In a surprising twist that feels more akin to sports than variety shows, “Running Man,” Korea’s longest-running entertainment program, has introduced a novel concept that might just set a new trend in the variety show landscape. On May 14, SBS announced the addition of Kang Hoon as the show’s first ‘lease member,’ sparking curiosity and excitement among fans. This move comes after Jeon So-min’s departure left the show contemplating new ways to refresh its lineup.

“Running Man” has officially become a six-member team saying, “Let’s lease a spot without any burdens,” marking a first in the entertainment industry. During its 700th episode special, Yoo Jae-suk mentioned that even a brief 20-minute participation is welcome, highlighting the show’s open and innovative approach to guest appearances.

Kang Hoon, already familiar to the “Running Man” team and audience from his previous appearance, has proven his entertainment chops. Not backing down from Kim Jong-kook earned him the nickname “Ddabaki,” and his MVP win at the 2nd Futsal Running Cup solidified his reputation as a variety show star.

By adopting the ‘lease’ system, “Running Man” aims to chart a new course, although the concept of a semi-regular member is not entirely new. Historically, frequent guests have jokingly been referred to as semi-regulars, but this formalization aims to sidestep the controversies and backlash that have sometimes accompanied such roles. Notably, Baek Jong-nam faced mixed reactions during his stint on “Infinite Challenge,” leading him to publicly address the criticism and his intentions to improve.

The ‘lease’ system seems to offer a lighter, less burdensome approach for everyone involved. It allows for new members like Kang Hoon to integrate into the show more comfortably, fostering chemistry with the existing cast without the pressure of immediate permanence.

“Running Man” is thus writing a new chapter in variety show history by formally introducing the ‘lease’ member concept. As a beloved show with a significant legacy in Korea and across Asia, the potential for fun and innovation with this system is immense. With Kang Hoon kicking off this new era, the door is open for other stars to join the “Running Man” family in a flexible, low-pressure manner. The possibilities for change and fresh dynamics are endless, heralding an exciting new phase for the iconic show.

As “Running Man” ventures into uncharted territory with its ‘lease’ system, fans and industry observers alike are eager to see how this experiment will unfold and what new stories will emerge.

In a surprising twist that feels more akin to sports than variety shows, “Running Man,” Korea’s longest-running entertainment program, has introduced a novel concept that might just set a new trend in the variety show landscape. On May 14, SBS announced the addition of Kang Hoon as the show’s first ‘lease member,’ sparking curiosity and excitement among fans. This move comes after Jeon So-min’s departure left the show contemplating new ways to refresh its lineup.

“Running Man” has officially become a six-member team saying, “Let’s lease a spot without any burdens,” marking a first in the entertainment industry. During its 700th episode special, Yoo Jae-suk mentioned that even a brief 20-minute participation is welcome, highlighting the show’s open and innovative approach to guest appearances.

Kang Hoon, already familiar to the “Running Man” team and audience from his previous appearance, has proven his entertainment chops. Not backing down from Kim Jong-kook earned him the nickname “Ddabaki,” and his MVP win at the 2nd Futsal Running Cup solidified his reputation as a variety show star.

By adopting the ‘lease’ system, “Running Man” aims to chart a new course, although the concept of a semi-regular member is not entirely new. Historically, frequent guests have jokingly been referred to as semi-regulars, but this formalization aims to sidestep the controversies and backlash that have sometimes accompanied such roles. Notably, Baek Jong-nam faced mixed reactions during his stint on “Infinite Challenge,” leading him to publicly address the criticism and his intentions to improve.

The ‘lease’ system seems to offer a lighter, less burdensome approach for everyone involved. It allows for new members like Kang Hoon to integrate into the show more comfortably, fostering chemistry with the existing cast without the pressure of immediate permanence.

“Running Man” is thus writing a new chapter in variety show history by formally introducing the ‘lease’ member concept. As a beloved show with a significant legacy in Korea and across Asia, the potential for fun and innovation with this system is immense. With Kang Hoon kicking off this new era, the door is open for other stars to join the “Running Man” family in a flexible, low-pressure manner. The possibilities for change and fresh dynamics are endless, heralding an exciting new phase for the iconic show.

As “Running Man” ventures into uncharted territory with its ‘lease’ system, fans and industry observers alike are eager to see how this experiment will unfold and what new stories will emerge.

In a surprising twist that feels more akin to sports than variety shows, “Running Man,” Korea’s longest-running entertainment program, has introduced a novel concept that might just set a new trend in the variety show landscape. On May 14, SBS announced the addition of Kang Hoon as the show’s first ‘lease member,’ sparking curiosity and excitement among fans. This move comes after Jeon So-min’s departure left the show contemplating new ways to refresh its lineup.

“Running Man” has officially become a six-member team saying, “Let’s lease a spot without any burdens,” marking a first in the entertainment industry. During its 700th episode special, Yoo Jae-suk mentioned that even a brief 20-minute participation is welcome, highlighting the show’s open and innovative approach to guest appearances.

Kang Hoon, already familiar to the “Running Man” team and audience from his previous appearance, has proven his entertainment chops. Not backing down from Kim Jong-kook earned him the nickname “Ddabaki,” and his MVP win at the 2nd Futsal Running Cup solidified his reputation as a variety show star.

By adopting the ‘lease’ system, “Running Man” aims to chart a new course, although the concept of a semi-regular member is not entirely new. Historically, frequent guests have jokingly been referred to as semi-regulars, but this formalization aims to sidestep the controversies and backlash that have sometimes accompanied such roles. Notably, Baek Jong-nam faced mixed reactions during his stint on “Infinite Challenge,” leading him to publicly address the criticism and his intentions to improve.

The ‘lease’ system seems to offer a lighter, less burdensome approach for everyone involved. It allows for new members like Kang Hoon to integrate into the show more comfortably, fostering chemistry with the existing cast without the pressure of immediate permanence.

“Running Man” is thus writing a new chapter in variety show history by formally introducing the ‘lease’ member concept. As a beloved show with a significant legacy in Korea and across Asia, the potential for fun and innovation with this system is immense. With Kang Hoon kicking off this new era, the door is open for other stars to join the “Running Man” family in a flexible, low-pressure manner. The possibilities for change and fresh dynamics are endless, heralding an exciting new phase for the iconic show.

As “Running Man” ventures into uncharted territory with its ‘lease’ system, fans and industry observers alike are eager to see how this experiment will unfold and what new stories will emerge.