'Let's Be Together 4' Achieves Top Ratings, Evolving Beyond Sports Variety to a Premium Sports Content.

JTBC's 'Let's Be Together 4' is setting a new standard for sports variety shows, securing the No. 1 viewership rating in its time slot among general programming channels.

The secret to the program's enduring appeal in its fourth season lies in the realistic rivalry between legendary football stars Ahn Jung-hwan and Lee Dong-gook.

The showdown between Lee Dong-gook, the first-half champion, and Ahn Jung-hwan, currently leading the second half, was perceived as a genuine 'big match,' transcending mere entertainment programming.

Both coaches openly displayed their competitive spirit, and during halftime meetings, they were seen reprimanding or encouraging players, showcasing authentic managerial behavior.

The match, which concluded with a 3-2 scoreline, featured a breathless progression from the earliest goal scored just one minute into the game, through ties, lead changes, and re-ties, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

The unpredictable nature of the game elicited exclamations of excitement from the commentators, who repeatedly remarked on how 'thrilling' and 'fun' the match was, offering viewers the genuine excitement of watching a real sport.

Another noteworthy aspect is the show's commitment to professionalism within the variety show format. Coach Ahn Jung-hwan pinpointed specific issues with the first-half performance and made a strategic substitution, swapping Seung-hoon and Guevara, which led to a comeback goal in the second half.

Coach Lee Dong-gook maintained faith in the underperforming Lee Yong-woo, continuing to play him and ultimately earning a tying goal. The clear demonstration of the coaches' tactical decisions and their subsequent results allowed viewers to experience the enjoyment of indirectly learning football tactics, going beyond simple spectating.

The post-match scene where Lee Dong-gook comforted his dejected players by saying, "Don't hang your heads," and Ahn Jung-hwan declared, "Let's aim for a perfect undefeated championship in the second half," conveyed humanistic emotion that surpassed mere victory or defeat.

The narrative of the Lion Hearts, on the verge of falling from first-half champions to last place in the second half, naturally garnered empathy and support from the viewers.

Season after season, 'Let's Be Together 4' has solidified its identity not just as a show that provides laughter, but as serious sports content. The harmony of the stars' sincerity, unpredictable matches, tactical depth, and human drama is what draws viewers to their home cheering seats every Sunday evening.

Korean netizens are flooding the comments sections, saying things like, 'The coaches' competitive spirit is amazing,' 'This feels like watching a World Cup match,' and 'Let's Be Together 4 is a true sports drama.'