Research on Narrative Strategies in Korean Variety Shows and Youth Self-identification: A Case Study of 'Biong Biong Planet Game Room'

Abstract

Korean variety shows, with their distinctive entertainment style and gamification, have become a widely disseminated part of Korean pop culture, creating a unique cultural landscape. "Biong Biong Planet Game Room," a variety show produced in South Korea in 2022, combines travel reality shows with competitive games, enriching the emotional expression of variety shows through the construction of multiple spaces. This paper, based on the analysis of the narrative strategies of "Biong Biong Planet Game Room," explores the narrative paths of the show. It also examines how contemporary youths seek self-identification within such shows and project their self-awareness into them. Through this analysis, the paper identifies three ways in which young people construct their self-identity: resonating with the narrative subjects, immersing in the narrative space, and being attracted and engaged by the diverse and intertwined narrative structures. This research also provides insights into the development path for Chinese variety shows.