김종국

Article link.

Song Ji Hyo’s agency revealed in a statement:

“We knew Running Man would go through changes from SBS but it is true that we only found out from news reports which members would not be invited back. We do not want to comment on Song Ji Hyo’s feelings but it is not our official stance that it was not a good farewell.

There is a definite road she needed to walk as an actress and considered leaving the show so it [seemed] natural to leave the show during the season-change. However, it is true there was a lack of active communication from the production crew in the steps leading up to Song Ji Hyo leaving the show. There is a lot of regret emotionally but as it is the production’s decision, we will humbly accept it.”

Kim Jong Kook’s agency revealed:

“It is true that we were told about Kim Jong Kook leaving the show one-sidedly. It is regrettable. Even though Kim Jongkook was not in the best health condition, it was a program he really cared for and took part in.”

Daily Sports also looked into this incident and found out the following:

Source

The production crew for SBS’s “Running Man” has formally stated their position in regards to the recent cast change controversy.

On December 15, the production team stated, “We would like to state our position regarding the recent controversy on the cast changes for ‘Running Man.‘” The team then revealed that they were unable to wrap up the communication procedures for the goal of launching the second season in January of 2017.

They continued, saying, “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. In regards to that aspect, we would like to sincerely apologize to both of them.”

The production team ended their statement with, “We sincerely apologize once more for not being more thoughtful and considerate towards both of them. We would also like to apologize to the other ‘Running Man’ members who are feeling confused.”

‘…treated like family’? If you treat them like family you would never have done this in the first place. ‘…sincerely apologize’, because WOW, I definitely see the sincerity in this statement released.  

If the news of them being kicked out had not broke out, Kim Jongkook and Song Jihyo would have to carry the hates from fans because ‘they left RM due to their own decision’, and they would have just accepted it as it is because they have no say, and they would be jeopardizing their future opportunities if they do.

You hurt them, and you broke our heart. Saying sorry doesn’t fix the problem. How about I stab you in the face and say sorry afterwards. What done is done, the trust is gone and there is no way to redeem things. 

Thank you for all these years of laughter, joy and tears, but this is it. After the last episode of Jongkook and Jihyo, Running Man doesn’t exist anymore for me, but the memories of the full cast will always be remembered. 

Thank you <3 And yes, I agree! He must be protected at all cost! XD