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Idol Variety Shows and the pandemic: Is the entertainment worth the risk?
Idol variety shows and K-pop idols' shenanigans have helped us sail smoothly through the rough waters of the pandemic, but is the entertainment worth the risk?
The global pandemic and a subsequent lockdown as a result of this hasn't been easy on anyone. Many of us are facing challenges that can be stressful, overwhelming, and cause strong emotions, as hopelessness and helplessness loom large in our lives. People turned to art and entertainment to seek refuge in these testing times and found solace in the lives of the fictional people and their make-believe worlds. K-pop and K-dramas had their biggest breakthrough in India amid the pandemic, as more and more people found themselves involved in the fascinating, yet relatable Korean culture and the wonderful talent they had to offer us. And as they say, once you Jim-In, you don't Jim-Out! The K-rabbit hole takes us deeper to the other peripheries of entertainment and enjoyment, Kpop has to offer, one of them being Idol Variety Shows!
BTS has revolutionised the way we consume music and entertainment. Not only does BTS have some of the best discographies in all of K-pop, but they have skilfully harnessed the true prowess of digital content to connect with fans across the globe. BTS members feature in their self-created variety series, Run BTS aka Dallyeola Bangtan! The show is all about BTS doing activities, challenges, games and lots more. The pandemic allowed all of us more free time to explore content at leisure and people gravitated towards mindless entertainment, which gives them the serotonin boost required to keep their mental health at peace. Run BTS was initially meant to be only for 10 episodes but the series gained a cult following amongst ARMY, and today Run BTS marks 132 successful episodes.
The latest episode showcased members by a private pool, where they were to participate in a series of entertaining debates and discussions. One member acted as the moderator for the debate, while the other six members divided themselves into groups of three and picked a team each - for or against the given topic. The debate topics ranged from raisins in bread to eggs in Jjangmyeon. Any member or team that flouted the rules will be splashed with water. Now, while it was all fun and games and thoroughly enjoyable, a close friend of mine, who is also an ARMY, remarked, "Don't you think this is risky for their health?" All of a sudden, I began to ponder upon what she said, she was indeed right, it is risky. While, I do understand that the shoot took place under specific circumstances, in a very controlled environment, I cannot help but think, how risky and detrimental it is to their health. BTS aren't just an ordinary group, they are world-class performers and global artists. Their voices and their bodies are their assets and the risk isn't worth it, especially in the name of entertainment.
All the seven members were repeatedly doused and drenched in generous amounts of water, which isn't good for their health at all. Undoubtedly, the episodes were hilarious and entertaining for audiences, but as an ARMY, my concern is multifold - what about their health? Especially when we are still battling the deadly Coronavirus! Should they risk their health to provide fun and frolic to their fans? I'm not sure if that is even necessary! One may argue that the episode was shot prior to the pandemic, and that could be true but it still doesn't erase my concern - Could there have been an alternative? Perhaps, they could have done a 'safer' episode involving less physical activity. Sure, we would have gotten fewer memes and content to laugh at, but at least we would be assured that their health is being taken care of. I sincerely hope idols don't risk their physical and mental health, in the name of entertainment, after all, fans love them for their music and that's all that matters!
ALSO READ: BTS' V aka Tae Tae dominates social media once again following latest RUN BTS episode
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