If you’ve ever sat down to watch an episode of the popular Korean variety show “Running Man,” it’s likely you wavered between gleeful enjoyment and sublime confusion. First aired in 2010, “Running Man” has since become a staple of Korean entertainment, noted for its unstructured format and lighthearted feel. The show has gained popularity throughout Asia and the rest of the world in recent years and is gaining legions of new fans everyday. Need more reasons to get hooked on the show? Here are five!
Host Yoo Jae Suk Is Brilliant |
| Yoo Jae Suk is nicknamed ‘Grasshopper’ and is always the one of the strongest contenders on missions! |
After “Infinite Challenge” and “Family Outing,” Yoo Jae Suk returned to the host role on “Running Man” and secured his standing as the “MC of the nation.” He also has grown to be one of the strongest mission contenders! Yoo Jae Suk and regular cast member Lee Kwang Soo have a lighthearted, endearing banter that has stood the test of time — in more than 220 episodes!
The Show Is Highly Unpredictable
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| These contestants probably got more than they bargained for! |
The Show Features Your Favorite Celebrity Guests
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| Eunjung from T-ara, Siwan from ZE:A and Doojoon from BEAST stop to catch their breath |
We all love to see our favorite actors and singers get themselves into funny and absurd situations, and this is a big part of the charm of “Running Man.” From Super Junior to Girls’ Generation, many of Korea’s top idols and celebrities have graced the cameras of the show. Check out “Pinocchio” star Lee Jong Suk in Episode 181!
The Show Has an International Fan Base
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| Fans greet ‘Running Man’ cast and crew in Taiwan |
After 2013’s wildly popular “Race Start! Running Man Fan Meeting,” there will be a follow-up event in Singapore on November 29. The two-hour fan event will feature comedy and musical acts such as Kim Jong Kook, HAHA, Song Ji Hyo, Ji Suk Jin and Lee Kwang Soo!
The Show Is Perfect for Binge Watching!
Need to disappear from the mortal world for two weeks? “Running Man” is here for you! With more than 220 episodes, each clocking in at about an hour and a half each, there are literally more than 14 days’ worth of video to watch. Can you handle that kind of challenge? Because everything is kept lighthearted and cheerful, the show is easy to watch (and re-watch!) with friends.
Already a fan of “Running Man”? Let us know what your favorite “Running Man” moments are in the comments below!
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