Unlike the many complex thoughts running through Jeon Ha-young PD’s mind, Seoyeon wasn’t thinking much at all. She simply figured that appearing on an observational reality show would be okay.

‘Reality shows often reshape the public’s image of celebrities.’

Observational reality shows, in particular, tended to allow celebrities to appear more relatable to the public. Because of this, celebrities who felt distant from the public often benefited from appearing on such shows.

Golden Duckling was no different. Young celebrities, who typically seemed somewhat distant, frequently appeared, showing that even stars were someone’s child. This made such shows quite popular among …