[★BREAKING] Song Ji Hyo and Kim Jong Kook were kicked out of Running Man, without being told.
Song Ji Hyo’s agency revealed in a statement:
“We knew Running Man would go through changes from SBS but it is true that we only found out from news reports which members would not be invited back. We do not want to comment on Song Ji Hyo’s feelings but it is not our official stance that it was not a good farewell.
There is a definite road she needed to walk as an actress and considered leaving the show so it [seemed] natural to leave the show during the season-change. However, it is true there was a lack of active communication from the production crew in the steps leading up to Song Ji Hyo leaving the show. There is a lot of regret emotionally but as it is the production’s decision, we will humbly accept it.”
Kim Jong Kook’s agency revealed:
“It is true that we were told about Kim Jong Kook leaving the show one-sidedly. It is regrettable. Even though Kim Jongkook was not in the best health condition, it was a program he really cared for and took part in.”
Daily Sports also looked into this incident and found out the following:
“2 weeks ago there was talks of a change in formatting and the co-producer visited the set to mention it again. There was still no talks of member changes back then. However, on December 12th they called in Kim Jong Kook to tell him he was out. Song Ji Hyo only found out today after reports came out. It’s true everyone knew that a change was in order due to the fact that the ratings were going low but this type of good bye doesn’t only hurt the producers it wounds the artists as well.“
SBS you fucking piece of shit. If they left because of their own decisions, I’m happy for them. But no, they were forced to leave RM, and had to endure all the scolding when they are not the one at fault. Thank you SBS, for teaching me a life lesson — that even if you stayed loyal, you don’t necessary get the same treatment back.