After the announcement of Song Ji Hyo and Kim Jong Kook's departure from "Running Man," the popular TV program has been mired with controversies for allegedly kicking out the two artists without prior notice.
In the midst of speculations on the sudden exit of Song and Kim from the show, there have been reports claiming "Running Man" is on the verge of cancelling the variety program.
However, SBS has immediately released a statement to address the issue, denying that the cancellation reports are true. In fact, the network announced they are planning for the next program, Yibada cited.
"The reports about the show coming to an end are completely false. Currently, we are in discussion about the subsequent program," SBS said addressing the cancellation rumors.
Reports claimed SBS is in talks to launch "Running Man 2" after "Running Man" concludes in Feb. 2017. According to Allkpop, PD Lee Hwan Jin revealed cast members of the popular variety program gathered to settle all misunderstandings.
"After discussion with Kim Jong Kook, Song Ji Hyo, the other members, and the producers, we've decided to finish "Running Man" at the end of February. We'll do our best until the end for the viewers who've always given us such big support," Lee said.
Further reports revealed the production decided for Song and Kim's departure from "Running Man," stating that it was a unilateral assessment. PD Jung Chul Min said there was a miscommunication from within the program, which resulted to the controversy.
Jung also denied they were being insensitive towards Song and Kim, whom they consider as family. The PD cleared out the controversy grew bigger because of misunderstandings and confusions.
"It became awkward among us, when we had been like family. During the meeting, many asked, "How did it become like this?" The cast and staff have been getting along like a family, so it doesn't make sense that the [production side] would do that," he said.
