According to a poll conducted by online community portal DC Inside, asking “Which program should stop image washing controversial stars?”, I Live Alone ranked first. The survey ran for seven days from January 26 to February 1.

Out of a total of 36,257 votes, I Live Alone took first place with 8,351 votes, accounting for 24%. The MBC program has long been beloved as a pioneer of observational variety shows, offering unfiltered glimpses into celebrities’ everyday lives. However, it has also faced criticism for being used as a platform for entertainers with past scandals to return to television. Recently, the show has been plagued by renewed controversy surrounding its cast, reigniting public debate.

Second place went to Knowing Bros with 4,622 votes, or 13%. Known for its blunt humor and straightforward questioning, the JTBC show gained popularity by turning guests’ past stories into comedic material. However, it previously drew heavy backlash for inviting celebrities embroiled in controversies, including Shin Jung-hwan, who was involved in an illegal gambling scandal. As a result, the program has faced increasingly cold reactions from the public.

Third place was claimed by No Back Tak Jae Hoon with 3,973 votes, or 11%. The interrogation-room-style talk show gained popularity for its unapologetically candid conversations and fearless approach to taboo topics. While some viewers praised the show for confronting controversy head-on by casting celebrities with scandal-plagued pasts, others criticized it for using provocative humor and pointed questions that appeared to downplay or soften the seriousness of guests’ past misconduct. Certain segments were even accused of crossing the line with excessive shock value.

Following the top three, other programs mentioned in the poll included My Little Old Boy, SNL Korea, and You Quiz on the Block, reflecting ongoing public sensitivity toward how variety shows handle celebrities with controversial histories.

Sources: Daum