Cover Korean variety shows mix humour with a little bit of cuteness and sentimentality (Photo: IMDB)
Korean variety shows mix humour with a little bit of cuteness and sentimentality (Photo: IMDB)
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Whether you’re in it for the celebrity cameos, playful friendships or unpredictable laughs, these Korean variety shows are proof that Korea’s entertainment industry knows exactly how to keep audiences hooked
You’ve memorised every single line to J-Hope’s new song. You can write a thesis on the differences between all three Reply series. But do you know who Lee Hwi-jae is?
While K-pop and K-dramas have propelled the Korean entertainment industry to global heights, Korean variety shows shouldn’t be overlooked.
Korean variety shows are a vibrant, addictive slice of fun that offers a charm unmatched by their Western counterparts. Through their ingenious formats and heartwarming jokes, these programmes have carved out their own cultural niche and present a different perspective and profound albeit hilarious look at Korean culture, societal norms and camaraderie. Cast members often sign on for the long term, allowing the hosts to build genuine chemistry among themselves and with the audience. The whimsical editing, playful sound effects and over-the-top cutesy captions add a distinct layer of uniquely Korean aegyo and humour that keep audiences laughing out loud.
If that doesn’t draw you in, this might: many K-drama stars and K-pop idols often pop in as guests. Watching a beloved superstar struggling with a cooking challenge or laughing uncontrollably during a bizarre physical game breaks those carefully cultivated personas to reveal a rare, off-the-cuff glimpse into their personalities. It can help you build a better connection to your bias.
If you’re looking to dive into the world of Korean variety shows, here’s a quick list to get you started:
1. ‘Running Man’ (SBS, 2010 - present)
Running Man is the Korean variety show of all Korean variety shows. This long-running and highly beloved program is a fast-paced mix of games, missions and pure comedic chaos. Its core cast includes Yoo Jae-suk, Haha, Kim Jong-kook, Ji Suk-jin, Song Ji-hyo and Yang Se-chan. Over the years, the show has welcomed countless celebrity guests, from top idols like BTS and BLACKPINK to popular actors like Park Seo-joon and Lee Dong-wook. Known for its iconic name tag-ripping games and surprising betrayals, Running Man thrives on the chemistry between its cast, drawing viewers in with their long-standing friendships and roguish rivalries.
See more: Cross-cultural success: Korean variety shows adapted by other Asian countries
2. ‘Knowing Bros’ (JTBC, 2015 - present)
Also known as Men on a Mission, this school-themed variety show places its celebrity guests in a high school classroom, with the main cast (Kang Ho-dong, Lee Soo-geun, Seo Jang-hoon, Kim Young-chul, Min Kyung-hoon and Lee Sang-min) portraying mischievous students. The show’s unscripted format is conducive to candid conversations and hilarious interactions. Top-tier guests include EXO, TWICE and even international stars like Charlie Puth. Fans love the bold humour, playful teasing and surprising emotional depth that emerges during the show’s signature guessing games.
3. ‘2 Days & 1 Night’ (KBS, 2007 - present)
Korean variety shows are never simply about random games and musical performances. 2 Days & 1 Night, in particular, is a travel-reality hybrid program. It takes viewers on a scenic journey across South Korea, with the cast engaging in games and challenges to earn food, shelter and other necessities. The show has seen multiple cast changes over the years, but its essence remains the same: show the beauty of Korea via heartwarming moments and laugh-out-loud antics. The current lineup includes Kim Jong-min, Moon Se-yoon, DinDin, Lee Joon, Jo Se-ho and Yoo Seon-ho, with memorable past members like Cha Tae-hyun (My Sassy Girl) and Kim Seon-ho (Startup).
Also read: 5 Korean reality TV shows coming to Netflix in 2023
4. ‘The Return of Superman’ (KBS, 2013 – present)
As far as Korean variety shows go, The Return of Superman (sometimes labelled Superman Returns) is quite addictive. The show follows celebrity dads as they care for their children without any help for 48 hours. It’s family-focused and inspiring, and you can’t help but ‘aww’ as you see the children grow up before your very eyes. Former cast members include TV host Lee Hwi-jae and his twins, Jumong actor Song Il-kook and his triplets, MMA star Choo Sung-hoon and his daughter Sarang and rapper Tablo and his daughter Haru.
Currently, the cast includes footballer Park Joo-ho, former idol Moon Hee-joon, rapper BewhY and more. The show’s heartwarming and often hilarious moments make it a family favourite. The adorable kids often steal the spotlight, creating a comforting and endearing viewing experience. Watch for those episodes where the entire cast takes their kids on a trip!
5. ‘New Journey to the West’ (tvN, 2015 - present)
A quirky, fantasy-themed variety show, New Journey to the West draws inspiration from the classic Chinese novel, sending its cast on a series of hilarious missions and challenges across Asia. Featuring regular members Kang Ho-dong, Lee Soo-geun, Eun Ji-won, Ahn Jae-hyun, Kyuhyun and P.O, the show’s unpredictable format and wild costumes make for uniquely entertaining chaos. The cast’s banter and inside jokes give viewers the sense of being part of an exclusive club.
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