“SBS Inkigayo”, a staple in the K-pop music show lineup, will be on hiatus for three consecutive weeks, marking a temporary break from its regular broadcast schedule. The announcement made by SBS on December 17 indicates that the popular music show will not air on December 17, December 24, and during the week following until the first week of January.

SBS Inkigayo Will NOT Air Until January 2024

On December 17, instead of “Inkigayo”, SBS will broadcast the 4th stage of the “2023–24 ISU Short Track Speed Skating World Cup” from 1:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. This deviation from the usual music programming suggests a temporary shift in content, catering to other events during this period.

The absence of “SBS Inkigayo” on December 24 aligns with the preparations for the “SBS 2023 Gayo Daejeon”, a significant year-end music festival scheduled for December 25. The strategic scheduling decision allows for a focus on the elaborate year-end celebration without the concurrent airing of Inkigayo.

Fans can anticipate the return of “Inkigayo” to its regular weekly broadcast on the first week of January, resuming its Sunday slot at 3:40 p.m. This brief hiatus may offer the production team and performers a well-deserved break during the festive season, ensuring that the show returns with renewed energy in the new year.

“SBS Inkigayo”, with its long history, has been a platform for showcasing K-pop performances and determining chart rankings. It initially debuted as “SBS Popular Song” in 1991 before undergoing changes and revival over the years. The current format, including the Inkigayo Chart collaboration with the Gaon Chart, was introduced on March 3, 2013.

Temporary breaks in regular programming are not uncommon in the dynamic world of K-pop entertainment, with shows strategically adjusting their schedules to accommodate special events, festivals, or seasonal considerations. The brief hiatus of “Inkigayo” is likely to heighten anticipation for its return, as fans eagerly await the resumption of their favorite music performances and chart rankings in the coming year.