‘Running Man’ Looking for New Member? Kim Jong Kook Hints At Who To Recruit

Kim Jong Kook gave the public a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes scenarios in "Running Man," where the team is in search of a new member.

'Running Man' Team in Search of New Member

In the new episode of "GYM Jong Kook" on YouTube, released on February 1, the production team including Cho Bo Pil PD-nim gathered to discuss recruiting a new member to be part of the "Running Man" team. 

Kim Jong Kook introduced the production directors in charge of each member. He added that it would be good to show the family working behind the camera. After the introduction, the TV personality asked the team, "We are looking for a new 'Running Man' member, who do you think is good?"

One PD said that a bright person is a good fit. 

'Running Man' Experiences Slump Following Jeon So Min's Departure

SBS' popular variety show "Running Man" experienced a big change in 2023. Fixed member Jeon So Min announced her departure after six years to pursue her acting career. Just a few weeks later, original member Ji Suk Jin also temporarily left the group due to health issues, resulting in two members leaving within a month. 

ALSO READ: Kim Sejeong, Lee Mi Joo, More Nominated To Replace Jeon So Min in 'Running Man'

Fortunately, in January, Ji Suk Jin returned to "Running Man" in good health, but Jeon So Min's vacancy remains. Jeon So Min, who has shown great success in some of the program's episodes and love lines with the guests, cannot be vacant for a long time, so the team is considering bringing a new member. 

Kim Jong Kook, PD Suggest Recruiting Idols 

Kim Jong Kook said, "I think it would be good to rent out members. Because if we are too tied to a routine, it becomes hard." It was then mentioned and suggested that idols are good too to be part of the team.

The main PD said, "Age doesn't really matter, if you can get along well with the members it will be great." He added that the mainstays live like they're young these days. Kim Jong Kook agreed with what the director said. 

Above all, the TV personality said, "I try to look at the cast members' personalities. They are a team that has not had any accidents even after a long time. I tend to look at their characters."

Kim Jong Kook confessed that when looking for a new member, character and morality are more important as they will play a vital role in that member's stay in the team.

Furthermore, "Running Man" continues to air every Sunday on SBS. Since Jeon So Min departed from the show, various celebrities have been making their appearances in the program. 

Interestingly, promising actress Shin Ye Eun is one of the potential stars that the members want to recruit to the team. 

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:Shin Ye Eun to Return in 'Running Man' + Will She Finally Replace Jeon So Min?

What can you say about the news? Share your thoughts/replies in the comments!

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article.

Shai Collins wrote this.