The March 8 broadcast of the SBS variety show featured the special episode titled “Run & Fun Company: Spin the Roulette.” However, viewers quickly pointed out that Song Ji Hyo appeared for only around 10 seconds during the approximately 90-minute episode.
Most of her appearances were reportedly limited to reaction shots or group scenes, with little opportunity to actively participate in the program’s games or conversations. Following the broadcast, criticism began to spread across online communities and the actress’s YouTube channel.
Some viewers left comments such as “Running Man is still a job that requires responsibility,” and “She barely speaks during the show.” A number of comments even called for her voluntary departure from the program, with one message reading: “It’s my favorite show, but because of you I don’t want to watch it anymore. Please leave.”
Song Ji Hyo joined Running Man as a fixed member in 2010 and has remained part of the cast for more than 15 years. Over that time, she has gained significant popularity through memorable moments on the show, but her reduced presence in recent years has occasionally sparked debate among viewers.
In 2023, similar criticism emerged, prompting fellow cast member Yoo Jae Suk to defend her publicly on his web show Pinggyego. Yoo explained that Song Ji Hyo was deeply upset when she noticed episodes where she spoke very little, adding that she had expressed regret and a desire to work harder.
The actress has also addressed the topic herself. In a previous appearance on the YouTube channel Jodongari, she said she never expected to stay on a variety show for so long. Song Ji Hyo explained that she once assumed she would leave after about 10 years, but the program continued and she ultimately remained with the production team.
Despite ongoing debates about her screen time, Song Ji Hyo has made it clear that she intends to stay with the show as long as the production team continues the program. However, the latest episode has once again reignited discussion among viewers about her role on the long-running variety series.
Sources: Daum | 스포츠조선