Chinese Reality Show
The Chinese reality competition program "I Can 47" has sparked a mixed tide of reactions on Korean social media, with some appreciating the show's thoughtful obstacle setting and others raising concerns about copyright disputes and accusing China's entertainment industry of plagiarism.
27 November 2023
One Korean blogger reacted to the program by pointing out its similarities to a domestic sports variety show in China called "I Can Do It!". The blogger shared a Weibo video that showcased the intense physical challenges participants had to go through, and commended the energy of Chinese stars like Liu Dingling who dared to push their limits almost to the point of vomiting.
However, some Korean netizens felt that the program copied elements from their own chess game, with one user stating they looked at Korean chess and found the words to be the same as those used in "I Can 47". This sparked outrage among others, who defended China's originality.
On the other hand, netizens praised the creativity of a mascot competition featured on another Weibo video that some users felt was an innovative form of cosmetic surgery for men in the gym. The competitive nature of the event left participants eager to avoid being seen as weak and to keep up with their peers' performance.
The reactions highlighted the tension between China and South Korea, with some users claiming that South Koreans were accusing them of plagiarism without any face. This resentment was echoed in another video showcasing a competitive variety show similar to "The Amazing Race" and "Together We Are Strong", which sparked a heated debate about the origin of these ideas.
While some netizens justified China's creation with reasonable opinions, others accused South Korea of using their mouths to attack without any real ability to compete in sports. One user even suggested organizing a "China-South Korea Dream Team" competition as a way for Korean athletes to prove their worth against Chinese competitors who had defeated them in the past.
Another Weibo video featuring seven Huluowa brothers and an additional "grandfather" in a team competition brought joy to many netizens, who saw it as a sign of fate and good fortune. Despite the controversy surrounding "I Can 47", users continued to appreciate the show's creativity, with one user describing it as "beautiful and attractive".
In conclusion, while some Korean netizens expressed dissatisfaction over perceived instances of plagiarism in "I Can 47", many others were able to see the value and originality in the Chinese reality competition program. Despite the tensions between China and South Korea, the creativity and energy displayed on these shows serve as a testament to the thriving entertainment industry in both countries.
