tvN Variety, Falling for Actors [★FOCUS]

*This content was translated by AI.

The protagonists of variety shows have changed. Instead of professional entertainers or idols, actors are now leading the variety scene. tvN has strategically arranged a lineup of actor-centric reality LINE-ups for the first half of this year, driving this trend. The down-to-earth "true selves" and harmless healing of actors who set aside their glamorous images from their works have drawn in viewers.

First, tvN's "Youn's Summer: Limited Edition" (hereinafter "Youn's Summer"), featuring actors Jung Yu-mi, Park Seo-joon, and Choi Woo-shik, aired its first episode on May 3 and concluded its six-episode journey on June 7.

The return of PD Na Young-seok's signature brand "Youn's Series" after eight years, along with the reunion of the three who worked together on "Jinny's Kitchen," generated buzz even before the broadcast.

This series opted for a five-night, six-day domestic wandering trip where the participants did not even know where they would go or where they would sleep, instead of visiting glamorous tourist spots. Despite constraints such as a daily allowance of 100,000 won and a ban on mobile phone use, the three remained steadfast. From worries about underwear to haggling over accommodation costs, the limited conditions actually highlighted their genuine friendship chemistry more vividly. Confident in their bond, they took responsibility for the program's fun with their close chemistry and friendship, saying, "Honestly, we don't even have to do anything to be fun."

On the 19th, "KongKong FarmFarm" (KongKong FarmFarm: Where beans grow beans, where you want to go, you want to go, an animal farm), featuring Lee Kwang-soo, Kim Woo-bin, and Do Kyung-soo, will air its first episode. After starting with "KongKong PatPat" in 2023, followed by "KongKong BibBib" which incorporated cooking shows, and the overseas travel series "KongKong PangPang," the three have reunited once again. This time, the stage is set at a Jeju ranch.

In the posters released prior to the broadcast, the three are lined up wearing cowboy hats, work clothes, and boots. The core of this season lies in what kind of synergy will emerge when their family-like bond, already proven through three previous series, meets an unfamiliar environment.

In the released trailer, a scene was captured where the three, upon hearing news of a cow escaping during a ranch meal, froze in place. The harmless laughter that will arise from unpredictable situations is expected to be a key viewing point.

"Sisters' Direct from the Mountain" will return for Season 3 with Yeom Jeong-ah, Kim Sun-young, Kang Yu-seok, and Noh Yun-seo. It is scheduled to air in the second half of this year.

Yeom Jeong-ah will once again take the lead as "Commander Yeom" in this series. Kim Sun-young, who newly joined, transformed from an enthusiastic fan into a cast member. Unlike her energetic appearance, her slightly clumsy nature serves as a twist point. The harmony between generations is also a key viewing point, ranging from rising star Kang Yu-seok to the youngest member Noh Yun-seo, who is taking on her first fixed variety show.

Curiosity grows over what new chemistry will be created within the program through past connections: Yeom Jeong-ah and Kim Sun-young ("First Love"), Kim Sun-young and Noh Yun-seo ("One Hit Scandal"), and Kang Yu-seok and Noh Yun-seo ("Delivery Driver").

The greatest weapon of actor variety shows is "unexpectedness." These individuals, who seemed perfect, release down-to-earth and unadorned charm.

There is no stimulation, no conflict, and no harsh remarks. Instead, genuine relationships formed through long-standing friendships or works flow through the program. Viewers who feel fatigued by sensational content find comfort in watching their chemistry.

Actors with solid acting skills secure approachability through variety shows. It is a "win-win" for both the actors and the viewers. As tvN continues to showcase actor variety shows one after another, attention is focused on whether they will continue to deliver harmless laughter to viewers through the actors' twist charm and "chemistry."

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*This content was translated by AI.