Entertainment Talk

Guide: Korean variety shows for complete beginners

A lot of people here asked about K-dramas, but Korean variety shows are a whole other world. Quick guide from someone who grew up watching them.

Start with something with a simple format: travel or cooking shows are easiest, since you don't need to know the cast. Then try the long-running group shows, where the fun comes from years of inside jokes. Expect lots of on-screen captions and sound effects; it's part of the style, not a mistake. And yes, comedian Yoo Jae-suk is in half of them, for good reason.