Lee Ji-ah, the ratings are low again

The friendship chemistry between actresses Kim Go-eun and Lee Ji-ah, despite their 13-year age difference, couldn't save their latest reality show from low ratings. Following 'The Sea I Desire,' their new show 'Just the Two of Us' also struggles with a meager 1% viewership, drawing criticism as a typical celebrity indulgence program.

Kim Go-eun and Lee Ji-ah are well-known best friends in the entertainment industry. Despite their age gap, they became close after a chance meeting in the United States. They have frequently shared photos of their meals and travels on social media, showcasing their friendship. As they are under the same agency, they even released a vlog of their joint trip to Las Vegas and Los Angeles on the agency's official YouTube channel.

Three years ago, the duo appeared together on a variety show. Alongside Yoon Jong-shin, Onew, Lee Dong-wook, and other musicians and actors, they opened a small live bar by the sea in Pohang, offering food and music to guests on 'The Sea I Desire.'

Despite its star-studded lineup, 'The Sea I Desire' struggled with ratings, dropping to as low as 0.9%. The show attempted to cover too much, from beautiful scenery and music to cooking and ocean cleaning, losing its direction and leaving viewers feeling overwhelmed.

After a disappointing performance, Kim Go-eun and Lee Ji-ah reunited for the first time in three years for 'Just the Two of Us.' This show follows them as they explore famous restaurants and bars in Korea and Taiwan, pairing whiskey with food.

With two episodes aired out of four, the show has maintained a 1.1% rating for two consecutive weeks. Despite airing late on Sunday nights at 10:40 PM and having a 19+ rating, the show's performance is dismal compared to the actresses' popularity.

'Just the Two of Us' is criticized as a typical 'celebrity indulgence' show. Kim Go-eun and Lee Ji-ah simply visit famous eateries and enjoy meals and whiskey. They lack expertise in whiskey or food, and their pairing reviews are predictable.

Moreover, the show lacks personal conversations between the actresses. The narrative is limited to evaluating which whiskey pairs well with certain dishes. Even the story of their friendship beginning with a chance meeting in the U.S. is narrated by Lee Sang-yeob.

The focus on high-end dining fails to spark interest in food or drinks. Despite Lee Ji-ah shedding her mysterious image and even rapping at 'MAMA,' her unique charm is missing in 'Just the Two of Us.' The show offers neither entertainment nor information, marking another potential failure for Kim Go-eun and Lee Ji-ah in the variety show realm.

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr