A recent episode of KBS 2TV's variety show 2 Days & 1 Night, which aired on October 6, has sparked outrage due to a controversial "manners test." In this segment, a junior staff member carried heavy watermelons while the cast's reactions were evaluated. Most cast members did not offer assistance, disappointing viewers.
This has led to widespread criticism and raised questions about both the behavior of the cast and the production team’s intentions. In the face of the backlash, the production team reportedly removed the controversial footage from both KBS’ website and YouTube.
2 Days & 1 Night faces backlash after cast ignored junior writer struggling with watermelons in controversial "Manners Test"
The episode featured a "manners test" where a junior writer was seen carrying heavy watermelons to gauge whether the cast would offer help. Among the cast, Moon Se Yoon was the only one to assist, asking the writer how far she intended to carry the load.
Other members, including Kim Jong Min, DinDin, Lee Joon, Jo Se Ho, and Yoo Seon Ho, either did not help or gave justifications for their inaction. Kim Jong Min noticed the watermelons but walked away, he later explained that he thought helping might be overstepping.
Yoo Seon Ho asked if the writer was okay but did not assist, reasoning, felt assistance was unnecessary as they were near the destination.
Lee Joon stated that even if he had noticed, he would not have helped unless it was obvious the writer was struggling.
“If I’m being honest, I didn’t notice it, but even if I had, I wouldn’t have helped. If she had really struggled, I would have, but she seemed to be walking fine, and I thought helping might make it more awkward.” Lee Joon candidly admitted later.
The broadcast triggered outrage among viewers, with many criticizing the cast for their failure to show basic manners. Several remarked that offering help should be a simple gesture, while others questioned if celebrities believe they are exempt from common decency.
Additionally, some viewers expressed skepticism about the production team’s motives, suggesting the hidden camera setup was intended to make the cast appear in a negative light.
Following the backlash, the production team of 2 Days & 1 Night reportedly removed the contentious footage from both the KBS website and YouTube. However, no formal statement has been issued on the matter
2 Days & 1 Night, is a popular South Korean reality-variety show, which first aired on August 5, 2007. The show is broadcast every Sunday at 6:25 PM KST on KBS2. The current cast includes Kim Jong-min, Moon Se-yoon, DinDin, Lee Joon, Jo Se-ho, and Yoo Seon-ho.
The show's motto, "Real Wild Road Variety," aims to highlight interesting destinations across South Korea and encourage viewers to explore new places. Over the years, 2 Days & 1 Night has gained a large following and consistently high ratings.