SBS’s "Inkigayo" Announces Two-Week Hiatus — Here’s Why the Show Will Not Air

SBS has officially announced a two-week hiatus for its beloved music show “Inkigayo.” The decision comes in light of the network’s broadcasting schedule for the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, a highly anticipated international sports event. As Korea tunes in to cheer on its athletes, changes in national programming are unavoidable.

“Inkigayo,” which usually airs every Sunday afternoon, will not be broadcast on July 21 and July 28, 2025, to make room for full coverage of the Olympic Games. SBS stated this adjustment is part of their commitment to providing extensive Olympic content, including live coverage, athlete updates, and analysis.

This announcement has left many K-pop fans feeling disappointed, especially those awaiting comeback stages, fan-chosen wins, and debut performances. However, most are understanding of the significance of national events like the Olympics.

Industry insiders have shared that pre-recorded performances from certain artists may still be released online, possibly through official YouTube or SBS digital platforms. However, no formal confirmation has been made.

“Inkigayo” has long been a staple in the K-pop world, giving idols a stage to showcase their talents, connect with fans, and earn recognition through weekly chart wins. The show's absence, even temporarily, will create a visible gap in the idol promotion cycle.

Fans can look forward to the return of “Inkigayo” on August 4, 2025, with anticipated comeback performances and likely a bigger-than-usual lineup. As for artists with scheduled promotions during the break, many agencies are reportedly adjusting their promotion strategies or considering alternative appearances.

In the meantime, SBS encourages viewers to support the Korean athletes competing in Paris. The Paris 2024 Olympics run from July 26 to August 11, and Korean broadcasters like SBS will be covering key events across multiple disciplines.

Stay tuned for further updates on your favorite K-pop acts and the return of “Inkigayo” in August.