'Running Man' PDs To Revamp The Show; Song Ji Hyo And Kim Jong Kook Did Not Exit But Cancelled From The Show
Song Ji Hyo and Kim Jong Kook have officially confirmed leaving SBS' popular variety show "Running Man." Recent reports suggest however that this decision came after the show's producers have revealed their plans for revamping the show.
Song Ji Hyo's agency MY Company revealed that the discussion on her departure from "Running Man" has long been planned. This is due to the actress' work schedule making it difficult for her to focus on both variety show and her acting career.
Regarding the matter of "Running Man's" producers making changes in the show, including cast members, Song Ji Hyo's agency has also given their statement.
"We knew 'Running Man' would undergo format changes from SBS, but it's true we found out from news reports which members would not return," MY Company stated, as per AllKpop. "We won't comment on Song Ji Hyo's feelings on the matter."
Meanwhile, Kim Jong Kook's agency Maroo Entertainment has directly addressed the issues on "Running Man's" changes, including the fact that the singer has been canceled from the show.
"Two weeks ago, there were talks of a format change, and a co-producer visited the filming set to announce it again," Maroo Entertainment stated. "There were no talks of member changes at the time. On December 12, they had a meeting with Kim Jong Kook to tell him he was off the show."
Kim Jong Kook and Song Ji Hyo have received much love and support by "Running Man" fans. Affectionately referred to as "Spartakooks," "Mr. Capable," and "Commander," Kim Jong Kook has been known as the strongest member of "Running Man" feared not just by guests but also by his own team. Meanwhile, "Blank Ji," "Ace," and "Monday Girlfriend" Song Ji Hyo, was the only woman who managed to keep up with six rambunctious guys, even defeating them in numerous episodes bringing home a lot of gold prizes over the years.
Meanwhile, producers of SBS' "Running Man" said, "We can't confirm anything related to their leave."
These reports confirm that "Running Man" will indeed be undergoing changes coming January 2017. New members are reportedly being scouted and discussed to join the remaining members of "Running Man" being Yoo Jae Suk, Ji Suk Jin, Haha, and Lee Kwang Soo.