Renowned Korean actress Jeon So-min has made the decision to depart from the beloved variety show, ‘Running Man,’ after contributing six vibrant years to its success. Set to record her last episode for the SBS-produced show on October 30, Jeon’s exit leaves fans with bittersweet feelings.
The decision wasn’t a hasty one. Lengthy dialogues ensued between Jeon, the producers of the show, and her management agency, King Kong by Starship, before reaching this conclusion. “Jeon So-min expressed her desire for a hiatus, to rejuvenate and primarily concentrate on her acting career and other projects,” stated her agency on October 23. They expressed heartfelt gratitude to the show’s followers, saying, “The affection and enthusiasm you’ve showered upon Jeon So-min have been overwhelming. We hope you continue to back her endeavors.”
The broadcasting network, SBS, validated Jeon’s departure and communicated its appreciation for the flair and energy she brought to ‘Running Man’. The channel remarked, “Jeon So-min was instrumental in adding brilliance to Running Man. We deeply value her contribution.” While Jeon’s shoes will be hard to fill, SBS disclosed that they are yet to finalize her successor on the show.
Starting from November, ‘Running Man’ will forge ahead with its ensemble cast of Yoo Jae-suk, Ha Ha, Ji Seok-jin, Kim Jong-kook, Song Ji-hyo, and Yang Se-chan.
Jeon, along with comedian Yang Se-chan, was inducted into the show as a regular in April 2017. Her distinctive charisma effortlessly captivated the audience. Meshing seamlessly with the foundational members, she displayed commendable rapport with the team. ‘Running Man,’ which commenced its journey in July 2010, has garnered immense admiration not only in Korea but also across the Asian continent. This show has had the privilege of being broadcast in myriad countries, such as China, Japan, Indonesia, Philippines, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. The program’s unique format involves its cast and guest members competing in diverse missions.
Jeon’s tenure in ‘Running Man,’ unfortunately, wasn’t devoid of challenges. She was frequently subjected to harsh criticisms and hateful remarks, both from local and international viewers. The severity of these negative comments reached such an extent in 2020 that the online comment section for the show had to be terminated. Consequently, Jeon took a medical-advised hiatus for a couple of months. Even her family wasn’t spared from the clutches of online harassment. Her younger sibling disclosed instances of vile threats and curses targeted at the actress.
Jeon embarked on her television journey with MBC’s ‘Miracle’ in 2004. She soared to stardom post her pivotal role in MBC’s ‘Princess Aurora’ in 2013. Subsequently, she showcased her talent in series like tvN’s ‘Top Star U-back’ (2018) and JTBC’s ‘Cleaning Up’ (2022). While on ‘Running Man,’ she was conferred with multiple awards, including the Rookie Award in 2017, the Top Excellence Award in 2018, and the Golden Content Award in 2020.
Fans expressed their shock and support for Jeon. “She must be grappling with various emotions. Wishing her immense happiness and prosperity,” a fan shared on X, the platform previously known as Twitter. Another added, “It’s hard to imagine ‘Running Man’ without her playful banter. Her dedication, even when injured, was commendable.”
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