In the fourth episode of MBC "Born to Travel the World 4" (directed by Kim Ji-woo, hereafter "BTW4"), the members challenged the ultimate test of Nepali Gurkha training, the hellish "Doko Race."
According to Nielsen Korea, the broadcast recorded a household rating of 5.2% in the metropolitan area, marking a significant increase from the previous week and once again breaking its own viewership record. The target rating for viewers aged 2049 was also 2.8%, ranking first among all Sunday entertainment programs and proving the high interest of young viewers and the show's popularity.
The highest-rated 1 minute featured a scene where the members marveled as Annapurna revealed its mystical appearance through a haze of fog, leaving viewers deeply moved as the majesty of the Himalayas combined with overwhelming emotions, reaching a peak rating of 6.1%.
On the 1st, during the broadcast, the members unexpectedly spent a night unplanned at the Gurkha Mercenary Academy, where a "Top Secret Party" unfolded for the students. The Korean Army-style "pork cutlet" and Korean fried chicken from Lee Si-eon perfectly satisfied the taste buds of the exhausted students, showcasing the deepening camaraderie between the four brothers and the students.
The hand-to-mouth eating battle between Kian84 and the students was also a hot topic. He shocked the studio by washing his left hand and scraping rice with his right hand, stating, "I will eat with my hand," to which a Gurkha student responded by participating in the hand-licking competition, creating a competitive dynamic. However, the "original dirty number one," Kian84, emerged victorious, bringing laughter to the scene. The hand-to-mouth eating battle highlighted Kian84's impressive adaptability to local customs, once again leaving the studio in awe.
The next day, the members took on the ultimate test of Gurkha training, the hellish "Doko Race." The Doko Race is extreme training that involves racing along mountain paths with a 15 kg Doko load within a time limit, and the members each chose weights ranging from 10 kg to a maximum of 15 kg for the training. In particular, Dex challenged himself with the heaviest weight, stating, "My mental strength is not weaker than 15 kg." He then recalled Sherpas Tamang and Lai as he looked at the Doko, reaffirming his determination as a "Korean Sherpa."
As the Doko Race began, Kian84 expressed skepticism about carrying a load for three days on a five-day overseas trip, saying, "It really feels like I'm on a trip," realizing once again the essence of the intense journey unique to "BTW."
Dex maintained his position at the front, showcasing his overwhelming strength. After fiercely competing in the lead group, he recorded a fourth-place finish, prompting the remark, "Dex is indeed Dex," which caused viewers to admire his performance.
Meanwhile, 'Old Man' Lee Si-eon demonstrated surprising stamina but ultimately required assistance from students, resembling a three-legged race and bringing laughter. Pani Bottle, though showing signs of exhaustion, displayed fighting spirit by completing the race without giving up. Additionally, the members expressed deep gratitude to their friends running alongside them, amplifying the emotional impact of finishing the Doko Race.
As the moment of parting approached, the members said their farewells in their own ways, presenting cherished items to the students or sharing on social media. In particular, Dex gifted his beloved sunglasses and the shoes he was wearing, leaving the academy barefoot, creating a "Dex-like ending" that left a lasting impression and laughter. He also expressed heartfelt sentiments, stating, "I was able to confront the past self I had forgotten," and "This was the best part of the 'BTW' journey."
Towards the end of the broadcast, the members headed to the mountain village of Tangting, known for its homestays and views of Annapurna, based on the recommendations of local MZ individuals. However, they struggled with the bumpy off-road from the start, realizing, "There isn't a day without nausea on this journey."
Upon arriving in Tangting village, the members admired the tranquil scenery reminiscent of the film "Little Forest," but were horrified by the 'hellish waterwheel device' that resembled the second Dizindaland. The sound of wood was more frightening than the noise from the Dizindaland roller coaster, adding to the members' sense of fear.
As expectations mounted over whether the four brothers would successfully camp, their next story will be unveiled on MBC's "Born to Travel the World 4" on the 8th (Sunday) at 9:10 p.m.
[Photo] Broadcast capture
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