Netflix, Disney+ accelerate push into Korean reality programming

Poster for "Three Idiots in Kenya" / Courtesy of Netflix

When Netflix first entered the Korean market in the mid-2010s, industry experts and critics feared the streaming platform would become a “black hole” swallowing up local film and drama contents into what is steadily becoming the dominant distribution system and bypassing traditional broadcasting. Those concerns quickly proved true.

Now, the same trend is unfolding with reality shows — a genre that has long served as a crucial pillar for Korean TV networks and cable channels that lost ground in terms of scripted content.

The recent Netflix reality program "Three Idiots in Kenya" is a prime example. Released in late November, the series marks the first collaboration between Netflix and star producer Nah Yung-suk, known for creating hit shows for TV and cable channels. As a Netflix original, it was fully funded by the platform.

The six-episode program follows three male entertainers as they travel through Kenya in a spin-off of the 2019 tvN variety series, "New Journey to the West," also produced by Nah. The new show retains nearly all the elements of its predecessor, from the cast and editing style to signature games.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the release, Nah likened Netflix to "the most popular department store,” with his team representing “the oldest and most prestigious store in town." He said, "Why not showcase our work to global audiences through Netflix? I want to say to viewers around the world: 'This is what Koreans enjoy. What do you think?'"

With "Three Idiots in Kenya" now completed, Nah and Netflix are reportedly developing another travel program featuring actor Lee Seo-jin, again targeting global viewers.

Original productions are not Netflix’s only strategy. The platform has also partnered with the team behind cable TV channel JTBC’s hit show "Crime Scene" to create an expanded version for release on Netflix.

Disney+ is also boosting its slate of Korean reality content. Following the success of "Culinary Class Wars," producers are reportedly working on a new series slated for release next year.

Cultural critic Yun Suk-jin said the growing collaborations between global streaming services and TV producers reflect mutual interest. “Working with Netflix gives producers access to a much larger budget. For them, it’s an opportunity,” he said, noting that "Culinary Class Wars" was created by five former MBC producers.

From the perspective of the platforms, the appeal is straightforward, Shin added. “Reality shows are known for being cost-effective. For streaming companies, there’s no reason not to invest in them if they’re already proven to be popular.”