Our all-time favourite Idol Reality Shows

We know you’re desperate for more content from your favourite K-Pop groups because we are too!

From BLACKPINK HOUSE to Stray Kids Code, there’s a variety show for every fan. Credits: @BLACKPINK

Watching idol variety shows is the best way to get to know your beloved K-Pop artists outside of their work schedule, whether it’s through crazy challenges or relaxing trips. From content created by your idols themselves to budding game shows, there’s something for everyone to pass the time.

BLACKPINK HOUSE

Released near the beginning of their successful career, in BLACKPINK HOUSE fans get insight into what the girls, Rosé, Jennie, Jisoo, and Lisa, get up to in their daily lives. With a 100-day break in front of them, follow the girls on their trips to Thailand and Jeju Island and watch their cute interactions with their fanbase, BLINK. BLACKPINK HOUSE highlights the members’ bubbly personalities outside of their girl crush looks.

Going Seventeen

Whilst being full-time idols, Seventeen are also known for being part-time comedians. No matter what challenges their staff throw at them, the members are always able to create enjoyable content for fans and non-fans alike. Even what they consider their most disastrous episodes are able to wrack up millions of views.

Not sure which episode to watch first? We compiled the best Going Seventeen episodes so take your pick from our list and let the boys do their thing.

MMTG

Are you tired of the usual structure of interviews? MMTG takes traditional interviews and flips them on their head with its energetic host, Jaejae. By asking new and exciting questions and incorporating fans’ funny tweets, Jaejae is able to create a nurturing atmosphere that allows idols to feel comfortable sharing their stories. Without the pressure to create comedic content thanks to the naturally funny personality of Jaejae, MMTG provides a safe space for all interviewees.

En O’Clock

Feel youthful again with the fresh-faced boys of ENHYPEN. Whether it's watching Sunghoon teach the other members how to ice skate or the boys trying to run a successful coffee shop, En O’Clock will provide you with new and entertaining content. The boys grow in front of your eyes whilst still being given a chance to enjoy their childhood through games and challenges.

Men on a Mission

It is incredibly hard to find a K-pop fan that hasn’t heard of the variety show Men on a Mission. However, if you’re in the minority, this school-based show will allow you to get inside information on your favourite idols’ embarrassing stories and behind-the-scenes secrets. Having been on air since 2015, it is impossible to not find at least one episode that contains your favourite idols.

Run BTS

With over 150 episodes, Run BTS can keep you entertained for hours. Go through all of the emotions with the boys as they compete against each other in challenges that test their team to the limit. With BTS’ international success taking off, watching Run BTS is the perfect way for new and old fans to share their love for the group.

The Game Caterers

This is a fairly new addition to the copious amounts of variety shows that are available.

A group’s enjoyment on this show is completely determined by how well they can play various games in order to win food. The recent HYBE special saw different groups from the HYBE labels join forces for a family picnic allowing fans to see interactions between their favourite groups.

LEVEL UP PROJECT

Starring girl group, Red Velvet, the LEVEL UP PROJECT acts as a travel diary for the members. Watch the girls journey to different places such as Thailand and Slovenia whilst beating challenges to earn their spending money. The members’ bright personalities and cute dynamics will keep you entertained throughout the trip. The show gives Reveluvs a chance to holiday with their favourite group from the comfort of their homes.

Stray Kids Code (SKZ CODE)

Even if you’re not a Stay, it is essential that you watch SKZ CODE. Just like Seventeen, the members of Stray Kids are naturally funny and overly competitive. From horror content to well-deserved breaks, this series will make sure that you fall for the group’s charm. The show also allows the boys to give their beloved leader, Bang Chan, an incessantly difficult time.


Whether you are a long-time fan of K-Pop or just discovering the genre, these idol variety shows will offer you endless entertainment and give you the opportunity to find out more about your favourite group’s personalities and dynamics. There’s no better way to relax than in the company of your favourite idols.

Edited by Abby White.

Amy Britton | General Contributor

Amy is currently studying MA Journalism at The University of Sheffield and regularly writes K-pop features for Cherry Chu Magazine.

Previous
Previous

K-Dramas you’ll love to watch this Autumn

Next
Next

Autism representation in ‘Extraordinary Attorney Woo’