Despite returning to Running Man just three weeks after a health-related hiatus, youngest cast member Ji Ye Eun was forced to leave mid-filming due to deteriorating physical condition amplifying fans’ concerns about her well-being.
Her return, aired on November 2, was filled with joy and relief, but also worry. Though Ji Ye Eun appeared cheerful, her first words revealed a hoarse, weakened voice, startling both cast members and viewers. Fighting back tears, she said, “Thank you so much for all the support,” while Choi Daniel expressed concern: “Your voice hasn’t fully returned.” Ever spirited, Ji replied, “Talking actually helps my vocal cords recover.”
Kim Jong Kook also addressed rumors about her recent appearance, saying, “I apologized to her. What looked like double chins wasn’t fat it was swelling from thyroid issues,” as he praised her visibly sharper jawline.
While her agency declined to confirm medical specifics due to privacy, many viewers have speculated that Ji Ye Eun’s condition could be related to hypothyroidism, given her symptoms: swollen face, fatigue, and vocal strain.
Ji herself offered some clarity on her return episode, saying, “Coming back after three weeks feels emotional,” and candidly added, “My hormones are still fluctuating.” Though her fellow castmates advised her to speak less and take it easy, she reassured them: “Talking more helps the recovery process.”
In celebration of her return, the Running Man team playfully designed a “Foodie Comeback Mission,” where cast members had to hunt down her favorite foods a lighthearted moment amidst the tension.
However, the November 30 broadcast showed a more alarming turn. Ji Ye Eun appeared with a noticeably swollen face, sparking even more concern from fans. Midway through the shoot, she disappeared from screen, and Yoo Jae Suk addressed the situation directly: “Ye Eun went to the hospital and will return later. She’s still recovering and has a cold and body aches. She’s not at 100%, and it’s been hard with back-to-back filming.”
According to production sources, Ji Ye Eun returned to filming after receiving treatment at the hospital. But her lingering symptoms hoarse voice, swelling, and fatigue suggest that her recovery remains incomplete.
Fans have flooded social media with messages like “Health comes first,” “Please take it slow,” and “Her voice worries me,” expressing both love and concern.
Behind her radiant smile, Ji Ye Eun’s condition remains fragile. While her spirit shines through, many now wonder whether she needs more time before making a full, energetic return to the variety stage.
Sources: nate
You must be logged in to post a comment.