Korean variety shows are all the rage right now, with the audience rolling all over the floor laughing and thoroughly enjoying the funny antics of the cast members. Shows such as Running Man, All the Bulters, 2 Days 1 Night, and Knowing Brothers are all surefire hits to the Korean public, that's why a lot of people are tuning in every night.

However, with the exit of cast members such as Lee Kwangsoo for Running Man and Cha Eunwoo and Shin Sungrok for All The Butlers, one can easily notice the common denominator between all of them.

They are either actors or pursuing acting interests.

This has been a problem in the Korean entertainment industry nowadays. With the expectations on maintaining their image a top priority for film and television actors, it makes it hard for them to commit to variety show posts. Some actors refuse the offers because they are worried they won't be able to book any dramas or movies because whenever they shoot those films and dramas, the audiences would be constantly reminded on how they made a fool of themselves in their variety shows.

Lee Kwangsoo left Running Man after 11 long years because of his recovery time needed from the injuries he sustained while filming the show and other acting commitments. However, there are people saying that the real reason why Kwangsoo left Running Man is because he wants to be seen as a competent actor and not a funny variety show cast member. Even though the members jokingly treat him like a comedian on the show, some fans are concerned because the funny cast member image was too strong for Kwangsoo to be taken seriously in their next acting commitments.

It can be an issue, yes, but for some, the ability to switch personalities from acting gigs to variety show appearances is a talent in itself. Not every actor can be confident on variety shows, and the same goes for comedians and entertainers. Personally, I believe some actors have successfully bridged the gap between dramas and variety. This includes Lee Sangyeob, Kang Hanna, Lee Dahee, Lee Dohyun, Lee Seunggi, Song Jihyo, and Jeon Somin. They were still able to convince the viewers of their dramas that their identities in their variety show guest appearances did not affect their acting chops somehow. Instead, this made them so relatable to people.

Kim Seonho is another actor who successfully created two separate identities for his dramas and variety show appearances and the audiences loved it. Cha Taehyun is also remarkable for his stay in 2 Days 1 Night and as a successful actor in shows such as Producers and My Sassy Girl.

At the end of the day, the Korean standards for actors should be reconsidered. The total reluctance and discrimination towards variety shows is so noticeable. Industry professionals should never see wit and charm as weak points for actors, but therefore, strong points for them to blossom and grow more as artists.