K-pop fans, check before you tune in. SBS’s Inkigayo is off the schedule on October 18, and the reason is baseball.
Here’s what’s airing instead and when the music show comes back. For more K-pop news, see our K-pop and Korean
Inkigayo : Overview
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Show | Inkigayo (SBS) |
| Canceled episode | October 18, 2026 |
| Reason | Baseball coverage |
| Airing instead | Game 2, 2026 KBO League semi-playoffs |
| Matchup | Kia Tigers vs LG Twins |
| Replacement start time | 1:40 p.m. KST |
| Return date | October 25, 2026, at 3:20 p.m. KST |
What Happened?
According to SBS, this week’s episode of the weekly music show has been canceled because of baseball coverage. In its place, the network will broadcast Game 2 of the 2026 KBO League semi-playoffs between the Kia Tigers and the LG Twins, starting at 1:40 p.m. KST.
The Shows in This Story
1. Inkigayo
A long-running weekly music program on SBS, where artists perform and the week’s winner is announced. It returns next week, October 25, at 3:20 p.m. KST. You can read more about the show on Wikipedia.
2. KBO League semi-playoffs, Game 2
The replacement broadcast features the Kia Tigers against the LG Twins. Soompi gives no score, series status or other details, so check a sports source for the latest.
What This Means for Fans?
- No performances or win announcement today: there’s no Inkigayo trophy this week.
- Other music shows continue: earlier this week, Music Core aired its October 17 episode, where Onew and Zico won for “Tic Tac Toe.” See our Music Core recap.
- Mark the next date: the show is back on October 25.
Conclusion
Schedule changes for sports are routine in Korean broadcasting, and baseball playoffs are a big draw. It’s a one-week gap, so the pause shouldn’t disrupt promotions for long. If you were planning to watch a favorite group perform today, check their other appearances or wait until next Sunday.
FAQs
Q1. Why isn’t Inkigayo airing on October 18?
SBS canceled the episode for baseball coverage of the KBO League semi-playoffs.
Q2. When does Inkigayo return?
It returns on October 25 at 3:20 p.m. KST.
