MBC’s flagship variety show 'Adventure by Accident 4' made a powerful return with its first episode, captivating audiences across both television and OTT platforms. The series’ signature concept - "no plans, no principles, no worries" - proved effective once again. 

Particularly, Kian84’s solo journey through the Himalayas left a lasting impression, offering a blend of emotion and immersion that transcended typical variety entertainment.

The premiere, which aired on the evening of May 11, recorded a 2.3% viewership rating among the 2049 demographic in the Seoul metropolitan area (according to Nielsen Korea), with a peak of 3.6% during its most-watched minute - the highest ratings in the show’s history. 

Immediately after the broadcast, it soared to #1 on Netflix Korea’s Top 10 TV Series Today and topped Wavve’s variety show rankings, showcasing its dominance across both traditional and digital media. Meanwhile, the show’s official YouTube channel 'Adventure by Accident Basecamp' continues to fuel its growing fandom with behind-the-scenes footage and unreleased content.

This season's first adventure takes viewers to the Himalayas. Inspired by the documentary 'The Tea Horse Road' he watched as a child, Kian84 embarked on a journey to Namche Bazaar, the hometown of the Sherpas in Nepal. One of the episode’s highlights was him carrying over 30 kg of gear strapped to his forehead, struggling up treacherous mountain paths in true Sherpa fashion.

Kian84 immediately brightened up upon arriving in Nepal. He handled currency exchange and hotel check-ins with ease, and upon arriving in Lukla via helicopter, he expressed awe at the unfamiliar high-altitude scenery and way of life. As he crossed cloud bridges and climbed steep trails shared with camels and horses, he gradually transformed into a “Korean Sherpa.” His raw sincerity was further highlighted by moments such as eating the local dish Dhido with his hands and casually changing his shirt in the wild.

Volunteering to join the Sherpas without a plan, he quietly carried their heavy loads and climbed the mountains alongside them. It was a journey not just of travel, but of sharing the weight of life itself, moving viewers deeply. 

His quote, “From afar it’s a fairy tale, up close it’s a documentary,” poignantly captured the emotional essence of this season. By staying in the same lodgings as the Sherpas, he gained an intimate look into their lives, showing tender concern for a young boy Sherpa working to support his family.

At the end of the broadcast, Lee Si Eon and Pani Bottle were shown arriving in Kathmandu, Nepal, while Dex’s appearance was teased but not yet revealed, sparking curiosity. A humorous moment occurred when Jang Do Yeon joked, “When is Dex even coming out?” kicking off a playful competition among the members over who the real main character is. Starting next episode, all four “brothers” will officially reunite and continue the journey, promising explosive group chemistry.

Episode 2 is scheduled to air at 10 PM on the 18th, later than usual due to special election programming. The producers hinted, “With all four brothers finally together, the story will unfold in a much more dynamic way,” raising anticipation for what’s to come.

The 'Adventure by Accident' series has grown beyond a simple travel variety show, earning the nickname “The Kian84 genre” thanks to its unique storytelling and loyal fan base. This season is no exception. With simultaneous releases on Netflix and buzz-worthy behind-the-scenes content on YouTube, the show continues to expand its reach and influence across multiple platforms.

SEE ALSO: MONSTA X’s Hyungwon to be discharged on May 13, ahead of group’s 10th anniversary