Have you ever wondered what life is really like for the richest and most successful Koreans living across the world? Who are the real faces behind the global rise of the Korean Wave? What happens when luxury, ambition, and a touch of K-pop stardom all come together in one show? Could this be Korea’s next big international reality hit?
That is exactly what KBS 2TV’s variety show “Crazy Rich Koreans” set out to explore. Since its premiere on June 15, Crazy Rich Koreans has virtually taken viewers behind the scenes of the high-glamour, high-profile lives of elite Koreans as they successfully operate globally — from entrepreneurs and innovators, to celebrities and influencers.
As the show’s final episode airs on August 17, Global K-pop phenomenon IVE has peaked audience anticipation as the performers of the season finale with their intense and strong Lollapalooza performance.
While Season 1 is coming to a close, the end of the first season does not equate to the end of the excitement as deals for Season 2 have already begun.
Let’s explore what made this show so cool, and what lies ahead for Crazy Rich Koreans.
2. Show Overview: What Makes ‘Crazy Rich Koreans’ Unique?
What are Crazy Rich Koreans?
Crazy Rich Koreans is a KBS 2TV reality-variety show that premiered on June 15, 2025.
The program profiles accomplished Koreans living worldwide, showing how each has established themselves in business, fashion, entertainment, and technology.
Crazy Rich Koreans focuses on individuals who are taking the Hallyu (Korean Wave) beyond borders — sharing an inspirational, glamorous, and, at times, staggering global portrait of Korean excellence.
Introducing the Hosts
- Jeon Hyun-moo hosts this show along with the more versatile and charismatic crew:
- Jeon Hyun-moo, a brilliant, witty Korean Variety TV veteran
- Park Se-ri, the legendary professional golfer and national icon
- Ji Ye-eun, the “charming” vibrant new face with newfound relatability
- Kwak Tube, the YouTuber and travel enthusiast with a wonderful personality
Their chemistry, and I suppose curiosity too, really brings out the best in every guest they welcome.
3. Star Appearances in Season 1: Who Stole the Spotlight?
One of the most exciting parts of Crazy Rich Koreans is its impressive guest lineup. Throughout Season 1, the show featured a diverse range of Koreans making waves in different parts of the world — from business moguls and cultural icons to global celebrities.
Here’s a look at the standout names who appeared this season:
- Jang Han-na – A name synonymous with elegance and influence
- Kim Sang-sik – Known for his achievements and strong presence
- Betty Park – A powerful female entrepreneur with a global reach
- Simon Kim – A Korean-American restaurateur turning heads in New York
- Hwasa – The iconic K-pop star whose presence lit up the screen
- Dennis Hong – World-renowned robotics engineer pushing tech boundaries
- Peter Park – A success story representing Korean pride abroad
- IVE – Global K-pop group featured in the final two episodes with their electrifying Lollapalooza performance
From tech innovation to pop culture, each guest brought a unique story that made the show more dynamic and inspiring.
4. IVE’s Appearance: A Grand Finale Worth Waiting For
The global K-pop phenomenon will appear in the series’ final two episodes, airing on August 10th and August 17th, which surely is a big finale for this show’s Season 1. You can expect exclusive access backstage, personal stories, and most importantly, an epic performance for Lollapalooza, which will conclude the season finale.
The hype has already been felt, as K-pop fans have been simply counting down the days to IVE’s appearance. The IVE phenomenon should undoubtedly boost viewership and give Crazy Rich Koreans a huge send-off.
Whether you are a long-time DIVE or simply enjoy watching K-pop idols shine, you won’t want to miss this finale.
5. Ratings and Viewer Response: A Rocky Start with Signs of Hope
Initial Struggles and Backlash
Despite its bold concept and impressive guest list, Crazy Rich Koreans didn’t have the easiest start when it came to ratings.
- The premiere episode recorded a modest 2.9% viewership (according to Nielsen Korea).
- By the second episode, ratings dropped to 2.1%, and
- The third episode slipped even further to just 1.9%.
Part of the reason behind this lukewarm reception? The show took over the time slot of the long-running comedy program “Gag Concert.”
This didn’t sit well with loyal viewers of the former show — in fact, it led to some frustration and even a viewer petition demanding the return of Gag Concert to its original 9:20 PM slot.
So while Crazy Rich Koreans promised glitz and glamour, it initially struggled to win over a consistent audience.
Recent Rebound: Climbing Back with K-pop Power
Just when it seemed like Crazy Rich Koreans might fade quietly, the show made an impressive comeback.
The 8th episode, which aired on August 3rd, marked a major turning point — pulling in a 3.5% viewership rating, the highest of the season so far. This rebound gave the show a much-needed boost and reignited interest just in time for the finale.
With IVE appearing in the final two episodes, expectations are even higher. Fans and industry watchers alike believe that IVE’s massive fanbase and star presence could drive ratings even higher — potentially closing out Season 1 on a strong, memorable note.
6. Season 2 Possibilities: What’s Next for Crazy Rich Koreans?
With the final episode nearing, and viewership starting to climb back up, plenty are already asking the tagline question — will there be a Season 2?
Apparently, KBS has already been internally discussing a second season. There have been no official announcements made yet, you can feel the momentum and chatter backstage that lead us to believe KBS is taking very seriously bringing this show back.
There was also speculation that Season 2 could widen the scope, including new themes, new success stories, or even Koreans in areas that were not mentioned in Season 1. The guidance of audience reaction and ratings performance will likely encourage, or discourage, any specific plans for Season 2.
For fans of the show, that have built an emotional connection to the combination of luxury, inspiration, and Korean excellence, likely have exciting possibilities ahead.
7. Conclusion: All Eyes on What’s Next
The Crazy Rich Koreans is having a closing in style, with IVE lighting up the finale. Of course, the show opened rather slow but gained momentum just in time for episodes 7 and 8, with the latter season marking a surge in rating because all the hype was on IVE.
Now, with whispers of Season 2 already floating around, fans are excited and waiting for that official green light.
If this season was just the beginning, Season 2 might be even crazier — and richer.
