JTBC is gearing up for a new dating reality show set for the first half of this year — and it's already drawing buzz: singer Lee Hyori and former basketball star-turned-TV personality Seo Jang-hoon will serve as straight-talking relationship mentors. The network has opened an official casting call for real couples.
On the 11th, JTBC confirmed, "We are preparing a new dating variety program aiming to air in the first half of this year, and we are currently openly recruiting couples to participate."
The show will feature two MCs with contrasting views on love who frankly debate the conflicts faced by real-life couples. From their differing perspectives, they will analyze practical dilemmas and explore the future of each relationship together.
According to the production team, couples with a wide range of backstories will appear. The spotlight will be on real, relatable dating struggles — from pairs clashing ahead of marriage, to those strained by issues with friends or family, to couples breaking up and getting back together while questioning where their relationship is headed.
In particular, the contrasting personalities of Lee Hyori and Seo Jang-hoon are expected to be a major hook. Lee Hyori will offer warm, empathetic advice rooted in comfort and encouragement, while Seo Jang-hoon will provide cool, realistic analysis — tackling each couple's concerns from different angles.
Meanwhile, JTBC's new dating show featuring the two as mentors is in production with a first-half premiere goal and is currently accepting applicants. Details, including how to apply, can be found on JTBC's official website.