TVING's 'Gonaridoll' Breaks Down News Consumption Barriers with Idol Variety Show Format

South Korean streaming service TVING has launched 'Gonaridoll,' an innovative current affairs variety show targeting the MZ generation, on the 18th.

In an unusual move for an original content, 'Gonaridoll' has been placed in TVING's 'News' category, signaling a strategic attempt to lower the barrier for younger audiences to consume news. New episodes will be released every Tuesday at 7 AM.

The program is a spin-off from the production team behind JTBC announcer Kang Ji-young's current affairs show, 'Gonarija.' The term 'Gonari' stems from a typo of 'Guan-ri' (management), and the show's concept features idols who excel at self-management acting as 'Gonarijas' (managers of information), offering commentary on current affairs and societal happenings.

Park Ji-won from the girl group fromis_9 serves as the sole MC, tackling topics ranging from global economics to history and social issues. The first episode featured a skills assessment with YouTuber Mimiminu, showcasing Park Ji-won's sharp wit and intelligence.

A TVING representative stated, "We aimed to make news more accessible to the younger generation by combining it with the popular idol variety show format," adding, "We intend to cultivate TVING's unique news consumption culture, offering both entertainment and a deeper understanding of the world."

'Gonaridoll,' a 16-part series, premiered on TVING's 'News' tab, with new episodes airing weekly on Tuesdays.

Netizens are reacting positively, with comments like 'Park Ji-won is so smart! It's refreshing to see idols tackle current affairs,' 'Looking forward to the next episode,' and 'Managing idols, Gonaridoll – even the name is fun!'