Lee Young Ji becomes the new MC of The Seasons after Zico, continuing KBS's 30-year legacy of iconic late-night music talk shows. The musical night show, which became a cultural staple among Korea's locals in the 90s, is still enjoyed by the generation of the 21st century.
For over 30 years, KBS has entertained all age groups with late-night musical shows after the day's hustle. The program began as a festival special show, but with continued love from the people, KBS has maintained this musical ritual for three decades.
Let's look at the evolution of late-night music shows in Korea.
KBS's History of Late-Night Music Shows
KBS took the initiative of starting a midnight show that all age groups could enjoy. The only common subject here was music. In the 90s, Korea saw the rise of K-pop with idols like Uhm Jung Hwa and Seo Taiji & the Boys. The music was something enjoyed by everyone.
This is how the KBS late-night music show was born! KBS first premiered the show in 1992 with Roh Young Sim as the host. The show's main theme was kept like a talk show, where musical artists would come to discuss their new releases or experiences and then answer some audience questions or musical requests.
This late-night show soon became every Korean family’s favorite weekend show, which explains how KBS has been running the show for 30 years now!
The Seasons seeks to continue the broadcaster's history of late-night music talk shows, following “Roh Young Sim’s Small Concert” (1992-94), “Lee So-ra’s Propose” (1996-2002), “Yoon Do Hyun’s Love Letter” (2002-08), “Lee Hana’s Peppermint” (2008-09), and “You Hee Yeol’s Sketchbook” (2009-22).
Rapidly, this late-night music show also gained popularity among worldwide fans with the global rise of K-pop. Fans loved watching their favorite idols come on stage, sharing stories and performances that helped them forget the worries of the entire week.
How did KBS come up with The Seasons?
In July, renowned singer-songwriter You Hee Yeol stepped down from You Hee Yeol’s Sketchbook, a Friday night fixture for more than a decade, after issuing multiple apologies over plagiarism claims regarding his 2021 track "A Very Private Night." This is when KBS introduced a fresh late-night musical show. The name of the show was decided to follow the MC's name as a new tradition.
Just like the four seasons of the year, the show's theme is to bring a new MC every season. The first season was hosted by Jay Park, followed by Choi Jung Hoon, AKMU, Lee Hyori, and Zico, and finally, with the arrival of autumn, this season’s MC will be Lee Young Ji.
Since 2022 The Seasons has enjoyed a wide number of viewership that proves KBS's right choice to continue the legacy of late-night music shows.
Impact of Late-Night Musical Shows on Audiences
Those who have watched the popular K-drama Reply 1988 probably know how, in the 1980s and 90s, there was usually one TV per family, and during weekends, the whole family would sit together for dinner, enjoying particular shows.
These musical shows played an important role. They not only entertained families but kept them united too. Each episode would welcome musical artists from various generations, ensuring no age group was disappointed.
Another interesting fact is that many couples or admirers used to send secret messages to these late-night shows, and the MC would play a song upon request, acting as a cupid or mentor.
Lee Young Ji’s first episode of The Seasons will air on September 27 at 10 p.m. KST, marking the start of a brand-new season!
As KBS's The Seasons continues to bring families and fans together through unforgettable musical moments. Do you have any fond memories of watching late-night musical shows with your loved ones? Share your stories with us—we’d love to hear from you!
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