The long-running variety show “Running Man” is once again facing a crisis due to Song Ji Hyo’s attitude controversy.
Recently, criticism towards Song Ji Hyo has surfaced among Korean viewers. Some netizens pointed out her passive attitude shown on the June 25th episode of “Running Man” and even demanded her departure from the show.
Since 2010, Song Ji Hyo has been a fixed member of “Running Man,” but she was never originally loved for her wit.
Song Ji Hyo is known as the “Ace,” who doesn’t hesitate to engage in physical battles with the male members during games. She is lovingly nicknamed “Mong Ji Hyo” as she often spaces out. She is also called “Golden-handed Ji Hyo” because she always has luck on her side.
The problem is that the format of “Running Man” has gradually shifted towards more talk-oriented content due to the members’ health reasons and other factors. So, opportunities to showcase Song Ji Hyo’s strengths have decreased.
“Running Man” has faced crises frequently in the past. When Lee Kwang Soo, who greatly contributed to making “Running Man” a popular variety show in the Hallyu wave, left the show, many people paid attention to whether “Running Man” could maintain its form as it has until now.
Fortunately, “Running Man” successfully filled Lee Kwang Soo’s vacant spot with the strong bond between the members.
However, the current crisis is a completely different side of the problem. The beautiful farewell between Lee Kwang Soo and the members contrasts sharply with the harsh opinions asking Song Ji Hyo to leave the show.
Previously, Yoo Jae Suk personally shared his experience when “Running Man” was in a crisis. He revealed, “I was surprised when we went to Thailand for the last shoot of ‘Running Man.’ I thought it was a hidden camera prank when I saw the welcoming crowd.” The members also expressed their gratitude towards overseas fans in various ways.
Song Ji Hyo can be considered the centerpiece of this overseas popularity. According to a recent report on the current situation of overseas Hallyu released by the Korea Foundation for International Culture Exchange in 2023, Song Ji Hyo ranked highly in Malaysia despite having limited activities as an actress.
Song Ji Hyo’s long-term popularity is also evident in the special episode that showed the “Running Man” fan meeting in the Philippines. The popularity of the couple Song Ji Hyo and Kim Jong Kook is exceptional among foreign fans.
“Running Man” has been maintaining an average viewership rating in the 3-4% range. The show relies to some extent on its overseas popularity.
As some viewers are demanding Song Ji Hyo’s departure, the production team can’t help but face difficulties. However, it’s not enough to simply resolve all problems with Song Ji Hyo leaving the show.
Source: Nate.
