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"?

One of the biggest names in the Korean entertainment industry and especially in broadcasting and to many K-Drama lovers is none other than 'KBS'. KBS, the Korean Broadcasting System, has played a vital role in the growth of K-Dramas over the decades with continuously high-ranking K-Dramas placing in the best ratings list of 2020, 2021, and 2022.

Additionally, KBS has been known for producing some of the most iconic dramas adored by K-Drama lovers. Thanks to this, they also have some record ratings worth mentioning such as for the K-Drama "Bread, Love and Dreams" which aired in 2010 that reached a record 50.8% rating! Another of their K-Drama hits with sky-high ratings is "Descendants of The Sun" (2016) with a 38.8% rating.

Make sure to check out the KBS dramas with the highest ratings from 2015-2020 in this article:

Here are the top KBS dramas with the highest ratings since 2020!

Note: This ranking does not include daily and weekend dramas. 'Drama specials' and 'weekend drama specials' are also not included in the ranking.

1. "Royal Secret Agent" - 14%

KBS

"Royal Secret Agent" is the KBS drama with the highest rating (since 2020) at a 14% rating. Starring INFINITE's L (Kim MyungSoo), Kwon NaRa, and Lee YiKyung, many hailed the drama as one of the best historical K-Dramas out there. The drama turned its viewers into detectives who were just as invested in cracking the story as the characters and made for an immersive experience.

2. "Goryeo–Khitan War" - 13.8%

KBS

"Goryeo-Khitan War" is a 32-episode long and old-style historical drama that gained the hearts of a lot of viewers. It tells the story of the King of Goryeo named HyeonJong who united Goryo with various events including by leading the war with the Khitans. Starring Kim DongJun, Choi SooJung, and Ji SeungHyun, the drama ended with its highest rating at 13.8% (the drama started at 5%).

Note: this drama is a special drama to commemorate the 50th anniversary of KBS.

3. "The King's Affection" - 12.1%

KBS

"The King's Affection" was hailed as a drama that gives you butterflies, as K-Drama lovers couldn't get enough of the sweet storyline and affectionate chemistry between the main couple. Add to that the visual beauty of this historical drama and the deal is sealed. Starring RoWoon and Park EunBin, the drama earned a rating of 12.1%.

4. "King Of Tears, Lee BangWon" - 11.7%

KBS

"King Of Tears, Lee BangWon" told the history of King TaeJong in a way that put a refreshing twist on the well-known history of the king. The drama was particularly enjoyed by history buffs for the way that it kept the already-known narrative exciting. Starring Joo SangWook, Kim YeongCheol, Ye JiWon, and Park JinHee, the drama made a rating of 11.7%.

5. "Woman of 9.9 Billion" - 11.6%

KBS

This is yet another drama that made a bold impression on K-Drama lovers. Many found the narrative thrilling and filled with suspense that had you on the edge of your seat waiting to see how it ended. Starring Cho YeoJeong and Kim KangWoo, the drama achieved a rating of 11.6%.

6. "River Where the Moon Rises" - 10%

KBS

This drama earned praise for many elements from the cast's acting portrayals, to the cinematography, to the OST, and more. Fans couldn't get enough of the electric chemistry between the actors, too. Starring Kim SoHyun, Na InWoo, Lee JiHoon, and Choi YuHwa, "River Where The Moon Rises" earned a rating of 10%.

7. "Oasis" - 9.7%

KBS

This drama took a fresh approach to an educational lesson on Korean history. Many were impressed with the actors who gave the noir drama its depth. "Oasis", starring Jang DongYoon, Seor InA, and Choo YoungWoo, secured a rating of 9.7%.

8. "Bloody Heart" - 8.9%

KBS

"Bloody Heart" earned a rating of 8.9%. Starring Jang Hyuk, Lee Joon, and Kang HanNa, the drama was praised for the depth of its storyline and characters. With a riveting narrative, the characters each carried out their convictions in a convincing way.

9. "Police University" - 8.5%

KBS

"Police University" was a K-Drama filled with life lessons and sweet moments that brought a lot of fun to the screen. Starring Cha TaeHyun, JinYoung, and f(x)'s Krystal, the drama earned an 8.5% rating.

10. "Moonshine" - 7.6%

KBS

"Moonshine" did what a lot of dramas can't do easily. It mixed the complex world of politics with a romantic comedy aspect that made for a pleasant viewing experience. Fans were especially pleased with the emotional conviction of the actors, Yoo SeungHo and Girl's Day's HyeRi - earning the drama a 7.6% rating.

11. "Forest" - 7.4%

KBS

"Forest" gained a lot of praise for its beautiful setting and beautiful story. Many fans expressed that watching the drama had a healing effect on them and that they appreciated the sweet chemistry between the main characters, played by actors Park HaeJin and Cho BoAh, too. This earned the drama ratings of 7.4%.

12. "Curtain Call" - 7.2%

KBS

"Curtain Call" was a fresh kind of period drama well-received by many fans. The drama carried a deep sentiment that appealed to viewers. Starring Kang HaNeul, Ha JiWon, and Go DooShim, the drama secured 7.2% ratings.

13. "The Law Cafe" - 7.1%

KBS

"The Law Cafe" earned the high ratings of 7.1%. Starring Lee SeungGi and Lee SeYoung, this law-and-order type drama had fans rolling with laughter at the witty antics and had their hearts fluttering at the romantic moments.

14. "Sell Your Haunted House" - 6.9%

KBS

"Sell Your Haunted House" was complimented for its beguiling cast and the amazing way that it presented the horror genre to the K-Drama screen. Starring Jang NaRa and CNBLUE's Jung YongHwa, the drama secured a rating of 6.9%.

15. "Bad Prosecutor" - 6.3%

KBS

"Bad Prosecutor" gained a lot of praise for its thrilling action investigation storyline and comedy-filled scenes. The chemistry between the two leads was also unmatched. Starring EXO’s D.O. and Lee SeHee, the drama secured 6.3% in ratings.

16. "Cheat On Me, If You Can" - 5.8%

KBS

Many enjoyed this drama for its crime-novel-esque storytelling style and for the thrill of unraveling the mystery together with the main character. Starring Cho YeoJeong and Go Jun, "Cheat On Me, If You Can" earned 5.8% in ratings.

Which of these KBS dramas is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

If you're a K-Drama fan, you will have noticed the pretty scenery of your favorite show. While a majority of series are filmed in Korea, there are some that take viewers international, venturing out to foreign filming locations. While the United States is a popular destination, not all filming sites are based in America.

Production teams also look towards Europe for potential filming sites. As a whole, Europe is extremely large with a wide array of people. Many dramas filmed there embraced the various cultures and landscapes that Europe had to offer. Central-eastern Europe is popular, with "Descendants of the Sun" being filmed in Greece and "Are You Human Too?" filmed in Czech Republic. However, production teams and staff have also filmed all across Western Europe, showing love and interest to the entire continent. You have probably watched a drama filmed in Western Europe, and you might not even know it!

So here is a list of K-Dramas filmed in Western European countries.

Note: the terms western, central and eastern Europe have different delimitations depending on concepts.

1. "Shopping King Louie" - France

MBC

"Shopping King Louie" was a hilarious drama starring Seo InGuk, Nam JiHyun, Yoon SangHyun, and Lim SeMi. The MBC series followed the romance story between Kang JiSung/Louie (Seo InGuk) and Ko BokSil (Nam JiHyun). Louie learns about the meaning of true love after meeting BokSil.

The iconic drama was filmed in the romantic country of France. While many might immediately think of the capital city Paris, the filming for the drama takes place outside.

MBC

Instead, the production crew decides on a a chateau outside of Paris named Château de Bourron. The location is a charming castle hotel, surrounded by moats in white water, and classified as a historic monument! The filming site might not be within Paris, but the vibes are immaculate and give off an air of elegance and grace.

2. "The Package" - France

JTBC

This JTBC drama stars the likes of Lee YeonHee, CNBLUE's Jung YongHwa, Choi WooShik, Park YooNa, and Yoon Park. It tells the story of a travel tour guide in France, leading a group of tourists on a package tour. All the travelers have their own stories and do not wish to get close to one another. However, they begin to open up and let down their walls as they travel more together.

JTBC

"The Package" was filmed in France for a majority of the drama. The production team went to various locations and showed viewers the charm of Paris and the Northern part of the country. The went to locations like Auvers-Sur-Oise (in relation with the painter Van Gogh), Mont Saint-Michel, Honfleur, Deauville, Saint-Malo, etc. The country of France is well-highlighted in this romantic comedy.

3. "The K2" - Spain

tvN

"The K2" was a memorable K-Drama featuring Ji ChangWook, Girls' Generation's YoonA, Song YoonAh, and Cho SeongHa as its main leads. The drama follows Kim JeHa (Ji ChangWook), a former solder for hire who is referred to as K2. The tvN series is filled with an endless amount of action, that you might need to get checked for high blood pressure.

tvN

tvN

But for some parts of the heart-racing drama is the beautiful backdrop of Spain. The drama was partly filmed in the Western European country, with a few scenes being shot in the streets of Barcelona. There were moments of reprieve in between all the action scenes to take in the beauty Spain had to offer.

4. "The Legend of the Blue Sea" - Spain

SBS

"The Legend of the Blue Sea" starred the legendary Jun JiHyun and Lee MinHo. The SBS drama depicts the story of a mermaid's long-lasting love story. The drama draws inspiration and borrows motifs from an old folktale about a mermaid. The series is touching as the two main leads confront the past and work to make a future together.

MYM Entertainment

SBS

"The Legend of the Blue Sea" was filmed partly in Spain, particularly in Barcelona, Girona and A Coruña. The backdrops of these scenes were absolutely gorgeous, taking viewers on a literal trip abroad and into the world of the SBS drama. After the series concluded, the locations featured became hot spots for fans of the cast, and most especially the show.

5. "Saimdang, Memoirs of Colors" - Italy

SBS

"Saimdang, Memoirs of Colors" is a historical romance that transcends time and space. The SBS series stars Lee YoungAe and Song SeungHeon as its main leads. The story depicts a Korean art history lecturer's discovery of a diary belonging to historical figure Shin Saimdang (Lee YoungAe). In reading the diary, she discovers the secrets behind a mysterious portrait.

SBS PD Note

SBS PD Note

For some parts of "Saimdang, Memoirs of Colors", the scenes were filmed in Italy, specifically Bologna and Tuscany. Through those parts, we follow lead actress Lee YoungAe, as she travels through the Italian streets. The backdrop of these scenes are breathtaking and make you want to hop on the next flight to Italy.

6. "Memories of the Alhambra" - Spain

Netflix

"Memories of the Alhambra" had its original run on both Netflix and tvN. The iconic drama starred Park ShinHye and Hyun Bin as its main leads. It depicted the story of investment company CEO, Yoo JinWoo (HyunBin). He visits Granada, Spain for business and ends up staying at the hostel run by Jung HeeJoo (Park ShinHye). They become tangled up in a strange, yet thrilling affair.

tvN

tvN

Overseas filming for the drama took place in several cities including Granada, Barcelona, Girona, and Terrassa. Not only did the characters pose in front of scenic views, but the production crew brought viewers to small, street-side cafes and cozy hidden streets. "Memories of the Alhambra" make Spain look magnificent and a prime travel destination!

Where was your favorite drama's filming location? Let us know in the comments!