Korean variety shows are a staple part of the entertainment industry in Korea! Out of the many topics of variety shows, travel has become an incredibly popular genre.
At a time when going out and travelling has become a distant dream, why not stay in the safety and comfort of your own home while also travelling the world with your favorite Korean stars?
Here’s a list of Korean travel shows for those who need a quick escape!
1. “TRAVELER“
Several Korean celebrities go on a backpacking adventure in this beautiful and soothing adventure travel show.
The first season stars Lee Je Hoon and Ryu Jun Yeol and follows them to Cuba where, without any assistance from the production staff, they discover the country’s charm, culture, and gorgeous landscape. In the second season, Ahn Jae Hong, Kang Haneul, and Ong Seong Woo take off to Argentina and explore the beautiful landmarks.
The charm of the series lies in the cast overcoming challenges together and bonding over the same.
2. “2 DAYS & 1 NIGHT“
“2 Days 1 Night” is a South Korean reality-variety show where the cast members take various trips throughout South Korea, including trips to many off shore islands. While doing so, the members also go through various missions at mealtimes or at a certain time of the day to earn rewards and to avoid punishments.
The show’s motto is “Real Wild Road Variety” and its main concept is to recommend various places that viewers can visit in South Korea. For viewers dreaming of visiting Korea, this show is the perfect one for you!
3. “YOUTH OVER FLOWERS“
The cast for this show have their wallets taken away before a set amount of money is provided for all their wants and needs. They’re given various challenges to complete as they travel across bucket list-worthy sites like Peru’s Machu Picchu, Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls, and Iceland’s Northern Lights. Overall, the show is a perfect escape from mundane everyday life. We highly recommend it!
4. “BTS BON VOYAGE“
Whether you are an ARMY, a casual fan of K-Pop, or just here for the travel, this show will be perfect for you!
Watch as these seven idols explore various parts of Northern Europe, Hawaii, Malta, and New Zealand over four seasons of adorable travel content, all while coupled with their antics and personal experiences. From hula dancing to visiting snowy mountains and entertaining camping adventures, “Bon Voyage” has it all.
5. “TRAVEL THE WORLD ON EXO’S LADDER“
“Travel the World on EXO’s Ladder” is a travel variety show wherein the members of EXO take a vacation in different countries around the world. However, it comes with a twist: they have to use the ladder game when faced with decisive situations such as eating, choosing beds, and more.
The first season featured EXO-CBX going on a trip to Tottori, Japan, while the second season featured the eight Korean members in Kaohsiung and Kenting, Taiwan. Whether you’re an EXO-L or not, just like “Bon Voyage,” you’ll be sure to enjoy the members’ dynamics and their brotherly love, as well as their mischievous tendencies while travelling the world.
Korea also has plenty of other travel related shows that are fun to watch and also allow people the opportunity to learn about other countries and cultures. One extra benefit of watching travel variety shows is the beautiful scenery afforded through Korea’s top notch cinematography. Other popular travel shows in Korea include “Grandpas Over Flowers,” “Salty Tour,” “Battle Trip,” and more.
Do you love watching travel shows? Which one is your favorite? Let us know your thoughts by tweeting to us @whatthekpop1!
Ishani Sarkar is a self-professed learner for life, trying to find meaning and happiness in the smallest of things. She found her safe haven within the world of Korean entertainment and she’s never letting go.
Media: As Credited