“Running Man” fans, get ready to tear up.
Song Ji Hyo and Kim Jong Kook have decided to stay for the remainder episodes of the popular variety show, and it seems like they have made the decision out of loyalty rather than money.
On 19th December (Sunday), a “Running Man” staff revealed that the 2 hosts have come to a decision to donate all of their salary for all their upcoming appearances in the show. An official also revealed that they are still looking for organisations to donate to and when to do it.
It was also reported that Song Ji Hyo was devastated by the decision to “fire” her, and she allegedly cut off all communications with everyone around her and just cried her eyes out.
A statement by her label, Make You Company, revealed, “The members loved ‘Running Man’ a lot, and they were like family for the past 7 years. She was hurt deeply by what happened. After she heard she would be leaving, she had a really hard time. She cut off all communications and just cried her eyes out.”
Kim Jong Kook’s side has also released their side of the story. According to an insider from the singer’s side, he stayed because of the loyalty to the members, and does not blame the staff for the unfortunate incident. The insider said, “He thinks it’s not really the staffs’ fault either.”
It was first announced last week that Kim and Song will be leaving the show to focus on their singing and acting career respectively, but it was then revealed that they were booted from the show without prior notice.
Due to the recent fiasco, this week’s “Running Man” filming has been cancelled. However, it will be resumed from next week onwards. The show will also end its run in February, rather than proceeding to a 2nd season.
Sources: Koreaboo, allkpop (1) (2)
