Single's Inferno

This is the first time I haven't turned one of these "speed dating on a desert island" or "find love in three days plus gimmicks" shows off in the first or maaaybe second episode. And once again it's because there is an authenticity to Korean culture that is so refreshing. Where is the backstabbing?! Where is the snide double edge remarking?! Where are the testosterone heavy but bikini clad competitions that are meant to create random and poorly placed drama to exclude the idea of well developed personalities...?!

Thankfully none of it found its way to this show. Instead the focus is on real world emotions and responses between the contestants. Even the ones who are expected to be obnoxious are good people, just higher maintenance. These shows don't need to be full of jerks to be good. Well done.

This won't be like the American's reality dating shows. There won't be any kissing, sex, over the top drama.

Koreans/Asians in general are more conservative, polite, little skinship, less eye contact.

I just love this version of it. Wonder how Koreans would do a dating show without celebrities. This show is definitely it. Every casting is attractive just like how Koreans like their castings. For Koreans, it might be too much for them.

Some people that wants drama and lots of touching and kissing won't like it, like the Americans.

It's was nice to see something different.

Season One: 7.5/10

Themes: Reality-TV, Dating, Island-Life, Luxury, Food & Korean.

Review: I honestly thought this was a really nice show. The pacing is on the slower side, so if you don't have the patience for that and need constant drama, then this will not be the show for you. It's super calm and mild, but I kind of liked that. It gave the show a more charming and even natural feel to it. Some of the editing was a little frustrating though, as we did not always get to see the scenes (and the people) I was most interested in, but I suppose that that is more due to personal taste. Overall, I was entertained watching this and I found it interesting to see interactions within a culture so different from my own.

Favourite contestants: Shin Ji-yeon (S1) & Moon Se-hoon (S1).

Least favourite contestant: Song Ji-a (S1).

Compared with western dating shows, especially ones based at beaches this was sooooo different. The western ones are loud and trashy, which makes them hugely fun and cringy. This show is such a reveal of the difference in cultures. From the way the people interact to what is acceptable to talk about, such as skin colour, face shape and a preference for single or double eyelids. Amazing insight. Not much happens in this show, and if you're looking for crazy entertainment, this isn't it. In many ways it's rather beautiful.

One more thing! These young folk can cook! With basic ingredients, they whip up many a meal that looks amazing.

Even though many of the participants' decisions made me so frustrated, they really kept me hooked and always gasping!

I really enjoyed watching this show, it was really refreshing to see a dating show that wasn't all about hooking up and bickering!

Yea-Won and So-Yeon are queens btw!