Get ready for the grand comeback of MBC’s beloved Idol Star Athletics Championships (ISAC)! According to a June 20 press release by MBC, ISAC is returning as the leading sports entertainment program for the holiday season after a two-year break.
MBC revealed that ISAC will be recorded in August and will air as a Chuseok special. Since its inception in 2010, ISAC has been a cherished variety show where top idol groups compete in various sports during the Lunar New Year and Chuseok holidays.
Initially focused on track and field events, the program has since expanded to include a variety of indoor and outdoor sports such as football, rhythmic gymnastics, and eSports. This diverse lineup allows idols to showcase their athletic skills.
However, the announcement has sparked mixed feelings among fans. Past safety concerns and the rise of new competitors have left many idol enthusiasts torn between excitement and apprehension. Despite its popularity, ISAC has faced criticism due to frequent injuries among participating idols and safety issues involving live audiences. Although the production team has continuously tried to address these problems, the large-scale nature of the recordings has made finding perfect solutions difficult. Fans are understandably concerned about the safety of the idols, saying that even minor injuries could disrupt their busy schedule.
Compounding the issue is the rising popularity of other live events around the same time that people are tuning into. To address this, the production team plans to introduce new events, including street dance and golf.
The lineup for ISAC 2024 is yet to be announced.