The latest episode of 'Running Man', which aired on the 13th, saw a significant increase in its target demographic of 2049 viewership ratings, recording 2.5% and surpassing last week's numbers. It ranked first in its time slot for variety shows and was among the top 3 programs of the day based on the 2049 viewership ratings. The peak minute rating even jumped to 5%. (Source: Nielsen Korea, Metropolitan Area, Household Basis)
This episode featured a special race titled 'Back to 2010', where members appeared in the opening scene wearing outfits from the first episode of 'Running Man'. Yoo Jae-suk caught everyone's eye with his 2010 fashion items, including a snapback and sneakers, while Ji Suk-jin wore the exact same outfit from episode one, even down to the glasses, exclaiming, "It's exactly like the stylist from back then." This revelation surprised everyone.
Although not originally part of 'Running Man' in 2010 due to military service, Yang Se-chan joined in wearing a military uniform, and Choi Daniel brought nostalgia with a checkered shirt and glasses, reminiscent of his character from 'High Kick Through the Roof'. Yoo Jae-suk expressed his gratitude for the 15th anniversary, noting, "There aren't many variety shows left now, and we've surpassed 'Infinite Challenge' in the number of episodes." Ji Suk-jin also sincerely thanked the audience, saying, "Thank you for being with us for 15 years."
Additionally, the race featured Super Junior members LeeTeuk, KyuHyun, and EunHyuk, who celebrated 'Running Man's 15th anniversary by wearing outfits from their debut year, 2005. The race kicked off with teams led by Jae-suk and Suk-jin, and the first game was a spicy loyalty challenge.
As the less spice-tolerant members quickly dropped out, KyuHyun succeeded up to level 8, followed by Ji Ye-eun, who effortlessly conquered level 9, prompting Kim Jong-kook to joke, "Are you just hungry?" Eventually, LeeTeuk reached level 15, but his increasingly red face and rush for milk had everyone in stitches.
The second game, 'Express Slip Mode', brought the signature physical comedy of 'Running Man' to life. The first round saw Yang Se-chan and EunHyuk taking the lead, while in the second round, Song Song Ji-hyo's tenacity shone as she used Choi Daniel as a human ladder to climb over Kim Jong-kook and others, securing first place. However, LeeTeuk and Song Ji-hyo could not overcome the "Kim Jong-kook barrier," finishing in second place.
The final betting game, 'Odd or Even Upheaval', saw Ji Suk-jin stirring the pot. Despite his attempts to persuade the members using coins, he faced betrayal. The game was filled with the typical 'Running Man' mix of timing and criticism, with unpredictable outcomes. In the end, KyuHyun and his chosen partner, Kim Jong-kook, won gold rings, while LeeTeuk, EunHyuk, and Ji Ye-eun were hit with the 'Running Man signature penalty' of a cream bomb.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)