KBS2's 'Crazy Rich Korean' Unveils a New Approach to Reality TV

KBS2's new variety show 'Crazy Rich Korean,' which saw Jun Hyun-moo and Park Se-ri announce their departure at the production presentation, is finally set to premiere.

'Crazy Rich Korean' is a human reality show that delves deeply into the lives, philosophies, and daily routines of K-People who are passionate about their professions on the global stage. Breaking away from the traditional observational variety show format, 'Crazy Rich Korean' offers a fresh perspective, and here are three reasons why it deserves your attention.

The show focuses on immersion rather than success. It highlights individuals active on the world stage in various fields, emphasizing the process over the outcome.

Unlike typical success stories, 'Crazy Rich Korean' promises to portray the real people who are intensely focused on their professions, offering a realistic depiction that sets it apart from other variety shows. The show captures the true 'richness' of individuals who pour their energy into their work in fields like music, sports, and the culinary arts, resonating naturally with viewers.

The first episode features world-renowned cellist and conductor Jang Han-na, Vietnam national soccer team coach Kim Sang-sik, and Betty Park, who has been running a restaurant in Harlem, New York, for 40 years. Instead of focusing on celebrity lifestyles, the show follows the intense realities of real Koreans surviving on the global stage, clearly defining the program's direction.

Director Lee Chang-soo, known for incorporating empathy and music into variety shows like 'Boss in the Mirror' and 'The Seasons,' has boldly stripped away the conventional reality show format for 'Crazy Rich Korean.' By visiting overseas locations and closely following the daily lives of individuals without a script, the show resembles a documentary. However, it actively draws out the emotions and actions of its subjects, maintaining the rhythm unique to variety shows.

Lee Chang-soo aims to overturn the familiar structure of observational variety shows, capturing the present with a weighty yet vibrant perspective. The emphasis on a tracking-like approach and a weighty thematic consciousness was highlighted during the production presentation, with comments that the show is 'different from other variety shows.'

Lee Chang-soo's confidence in capturing the 'crazy success drive of Koreans' and addressing the present moment transforms the show into a living variety show rather than a mere cultural program.

The chemistry among the four MCs—Jun Hyun-moo, Park Se-ri, Ji Ye-eun, and Kwak Tube—each with their unique personalities and backgrounds, is also a key point of interest. Jun Hyun-moo anchors the program with his deep hosting skills and sense of balance, while Park Se-ri leads immersive discussions based on her experiences. Ji Ye-eun adds vitality with her fresh and bold sensibility, and Kwak Tube encourages empathy with his lively reactions and interpretations. Their chemistry and emotional dynamics are expected to add depth to 'Crazy Rich Korean.'

After the first shoot, the MCs collectively expressed confidence, stating that the show offers a 'completely different sensation' from existing variety shows. They resonate deeply with the show's direction, which focuses on conveying energy and immersion rather than merely evoking patriotism or self-praise. The new approach of connecting the studio and the field with less intervention and more sincerity is expected to create a new trend.

Park Se-ri stated, 'K-Crazy is the passion of Koreans itself,' aligning with the program's message, while Jun Hyun-moo expressed confidence in the show's quality, saying it will 'rise upwards.' The production team and MCs themselves feel that 'this program is different,' symbolizing the authenticity and depth of 'Crazy Rich Korean' that focuses on essence over appearance.

During the production presentation, Director Lee Chang-soo mentioned, 'I have a lot of concerns because Jun Hyun-moo said he would leave,' to which Jun Hyun-moo responded, 'Doesn't it seem crazy? Why is he doing that? I'm trying to do well by persuading Park Se-ri. I really considered quitting. My thigh hurt a lot.'

Park Se-ri also expressed dissatisfaction, saying, 'Time is one thing, but the welfare was really terrible. I need to think about forgiveness. My back still hurts a lot.'

'Crazy Rich Korean' premieres on the 15th at 9:20 PM. Jun Hyun-moo will be competing with 'Around the World 4,' featuring Kian84, airing at the same time.

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