On June 23, a production presentation for 'Love Lab' was held at Stanford Hotel Seoul in Mapo-gu, featuring producer Lee Jin-joo, producer Kang Yu-min, MONSTA X member Jooheon, and creator Charles Enter.
'Love Lab' is an observational experiment show that captures the instinctive romantic feelings that arise in participants placed in unexpected situations. This new project from producer Lee Jin-joo, known for directing the 'Transit Love' series and 'Love Siblings,' features four distinct experiments designed to showcase emotional exchanges and relationship changes among participants.
Lee Jin-joo explained that the criteria for selecting the four experiments included feasibility and clear design. He stated, "Currently, two experiments have been revealed. We chose experiments that could be executed quickly and had a clear structure from among various ideas."
In casting ordinary participants, authenticity and genuine interest in dating were prioritized. Lee noted, "We aimed to tailor the casting to each experiment. While we can't guarantee a perfect match, it's important to test whether participants genuinely fall in love. We focused on authenticity and the desire to date as key criteria."
Having led the trend in dating shows with 'Transit Love' and 'Love Siblings,' Lee has opted for a different pacing in this new program. He shared that during the production of previous shows, various ideas were discussed, and he had a desire to implement them.
"While working on 'Transit Love' and 'Love Siblings,' we didn't just discuss those programs in the meeting room. There were small ideas like 'Wouldn't this be fun?' that emerged. 'Transit Love' and 'Love Siblings' required a long format with only ten participants over 12 weeks, which was burdensome and limited our focus on a single item. However, I wanted to explore other ideas. What started as a small program has grown. I believe dating shows can diversify further, and I approach this with a spirit of challenge," he said.
Jooheon and Charles Enter serve as observers of the participants' relationships. Lee expressed his admiration for Charles Enter, stating that he had been following his reaction videos since the production of 'Transit Love.'
Lee explained, "At some point, I found myself eagerly awaiting Charles's reaction videos. I was curious about how he would respond. When the program aired on Fridays, I would look for his videos on Saturdays and Sundays, laughing in the editing room. I wanted to try something new with the observer composition for 'Love Lab,' and I thought it would be fun to collaborate with Charles Enter, who readily agreed."
Lee was drawn to Jooheon’s approach to interacting with people, noting, "While looking into Jooheon, I found his YouTube channel, which is described as 'Lee Jooheon YouTube Just Go.' I was captivated by the phrase 'Just Go.' It reflects a life attitude I admire. I felt a warm heart in how he takes care of those he appears with, like teacher Kim Young-ok. The entire production team grew fond of him, leading to his casting."
The observational segments of 'Love Lab' were filmed not in a grand studio but in Lee Jin-joo's home, creating a relaxed atmosphere akin to watching a dating program with friends while enjoying food.
Jooheon remarked, "I wondered if it was okay to film so casually. I was grateful for the opportunity to eat what I wanted and watch the program with Charles Enter like friends. Charles Enter is an ENFP, and I'm an ENFJ. Together, we created a lively atmosphere that felt like we were old friends. I believe we can show great chemistry moving forward."
Charles Enter highlighted the difference in filming location and candid reactions compared to other dating programs. He said, "Other dating shows are filmed in rented spaces or fancy studios, but we shoot in the producer's attic. It's a real home. We huddle together to film, which adds a unique comfort. I don't watch a lot of broadcast content, so I'm not familiar with what shouldn't be said on air. I think my honest reactions make it more entertaining. I became very close with Jooheon during filming."
Producer Kang Yu-min noted that the roles of the two observers were crucial in breaking stereotypes about dating shows. He mentioned, "Charles Enter once asked, 'What kind of dating program is filmed on a yellow mat?' We wanted to avoid being constrained by preconceived notions of dating shows. Both of them highlighted those points, making filming enjoyable."
The first two experiments released involved a 'Bed Date.' While the title suggests a provocative setup, the actual content resembles a 'pajama date' where participants engage in comfortable conversations while wearing sleepwear.
Lee Jin-joo derived the idea from the notion that people tend to open up more naturally in relaxed environments. He explained, "Even with unusual setups, if participants engage naturally, viewers seem to accept it easily."
He added, "During small meetings, we sometimes hold discussions at home or while lying down. I feel that conversations flow better in those situations. When friends go to a jjimjilbang (Korean spa) and lie down to talk, they tend to share their true feelings. I explained to the participants that discussing in a relaxed space could lead to softer and more open conversations due to the environment. I believe the process of persuading participants to understand this intent is important."
Jooheon takes on the role of the program's 'over-involvement manager.' He stated, "When I watch broadcasts or my reactions, I often wonder if it's okay to be that involved. 'Love Lab' feels like family. Programs watched with family tend to evoke more involvement and comfort, and this program was no different. The keyword 'experiment' itself was intriguing, which allowed me to immerse myself even more. I hope viewers look forward to my level of involvement in the future."
Charles Enter shared that participating as an observer in the program has changed his perspective. He noted, "The reactions are not significantly different from when I watch other dating shows. I approached it as if I were watching at home. In other programs, I could discuss with friends after the broadcast, but this time I had to keep the content to myself, which was a bit disappointing."
The production team plans to continue experimenting with various formats and themes in 'Love Lab.' Lee Jin-joo expressed, "I dream of making 'Love Lab' the 'Infinite Challenge' of dating programs. I want to ensure that we leave no room for disappointment. There are still many themes I want to explore. I am committed to seeing this through to the end."
Meanwhile, 'Love Lab' premieres every Wednesday at 11 a.m. on Netflix.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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