Kim Jong-kook prepared a 'Lucky Gold Key' worth approximately $300 for Song Ji-hyo on 'Running Man'.
On the December 21st episode of SBS's variety show 'Running Man', the members participated in a 'Reach for the Christmas Gift' race.
The members prepared Christmas gifts they thought other members might need. The gifts included a half-ounce gold key, a foot callus remover, a set of shot glasses, a used hair styler, body lotion, and leopard print underwear.
Upon seeing the underwear gift, Yoo Jae-suk commented, "This is too uncomfortable. Isn't it because the giver doesn't wear it themselves?" suspecting Haha as the source. Yang Se-chan added, "If they tried it on before wrapping, that's creepy."
Kim Jong-kook joked, "The size is big. I think those are mine. Since I'm married, it's like saying 'have kids'." Yoo Jae-suk retorted, "Do you think this will set the mood?" causing laughter.
The appearance of the 'Lucky Gold Key' surprised the members, who wondered, "Who brought this?" With the gift valued at around $300, Ji Suk-jin pointed to Yoo Jae-suk, known for being the wealthiest among them, but Yoo denied it, saying, "It's not me."
The members played a guessing game with the gifts, experiencing ups and downs. Yang Se-chan, whose birthday was on the recording day, was disappointed to learn the gold key wasn't for him. He lamented, "I'm upset. I don't want anything else. It's my birthday today."
The member who brought the 'Lucky Gold Key' was revealed to be the frugal Kim Jong-kook, known for even washing and reusing wet wipes. When asked why he brought it, Kim explained, "It's the end of the year, and I wanted to give a gift." He shared that he learned how to shop online to purchase it.
Kim Jong-kook intended the $300 gold key for Song Ji-hyo. He explained, "Gold is a symbol of luck. I prepared half an ounce to signify finding your other half, hoping it becomes a full ounce. I don't need it anymore." Touched, Song Ji-hyo hugged Kim Jong-kook.
However, Song Ji-hyo did not receive the gold key, as she didn't think it was her gift. According to the rules, Kim Jong-kook took the gift back, joking, "I made a big show and took the gold gift back. I secretly hoped she wouldn't guess it."
Meanwhile, Song Ji-hyo recently made headlines on 'Running Man' by revealing she had a boyfriend of eight years about 4-5 years ago. Although she didn't disclose his identity, she mentioned, "Even the members don't know him."
Kim Eun-jung, TenAsia Reporter eun@tenasia.co.kr