Kim Jong-kook Reveals Health Issue on 'Running Man': Struggles with Inner Ear Disorder

Singer Kim Jong-kook, who tied the knot last September, recently opened up about a health issue on the popular SBS variety show 'Running Man.'

The episode, which aired on the 15th, featured a race titled 'Is Speed the Key to Vitality?' with guest appearances by short track speed skating national team members Choi Min-jeong, Noh Do-hee, Lee Jun-seo, Lee Jung-min, and Shin Dong-min.

During the opening, Kim Jong-kook appeared with the support of fellow cast member Haha. Ji Suk-jin commented, "Jong-kook isn't feeling well," prompting Kim to explain, "I've come down with a strange illness I've never heard of before." He further elaborated, "There's an issue with my inner ear, affecting my balance."

Yoo Jae-suk expressed concern, saying, "Even though Jong-kook isn't well, he refuses to leave." Kim Jong-kook responded with a smile, "When I told my mother, she said I should still go to the 'Running Man' shoot. In our family, we were always encouraged to go to school even if we were sick."

Ji Suk-jin jokingly remarked, "Today is your chance," to which Kim Jong-kook replied, "They said it should get better in about a week." Haha added humorously, "Even if today is your chance, you'll be in trouble if you get caught," eliciting laughter from the cast.

Reported by Se-yoon Jung, TenAsia yoon@tenasia.co.kr