MBC introduces its newest variety show, “Manitto Club,” featuring the global pop star and BLACKPINK member Jennie. On Tuesday (January 13), the network announced the release date for the upcoming variety show.
The program takes the beloved concept of secret gift-giving, also known as “Manitto” or “Secret Santa,” and brings it to life with a star-studded cast. Since it stars Jennie, expectations are sky-high and fans are looking forward to its premiere next month.
Manitto Club Release Date
Manitto Club will air on MBC starting Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 6:10 PM KST. Since Jennie’s last variety show, Apartment 404, premiered on Prime Video, it is expected that another OTT platform may pick it up.
It features Jennie from BLACKPINK, broadcaster Dex (Kim Jin Young), MMA fighter and variety personality Choo Sung Hoon, veteran entertainer Noh Hong Chul, and host Lee Soo Ji.
Plot Overview
The program is divided into two main stages and focuses on the fun of secretly creating joy for someone else.
First is the individual Manitto competition, where each member secretly becomes a “Manitto” or guardian angel for another member. They prepare and deliver gifts without revealing their identity.
Following this, the show moves into the Secret Manitto team operation, where the cast members join forces. Together, they go on an undercover mission to gift special days to a larger group of people.
Cast Lineup
The cast of “Manitto Club” makes the show appealing to a wide audience:
- Jennie (Kim Jennie) is the global K-pop superstar from BLACKPINK, who previously appeared on variety shows (Apartment 404 and My Name is Gabriel). She is set to star in EXchange 4, also known as Transit 4.
- Dex (Kim Jin Young), a broadcaster and content creator, is known for his appearances on shows like Single’s Inferno.
- Choo Sung Hoon, a former MMA fighter
- Noh Hong Chul, a veteran comedian and entertainer
- Lee Soo Ji, a broadcaster and host
Why “Manitto Club” is Highly Anticipated
Fans are already excited for “Manitto Club” because it blends the beloved “Manitto” gift-giving concept with a cross-generational, popular cast. The unscripted reactions, personal challenges, and team activities create a variety show that feels real, fun, and emotional.
It’s the kind of program that’s expected to leave viewers laughing, touched, and eagerly awaiting each episode.
The variety show “Manitto Club” is set to premiere on MBC starting Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 6:10 PM KST.
