Gong Myung Returns to 'Running Man' After 7 Years, Joins Rising Ratings Streak

Actor Gong Myung is set to make a return to SBS's variety show 'Running Man' for the first time in seven years since 2019. Currently, Gong Myung is receiving praise for his romantic chemistry with actress Shin Hye-sun, who is five years his senior, in tvN's 'Secret Inspector'.

Recently, 'Running Man' surpassed its 800th episode, maintaining its top spot in the same time slot with a consistent rise in the 2049 viewership ratings for two consecutive weeks. The episode aired on the 3rd recorded a 2% rating in the 2049 target demographic, securing its position as the number one variety show in its time slot. This marks a continued increase in ratings since the 800th episode aired on the 29th of last month, according to Nielsen Korea's metropolitan household ratings.

The recent episode featured a special 'Different Flower Path' race with guests Chungha and Jeon Somi, who reunited to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their debut with I.O.I. The members warmly welcomed Chungha and Jeon Somi back as I.O.I, and Chungha surprised everyone by revealing, "I called everyone saying, 'It's our 10th anniversary, are we really not doing anything?' and the reunion was arranged in one go."

The 'Running Man' members, now in their 16th year, were equally excited. Ji Suk-jin joked, "Let's meet again in 10 years," to which Kim Jong-kook humorously replied, "We don't even know if you'll still be around then."

Meanwhile, Gong Myung participated in the 'Running Man' recording on the 4th. His appearance was anticipated after being considered as a temporary member on the 'Jim Jong-kook Channel'. Gong Myung's episode is expected to air in May.

Reporter: Jung Se-yoon, TenAsia yoon@tenasia.co.kr