SBS’s popular dating reality show Match to Marry: With Parents is facing major backlash after a contestant was exposed for past adultery. The production team has apologized and confirmed the contestant will be completely edited out from all remaining episodes. Here’s everything you need to know about this shocking controversy.
Match to Marry Controversy
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Show Name | Match to Marry: With Parents |
| Network | SBS |
| Controversy Surfaced | January 20, 2026 |
| Source | JTBC’s investigative program “Crime Chief” |
| Court Damages Ordered | 30 million KRW (husband), 20 million KRW joint liability |
Was the Contestant Removed from the Show?
Yes, the contestant has been completely removed. On January 21, SBS’s production team issued an official apology and confirmed that all footage featuring the controversial contestant will be edited out from remaining episodes. This decision came after shocking revelations during JTBC’s investigative program exposed the participant’s past involvement in adultery.
The Devastating Story Behind the Allegations
A woman in her 40s (identified as “A”) discovered her ex-husband’s affair partner appearing on the dating show four years after their divorce. She revealed her pain during an appearance on JTBC’s “Crime Chief,” stating the contestant showed no remorse despite destroying her family. The affair began in 2017 when the contestant was employed at the husband’s business.
Court documents confirmed the adultery case, with the judge ruling both the husband and the contestant primarily responsible for the marriage breakdown. The husband was ordered to pay 30 million KRW in compensation, with the contestant jointly liable for 20 million KRW. Despite winning the 2022 lawsuit, the victim reported she still hasn’t received the awarded damages.
Production Team’s Response and Apology
The Match to Marry production team expressed deep regret over the incident. Their statement emphasized that casting protocols include thorough pre-interview surveys and legally binding participation agreements. These contracts explicitly require contestants to confirm they’ve never been involved in crimes, drug use, adultery, or school violence, with penalties for false declarations.
Despite these safeguards, the team acknowledged their failure: “We are devastated that such a situation has occurred despite our diligence. We offer our heartfelt apologies to viewers and to the other cast members who participated in the program with sincerity.” The production team is reportedly considering filing a damages lawsuit against the contestant for contract violations.
Impact on Korean Reality TV
This scandal highlights the ongoing challenges Korean reality shows face in vetting contestants. South Korea’s entertainment industry maintains strict moral standards for public figures, often leading to swift consequences when controversies emerge. Similar incidents have previously rocked dating shows, prompting stricter background checks industry-wide.
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