Do you ever feel bored? Watching Korean variety shows is a good choice. Whether you’re into laugh-out-loud moments, intense challenges, or feel-good stories, there’s something here for everyone.
From classics like “Running Man” and “Infinite Challenge” to newer hits like “The Great Escape,” this list covers some of the most popular and binge-worthy Korean variety shows available right now.
Keep scrolling to find your next favorite!
Running Man
An iconic Korean variety show with wild missions
Duration: 2010-now | Genre: Comedy, Game Show, Reality | Platforms: Viki, KOCOWA, SBS, YouTube | IMDb Rating: 9.1
If you’re even slightly into Korean entertainment, you must have heard of “Running Man“, the legendary variety show that’s been making people laugh since 2010. Produced by SBS, Running Man isn’t just a hit in Korea; it’s one of the most iconic Korean Variety Shows ever.
The concept is very Simple, but seriously addictive. Cast members and celebrity guests head-to-head in missions ranging from hilarious to downright intense. Whether they’re playing mind games, staging sneaky betrayals, or sprinting around trying to rip off each other’s nametags, it’s all about winning the prize or avoiding the punishment.
What really makes Running Man shine is the cast chemistry. Longtime members like Yoo Jae-suk, Kim Jong-kook, HaHa, and Song Ji-hyo have built a dynamic that feels more like family than coworkers.
Fan-Favorite “Running Man” Episodes
- Episode 74 – Superpower Special: One of the funniest episodes of all time. Each member gets a crazy superpower and battles it out.
- Episode 79 – Sherlock Holmes Special: The cast transforms into detectives in a mystery-packed “whodunit” scenario.
- Episode 91 – Water Gun Mission: Yoo Jae-suk secretly uses a water gun to “eliminate” the others. This is the first episode of the famous Yoomes-Bond series.
- Episode 130 – Reincarnation Special: The members act out past lives before jumping into a big final mission.
Infinite Challenge
Unpredictable comedy with legendary challenges
Duration: 2005-2018 | Genre: Comedy, Reality | Platforms: Viki, YouTube | IMDb Rating: 8.6
If you’re looking for the best Korean variety show, you can’t miss “Infinite Challenge.” Often called the “Godfather of Korean variety,” it ran from 2005 to 2018.
Each week, Yoo Jae-suk and a cast of unpredictable members tackled wild and often absurd challenges. Think “Jackass” meets “The Amazing Race,” with a bit of “SNL”, but smarter, weirder, and emotional.
What made “Infinite Challenge” stand out was its spontaneity and real-world interaction. Whether racing through city streets or reenacting history, the cast engaged with everyday people, creating moments that felt unscripted and unforgettable.
It might take a few episodes to get into, but once it clicks, you’ll see why many fans—and especially Korean viewers—consider “Infinite Challenge” the greatest Korean variety show of all time.
Fan-Favorite “Infinite Challenge” Episodes
- Episodes 149 and 150 – Life Theater: The members face a series of life choices without knowing the consequences.
- Episodes 226 and 227 – World Cup Special: The cast represents different countries in a hilarious football showdown.
- Episode 64 – “Silmido” Comedy Special: This spoof special showcases each member’s comedic talents.
- Episodes 220 and 221 – Telepathy Special: The members try to synchronize their minds to face various challenges.
2 Days 1 Night
Travel-style Korean variety show with crazy games
Duration: 2007-now | Genre: Adventure, Comedy | Platforms: Viki, KBS2, YouTube | IMDb Rating: 8.2
If you love Korean variety shows filled with travel, laughter, and beautiful scenery, then “2 Days 1 Night” is the one for you. The long-running travel variety show, which premiered in 2007, invites cast members to travel around South Korea on weekends to explore little-known treasures, local cuisine, and quirky culture.
Completely unscripted, “2 Days 1 Night” faces games of “can’t sleep or can’t get hungry,” unpredictable weather, and tasks that reveal their true personalities.
Some episodes feature guests, but only if they meet the producers’ standards for comedy. In addition to providing laughs, “2 Days 1 Night” has also boosted local tourism. Towns featured in the show often see a surge in visitors, thanks to fans eager to take the same journey as the cast.
Fan-Favorite Episodes of “2 Days 1 Night”
- Episode 66 – Wild Survival Special
- Episode 190 – Namhae, Gyeongsangnam-do
- Episode 232 – Outdoor Training with Legends
- Episode 236 – New Member Special
- Episode 13 – Hwacheon, Gangwon-do
The Great Escape
Thrilling variety show with escape puzzles
Duration: 2018-now | Genre: Mystery, Game Show | Platforms: tvN, Viu, Bilibili | IMDb Rating: 8.6
If you like Korean variety shows with elements of horror, suspense, and comedy, “The Great Escape” is definitely not to be missed. It is similar to an oversized escape room with real sets, ranging from zombie hospitals to haunted houses or underground prisons.
What makes “The Great Escape” unique is its untimed format. The actors have plenty of time to solve layers of puzzles and uncover hidden storylines in each scene. They are not just escaping, but often helping fictional characters, interacting with character staff, and uncovering deeper plot twists.
The actors’ chemistry is a big part of the fun of the show. Their reactions to scares and dead ends add to the humor. Whether you like thrillers, mysteries, or just like watching stars panic in the dark, “The Great Escape” can satisfy you.
Fan-Favorite Episodes of “The Great Escape”
- S3E3 – Zombie Factory: One of the scariest episodes. Set in a zombie-filled factory, the cast must escape while being chased by terrifying zombies.
- S1E5 – Hilarious Chaos: A lighthearted and funny episode. Especially Kang Ho-dong’s reactions lead to laugh-out-loud moments.
- S1E2 – Brain Game Begins: Known as one of the most mentally challenging episodes. It features complex puzzles that require strong logic and teamwork.
New Journey to the West
A Fantasy-Themed Show with Endless Games
Duration: 2015-now | Genre: Travel, Funny | Platforms: tvN, Apple TV | IMDb Rating: 8.7
New Journey to the West is a South Korean variety show full of raucousness and hilarity. The show is inspired by the classic Journey to the West and incorporates elements of Dragon Ball. It tells the story of Korean artists such as Kang Ho-dong, Lee Soo-geun, Kyuhyun, and Song Min-ho who travel to places like China, Vietnam, and Japan to complete various weird missions to collect seven dragon balls.
They have to wear the most ridiculous costumes to complete this task. One season they played characters from Naruto, another season they played animals and random pop culture characters, and you will see a panda eating ramen with Dracula.
The content of the game is also unpredictable, with wrong answers meaning being beaten with a rubber mallet or food challenges where only the winner can eat. Their teasing, betrayal, and rule-breaking in team missions make each episode feel very interesting.
Fan-favorite episodes of “New Journey to the West”
- Season 3, Episode 9
- Season 2, Episode 6
- Season 2, Episode 7
- Season 2, Episode 8
- Season 1, Episode 10
Begin Again
Busking across countries with top Korean singers
Duration: 2017-2020 | Genre: Music show, Travel, Busking | Platforms: BiliBili, YouTube | IMDb Rating: 8.6
If you love music and want something more heartfelt, check out “Begin Again.” This Korean reality show first aired on JTBC in 2017 and follows some of Korea’s most talented musicians as they perform live street music in unfamiliar cities.
The idea is simple but meaningful: a small group of artists travel to places where no one knows them and perform in public spaces with zero promotion. Whether it’s a busy square in Berlin or a quiet seaside park in Busan, the goal is to connect with people through live music.
Featured performers include Yoo Hee-yeol (aka Toy), Yoon Do-hyun, Henry Lau, Lee Soo-hyun, Crush, Kim Jong-dae, and others. They’re bringing their own style, from R&B to indie folk to classic rock.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the format shifted to focus on domestic performances. Under the name “Begin Again, Korea,” musicians visited local towns to share music and comfort with people dealing with lockdowns and uncertainty.
Fan-Favorite Episodes – “Begin Again” Season 1
- Episode 1: Dublin, Ireland – Notable Song: “Stand By Me”
- Episode 3: Galway, Ireland – Notable Song: “Can’t Help Falling in Love”
- Episode 5: Chester, UK – Notable Song: “Let It Be”
- Episode 6: Chester & Liverpool, UK – Notable Song: “Someone Like You”
I Live Alone
Unfiltered celebrity lives behind closed doors
Duration: 2013-now | Genre: Comedy, Reality | Platforms: Viki, OnDemandKorea | IMDb Rating: 8.1
Celebrating over a decade on the air, MBC’s long-running reality show “I Live Alone” takes you inside the daily lives of celebrities living alone with a heartfelt and natural perspective.
Each episode follows one or more celebrities as they go about their daily lives, whether running errands, working out, or ordering takeout at home. The show’s core members, Park Na-rae, Kian84, Hwasa, and Lee Jang-woo, known as the “Rainbow Club,” meet up regularly to share heartfelt moments that give the show more consistency.
“I Live Alone” gives you a more direct, real-life look into the daily lives of celebrities. For example, in episode 476, golf legend Pak Se-ri gives viewers a lighthearted tour of her home, including her snack stand. It’s this kind of candid, unvarnished detail that makes the show both entertaining and comforting.
Fan-Favorite Episodes of “I Live Alone”
- Episode 335 – J-Hope (BTS)
- Episode 400 – Hwasa (MAMAMOO)
- Episode 450 – Key (SHINee)
King of Mask Singer
Vocal talent show with masked singers
Duration: 2015-now | Genre: Music,
Game-Show | Platforms: Kocowa, Viki, Prime Video, OnDemandKorea | IMDb Rating: 7.4
King of Masked Singer is not a traditional singing competition, where contestants wear full costumes and elaborate masks to hide their identities. The focus of the show is on singing, not fame.
Each competition is divided into two rounds. In the first round, two singers will sing the same song as a duet. If they advance, they will perform individually in the following rounds. The finalists will be determined by the live audience and celebrity judges, and the identities of the eliminated contestants will be revealed at the end.
The most iconic performances in the history of the show came from Ha Hyun-woo of Guckkasten, who won nine consecutive championships, and Son Seung-yeon, the female champion, who won eight consecutive championships. It is one of the most exciting Korean variety shows with its excellent singing quality, creative themes, and surprising revelations.
Fan-Favorite Episodes of “King of Mask Singer”
- Season 1, Episode 1 – The first episode unveiled the show’s unique concept and featured the first masked contestants.
- Season 2, Episode 10 – A fierce battle between high-level singing and talented singers.
- Season 3, Episode 12 – An unforgettable finale.
- Season 4, Episode 5 – Invited several well-known guest singers.
The Return of Superman
Celebrity dads struggle with parenting alone
Duration: 2013 | Genre: Family, Reality Show | Platforms: Kocowa, Viki, Prime Video, OnDemandKorea | Viki Rating: 9.3
If you thought parenting shows were all about heartwarming, then “The Return of Superman” will blow your mind. The hit Korean variety show puts celebrity dads in full parenting mode for 48 hours, without the help of mom, nanny, or assistant.
One minute they’re busy making breakfast, the next they’re negotiating pants with a 3-year-old. Some dads completely panic, while others step up in unexpected ways. And the kids? They’ll definitely keep your attention.
Whether it’s Sarang’s judo skills, Bentley’s snack obsession, or the iconic triplets Daehan, Minguk, and Manse, these kids became stars in their own right.
Fan-Favorite Episodes of “The Return of Superman”
- Episodes 26–29: Choo Sarang in Japan: Sarang quickly became a fan favorite for her cute expressions and strong bond with her MMA fighter dad.
- Episodes 34–38: Song Triplets’ First Appearance: The triplets made a huge splash with their first appearance.
- Episode 61: The Return of Sarang & G-Dragon’s Visit
- Episodes 76–77: Uhm Ji-on’s Emotional Moments: Uhm Ji-on’s shy, tearful moments with her dad struck a chord with many viewers and showed a softer, more touching side of parenting.
Produce 101
Korean Variety Show Creating K-pop Stars
Duration: 2016-2017 | Genre: Music, Reality | Platforms: YouTube, BiliBili | IMDb Rating: 7.7
If you love Korean reality shows packed with raw talent and ruthless competition, “Produce 101” is a must-watch.
101 K-pop trainees enter a high-stakes boot camp where every stage could make or break their future. No judges, no safety net—just millions of viewers voting who stays and who goes.
There’s everything from show-stopping performances to full-on emotional meltdowns. Season 2 didn’t just launch the mega group Wanna One—it also sparked one of K-pop’s biggest vote-rigging scandals.
Still, it’s wildly addictive. Watching your favorites rise, fall, and fight their way back? That’s the real drama.
Other Best Korean Variety Shows
SNL Korea
The Korean version of Saturday Night Live is just as good! Each episode features hilarious skits and satirical comedy from celebrity guests. You’ll be surprised at the lengths K-pop stars are willing to go to for laughs.
Physical: 100
South Korea’s fittest competitors take on a real-life survival game. From MMA fighters and Olympians to bodybuilders and soldiers, 100 elite competitors face brutal physical challenges to prove who is the ultimate warrior.
Knowing Bros
Also known as Men on a Mission, this show turns the classroom into a comedy playground. Celebrities “transfer” to school as students and participate in hilarious talk shows, improv games, and even dance competitions.
Single’s Inferno
Tropical islands, handsome men and beautiful women, and one big surprise: no one can reveal their age or job. This dating survival show is like a combination of Too Hot to Handle and The Bachelor, but with a K-drama twist.
Please Take Care of My Refrigerator
What’s in your fridge? Celebrities come with their actual fridges, and top chefs whip up gourmet meals from the ingredients in just 15 minutes. Plus, you get a peek into your favorite celebrities’ real eating habits.
Three Meals a Day
Celebrities escape the city and cook three meals a day in remote villages with ingredients they grow or catch themselves. No drama, just a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
Where to Watch These Korean Variety Shows?
Having introduced so many excellent Korean variety shows, the following websites allow you to easily watch them anytime, anywhere:
1. Netflix
You can watch: “Physical: 100”, “Single’s Inferno”, “The Devil’s Plan”, “Siren: Survive the Island”, “New World”
Netflix is the preferred platform for fans of Korean dramas. Many original Korean variety shows are available on Netflix, all of which are equipped with high-quality English subtitles and no ads.
2. Viki
You can watch: “Knowing Bros”, “Three Meals a Day”, “Youn’s Kitchen”, “Master in the House”
Viki offers a rich selection of classic and popular Korean variety shows. It is known for its multilingual community and subtitled content. Some shows are free, while others require a Viki Pass.
3. TVING
You can watch: “SNL Korea”, “Transit Love”, “Earth Arcade”
TVING is a Korean streaming platform that provides exclusive original content. It is mainly aimed at Korean audiences, so international access usually requires a VPN. English subtitles may not be provided.
To access TVING smoothly from outside Korea, we recommend using LightningX VPN. It offers over 2000 high-speed servers in 70+ countries, military-grade encryption, and a strict no-logs policy to ensure both access and privacy.
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4. YouTube
You can watch: Short clips, highlights, behind-the-scenes footage, and some full episodes
Major Korean TV stations post a lot of free content on YouTube. Some short clips come with English subtitles.
- KBS WORLD TV: youtube.com/@KBSWorldTV
- MBCkpop and MBCentertainment: youtube.com/@MBCkpop
- SBS NOW: youtube.com/@SBSNOW
5. KOCOWA
You can watch: “Running Man”, “Return of Superman”, “I Live Alone”, “2 Days and 1 Night”
KOCOWA offers subtitled official Korean variety shows, usually uploaded within hours of airing. It is available in both North and South America and offers high-quality translations.
Final Thought
Korean variety shows bring you joy, surprises, and touching moments.
Which ones have you watched? Are there any options that we recommend successfully? If you find this guide helpful, you may save it or share it with other Korean drama fans. Don’t forget to check back for more must-see shows!
