“Running Man” PD Shares the Reason for Choosing Ji Ye Eun as a Regular Member of the Show
In a phone interview with OSEN on December 23, PD Choi Hyung In discussed the recent confirmation of Ji Ye Eun’s addition to the popular SBS variety show.
When asked why Ji Ye Eun was solidified as an official member, Choi Hyung In explained, “We didn’t label her as an ‘official member’ through captions, but she naturally joined the team. Many people were curious, leaving comments like, ‘Is Ji Ye Eun a regular member or not?’ You can think of it as her being a part of the team for the long run. Ji Ye Eun is now a member of ‘Running Man.'”
Ji Ye Eun’s inclusion comes a year after Jeon So Min left the show following her final broadcast in November last year. After Jun So Min’s departure, Song Ji Hyo remained the sole female cast member until Ji Ye Eun’s addition.
Since joining earlier this year, Ji Ye Eun has impressed viewers with her strong chemistry with the cast. PD Choi Hyung In shared his optimism, “Ji Ye Eun works well with all the members. Whether it’s Haha, Ji Suk Jin, or Yang Se Chan, they all have great synergy with her. I think her interactions with Kim Jong Kook and Song Ji Hyo will also be fun moving forward.”
Attention has also shifted to the status of Kang Hoon, who has appeared as a “guest member.” Addressing this, Choi Hyung In explained, “The ‘guest member’ system was created to accommodate those with busy schedules who couldn’t commit to being full-time. When they’re available, we consider them family and welcome them anytime.”
He added, “Kang Hoon is always welcome to join us whenever his schedule allows. Once his current projects end, we hope he can appear more frequently. Ji Ye Eun’s addition doesn’t mean the guest system has ended.”
Choi Hyung In concluded the interview with a heartfelt message for fans, “I want to ask for your support for Ji Ye Eun. She reads all the comments, so I hope people will leave positive ones and cheer her on.”
Ji Ye Eun’s official debut as a regular member has brought new energy to “Running Man”, and fans are eager to see how she contributes to the long-running show.
