Singles Inferno to Transit Love: Best Korean dating reality shows that will make your heart flutter (2024)

Transit Love, a dating reality show from 2021 spanning 15 episodes, introduces participants who arrive carrying both literal and metaphorical baggage. The unique twist in this series lies in the fact that each contestant brings along an ex-partner who has willingly agreed to be part of the show, cleverly translated under various names, including the witty ‘EXChange.’ Over the course of several weeks, participants face the challenge of deciding whether to embark on a new relationship or rekindle an old one.

The show adds a layer of complexity by requiring housemates to treat their exes as strangers upon arrival, creating potential discomfort when romantic interactions with others unfold. Emotional dynamics come into play when one person has moved on while their ex still harbours feelings or resentment. Transit Love maximises its distinctive format, allowing participants to anonymously question the exes of the strangers they find intriguing.

For those who experienced the highs and lows of rooting for couples on shows like Single’s Inferno, Transit Love promises a new kind of emotional rollercoaster as it delves into the intricate webs of complicated relationship histories. Prepare to feel a different level of tension and drama as participants navigate the delicate balance between forging new connections and confronting the complexities of their pasts.

Number of seasons: 3

Watch Transit Love here

Love Catcher seamlessly blends the elements of a dating show with a strategic game of mafia, replacing mud wrestling with a captivating competition. Before settling into their shared living space, participants must choose between two distinct identities. Those adopting the role of ‘love catchers’ aim to establish genuine connections with fellow participants in this romantic game. On the flip side, ‘money catchers’ stand to win a substantial prize of 50 million won (approximately RM179,342), if they successfully convince a ‘love catcher’ to form a couple with them.

While romantic gestures unfold, an undercurrent of suspicion pervades the atmosphere as participants grapple with the uncertainty of each other’s motives. The twist lies in the fact that identities remain concealed until the show’s conclusion, adding an extra layer of intrigue. Throughout the season, challenges and clues are strategically placed, keeping viewers and the show’s panelists engaged in continuous speculation.

The latest season, Love Catcher in Bali, concluded in early 2023, offering audiences a fresh dose of suspense and strategic maneuvering. For those fascinated by the intricacies of human manipulation and the thrill of psychological games, Love Catcher provides a riveting exploration into the minds and motivations of its participants. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions as the show unfolds its unique blend of romance and strategic gameplay.

Number of seasons: 4

Watch Love Catcher here

Heart Signal stands out as a more laid-back reality dating show, focusing primarily on contestants going on dates throughout the majority of its episodes. Diverging from the shorter timespan of shows like Single’s Inferno and Love Catcher, all participants in Heart Signal cohabitate in a shared house for an entire month. A unique twist in the format is that contestants are prohibited from explicitly stating their romantic interests, relying instead on sending nightly messages to each other.

Season 3, in particular, holds a special place for many viewers due to its captivating cast, although Seasons 1 and 2 also offer compelling content and are recommended for watching. With its extended timeframe, interpersonal dynamics, and the subtleties of unspoken connections, Heart Signal provides a more leisurely exploration of relationships, making it a must-watch for those who enjoy a blend of romance and the intricacies of unspoken communication.

Number of seasons: 4

I Am Solo introduces a unique twist by keeping the real names of contestants shrouded in secrecy, as everyone adopts pseudonyms. The revelation of true identities is reserved exclusively for couples who successfully match, a detail undisclosed to the audience.

Unlike some dating shows, the participants in I Am Solo are genuinely focused on long-term commitments, with discussions revolving around marriage, starting a family, and fundamental relationship values.

The beauty of this show lies in its structure: viewers are not at a disadvantage if they join the show midway. Matches unfold every few episodes, offering a dynamic viewing experience as different groups of singles are introduced throughout a single season. The show provides a refreshing perspective on serious relationships and commitment, making it a compelling watch for those intrigued by the prospect of lasting connections and the journey towards marriage.

Number of seasons: 19

For those seeking a show where individuals dash along the coastline clad in swimsuits, Bed on the Beach provides a brisk and entertaining six-episode series. Set against the backdrop of a beach getaway, the eight contestants have a mere three nights and four days to forge connections. Each evening, they face the task of choosing a companion for the night. The couple displaying the ‘hottest’ behavior in their room, albeit by relatively modest Western standards, earns the privilege of enjoying a luxurious date.

The series introduces various games designed to encourage physical contact and stimulate bold questions between potential pairs. The swift pace of the show eliminates panel commentary, allowing viewers an uninterrupted experience. Bed on the Beach acknowledges the constraints of its brief duration, recognising that there’s only so much that can be explored in such a short timeframe. As the contestants bid farewell to the beach setting, they select someone they wish to continue seeing beyond the cameras, adding an element of anticipation and real-world connection to this fast-paced dating reality show.

Number of seasons: 1

Watch Bed on the Beach here

Somebody features a cast of ten professional dancers, each specialising in diverse genres like Korean traditional dance, hip-hop, and ballet. The show unfolds as each dancer performs a solo routine in front of participants of the opposite gender. Those participants who express interest in a particular dancer have the unique opportunity to choose a song for them to perform to.

Going beyond individual performances, the show takes a creative turn by requiring participants to collaborate on filming a dance music video as a pair, showcasing not only their dance skills but also their chemistry on screen.

Choi Jung-yoon, the producer of Somebody, emphasised the selection of participants who are not only skilled dancers but also earnest and dedicated to building romantic connections through the show. This dance-centric dating reality show offers a fresh take on matchmaking, combining the artistry of dance with the pursuit of genuine romantic relationships.

Number of seasons: 2

Change Days centres around three couples teetering on the edge of separation. In this show, the six participants candidly discuss the reasons behind their inclination to part ways and express various concerns about their relationships.

In addition to exploring their relationship troubles and anxieties, the three couples are strategically paired with individuals who are not their current significant others. These pairs engage in getting to know each other, embark on dates, and even share living quarters.

As the narrative unfolds, the six participants confront a crucial decision: whether to salvage their existing relationships or to embark on a fresh journey with a different partner. Change Days offers a unique exploration of love and commitment as participants navigate the delicate balance between preserving the status quo and embracing the possibility of new romantic connections.

Number of seasons: 2

Watch Change Days here

Pink Lie delves into the compelling question of whether love has the capability to triumph over various challenges and circ*mstances. The show involves 10 participants who cohabitate in a shared space known as the Pink House.

While traditional dating shows often emphasise transparency and openness among participants, Pink Lie takes a distinct approach. Here, each participant conceals a significant aspect of themselves, ranging from their age to their social status. The central inquiry becomes whether these concealed truths will hinder the pursuit of authentic love.

The unique premise of Pink Lie challenges the conventional notions of honesty in dating, exploring the complexities that arise when individuals harbour secrets about themselves.

Number of seasons: 1

Watch Pink Lie here

Nineteen to Twenty captures the transitional phase of various Gen Z individuals as they bid farewell to their final week at 19 and embrace their first week at 20, ushering in the new year of 2023. The show intimately follows these unique participants as they spend time with friends, gradually preparing for the challenges and responsibilities of adulthood.

The participants embark on a distinctive experience by enrolling in ‘19 School,’ where they receive lessons on practical aspects of adult life. On New Year’s Day, the cast members take a significant step toward independence by parting ways with their parents and teachers.

They move into the ‘20 House,’ symbolising the commencement of their adult journey. Within this space, they have the opportunity to showcase their vibrant personalities, form unexpected bonds, and create meaningful memories as they navigate the exciting and challenging path of transitioning from adolescence to adulthood.

Number of seasons: 1

Watch Nineteen to Twenty here