Korean dramas have taken the world by storm, but there’s another side to Korean entertainment that’s equally captivating – Korean reality shows! From heart-pounding survival programs to hilarious variety shows, Korean reality offers a diverse range of experiences that will keep you glued to your screen.
Whether you’re a seasoned K-drama fan or a newcomer to Korean entertainment, there’s a reality show out there waiting to be discovered. Here’s our curated list of the 10 Best Korean Reality Shows to watch, categorized based on your preferred genre:
Best Korean Reality Shows
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For the Thrill Seeker: Single’s Inferno (Netflix)
Imagine being stranded on a deserted island with a group of attractive singles. The only way to escape? Find love and go on a romantic date to “Paradise,” a luxurious resort. “Single’s Inferno” is a social deduction dating show where contestants flirt, strategize, and compete in challenges to find their perfect match. With unexpected twists and a dash of mystery, this show will have you guessing until the very end.
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For the Foodie: Youn’s Kitchen (tvN)
Craving a heartwarming and delicious experience? Look no further than “Youn’s Kitchen.” This show follows veteran Korean actress Youn Yuh-jung as she manages a pop-up Korean restaurant in different locations around the world. With the help of celebrity staff, including Park Seo-joon and Jung Yu-mi, “Youn’s Kitchen” offers a delightful mix of cooking demonstrations, heartwarming interactions with customers, and stunning scenery.
- For the Game Enthusiast: Running Man (SBS)
A staple of Korean variety shows, “Running Man” is a high-energy game show featuring a hilarious cast of celebrities. Each episode features a new theme and a series of hilarious and challenging missions that test the cast’s physical and mental strength, as well as their teamwork (or lack thereof). With its unpredictable games, witty banter, and iconic “撕名牌” (si pa ming pai – nametag ripping) segment, “Running Man” guarantees side-splitting laughter.
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For the Music Lover: Kingdom: Legendary War (Mnet)
Calling all K-Pop fans! “Kingdom: Legendary War” is a competition show featuring established boy groups battling it out with epic performances. Each group showcases their unique talents and concepts through different themed rounds, pushing their creative boundaries and delivering show-stopping stages. “Kingdom” is a must-watch for anyone who wants to see the best of K-Pop talent and stage production.
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For the Puzzle Master: The Genius (tvN)
Get ready to flex your mental muscles! “The Genius” is an intellectual reality show featuring a group of brilliant contestants competing in a series of strategic games that test their logic, deduction, and negotiation skills. The show’s complex game design offers an addictive puzzle-solving experience that will keep you guessing and strategizing alongside the contestants.
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For the Laughter Enthusiast: I Live Alone (MBC)
Ever wonder what celebrities do in their free time? “I Live Alone” offers a glimpse into the lives of single celebrities living solo. This slice-of-life show is surprisingly funny, showcasing the stars’ personalities and daily routines as they prepare meals, invite guests over, or simply relax at home. Be prepared for unexpected comedic moments and relatable struggles as these celebrities navigate life outside the spotlight.
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For the Crime Buff: Busted! (Netflix)
Calling all armchair detectives! “Busted!” is a comedic mystery show with a unique premise. Each episode features a celebrity cast disguised as a detective crew investigating a fictional crime scenario. With celebrity guest appearances, hilarious twists, and unexpected solutions, “Busted!” provides a lighthearted and entertaining take on the detective genre.
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For the Family Fun: Dad! Where Are We Going? (MBC)
Looking for a heartwarming and family-friendly show? “Dad! Where Are We Going?” takes celebrity fathers on a journey with their young children. The show documents their adventures as they travel to different locations, complete challenges, and learn valuable life lessons together. Expect heartwarming moments, adorable interactions between dads and kids, and a healthy dose of laughter.
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For the Culture Enthusiast: The Return of Superman (KBS)
Similar to “Dad! Where Are We Going?”, “The Return of Superman” offers a glimpse into the lives of celebrity families. The show focuses primarily on celebrity dads and their children, showcasing their daily routines, interactions, and special outings. This show allows you to witness Korean family dynamics and cultural aspects while enjoying the endearing moments between fathers and their children.
10. For the Design Buff: I Can See Your Voice (Mnet)
Calling all design enthusiasts with a side of suspense! “I Can See Your Voice” is a unique reality show that combines music and visual deception. A panel of celebrities and viewers must guess which contestants can truly sing based on their appearance, clues, and lip-syncing performances. For design buffs, the fun lies in analyzing the contestants’ attire, hairstyles, and overall aesthetics to decipher if they’re genuine singers or talented lip-syncing imposters. This show combines the thrill of guessing with a fascinating exploration of how visual cues can shape our perception.
Bonus Pick: Knowing Bros (Ask Us Anything) (JTBC)
If you’re looking for a variety show that encompasses laughter, music, and celebrity interactions, look no further than “Knowing Bros” (also known as “Ask Us Anything”). This show features a cast of established comedians posing as high school students who interview celebrity guests as “transfer students.” Expect hilarious skits, games, in-depth interviews, and unexpected musical performances. “Knowing Bros” offers a great entry point for those wanting a taste of Korean variety show humor and celebrity interactions.
Exploring the World of Korean Reality Shows:
This list is just a starting point for your exploration of the vast and exciting world of Korean reality shows. Here are some additional tips for finding your next binge-worthy show:
- Explore by Platform: Many streaming platforms, such as Netflix, Viki, and Viu, offer a wide selection of Korean reality shows with subtitles.
- Look for Themed Collections: Streaming platforms often curate collections based on genre, including romance, competition, and food.
- Read User Reviews: Before diving into a show, take a moment to read user reviews to get a sense of the show’s tone, format, and overall entertainment value.
So, grab your snacks, settle in on the couch, and get ready to be entertained by the dynamic and captivating world of Korean reality shows!