Weeks after his confirmed exit from "Running Man," show regular Gary will be returning for a special episode of the variety program. This will be Gary's first appearance on the show ever since his final appearance in Episode 324 and short guesting in Episode 325.
According to Koreaboo, Gary filmed his participation in the "Running Man" special episode on Jan. 17. Gary's appearance came as a surprise to the other cast members who were not told that he would take part in the special episode.
According to "Running Man" producer Lee Hwang Jin, the special episode will be "filled with secrets and surprise." Fans should look forward to the broadcast.
Gary confirmed his departure from "Running Man" on October 2016. The producers explained that Gary wanted to focus on his music studies and that he wanted to invest more time in his music. "The 'Running Man' producers decided to respect Gary's decision to pursue his main field as a musician," the producers added, as quoted by allkpop.
Gary was an original member of the SBS variety show, of which he's been a part of for the last seven years. Gary issued a letter of apology to fans who were surprised by his sudden exit from the program.
"I deeply apologize with all my heart, and I promise I will do my best wherever and whatever I pursue in the future especially for all my fans that have given me these memorable moments that I will never forget," Gary said.
The other members of "Running Man" who exited the show following Gary have yet been confirmed to appear in the special episode. Song Ji Hyo was dropped out of "Running Man" shortly after Gary was confirmed to leave the show. Although it was initially said that Song Ji Hyo was leaving due to his increasingly hectic schedule, sources later revealed that the actress was not informed about the producers' decision, and only found out through reports that she was being kicked out of the show.
There is also no word as to Kim Jong Kook's participation in the "Running Man" special episode. The special episode will be the final episode before "Running Man" officially closes its curtains.