Cast: Lee Kwang-Soo, Yoo Jae-Seok, Kim Yeon-Kyeong

Netflix recently just released it’s newest South Korean variety show, Korea No.1. The show only has 8 episodes and stars the dynamic variety show duo, Lee Kwang-Soo and You Jae-seok, as well as Korean volleyball star Kim Yeon-Kyeong. The show follows the trio as they travel around South Korea’s various provinces to learn and perform traditional manual labor. Each episode consists of the team meeting with Korea’s best artisans, experiencing traditional work, and selecting the “best worker”. With activities ranging from constructing traditional clay roof tiles to making traditional alcohol, Korea No. 1 highlights the intricate practices preserved from hundreds of years ago but with an entertaining twist. 

Thoughts

Honestly, Korea No.1 is everything you want in a variety show. The actual activities the cast are performing are really interesting and provides a lot of context and insight into the nuance of the Korean culture. Not to mention, the dynamic between Yoo Jae-Seok, Kwang-Soo, and Yeon-Kyeong are hilarious. I am left gasping for air at least 3x each episode from their witty banter, sly insults, and silly personalities.

In the second episode the cast hunted wild octopus in the mud flats and I was crying from laughter within the first 10 minutes. The trio constantly kept getting stuck in the mud and honestly I lost track of how many times Kwang-Soo’s pants fell down. The way the show is edited and the fun little sound effects and commentary only add to the hilarious dynamic of the show.

I would highly recommend watching Korea No.1 if you need a break from Korean dramas, a laughing session, or if you’re curious about the Korean culture!