South Korea’s entertainment industry is facing growing uncertainty as a string of high-profile variety show personalities step away from programs due to controversies, putting major broadcast networks on alert. The departures of familiar figures who once guaranteed a positive response have sent shockwaves through the industry, particularly at MBC and tvN, where shows relied heavily on a small number of stars. Established figures such as Jo Se-ho, Park Na-rae, Key and Lee Yi-kyung have announced withdrawals or paused their activities following controversies. With three cast members leaving “Amazing Saturday” at the same time, concerns have even been raised about the program’s long-term survival. Industry observers say the situation exposes structural issues within the variety show ecosystem. Opportunities have increasingly concentrated around a limited group of proven stars, making it difficult for new faces to break through. As the same entertainers appear across multiple programs, risk has also become concentrated, with one controversy affecting several shows at once. Large-sca