Netflix’s New Korean Dating Show Better Late Than Single Ep 1-3 Review: See How the Cast Bring Awkward Romance to Life

Netflix’s New Korean Dating Show Better Late Than Single Brings Awkward Romance To Life

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Better Late Than Single, Netflix’s newest Korean reality dating series, premiered on July 8, 2025, offering a fresh take on love for lifelong singles. The show follows 11 inexperienced daters as they navigate romance with the help of celebrity mentors. Here’s what happened in the first three episodes.

The Show’s Unique Concept

Unlike typical dating shows, Better Late Than Single focuses on people who have never been in relationships. The contestants underwent six-week makeovers before entering the Eternal Singles’ Resort, where they live together for nine days. Hosted by Seo In-guk, Kang Han-na, Lee Eun-ji, and Car, the Garden, the series aims to help them gain confidence in dating.

The show avoids manufactured drama, instead highlighting genuine, often awkward interactions. One reviewer noted:

“It’s painfully awkward, unsure and anxious — and that’s why it’s a tribute to life. It’s sweet watching them reveal their fears of dating.”

Episode 1: First Impressions And Early Favorites

The first episode introduced 10 contestants (5 men, 5 women), all aged 25-28. Noh Jae-yun, a shy VFX artist, stood out early due to his looks but struggled with conversation. Among the women, Kang Ji-su, a bubbly homebody, became a favorite.

Initial pairings were based on first impressions:

  • Three women chose Jae-yun.
  • Three men picked Ji-su, though she liked Kim Sang-ho, an engineer who lost 20 kg for the show.

The top two vote-getters, Jae-yun and Ji-su, won a special privilege: reading their crush’s personal diary for 15 minutes.

Episode 2: Chaotic First Dates And A New Contestant

The second episode featured drink-themed dates. Contestants chose between coffee (group date), tea, or juice (solo dates). Ji-su strategically picked juice, knowing Sang-ho liked mango-flavored drinks. However, their date was awkward, with Sang-ho failing to express interest.

Meanwhile, a new wildcard entrant, Lee Seung-chan, a 31-year-old surgeon, joined the show. His arrival shifted dynamics, especially for Yi Do, who connected with his story about being bullied.

Episode 3: Claw Machine Date Selection And Emotional Moments

In episode 3, the women used a claw machine to pick dates:

  • Ji-su chose Hyun-kyu (a medical student).
  • Min-hong picked Jeong-mok.
  • Yi Do selected Seung-li, who later admitted he liked someone else, leaving her heartbroken.

Sang-ho was the only man not chosen, but the episode ended with a twist—a mysterious woman greeted him with “Konnichiwa,” hinting at a new Japanese participant.

Why The Show Stands Out

Better Late Than Single avoids over-the-top drama, focusing instead on real, relatable struggles. The hosts add humor without forcing reactions, making the show feel authentic. As one fan noted:

“You care about the contestants because they are real, not because they are eye candy.”

New episodes drop every Tuesday at 4:00 PM KST until July 29.

Also Read: Netflix’s ‘Better Late Than Single’ Explores First-Time Love for Lifelong Singles with Expert Coaching and Emotional Growth

Credits: Netflix