji, a former MBC 20th-class recruited comedian, has announced her retirement from comedy, saying she intends to make the next chapter of her life even more enjoyable.

Maeng posted on her Instagram account Monday saying she had retired as a comedian in May. "I know most people couldn't care less, but since some of you do ask from time to time, I just wanted to let you know," she wrote.

She added that it had been more than 10 years since she last performed on a comedy stage and that she had no plans to return.

"My time as a comedian was a passionate, grateful and joyful part of my life," she said, and went on to say she would continue working as an actor and broadcaster. "So please don't feel too sad about it."

Maeng was recruited as an MBC comedian in 2013 and went on to appear on programs including SBS's Utchaja.

She particularly made an impression on viewers through her role as a reporter asking offbeat questions on MBC's Infinite Challenge.

Maeng also recently shared news of her discharge from the hospital after a stay.

On Nov. 2, she posted on Instagram: "I've been discharged. My fiancé, I'm so grateful. You were already juggling hospital visits, lecture prep and customer calls, yet you made that long trip every day, brought me all the food I was craving, shared good news to lift my spirits, kept my mood up and handled all my messages — I can't tell you how reassuring and thankful I am." The post offered a glimpse of the couple's close bond.