'Running Man' is one of the long-running variety programs in South Korea. (Photo : YouTube/SBS Running Man)
The officials of SBS' "Running Man" has issued an official apology to Song Ji-Hyo and Kim Jong-Kook. They have apologized for the unfortunate way such member changes was taken care of, knowing that the two has been part of the show since 2010.
On Dec. 15, the show's production team released a press statement to different local media groups. In a press statement obtained by Soompi, they said the communication regarding cast changes is not yet completed at that time, resulting in the sudden announcement of Song and Kim's leaving the show.
"With the news of the unexpected reorganization being released, we hurt both Song Ji Hyo and Kim Jong Kook, two members who we have treated like family for the past seven years," the press statement reads. "In regards to that aspect, we would like to sincerely apologize to both of them."
The show's production team then reiterated that they were sincerely sorry for not being more thoughtful and considerate towards Song and Kim's feelings. They also asked apology to the rest of the cast members who are feeling confused.
Meanwhile, ex-member Gary deleted his Instagram account after it was announced that Kim and Song had been fired from the show, with the former having only received a notice a day prior, while the latter reportedly knew when the news made headlines. It is believed that the controversy over Song and Kim's departure may shed some to light to the 38-year-old rapper's recent social media purge.
This is also the reason why the popular television host and comedian Kang Ho-Dong, who is expected to join the show's second season in 2017, ended up turning down the casting offer. The 46-year-old comedian does not want his casting to cause viewers any discomfort, according to his agency SM C&C, as cited by Yonhap News Agency.
Check out Song and Kim in SBS' "Running Man" here:
