Kian84 Embarks on a Life-Changing Himalayan Journey in ‘Born to Travel Around the World 4’

MBC’s acclaimed travel reality series ‘Born to Travel Around the World 4’ (Korean title: ‘태어난 김에 세계일주4’) has returned, and the first episode already left a powerful impression. According to Nielsen Korea, the nationwide rating for the season premiere stood at 3.8%, with the metropolitan area clocking in at 4.0% and peak minute ratings soaring to an impressive 6.6%.

This fourth and final season continues the journey of popular artist Kian84, who kicks things off solo with a challenging expedition to Nepal. Having long admired the documentary ‘차마고도’ in his youth, Kian84 nurtured a deep fascination with the lives of Sherpas in the Himalayas. His journey began in Kathmandu, where he demonstrated veteran travel skills—navigating currency exchange and accommodations with ease—and even showed off his improved English ability, leaving viewers impressed by his transformation.

The next day, he boarded a helicopter to Lukla, the gateway to Mount Everest. The breathtaking sight of snowcapped peaks and a town devoid of cars left him in awe. Still reliant on mules and horses, Lukla’s raw, untouched charm vividly contrasted with urban life, providing a fresh visual narrative that enthralled the audience.

Kian84 wasted no time integrating into this rugged lifestyle. One of the episode’s highest-rated scenes showed him treading treacherous mountain paths while carrying a heavy Sherpa load across a suspension bridge to Naked Body Bar, also known as Namche Bazaar. His high-altitude struggles and adaptability resonated with viewers, earning emotional and humorous reactions alike.

Adding flair to the documentary-style narrative, Kian84 even stripped off his shirt mid-journey to change clothes in the Himalayan cold—a move that startled locals but showcased his raw spontaneity and survival instincts.

Continuing his immersion, Kian84 shared meals with locals, eating dhido by hand and engaging in heartfelt conversations with young Sherpas. Moved by their responsibilities at such tender ages, he offered to journey with them. With sky-high loads strapped to his forehead, he braved the grueling trek, visibly challenged but unyielding. His words, “From afar, it’s a fairy tale; up close, it’s a documentary,” captured the surreal but real plight of the Himalayan Sherpa.

The episode concluded with the arrival of fellow cast members Lee Si-eon and Panibottle in Kathmandu, injecting camaraderie and anticipation. Comedian Jang Do-yeon playfully demanded to see the show’s “real star,” Dex, fueling a comedic debate among the cast over who truly holds center stage.

‘Born to Travel Around the World 4’ airs every Sunday at 9:10 PM KST on MBC. Episode two is scheduled to air at 10:00 PM on May 18th due to a programming shift.