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"?

Here are all the K-Drama ratings of March 2024.

Friday-Saturday-Sunday Ratings

Friday-Saturday-Sunday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

"The Escape of the Seven: Resurrection" started on SBS on March 29th.

"Wonderful World" ratings increased and the drama reached 11.4% with its 9th episode which is one of the best ratings of MBC since 2020.

"Queen of Tears" ratings increased and reached 16.1% which is one of the best ratings of tvN.

"Beauty and Mr. Romantic" ratings were quite similar overall to last week.

"Hide" (Coupang Play web drama) ratings increased from last week.

"The Escape of the Seven: Resurrection" started and its ratings decreased on its second day.

Wednesday-Thursday Ratings

Wednesday-Thursday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

There is currently no Wednesday-Thursday K-Dramas airing.

Monday-Tuesday Ratings

Monday-Tuesday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

"Wedding Impossible" ratings decreased from last week.

"Nothing Uncovered" (Monday drama) ratings decreased.

Friday-Saturday-Sunday Ratings

Friday-Saturday-Sunday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

"Beauty and Mr. Romantic", the new KBS weekend drama starring Ji HyunWoo and Im SooHyang started on March 23. "The Escape of the Seven: Resurrection" will start on SBS on March 29th.

"Hide" with Lee BoYoung and Lee MooSaeng is a Coupang Play web drama airing on JTBC as well.

"Flex X Cop" ended with 9.3%. The drama started at 5.7% and reached its best-ever ratings at 11.0% (8th episode).

"Wonderful World" ratings decreased. For information, the drama reached 9.9% with its 5th episode (March 15th) which is one of the best ratings of MBC since 2020.

"Queen of Tears" ratings increased and reached 14.1% which is one of the best ratings of tvN.

"Beauty and Mr. Romantic" started and its ratings increased on its second day.

"Hide" (Coupang Play web drama) started with around 4%.

Wednesday-Thursday Ratings

Wednesday-Thursday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

There is currently no Wednesday-Thursday K-Dramas airing.

Monday-Tuesday Ratings

Monday-Tuesday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

"Nothing Uncovered" with Kim HaNeul, Yeon WooJin, and Jang SeungJo started on KBS.

"Wedding Impossible" ratings decreased from last week.

"Nothing Uncovered" started and its ratings decreased on its second day.

Friday-Saturday-Sunday Ratings

Friday-Saturday-Sunday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

"Beauty and Mr. Romantic" is the next KBS weekend drama starring Ji HyunWoo and Im SooHyang to start on March 23. "The Escape of the Seven: Resurrection" will start on SBS on March 29th.

"Live Your Own Life" ended with 22.0%. Its ratings were quite similar to last week.

"Man and Woman" ended with 0.2%.

"Doctor Slump" ended and ratings were higher than last week. For information, the dramas reached 8.2% which is one of JTBC highest K-Drama ratings with its 10th episode and ended with 6.5%.

"Flex X Cop" ratings were lower than last week.

"Wonderful World" ratings significantly increased and reached 9.9% which is one of the best ratings of MBC since 2020.

"Queen of Tears" ratings doubled from last week and reached 13.0% which is one of the best ratings of tvN.

Wednesday-Thursday Ratings

Wednesday-Thursday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

There is currently no Wednesday-Thursday K-Dramas airing.

Monday-Tuesday Ratings

Monday-Tuesday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

On March 18th, "Let's Get Caught by the Neck" with Kim HaNeul, Yeon WooJin, and Jang SeungJo will start on KBS.

"Wedding Impossible" ratings decreased from last week.

Friday-Saturday-Sunday Ratings

Friday-Saturday-Sunday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

The awaited drama "Queen of Tears" starring Kim SooHyun and Kim JiWon started on tvN.

"Live Your Own Life" reached its best-ever ratings with 22.1% once again.

"Man and Woman" ratings increased from last week.

"Doctor Slump" ratings decreased from last week. For information, the dramas reach 8.2% which is one of JTBC highest K-Drama ratings with its 10th episode.

"Korea–Khitan War" ended and reached one of KBS best ratings since 2020 with 13.8% on its final episode (excluding weekend dramas).

"Flex X Cop" ratings were higher than last week.

"Wonderful World" ratings significantly increased and reached 8.0% which is one of the best ratings of MBC since 2020.

"Queen of Tears" started and rating significantly increased with its second episode.

Wednesday-Thursday Ratings

Wednesday-Thursday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

"Queen Of Divorce" ended with its highest ratings this week. For information, the drama started at 3.3%.

Monday-Tuesday Ratings

Monday-Tuesday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

On March 18th, "Let's Get Caught by the Neck" with Kim HaNeul, Yeon WooJin, and Jang SeungJo will start on KBS.

"Wedding Impossible" ratings were similar to last week overall.

Friday-Saturday-Sunday Ratings

Friday-Saturday-Sunday K-Dramas’ ratings are back!

"Wonderful World" started on MBC with Kim NamJoo and ASTRO's Cha EunWoo.

On March 9th, the awaited drama "Queen of Tears" starring Kim SooHyun and Kim JiWon will start on tvN.

"Live Your Own Life" reached its best-ever ratings with 22.1%.

"Captivating the King" ended this week and ratings were higher than last week. It reached its best-ever ratings with its final episode at 7.8%. The drama started at 4.0%.

"Man and Woman" ratings decreased from last week.

"Doctor Slump" ratings decreased from last week. For information, the dramas reach 8.2% which is one of JTBC highest K-Drama ratings with its 10th episode.

"Korea–Khitan War" reached one of KBS best ratings since 2020 with 12.9% on its 30th episode (excluding weekend dramas).

"Flex X Cop" ratings were lower than last week.

"Wonderful World" started and its ratings increased on its second day.

Previously in Korean entertainment, there were many individuals who solely focused on one line of work. Whether it was being an idol, acting in K-Dramas, or standing on stage as a musical artist, they poured much of their effort into one particular field. However, now it's more common that these stars branch out, challenging themselves and presenting totally different sides to their supportive fans.

WJSN's Bona is but one of these celebrities who is constantly exploring new ventures. Now, netizens are beginning to know the idol-actress by her birth name: Kim JiYeon. She's stood on multiple stages across various genres over the years, showing the passion and perseverance necessary to succeed.

Bona's journey is anything but ordinary, but she's made the best of it every step of the way.

First Steps In The Entertainment Industry

Starship Entertainment

Coming forth, Bona began as a member of WJSN. Their debut with 'MoMoMo' was greatly received, becoming a source of vitamin-like energy for budding UJUNG. In a group of 10+ individuals, it was certainly a challenge for any member to receive an adequate amount of spotlight, but they made it work through various stages and music show performances.

Bona became a shining light that fans loved right from the start. Within such a short time, she mesmerized audiences with her stunning beauty, magical vocals, and radiant stage presence. In spite of WJSN being such a large group, Bona managed to take hold of the spotlight every chance she could, becoming the bias of millions across the globe. Although her career was just starting, a flower road was forming in front of Bona and her groupmates, and they were more than ready to walk along it.

Firm Foundation In The Idol Industry

After such a successful start to their career, the pressure was on Bona and the rest of WJSN to continue their upward trajectory. However, the idol actress continuously broke every expectation, and together with her group, they were able to release such memorable chart-topping hits like 'Save Me, Save You', 'As You Wish', and 'Boogie Up'.

With their resounding success, the girl group was able to travel the world, allowing even more individuals to see Bona's talent up close and in their home country. While many hoped to see her live, fancams were able to accurately show the idol's skills and just how much she improved over the years.

With natural allure and captivating aura, Bona joined the subunit, WJSN THE BLACK. A new side was unlocked for the artist, causing fans to go into a frenzy whenever she took the stage. And with their participation in Mnet's "Queendom 2", there was no doubt that Bona possessed a flexibility that allowed her to don on many different hats, showing her strength as an idol member.

Passion Of A Rising Actress

But the life as an idol isn't the only place where Bona's story lies. Very early on in her music career, she dabbled in the art of acting. While she was first casted in a guest role for "Chicago Typewriter", the star was able to showcase some of her acting potential through the quirky time travel romance, "The Best Hit".

She portrayed admirable promise, carrying the potential to stand among the greats, as long as continued to try and improve. Following shortly afterwards, she continued to land multiple roles through series like "Girls' Generation 1979", "Your House Helper", and "Homemade Love Story". Through every character, you could notice Bona making a conscious effort to refine her craft and become an actress fans could be proud of.

King Kong by Starship

These roles helped to lay down the foundation that Bona stands on today. Even just as a rookie actress, she had the grit and resolve to power through long days on set to complete every project with perfection.

Leading K-Drama Star

Bona then came across a role that would propel her acting career forever in the spotlight. Playing Go YooRim in the internationally popular "Twenty-Five Twenty-One", the entire world fell in love the idol-actress and completely acknowledged her acting prowess. She masterfully piloted the nostalgic feelings of youth and the competitiveness of a professional athlete. The struggles her character faced and the tough decisions she had to make plucked on everyone's heartstrings, making Go YooRim a second female lead K-Drama enthusiasts could not help but love.

She continued on her hot streak, landing the main female lead role in "Joseon Attorney: A Morality". Wearing a hanbok and caring for her people, she swept audiences off their feet over the course of the series. She was again proved that was she leading lady material and would continue to be so in the future.

And with the recent conclusion of thrilling mystery K-Drama, "Pyramid Game", Bona certainly solidified her status as a top acting star. Acting out her character of Sung SooJi, viewers were left speechless as she challenged the status quo and vowed to get rid of the harrowing "Pyramid Game". With this drama, netizens have gotten to meet Bona as Kim JiYeon, amazed at the fact that she is both an incredible actress and radiant idol.

No matter what stage the idol-actress stands on, she's sure to turn heads and have people joyfully chanting her name.

When did you first start following WJSN's Bona/Kim JiYeon? Are you excited for her next challenge?