The Ratings Crisis at tvN
Korean entertainment powerhouse tvN is facing a major challenge as their shows’ viewership ratings continue to drop. The network, known for hits like “Queen of Tears” and “Crash Landing On You,” can’t seem to capture viewers’ attention like before. Even their star-studded lineups aren’t helping boost the numbers. While some of their legacy shows maintain steady viewership, new programs are struggling to make any significant impact in the ratings game.
New Shows Struggling to Connect
The channel’s newest addition, “Handsome Guys,” features Actor Lee Yi Kyung and Olympian Oh Sang Wook. Despite having Producer Yoo Ho Jin at the helm, the show barely reaches 1.5% in ratings. Even BTS’s Jin’s appearance couldn’t save the day, which is particularly surprising given BTS’s massive global fanbase.
See also: YoonA Age Gap With Lee Chae Min Sparks Debate in Tyrant’s Chef
“Rented In Finland,” starring ASTRO’s Cha Eunwoo and Actor Lee Je Hoon, hovers around 2%. The show’s premise of celebrities exploring Finnish culture hasn’t resonated with viewers despite its unique location. Meanwhile, “Green Bean, Red Bean Spin-Off” with EXO’s D.O. and Actor Lee Kwang Soo has dropped to 3%, even though its parent show was previously successful.
The Root of the Problem
Industry experts point to a lack of fresh ideas as the main issue. Many shows follow similar formats, especially the “healing abroad” concept. Korean viewers seem tired of watching celebrities get paid to travel overseas. The redundancy in show premises has become increasingly apparent, with many programs feeling like carbon copies of previous successful formats.
Traditional variety shows like “Amazing Saturday” and “You Quiz On The Block” continue to maintain their audiences, suggesting that viewers still appreciate well-established formats with consistent entertainment value. However, the challenge lies in creating new shows that can achieve similar long-term success.
Understanding the Bigger Picture
The slump might reflect broader issues in South Korean society. With political unrest and economic concerns, viewers are less interested in watching wealthy celebrities living comfortable lives. The current economic climate has made audiences more critical of shows featuring luxurious overseas trips and expensive activities.
YouTube’s rising popularity has also changed how people consume content. Many viewers prefer shorter, more focused content they can watch on their own schedule. Traditional TV networks like tvN are struggling to adapt to these changing viewing habits. Some shows that perform poorly on TV find better success when clips are shared on YouTube, indicating a shift in content consumption patterns.
Looking at Potential Solutions
Industry insiders suggest that tvN needs to focus on more relatable content that connects with everyday viewers. This could mean developing shows that highlight regular people’s stories or creating formats that address current social issues in an entertaining way. The network might also benefit from experimenting with hybrid formats that work well both on traditional TV and digital platforms.
See also: NewJeans Legal Battle With ADOR Forces Group Name Change
Final Thoughts: Can tvN Recover Its Former Glory?
While tvN faces significant challenges, its track record of producing hit shows suggests the potential for a comeback. The key might lie in understanding changing viewer preferences and adapting to new content consumption patterns.
What do you think tvN needs to do to win back its viewers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
