Chances are if you’re searching for some Korean reality shows to watch, you’ve already binged the ultra-popular Korean dramas like Squid Game and watched the hit film K-Pop Demon Hunters. Naturally, it’s time to dive into the world of Korean reality TV. Korean reality shows are my favorite series to watch, and over the last few years there’s been a huge increase in the availability on Netflix.

Not only are they entertaining, but they also help me practice Korean and help me feel connected to the culture when I’m away. Whether you’re interested in intense survival competitions, Michelin-level cooking shows, or wholesome dating programs, there’s really something for everyone in the world of Korean reality TV on Netflix.

My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

Why Korean Reality Shows Are So Popular

One of the reasons Korean reality shows have become so popular around the world is because they are completely different from many Western reality TV shows, and you’ll notice a bit of a culture clash. Rather than focusing on drama or conflict, many Korean series emphasize genuine relationships and personal growth, something that can often be left behind in reality shows from other countries. Dating shows in Korea tend to be much more wholesome, and you’ll notice that something as simple as hand holding often feels like a big deal. You’ll also notice fun editing styles, quirky sound effects, and usually a panel of celebrities that comment on the show, adding their own take without taking away from the contestants.

My Must-Do Tours in Seoul :

->Guided DMZ Tour with Suspension Bridge

->Nami Island and Alpaca World Day Trip

Best Korean Reality Shows on Netflix

1. Kian’s Bizarre B&B (1 Season)

This quirky reality show showcases celebrity Kian84 (a webtoon illustrator and YouTuber), along with Ji Ye Eun and Jin from BTS as a trio who begins to run their own B&B. Not only does Kian create his own crazy building based off his animations (a building with no stairs and outside sleeping only), but him and his workers are completely in charge of everything that needs to be done – cooking, laundry, cleaning, you name it. Every so often they get a new guest, and you get to know them and their story.  If you’re in the mood for a laugh, or for a show to jumpstart your creativity, this is the perfect one.

2. Better Late Than Single (2 Seasons)

Another one of my favorites, Better Late Than Single gathers a group of “eternal singles” – people in their late 20s that haven’t had a “real” relationship before. Not only do they each undergo a complete physical transformation including lessons on how to dress and act, but they get full on training for their communication and people skills, plus dating advice from their “cupids.” It’s a funny show that pulls on your heart strings and has you rooting for each of them by the end.

3. Nineteen to Twenty (1 Season)

This adorable show has a similar plot line to Better Late Than Single. It follows a group of 19-year-olds right before they turn 20, and the transition they undergo from a school like setting (19), to New Year’s when they turn 20, and then to a dorm like setting (20). For most of them, this is their first dating experience, and first time living away from home with no parents.

4. The Devil’s Plan (2 Seasons)

This strategic game show gathers some of the smartest celebrities in Korea and puts them into a dorm building where they’re challenged to beat each other in various puzzles and mind games. There’s alliances, secrets, and betrayals – plus a few plot twists – that makes The Devil’s Plan a show that hooks you until the end.

5. Culinary Class Wars (2 Seasons)

This unique cooking competition is unlike any I’ve ever seen before. The show begins with 100 chefs, divided into two groups. White Spoons are chefs that have already established their space in the cooking industry – think Michelin star chefs, or people that have cooked in the White House. Black Spoons are chefs that are still looking for their big break – more self-taught, homestyle meals. Throughout the series they compete to become the final and best chef with celebrity judges. If you’re wanting to learn more about Korean cooking or Korean cuisine this is a great show to watch.

6. Physical 100 (2 Seasons)

This unique reality show is similar to Culinary Class Wars – but instead of chefs they have athletes. The show aims to find a single person with “the most perfect physique.” They have everyone from Olympic medalists to bodybuilders, professional athletes to dancers, even Korean travel influencers. They undergo a series of individual and team based challenges to determine the winner.

7. Singles Inferno (5 Seasons)

Singles Inferno is one of Korea’s most “risky” reality shows, and it’s the closest you’ll get to their version of Love Island. Even though the most touching you’ll see is handholding, this dating show really shares how conservative the Korean culture is. Unlike Better Late Than Single, these adults have been on dates before, and after being corralled on an island off the coast of Korea, they spend one week participating in various games to win dates, including chances at overnights.

8. The Influencer (1 Season)

This game show gathers influencers from throughout Korea, whether that’s TikTokers, Youtubers, or just flat out celebrities. Through various challenges, the goal is to find the influencer who can best hold their audience’s attention. It’s silly, wild, and studies just how far they’ll go for strangers approval and attention.

9. Pop Star Academy (1 Season)

Falling to the very bottom of my list is Pop Star Academy. The reality show/docuseries follows a group of girls as they train to become K-pop idols, eventually becoming the sensation that is KATSEYE. Even though it’s not necessarily Korean, it is a unique show that showcases just how hard the K-pop field is and gives you an insiders look at what it takes to become a K-pop idol.

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