Chinese viewers praise Korean dating show featuring serious illness survivors as lesson in love
Chinese audiences have been captivated by a new South Korean dating show that features young people battling serious illnesses, drawing inspiration from their courageous pursuit of love. The dating reality show, Love Against Time, released by the Seoul Broadcasting System (SBS) this summer, has gone viral on Chinese social media. While various dating reality shows have long served as a hallmark…
Chinese viewers have expressed deep admiration for a South Korean dating reality show, Love Against Time, which features young individuals battling serious illnesses. The show, broadcast by the Seoul Broadcasting System (SBS), has gained viral popularity on Chinese social media. Unlike typical dating shows, Love Against Time showcases eight individuals in their 20s and 30s who are diagnosed with terminal diseases.
Rather than engaging in playful flirting, participants begin by sharing heartfelt letters detailing their medical journeys.
Diagnosed just before a firefighter exam, Kim Jong-eun faced serious complications following a bone-marrow transplant, which left his lungs and joints weakened. Another participant, Kim Seon-ho, ended a relationship after being diagnosed with rare lymphoma, fearing that he would be unable to fulfill his promise to share beers with three fellow patients upon recovery. Kim Na-young lost her hearing in her left ear due to treating her acoustic neuroma and gained 20kg in a month.
The show's producer, Lee Eun-sol, revealed that the concept stemmed from her curiosity about how awareness of mortality influences young people's perspectives on life and love. She aims to highlight how young individuals "rebuild their lives and find love" after confronting illness, rather than focusing solely on their struggles. Participants are also encouraged to dedicate at least 100 minutes of their time to the person they truly wish to spend time with.
Many Chinese viewers have been profoundly moved by the show, sharing that it inspires them to re-evaluate their own attitudes towards life and love. One viewer remarked, "I was deeply touched by this show, witnessing these young individuals open their hearts and courageously embrace new love after enduring significant pain and suffering." Another noted, "Being diagnosed with cancer does not mean one does not deserve love. Love transcends physical ailments and is the connection of two souls."
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
