One thing that goes hand in hand with K-Pop are variety programs. With the help of these shows, both veterans and rookies have the opportunity to become better known to the public and earn a following outside of their music. Variety programs allow these artists to showcase their unique personalities, causing fans to fall deeper in love with their favorite stars.

However, one aspect that has remained a sensitive topic for both fans and idols is dating. Even under the premise of a dating program, these idols are put under a microscope and scrutinized over anything romantic. With the boon of dating shows in the past few years and the participation of idols, perception seems to be changing.

Idols being on a dating show isn't some foreign concept, nor was it born overnight. It's gone through its fair share of changes, culminating in both success and pushback from numerous fanbases.

The First Idol Dating Programs

MBC

One of the first dating reality shows that included K-Pop idols is the famous "We Got Married". Making its premiere in spring of 2008, it paired various celebrities and had them act as married couples. Some famous idol pairings include SHINee's TaeMin and Son NaEun, BTOB's Yook SungJae and Red Velvet's Joy, along with CNBLUE's Jung YongHwa and Girls' Generation's SeoHyun.

While it was well known by audiences and participants that this was a fake relationship, many became immersed into every single moment, as if they were getting a sneak peak of what these stars would be like if they were to actually date. The pairings produced such incredible chemistry, earning nicknames like the 'Goguma Couple' (YongHwa and SeoHyun) or the 'Bbyu Couple' (SungJae and Joy).

tvN

Another dating program with idols that surfaced in 2012 is tvN's "The Romantic and Idol". For its first season, it featured second and third generation idols in JiHyun (former 4Minute), AOA's HyeJeong, Jei (former FIESTAR), SeungAh (former Rainbow), Park HyungSik (ZE:A), GOT7's Jay B, 2PM's Jun.K, and MBLAQ's Mir. The group traveled to Jeju Island where they would stay for 4 days and 3 nights, get to know each other, and hopefully walk away being chosen at the end.

Then there's "SHINee's YunHaNam", featuring the SHINee members themselves. Through the show they proceeded to go on dates with older women, showcasing their charm as fresh-faced rookies in the scene. These programs were extremely fun and romantic, but also produced countless moments that made your entire body curl upwards in secondhand embarrassment.

Perception Of Idols Dating

To become an idol, one must dedicate countless hours of their life to honing their craft. They must reach a level of astounding dancing prowess, vocal stability, and outward charm to captivate the masses and become a chart-topping artist within the K-Pop industry. Of the many things that they can and cannot do, it's to date. This is due to the image of an idol and the fan culture within the industry.

However, with the modern globalization of K-Pop, sentiments toward idols dating have slowly started to change. It's becoming more and more evident that K-Pop stars are more than the vocal and dancing geniuses that regularly grace our screen. They're human just like everyone else, with fans slowly accepting the fact that these celebrities can go around, date, and find love too.

Slowly, but surely, idols have been starting to go out on a limb and have become participants in traditional dating programs, not under the premise of a simple variety program. Rather, they become vocal and sincere in their search for love. Some names include EuiJin (former A.CIAN & UNB) and soloist Sori who appeared on different seasons of Mnet's "Somebody", as well as DaHye (former BESTie) in the most recent "Transit Love 3".

While it was surprising to see K-Pop idols participate in these dating programs and actively look for a relationship, it portrays their human desire to be loved by someone else, outside of their beloved fans.

The Appearance Of A New Type Of Dating Reality

YG Entertainment

The beginning of March marked the start of a brand new dating reality program: TREASURE's "Shining SOLO". Where the idol dating programs of the past and ones idols participated in actually focused solely on romance, the series with TREASURE takes a different approach. The members go into the program with the intent of showcasing their various charms and capturing the hearts of the young women they meet. However, it ends not in a relationship, but one member being dubbed as "Mr. TREASURE", erring more on the side of a competition show.

It takes various components from traditional dating programs, while adding on its own spin to create a unique, never-before-seen experience for both the members and audiences watching at home. Prior to its premiere, however, it's worth noting that "Shining SOLO" did not receive a favorable response from netizens.

Theqoo Screenshot

Upon its announcement, many were left scratching their heads with numerous responses asking if it's real or if anyone would dare to watch it. Even the international K-Pop community who is at times more open were having second thoughts on whether "Shining SOLO" should be something they watch or skip due to the pure nature of dating programs.

However, all the criticism aside, the idol "dating" show became a viral hit, with its first episode being its most watched at 7.7 million views on YouTube (as of April 9, 2024). The sincerity of the TREASURE members, their chemistry with the female participants, and their genuine reactions played a huge part in the program's worldwide success.

TREASURE's YouTube Screenshot

Even non-fans have been actively tuning in, falling for TREASURE's various charms. This could very well mark a new era of dating programs for idols. If geared under this lens, there's a fair chance that other groups could follow this model. In turn, they could capture the heart of netizens with their romantic tendencies. However, there's also the possibility that this may become a one-and-done type of occurrence. "Shining SOLO" puts idols in a new light, offering TREASURE the chance to openly experience what it's like to date, while still maintaining their idol image.

YG Entertainment

Whether or not more groups/companies will create their own "dating" program remains to be seen. However, after the success of "Shining SOLO", it can be a program millions look forward to.

What are your thoughts on K-Pop idols being on dating programs? Do you think they should follow the model of "Shining SOLO"?

Despite it being a decade since their debut, Apink continues to remain ever present within the K-Pop industry. They've certainly solidified their legendary status with hits like 'NoNoNo' and 'Mr. Chu'. But they've also constantly grown, showcasing their evolution with tracks like '%%(Eung Eung)' and more recently 'D N D'.

The girl group have a distinct sound, known best for their refreshing, vitamin-like vocals. While they're most known for their group promotions, Apink is made up of individuals with incredible talent. Over the past week, Apink's Kim NamJoo has been reminding us of this fact with her first solo comeback.

Outside of Apink's innocent image, NamJoo as a soloist is more mature with an alluring sound that would make anyone keep their eyes locked on the idol. Of course she didn't start off like this, making constant improvements throughout her career to become the artist she is today.

Early Stages

Apink's debut song, 'I Don't Know' was a song filled with pure innocence, reminiscent of a bright, clear spring day. In addition to their refreshing image, being part of the maknae line added on to NamJoo's cute aura. But behind her sweet visuals were honey-like vocals that became the source of pure joy.

The few years that followed, NamJoo's focus was on group activities. This time proved pivotal in cementing Apink's status among their colleagues and ever-growing idol landscape. It wouldn't take too long for the girl group to really come into their own and prove their mettle, becoming idols that everyone looked forward to.

While immersed in group promotions, NamJoo was able to participate in a few other projects like 'A Year Ago' with fellow groupmate Jung EunJi and Jang HyunSeung, as well as 'Photograph' with BTOB's Yook SungJae. These showed small glimpses of NamJoo outside of Apink and her potential to spread her wings and fly on her own. However, as we now know, those solo endeavors would come much later.

Polishing Her Skills

Creating a firm foundation, NamJoo continued to polish her skills, whether it came to her already wonderful vocals, stunning dance lines, and all encompassing stage presence. She participated in collaborations with other artists and even formed a subunit with fellow member BoMi, called Apink BnN. Through all these endeavors, NamJoo continued to showcase her evident talent and knack for performing on stage.

Even when not standing underneath the spotlight on music stages, NamJoo stirred the hearts of Panda everywhere with her reinvigorating presence and bubbly personality. She became known as a true mood maker both within her group and among others.

Although she did a lot in order to develop an artist, in between music show visits and studio room recordings, she even opened up her own YouTube channel. Through this new venture, she greeted fans and viewers with joy-inducing mukbangs that filled both your stomach and your heart. NamJoo is definitely an allrounder, able to captivate on any stage.

A Stunning Transformation

Apink Official

Although she led a successful career as an Apink member, when it came time to make her solo debut, NamJoo realized she needed to present a totally different image. And she did just that through her solo debut with title track 'Bird'. In previous years, she was merely spreading her wings to get a feel of the wind, but through her solo debut, NamJoo was able to finally fly off into scary, yet exciting music industry all on her own. With her groupmates and fandom supporting her, she made an incredible transformation into the soloist we see today.

In light of her recent comeback, NamJoo shows she's not done growing as an artist. Through 'BAD' she comes forth more daring and bold than ever before. While she still introduces herself as Apink's NamJoo, there's a clear distinction between her two identities that make up one amazing whole.

Kim NamJoo continues to make headlines, flying higher than ever before. Despite being an established name within the K-Pop industry, she makes multiple strides to improve and become better than ever before.

Have you listened to NamJoo's latest comeback?

Without a doubt, K-Pop idols are one of a kind, being able to forge their own path since the time of their debut. They receive a never-ending surplus of love and support from fans, cheering them on to new heights. This innate star quality not only lies in the idols themselves, but it seems to flow through their genetics too!

Some K-Pop idols do not grow up alone, having a sibling or two to support them in their endeavors. In sharing the same genes, they also share similar stunning visuals that leave netizens speechless and in awe. They show that being a talented and natural born beauty certainly runs in the family, regardless of status.

Look down below to learn more about these female K-Pop idols and their gorgeous sisters!

Note: in this article, we do not include siblings who are currently promoting as artists within the K-Pop industry.

1. Son NaEun

SaeEun's Instagram

While NaEun is most known for her time on Apink, she is currently making strides as a talented actress. Every character she portrays is met with endless support and praise. Her sister, Son SaeEun, is just as talented and beautiful. While she doesn't stand on stage, she does stand underneath the spotlight as a professional golfer.

2. TWICE's Momo

Hana's Instagram

Like Momo, her sister Hana is not only gorgeous, but an amazing dancer too. The two previously auditioned together and while Momo entered trainee life, Hana continued to hone her dancing skills. She's now a talented choreographer, teaching studio classes and sharing her love for dancing with the younger generation.

3. BLACKPINK's Rosé

Alice's Instagram

Alongside the rest of her group, Rosé has solidified herself as a global superstar. Not only does she possess angelic vocals, but her visuals captivates fans from every corner of the world. Her sister, Alice, is just as beautiful, causing many fans to gush over her visuals.

4. Weki Meki's Kim DoYeon

Online Community

Ever since she first step foot onto the scene, DoYeon has mesmerized the K-Pop community with her model-like visuals. She has since shown to be an absolute all-rounder in dance, singing, and so much more. And it seems that beauty runs in the family, as DoYeon's older sister is just as stunning, with celebrity-like features.

5. CL

HaRin's Instagram

CL's queen-like aura and swagger is undeniable, causing thousands to chant her name in support. Her sister, HaRin, shares the same vibes and looks like a complete replica of her celebrity sister. Fans would be overjoyed to see more photographs or videos of the two in one frame.

6. BLACKPINK's JiSoo

Kim JiYoon's Instagram

JiSoo is an idol through and through, however, she's taking leading roles in the film industry, showing her talents are certainly growing. One of her biggest supporters is none other than her sister, Kim JiYoon. Just like her celebrity sister, Kim JiYoon is a visual goddess, stunning millions at various angles.

7. TWICE's JiHyo

Outdoor Research / Peripera

Through her persistency, JiHyo became the leader of one of the leading girl groups in K-Pop today. She couldn't have done this without the support of her family, which includes her two younger sisters. One sister in particular, Lee HaEum, has been making waves in the eyes of the public. She is currently signed to Starhaus Entertainment and has already amazed netizens with her stunning beauty through various photoshoots.

8. IVE's Jang WonYoung

Allure / Kenneth Lady

With her group, WonYoung has topped multiple charts and earned many solo advertisements due to her unwavering charm. And it seems these idol qualities runs in the family, as her sister, Jang DaA has entered the entertainment industry as an actress. DaA has already landed a few advertisement deals, flaunting her innate beauty that she shares with her celebrity sister.

9. Kep1er's Bahiyyih

Lea's Instagram

Bahiyyih worked extremely hard through Mnet's "Girls Planet 999", earning a spot in the final debut lineup. Now, she's a celebrated artist with such commanding talent. Her sister, Lea Navvab Huening, is just the same, mesmerizing netizens with her unfailing charms. While she did promote as an idol from 2017-2019, she has since left the idol life, becoming a prominent content creator. She uploads everything from vlogs, song and dance covers, as well as a digital single. Along with their brother, TXT's Huening Kai, the Huening family really seems to be thriving in all aspects.

Did you know the sisters of these K-Pop idols were this gorgeous and talented? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!