“There seems no variations” — Viewers disappointed as Netflix revealed the cast of Single's Inferno 4 in episode 1

Netflix's popular Korean dating reality show, Single's Inferno 4, returned for its fourth season on January 14, 2025. The series, known for stranding singles on a deserted island called "Inferno" where they must form romantic connections to escape to "Paradise," has garnered significant attention since its debut in 2021.

However, Single's Inferno 4 premiere sparked disappointment among some viewers, particularly regarding the male contestants. Many fans took to social media to express their dissatisfaction, with comments suggesting that the production team did not make a concerted effort to cast attractive men this season. Some even noted that the female contestants looked similar to one another.

Despite the initial backlash regarding the male cast, Single's Inferno 4 continues to attract a substantial viewership, maintaining its status as a compelling reality show that delves into the complexities of modern dating.

Meanwhile, one viewer remarked:

"One thing I don't like about the new season of #SinglesInferno4 , they didn't include someone like Nadine and Hyeseon in this batch. All the girls are kinda similar..there seems no variation. I am on episode 2 but I still don't have a favorite girl."

Fans expressed apprehension for season 4's male contestants and flooded X with their views.

"They’re all beauty pageants type. I need someone who’s not trying to hard looking feminine like hyeseon and nadine." one fan wrote.

"So singles inferno 4 started and I don’t think the guys this season are at the same level as the girls.. but let’s see if some personalities emerge. I’m only 2 eps in and the jobs revealed are actor, dancer, artist.. they’re all just here to grow their insta following," another viewer wrote.

"They didn't even try with this season's men" one other fan said.

Others discussed how the female contestants were good-looking but looked too similar to one another.

"I swear this season got the prettiest female contestants but the male contestans have been better looking every other season. Yuk goated tho," a viewer stated.

"How are the women a copy of each other? No variety at all! Watched a sort of intro on YT, most are wanna be actress/ idol. Hope there's someone different and interesting." another viewer said.

"At least we got theo the funmaker. hes saving grace among these men. junseo is fine too. jeongsu straightly unleashing his typical player skills (which i respect hes sticking to the show concept lmao)," one other fan noted.

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Single's Inferno 4 episodes 1 to 4 overview

The Single's Inferno 4 premiere introduced the contestants as they arrived on Inferno, each bringing unique backgrounds and personalities. The initial interactions were marked by curiosity and anticipation, with participants engaging in conversations to gauge potential romantic interests.

A highlight of the episode was a competitive game among the male contestants, designed to determine who would earn the first date in Paradise. Yuk Jun-seo emerged victorious, selecting Chung You-jin as his companion. Runner-up Kim Jeong-su chose Lee Si-an for his date. These selections set the stage for the season's initial romantic dynamics.

The second episode of Single's Inferno 4 delved deeper into the contestants' personalities and budding relationships. Jun-seo and You-jin's date in Paradise revealed shared interests, including their mutual involvement in the arts—Jun-seo is an artist and You-jin is a dancer. Their conversations flowed easily, suggesting a promising connection.

Meanwhile, Jeong-su and Si-an's date was characterized by mutual admiration. Jeong-su, a 33-year-old business owner, and Si-an, a 25-year-old model, found common ground in their discussions about life and aspirations. Si-an's appreciation for Jeong-su's gentlemanly demeanor hinted at a developing attraction.

Back on Inferno, the remaining contestants engaged in group activities, fostering camaraderie and subtle rivalries as they vied for attention and connection. The episode concluded with anticipation for the next set of challenges and dates.

As the contestants settled into the rhythm of island life, Single's Inferno 4 episode 3 introduced new challenges that tested both physical abilities and emotional resilience. A notable event was a game where female contestants navigated a precarious log over water, assisted by the men.

Lee Si-an's impressive performance earned her the opportunity to select a date, and she chose Jun-seo, surprising some participants and viewers. This choice introduced complexities, as Min-seol, another contestant, had expressed interest in Jun-seo.

The evolving dynamics prompted introspection among the participants, leading to candid conversations about intentions and desires. The episode highlighted the fluid nature of relationships within the confined environment of Inferno.

The fourth episode of Single's Inferno 4 centered around a communal campfire, serving as a catalyst for deeper interactions and revelations. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with shared meals and games, encouraged contestants to express their feelings more openly.

Jun-seo's endearing clumsiness, particularly during a game where he struggled to assist female contestants across the log, endeared him to many, enhancing his popularity among both participants and viewers.

However, the campfire also exposed tensions. Chung You-jin's drunk behavior, perceived by some as overly assertive, sparked discussions about authenticity and strategy. The episode underscored the challenges of navigating romantic pursuits under the scrutiny of peers and cameras.

The first four episodes of Single's Inferno 4 have established a foundation of intricate relationships and personal growth. The contestants' diverse backgrounds contribute to a dynamic narrative, with each individual bringing distinct perspectives on love and connection.

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Single's Inferno 4 follows a weekly release schedule, with new episodes dropping every Tuesday. Episodes 5 and 6 are slated for release on January 21, 2025, at 5 pm KST (8 am GMT / 3 am ET).

Episodes 7 and 8 are slated for January 28, episodes 9 and 10 will air on February 4, while episodes 11 and 12 will air on February 11, 2025.