Netflix’s bold leap into Korean unscripted TV: A diverse slate for 2023

Netflix is making a significant push into the realm of Korean unscripted TV, with an ambitious plan to launch ten new shows this year. This move more than doubles the number of releases from 2022, showcasing a variety of genres from romance to cooking and comedy.

A strategic approach to local and global appeal

Yoo Hi-kwan, the director of content at Netflix Korea, emphasizes that the goal isn’t just about quantity. “It’s important to be loved locally first before we can win over global audiences. Each show has its own unique appeal that matches what they want,” he explains. This strategy underscores Netflix’s commitment to creating content that resonates deeply with local audiences while also having the potential to captivate viewers worldwide.

The influencer: A social survival showdown

Kicking off the new slate on August 6 is The Influencer, a social survival competition where 77 of South Korea’s top influencers compete to determine who holds the greatest sway. Produced by Kakao Entertainment, the show features prominent figures like Jang Keun-suk, RISABAE, PaniBottle, Jin Yong-jin, Shim Eu-ddeum, and DaeDo. This show promises to be a fascinating exploration of the power dynamics within the world of social media.

A-list to playlist: A star’s musical journey

Following closely is A-List to Playlist, which chronicles actor Cho Jung-seok’s journey to debut as a singer. This show offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from acting to music, providing fans with an intimate glimpse into Cho’s artistic evolution.

Culinary class wars: A battle of culinary titans

In September, Netflix will launch Culinary Class Wars, a cooking competition show produced by Studio Slam. Here, 100 star chefs and hidden masters face off in a culinary showdown. The judges include Paik Jong-won, a famed restaurateur with the Midas touch, and Chef Anh Sung-jae of MOSU Seoul. This show promises to be a feast for the eyes and the palate, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of Korea’s top chefs.

Comedy revenge: A new battle of humor

October will see the premiere of Comedy Revenge, from Kakao Entertainment. Led by comedy legend Lee Kyung-kyu, who has a 43-year career and previously led his team to victory in “Comedy Royale,” this show will feature Korea’s 22 comedians in a new battle of humor. Expect plenty of laughs and unexpected twists as these comedic talents go head-to-head.

Rugged rugby: Conquer or die

December brings Rugged Rugby: Conquer or Die, a sports survival reality show created by Chang Si-won and Choi Tae-gyu from STUDIO C1. This intense competition among rugby athletes will showcase their physical prowess and mental toughness, offering viewers a thrilling and action-packed experience.

Returning favorites: Zombieverse and The Devil’s Plan

Two popular shows are set to return with new seasons at the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025. Zombieverse: New Blood Season 2 is an unscripted survival show set in a zombie apocalypse simulation, where participants must complete quests to survive. Their tasks will take them to various territories, including Mexico, Peru, Ecuador, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The Devil’s Plan 2 from TEO sees contestants from different professions spend a week together to determine who is the brainiest among them. This show combines elements of strategy, intellect, and social dynamics, making it a compelling watch for fans of reality competition.

Singles inferno: A fiery quest for love

The fiery dating show Singles Inferno will return for a fourth season. Produced by the Shijak Company, it features hot singles searching for love on a deserted island, which they can only leave as couples. Season 3 reached the upper ranks of the Global Top 10 TV Shows (non-English) for five weeks and made it to the Top 10 lists in 31 countries, highlighting its widespread appeal.

Kian’s bizarre B&B: A unique guesthouse experience

Set to premiere in 2025, Kian’s Bizarre B&B features a guesthouse on the idyllic island of Ulleungdo, an unpredictable host, KIAN84, and the diverse and colorful guests who come to enjoy the romantic and special moments of empathy. Produced by Studio Modak, this show promises to offer a heartwarming and entertaining look at the interactions between the host and his guests.

A festival of unscripted creativity

The unveiling of this exciting slate took place at the Netflix Unscripted Festival in Seoul, showcasing the platform’s commitment to expanding its unscripted content offerings. For fans of cinema, TV series, and music, this diverse lineup promises a wealth of engaging and entertaining content to look forward to in the coming months.