Actress Asked to Be Removed from Running Man

Song Ji Hyo, a long-time member of Running Man, is facing controversy as her screen time in a recent episode is considered too short.In the latest episode, the actress’s solo appearance was only about 10 seconds out of a total of 90 minutes. For most of the time, she only appeared briefly in reaction scenes or group shots. Some viewers believe she is fading into obscurity.

Song Ji Hyo’s reaction sparks a storm amidst unprecedented boycott
Following the episode, many critical comments appeared on online forums and Song Ji Hyo’s personal page. Many have called for her to leave the show, questioning the actress’s professionalism as a permanent member.

In the scene on the bus when the members were traveling to lunch, the cast chatted and joked enthusiastically, while Song Ji Hyo mostly sat silently, smiling but not participating in the conversation.

Song Ji Hyo.

For long-time viewers, this situation is not unfamiliar. Previously, Song Ji Hyo has faced similar criticism many times. In June 2023, she attracted attention in an episode when she struggled to participate in an improvisation segment with members Jeon So Min, Kim Jong Kook, Haha, and Yang Se Chan. While the members were performing a skit, the actress quietly ate shaved ice.

In another segment where the group was enjoying cold noodles, the members continuously exchanged comments and opinions about the dish, while Song Ji Hyo remained almost silent.

At the time, Song Ji Hyo stated that she was unaware of the articles criticizing her. After learning about them, the actress sought out and read the articles herself, using them as motivation to change. “I called Seok Jin and told him I would try harder,” she shared.

Veteran MC Yoo Jae Seok also defended his colleague, saying that Song Ji Hyo felt sad about her performance and was always trying to improve. “Ji Hyo was somewhat disappointed in herself. I encouraged her not to worry too much and to try harder in the following weeks,” he said.

Song Ji Hyo joined Running Man in 2010 and has been with the show for 16 years. In 2016, she went through a difficult period when the production team announced plans for her to leave the show, but after a wave of protests from fans, the actress returned and continued to be part of the cast.

In a YouTube video, Song Ji Hyo affirmed that she had no intention of leaving Running Man on her own. She stated that she is very attached to the show and would only stop if the producers decided to end it. Amidst recurring controversies regarding her screen time, viewers are still watching to see if the actress can regain the “ace” image that once made her famous on the show.