A Mental and Physical Showdown Like Never Before
Calling all brains and brawn — the newest survival series in the K-variety universe just dropped its battle cry. CJ ENM and Japan’s major broadcast network TBS are joining forces again to launch ‘Synchro’, a high-stakes game show where perfect minds and peak bodies must work in tandem. Set to premiere in the first half of 2026 on tvN, the show aims to redefine survival reality TV.
Korea + Japan = Double the Drama
This isn’t the first rodeo for CJ ENM and TBS. The powerhouse duo first linked up in 2021 with a strategic partnership that led to ‘MUGEN LOOP’, a creative game show format that gained traction in both countries — and even earned a nod at the 2025 International Format Awards. With its blend of surreal games and studio-stage drama, it proved a global crowd-pleaser.
Now, the two media giants are leveling up with ‘Synchro,’ directed by Nam Kyung-mo and promising the ultimate test of cooperation — and stress tolerance.
How ‘Synchro’ Works — In a Nutshell
- Each team includes two participants — one with top-tier intellectual prowess (think chess master vibes) and another with formidable physical ability (like an Olympic hopeful).
- The twist? They’re placed in completely separate locations, yet must solve missions together, simulating a ‘synchro’ experience even while apart.
- Trust, strategy, and psychic-level teamwork are key.
CJ ENM is bringing in the big guns with its battle-tested tvN production team, known for their mastery of escape rooms, survival scenarios, and deduction-based games. On the TBS side, executive producer Takeshi Mizuno — who helmed ‘MUGEN LOOP’ — is back in the saddle.
Open Casting Call: Think You Got What It Takes?
Applications opened on July 1. The best part? This is a true global game — all nationalities and genders are welcome, as long as you’re an adult. However, here’s the catch: you must apply as a duo, and your team must cover both the brains and brawn spectrum. Teamwork isn’t optional — it’s everything.
Details on how to apply are available on the official tvN website. And yes, bragging rights (and maybe some serious screen time) await.
Looking Ahead to 2026
“We’re thrilled to team up with TBS again after ‘MUGEN LOOP,’” said a CJ ENM rep. “’Synchro’ is going to showcase the most powerful combination: pure brainpower and physical strength. We hope many brilliant and bold duos apply.”
If you’ve ever argued about who the smarter half of your duo is — or who can open a jar faster — this show might just be your big break.
