Thats because of the higher colour gamut and more bandwidth.4K channels look awesome in 1080p even on non 4K TV's. In my opinion it is worth it. There is a huge difference in the quality of 1080i v/s 1080p.
Its same as 1080i looks spectacular on a 480p EDTV display too. you can't make out the difference in resolution from a standard sitting distance.