I’m Obsessed With Single’s Inferno (And Here’s Why You’ll Be Too)

If you’ve ever scrolled through Netflix, not knowing what to watch, then you’ve probably seen Single’s Inferno pop up on your screen. And I don’t know about you, but lately it feels like it’s the show everyone‘s been talking about everywhere!

Since 2021, Netflix has been producing this Korean reality dating show where a group of singles are stuck on a deserted island called “Inferno,” and the only way they can escape to “Paradise” is by choosing each other for a date.

Now 5 years after its debut, Single’s Inferno is back with its largest cast ever in season 5. That’s a total of 15 contestants to be exact!

And after years of my friends telling me to watch it, I finally gave it a go in January (especially after hearing that this season might be the best one yet, and spoiler alert: it absolutely is!).

So if you’ve also been seeing this show everywhere, and are now wondering whether it’s worth starting (pro tip: start with season 5, and then go back to seasons 1 to 4), here are a few reasons why people (including me) are getting completely hooked.

Official poster for Single’s Inferno season 5
Photo from Netflix

1. The connections feel more real

Unlike a lot of other dating shows, Single’s Inferno is pretty conservative. You won’t see any hugging, kissing, or cuddling, and contestants rarely even sleep in the same bed. The farthest I’ve seen couples go is maybe a few stolen glances across the dinner table, or a (quite hesitant) hand hold.

But I think it’s exactly this lack of physical intimacy that makes the connections feel even more genuine and interesting to watch. When you see a heartfelt conversation or a small moment of vulnerability, you know it really means a lot.

2. The fashion alone is worth watching

Every episode honestly feels like a mini fashion show, and sometimes I wish I could just steal all the girls’ closets. I mean, just look at those stunning dresses!

Whether it’s a casual look on Inferno or their dressed-up outfits when they go to Paradise, everyone’s outfits are always SO stylish! Even if you came just for the fashion inspiration, you’d still be super entertained.

3. The food will make you drool

Well, the food in Paradise (and the food prizes) will, anyway. The raw carrots and canned chicken they have to eat in Inferno might make you lose 10 pounds just looking at them…

Korean food is 1000% one of my favourite cuisines, so every time I see the contestants eating things like Korean fried chicken, naengmyeon, kimchi jjigae, or even steak, my stomach can’t help but growl!

4. The games are so fun to watch

One of the things I love most about this show are the games. They’re not raunchy or over-the-top at all. They’re always fun, wholesome challenges like dodgeball or tug of war. Plus, everyone gets SO competitive once they start playing.

I don’t want to spoint anything else, so I’m just going to say that my favourite game this season was the photoshoot challenge in episode 4!

5. The show will make you feel all the feels

Single’s Inferno will put you through every possible emotion in one go (in a good way).

One minute you’re on the edge of your seat, wondering what’s going to happen next, and the next you’re smiling like a complete idiot at the TV when your favourite couple does something cute.

A little warning if you’re watching this with friends: you might want earplugs. Personally, I’ve never screamed so much while watching a show!

6. The panel makes the show even better

I’m usually not a big fan of commentary in the middle of a show, but Single’s Inferno is one exception. The panelists are so insightful and fun, and they often say exactly what you’re thinking. Every time something crazy happens, I find myself waiting for the cut back to the panel to hear what they have to say.

Oh! And you might recognize Dex as one of the panelists. He was actually a contestant in season 2.

7. The contestants are hilarious

Single’s Inferno is not just drama and romance. There are also plenty of hilarious moments throughout the season.

Kim Jae-Jin is so funny that he even has his own theme song whenever he appears on screen. And who can forget the “Choi Mina Sue trio?” I know this all might not mean much right now, but you’ll just have to watch to see what I mean!

8. The contestants have a wide range of jobs

In Inferno, the contestants are not allowed to reveal their age or job until they get to Paradise (which helps prevent them from judging each other based on status), so I always love finding out what everyone does for work.

This season especially had such a wide range of jobs. There was a handball coach, a track star, a dancer, an optician, and even a couple of students, amongst other things. I won’t spoil who does what, but I will say I was VERY surprised when some of the jobs were revealed (especially Lee Sung-Hun’s!).

9. The show has a reunion 6 months later

Just when you think it is all over, and you’re about to miss everyone… there’s MORE!

6 months later, the season 5 cast came back together to watch the season, talk things out, and even spend time together again at a winter retreat. And most importantly, you get to find out which couples actually stayed together after filming.

This was the first time the show had a reunion like this, and honestly, I hope it becomes a tradition for future seasons.

10. We’re reminded of what true love is

Single’s Inferno reminds us that when it comes to dating, there’s no need to rush things.

Love doesn’t have to be the loud, fast, flashy, or over stimulating experience the media can often paint it to be. Sometimes a kind gesture, a meaningful look, or just an honest conversation can deepen the connection between two people just as much as a hug or a kiss (or even more!).

Remember: true love is kind, patient, and honest!

So, do you watch Single’s Inferno? Who are your favourite contestants this season? And what moment from the show stood out to you the most? Let me know in the comments!

And if you haven’t started the show yet… what are you waiting for?! 👀