“Stars Who Changed Their Lives on One Variety Show” — 3rd: Dex, and a Shocking No.1!

Some stars experienced life-changing moments after appearing on just one variety show. According to a recent poll conducted by the community portal DC Inside titled “Which Star Changed Their Life with One Variety Show Appearance?”, the top three names were trot singer Lee Chan-won, webtoon artist Kian84, and UDT-trained broadcaster Dex. The poll ran for seven days, from February 3 to February 9.

Lee Chan-won: The No. 1 Pick

Lee Chan-won took the top spot, earning 4,467 votes (31%) out of 14,446. He rose to fame on the trot competition show 'Mr. Trot', where his refreshing vocal style and unique charm captivated audiences. After securing third place, he officially began his entertainment career, expanding beyond music into variety shows and MC roles.

Most recently, he made headlines again by winning the Grand Prize at the 2024 KBS Entertainment Awards. With a solid foundation as a singer, Lee Chan-won has continued to win over fans with his bright, witty personality on variety programs.

Kian84: From Webtoon Artist to Variety Star

Coming in second with 2,774 votes (20%) was Kian84, who transitioned from being a successful webtoon artist to a beloved TV personality after appearing on MBC’s 'I Live Alone'. His candid lifestyle and unique sense of humor earned him the nickname “The Man Who Lives Because He Was Born.”

Despite being a non-celebrity when he first appeared, Kian84 consistently captured viewers’ hearts, even becoming the first non-entertainer to win the Grand Prize at the MBC Entertainment Awards. Today, he continues to expand his creative career, hosting art exhibitions as a painter alongside his TV appearances.

Dex: A Rising Star in Variety

Dex placed third with 1,602 votes (12%). He first gained recognition through the web variety show 'Fake Men 2' and quickly transitioned into mainstream broadcasting. His appearances on 'Bloody Game' and 'Single’s Inferno' Season 2 showcased his mix of warm-hearted charm and rugged masculinity, earning him a dedicated fanbase.

In addition to his TV presence, Dex is also active on YouTube, where his relatable and easygoing personality further cements his status as a rising variety show star.

Rapper Defconn, singer and actress Hyeri, and celebrity chef Baek Jong-won were also highlighted as stars whose careers skyrocketed thanks to variety shows. Defconn gained popularity through '2 Days & 1 Night' and 'Infinite Challenge', Hyeri became a household name after her iconic appearance on 'Real Men', and Baek Jong-won found immense success through My Little Television and Baek’s Alley Restaurant.

Variety Shows: More Than Just Entertainment

These success stories highlight how variety shows are more than just a source of laughter—they can be transformative platforms that propel stars to new heights. As these stars continue to evolve their careers, fans are eager to see what’s next for them.