News of cast changes for one of the biggest variety shows in Korea has been a huge surprise for Running Man fans all over the world. The show is going to transition into a ‘Season 2’ without any break starting in 2017.
It looks like Kang Gary is just the first person this year to leave the phenomenal show.
Kang Ho Dong is joining the cast, while Kim Jong Kook and Song Ji Hyo have decided to ‘beautifully graduate’ after 7 years on the show.
Song Ji Hyo’s handler/label, MY Company confirmed it and announced that she’s leaving Running Man because of overwhelming work with handling both acting, promotions and a variety show. She plans to focus on her acting career.
Meanwhile, our Tiger, Kim Jong Kook’s label, Maroo Entertainment also announced that he’s leaving Running Man but the exact date is still unknown and some are speculating it would be around January 2017.
The remaining cast members are yet to decide whether they are staying or leaving. The future of the show is in the air as the production team is deciding whether to add additional members and format changes. There have been difficulties with the production team especially as the PDs keep leaving to China for better opportunities.
Park Sa-lim, Seoul