Idol Star Athletics Championships to return after 2 years

Jeno of K-pop boy band NCT DREAM competes in an archery match during the 2020 Idol Star Athletics Championships. Captured from MBC

MBC's large-scale K-pop star sports event, Idol Star Athletics Championships (ISAC), is set to return this fall after a two-year hiatus. While the news has excited many fans, some have voiced concerns over potential safety issues.

Broadcaster MBC announced Wednesday ISAC would return this fall, coinciding with Korea's Chuseok holiday season. The filming is slated for August.

Since its inception in 2010, ISAC has brought together K-pop idol groups to participate in various sports events for major Korean holidays, including Seollal (Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (fall harvest festival). Initially limited to track and field, the competition expanded to include futsal, rhythmic gymnastics, esports and many other indoor and outdoor events, solidifying its presence as one of the most sought-after K-pop events.

According to the broadcaster, this year's event will feature a diverse lineup of hosts, including TV presenter Jun Hyun-moo, singers Lee Chan-won, Kang Daniel and girl group NMIXX's Haewon. Rapper Din Din and girl group STAYC's Sieun will also serve as in-arena hosts.

The lineup of K-pop groups set to compete has not yet been disclosed.

Screenshots from the 2020 Idol Star Athletics Championships / Captured from MBC

Despite its return being welcomed by many, some fans have expressed concerns regarding the safety of the event's participants, noting that potential injuries during the event may jeopardize their favorite idols' future schedules as evidenced by past incidents at the idol sports competition.

In 2016, BTS member Jin suffered a nose injury during an ISAC futsal match, while EXO's Xiumin injured his knee during the game. In 2014, AOA member Seolhyun hurt her leg while practicing curling, resulting in a six-week recovery period. INFINITE's Nam Woo-hyun also tore a ligament in his left shoulder during a futsal game in 2014, requiring four weeks of recovery.

Past issues have also involved the safety and treatment of audience members at ISAC events. Some critics have argued that fan safety management could be neglected, given its large scale and lengthy shooting sessions.