Here’s what really happened between Running Man, and Kim Jong Kook/Song Ji Hyo

Here’s the story behind the controversy surrounding Running Man back when SBS announced the show would be shutting down.

Running Man had previously announced that it would shut down permanently in February 2017. This was a result of the growing controversy surrounding the treatment of members Kim Jong Kook and Song Ji Hyo, who were removed from the show without notice. 

It was revealed shortly afterward that the cast would reunite together for the final few episodes.

They’ll return to the show, one last time. https://t.co/ATUSVre6uU

— Koreaboo (@Koreaboo) December 16, 2016

Since the controversy, statements were made by all parties involved that gave more detail into what really happened and how the relationship between the cast and producers were.

Running Man producer Jung Cheol Min made a statement in order to explain his side of the story and what he believed to be the real story behind this entire controversy.

“There was a problem in the way we communicated. Before we could even say ‘What’s going on’ the situation got out of hand and misunderstandings had developed. We were discussing multiple styles of formatting change and due to a lack of communication, things got out of control and the unthinkable happened. We used to be like family but now things are awkward between us. Even during the meeting today we were all saying ‘Why has it come to this?'”

— Jung Cheol Min (Running Man Producer)

Jung PD continued on to defend the producers and why he would never betray Kim Jong Kook and Song Ji Hyo.

“The members weren’t the only ones that were like family, the producers were just as close. It makes no sense that we would do such things on purpose, it was all a misunderstanding due to a lack of communication. We are still close but I couldn’t avoid being saddened by how they were hurt all because of misunderstandings. We decided that things shouldn’t end this way and that it’s only right we end things right together.  So we decided to end things with a blast and everyone okayed it. We also cleared up all the misunderstandings that had built up.”

— Jung PD

He once again emphasized that the members and producers were like family, saying how hurtful the entire situation had been for all parties involved.

“The producers and the members had a tight bond. We were like family so it hurt us to see them suffer. We cleared up everything by the end of the meeting. The filming for this week has been canceled and since we have an end date in mind now, we are discussing how we are going to format the last few episodes.”