South Korea to Launch Dating Reality Show Where Celebrities Date AI
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19.08.2026 22:42
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2 min read
South Korean broadcaster SBS, in partnership with streaming platform Netflix, has introduced the first-ever AI dating reality show, My AI Partner: Strange Romance. The experiment tests whether humans can form genuine romantic feelings for a digital avatar while fully aware they are communicating with an algorithm.
The show stars three celebrities: webtoon creator Kian84, TV host Jang Do-yeon, and actress Lee Yu-bi.
Avatar Personalization and Show Format
Before filming began, participants completed detailed questionnaires about their preferences. Developers used their input to create customized virtual companions, tailoring appearance, voice, speech patterns, and behavior to match each cast member’s ideal expectations.
According to The Korea Times, the format goes far beyond text messaging: cast members bring screens displaying their avatars on trips and romantic dinners, engaging in long conversations. To test the strength of these connections, producers periodically introduce rival AI characters to trigger jealousy.
Emotional Response and Psychological Isolation
The stars’ experiences highlighted different facets of interacting with the technology. Kian84 noted that during a sudden internet outage, he caught himself genuinely worrying about his virtual companion’s safety, though the model’s constant programmed compliments eventually became irritating.
As reported by Korea JoongAng Daily, Jang Do-yeon admitted to developing feelings of slight infatuation, emphasizing that sharing personal topics with artificial intelligence felt easier due to the absence of judgment.
Show producer Won Seung-jae explained that the concept was inspired by the film “Her” and a growing trend among young people who forgo traditional dating due to emotional fatigue and fear of interpersonal conflicts.
The premiere episode of My AI Partner: Strange Romance airs on August 20, 2026, on SBS, with a subsequent release on Netflix.
