Song Ji Hyo has responded to speculation regarding her exit from SBS’s beloved variety program Running Man. During a recent guest spot on the YouTube channel Jo Dongari, she discussed her enduring rapport with fellow cast member Jee Suk Jin and her unwavering commitment to the show, making her a cherished presence for more than a decade.
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Having participated in Running Man for an impressive 14 years, Song Ji Hyo expressed her feelings about her ongoing dedication to the program. “Honestly, I never anticipated being part of a variety show for this duration,” she admitted. “Initially, I remained because of my strong connections with the production team. I thought I would continue as long as they were involved, but I never expected it to last this long. The original crew has moved on to different ventures, but now I’ve developed such strong relationships with my fellow cast members that I feel I must see this through to the conclusion.”
During the conversation, Running Man‘s long-time host, Kim Yong Man, inquired Song Ji Hyo about any possible fatigue, referencing Jee Suk Jin’s own challenges with the show’s pressures. “There was a period when Jee Suk Jin seriously thought about quitting due to the demands,” Kim Yong Man pointed out. Did you ever experience similar feelings?”
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Jee Suk Jin remarked, “If I recall correctly, at one stage, Song Ji Hyo considered leaving. It’s not uncommon for actors to feel that way.” However, Song Ji Hyo promptly clarified. “Let’s not make assumptions,” she responded with a grin. “I never contemplated leaving. Not once.”
Song Ji Hyo also reminisced about her extensive time on Running Man, stating, “Honestly, I believed I’d retire from all variety shows after 10 years. I envisioned it as a graduation. I was mentally preparing to conclude things post-10 years, but here I am, still going strong in my 11th year. That’s how I’ve persevered. I just kept moving forward without overanalyzing it.”
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Jee Suk Jin, highlighting the tight-knit relations among the cast, mentioned, “We share a familial bond. If Ji Hyo ever genuinely contemplated leaving, we’d gather to discuss it as a group. That’s indicative of our closeness.” Song Ji Hyo, however, jokingly disagreed, stating, “We certainly support one another, but I’ve never seriously considered leaving. I think you might be interpreting things a bit too deeply.”
Kim Yong Man then praised Song Ji Hyo’s commitment, stating, “It’s uncommon to find someone dedicated to the same variety show for 14 years. That’s an incredible accomplishment.”
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Additionally, it’s notable that in 2016, both Song Ji Hyo and Kim Jong Kook encountered a scare when they were supposedly informed they were departing Running Man. However, due to the immense backlash from fans, the decision was swiftly reversed, allowing both stars to retain their beloved roles that fans appreciate.
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