After nearly seven years, “Running Man,” the popular Korean variety show, is officially coming to an end.
The decision to cancel the show came after a controversy that ensued when Kim Jong Kook and Song Ji Hyo were dismissed from the show. When details of their dismissal came to light, it was evident that the situation had been very poorly handled. As a result, the public grew very angry since the show and members are a beloved part of modern Korean pop culture.
The staff and PD quickly apologized and said the unfortunate problems had come about due to errors in miscommunication. However, the damage was already done. As a result, they have made the decision to pull the plug on the show.
The producer stated, “We met with the cast members and we all shared our thoughts. In the end, we were able to smooth over all the misunderstandings that had grown over time. All the cast members and the production team, including Kim Jong Kook and Song Ji Hyo, shared their opinions, and we have decided to wrap up ‘Running Man’ at the end of February. For the sake of all the viewers and their great support, everyone has decided to do their very best till the end.”
In the meantime, filming has been canceled for next week as they decide how to progress from here and plan for the end of the program in February.
Do you think this is the best decision for “Running Man” due to the mismanagement of the entire situation? Let us know in the comment section below.
Thanks to Soompi for the English translation of the above statement.
Media: SBS