In the March 22 broadcast of Running Man, the cast transformed into detectives as Park Shin Yang appeared as a client, presenting a special mission. Set inside an art gallery displaying over 150 works, he explained that one authentic masterpiece had gone missing among numerous replicas. The members were tasked with finding the real painting among more than 20 scattered pieces using hidden clues.
Despite the engaging concept, Song Ji Hyo’s minimal screen time—often referred to as “background character” or “wallflower” presence—remained unchanged. She only spoke for the first time about 10 minutes into the episode, and aside from a brief eating segment midway through, she had little noticeable participation. The controversy over her limited airtime has already persisted for two weeks.
In the past, similar issues arose, but the production team typically made efforts to revive her presence by giving her more opportunities. However, this time, there appears to be little indication that the staff is attempting to increase her screen time.
During a relay drawing game, Song Ji Hyo asked to see the question again, prompting reactions from other members. Kim Jong Kook responded, “Didn’t you see it?” while Ji Suk Jin added, “We showed it three seconds ago… Are you a goldfish?” Haha also expressed disbelief. Whether it was due to lack of focus or intentional for humor, the moment failed to generate laughs.
Following Park Shin Yang’s appearance, additional guests including Sung Si Kyung and Lee Changsub appeared in segments that will continue into the March 29 episode. Yet even in these parts, Song Ji Hyo did not stand out. Instead, newer cast member Ji Ye Eun drew attention through a playful “love line” involving MeloMance’s Kim Min Seok.
Song Ji Hyo, despite being a long-time member of Running Man for 17 years, is once again at the center of controversy for her near-invisible presence. Viewers have pointed out that in episodes running over 90 minutes, her screen time sometimes amounts to less than a minute, raising concerns about both her participation and the show’s direction.
Sources: Nate