According to the official Running Man YouTube channel, a preview for the July 19 episode captured the cast discussing filming schedules and game times. During the conversation, Yoo Jae Suk proposed adjusting the timetable, saying, “At this point, I’d rather start at 1 a.m. than come back again at 4 a.m. That 4 a.m. schedule is really awkward.”
Kim Jong Kook immediately pushed back, insisting that the early schedule worked for him. “Then I can finish playing soccer, do my laundry, and come here,” he joked, making it clear he had no intention of giving up his regular soccer session.
Yoo responded with a playful complaint, telling him, “Just skip soccer for one week.” Kim, however, refused without hesitation. “I can’t skip soccer. I’ve been looking forward to it all week,” he replied, once again demonstrating his well-known passion for the sport.
Amused by Kim’s unwavering dedication, Yoo jokingly declared, “I’d like to nominate Kim Jong Kook as the president of the Korea Football Association.”
Rather than brushing off the comment, Kim immediately embraced the idea. “I’m confident. I wouldn’t even need to receive 10 won in salary,” he said, joking that he would be willing to serve as the association’s president without any financial compensation.
The lighthearted exchange attracted even more attention because it came at a time when South Korean football is undergoing significant changes.
Following the national team’s disappointing exit in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calls for reform within the Korea Football Association intensified. As public criticism mounted, Chung Mong Gyu stepped down as KFA president after serving for more than 13 years.
In response, the newly established K-Football Innovation Committee, which includes former national team stars such as Park Ji Sung, Lee Young Pyo, and Park Joo Ho, was formed to help guide reforms.
However, the committee has already faced resistance. Some regional football association officials publicly questioned the qualifications of the former players, arguing that they lacked the expertise to lead such a major restructuring effort.
Sources: Daum
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