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The meal was only halfway through when Kwang-soo received a phone call, his expression changed drastically. He hurriedly excused himself and rushed towards Seoul.
"What happened?" Anna asked after getting into the car. "What's so urgent that you can't tell Aunt and the others?"
"Running Man has run into trouble again," Kwang-soo replied.
"What?!" Anna exclaimed in disbelief. The ratings were rising, audience and fan reactions were improving, and during filming, both the original members and the new addition, Yunhao, had performed well. What could possibly go wrong under these circumstances?
"SBS Broadcasting's Variety Department didn't directly promote a new PD from Running Man after you left; instead, they parachuted in a PD as an Assistant Director. I don't know what's going on, but Dongwan PD just called and said there's an emergency meeting. The executives are discussing removing Jung Kook and Sister Jihyo," Lee Kwang-soo explained.
"What?!!" Anna was shocked. "Have they lost their minds? Things have just started to get better; why would they want to remove Jung Kook and Sister Jihyo? This is insane! They must be crazy..."
During the two-hour drive, neither of them spoke a word, as they were both anxious about the unknown outcome.
After quickly parking the car, Kwang-soo glanced at Anna with some hesitation. Understanding what he wanted to say, Anna replied, "You go ahead; I'll wait in the car. Even though I can't participate in Running Man's matters right now, I still want to know what's going on and what the outcome will be."
"Okay, then wait here," Kwang-soo said.
When Kwang-soo arrived at the conference room, he found himself alone. Inside were two PDs: Dong Wan and a new PD named Kim whom Anna had never met before. Zhang Yuanxiao, Park Soo Eun, Liu Quan Town, along with other FD members, Minister Kwon, Director Zhao, and all the Running Man members were already present and engaged in conversation. Kwang-soo exchanged glances with Yoo Jae-suk and Kim Jong Kook before quietly sitting down.
"I think the current image of Running Man's members is too uniform; we need fresh blood and new dynamics. For example, Yunhao's addition had a very positive effect. Moreover, since Running Man's ratings have improved again, this is a great opportunity to make some changes while the iron is hot," Minister Kwon stated.
“Minister Kwon, don't you think about it? Now that the ratings have finally improved, you're driving away Anna PD and replacing two highly popular members, Song Ji-hyo and Kim Jong Kook, from Running Man. Is that really a good idea?” Park Soo Eun asked.
“Anna Zheng has caused so much trouble for Running Man and SBS! How can we keep someone like that?! Besides, the increase in Running Man's ratings isn't solely her achievement,” Minister Kwon frowned.
Park Soo Eun felt frustrated and speechless.
“But half of the planning for the increase in Running Man's ratings was done by Miss Anna Zheng…” Zhang Yuanxiao cautiously tried to speak up, but after glancing at Minister Kwon, he fell silent.
“Alright, this isn't the time to discuss Anna Zheng; her matters are in the past,” Minister Kwon interrupted. He looked at Jung Kook and Ji-hyo, who were silent with their heads down, and said, “I know that you both have contributed a lot to Running Man, but to be honest, you have also gained a lot from it. To put it simply, we are all in a cooperative relationship. I understand that leaving Running Man now will still lead to good opportunities for you both. Moreover, Running Man indeed needs to transform.” Minister Kwon expressed this in a different manner.
“I wonder if Minister Kwon has any good ideas regarding this transformation,” Yoo Jae-suk asked. He had been quiet until now and was somewhat looking forward to it. However, after working with Minister Kwon for so many years and being well-versed in the ways of the world, Yoo Jae-suk knew that confronting him head-on at this moment could very well lead to the complete end of Running Man. All of their efforts would go to waste.
“Ah, well, I was thinking of inviting Mr. Kang Ho-dong,” Minister Kwon said.
“Kang Ho-dong?”
“Yes, Minister Kwon and I discussed it, and we both believe that if Mr. Kang Ho-dong comes on board, it will definitely create a huge buzz and attract a lot of attention,” the new Kim PD said with a smile.
Regardless of whether this proposal was suggested by the new Kim PD or if Minister Kwon brought it up first while Kim PD followed suit, one thing was clear: Minister Kwon approved it.
This answer clearly caught everyone off guard, but upon reflection, they could roughly understand Minister Kwon's intention. The previous collaboration between Kang Ho-dong and Yoo Jae-suk was most famously known from SBS's flagship program XMAN. At that time, Minister Kwon was just an Assistant Director in the XMAN Task Force. XMAN gathered two major pillars of the hosting industry in Korea while also featuring active variety stars like Haha, Park Myung-soo, and Kim Jong Kook. The XMAN era marked the first peak period in SBS's variety history.
However, as a top entertainer, what is needed is innovation rather than replication. Glory can be overturned but cannot be replicated. After Infinite Challenge, Korean variety shows have undergone a complete transformation; while practical variety shows are still exploring new directions, how could anyone think of reverting to past models?
Running Man has adapted to the trend of practical variety shows. Although it lacks the diverse challenges and storytelling of Infinite Challenge, it possesses its own unique style and lightheartedness, which has led many young people across Asia to love the show.
If at this moment one clings to past glories and resists the strong current of progress, constantly reminiscing about former successes, it is undoubtedly a path to self-destruction.
"Director Zhao, why don't you share your thoughts?" Minister Kwon noticed that there was significant disagreement with his perspective and invited Director Zhao to speak. Director Zhao, after all, was instrumental in the growth of Running Man, and his internal struggles were even more complex.
Director Zhao sighed, adjusted his glasses, and said, "Running Man is experiencing a resurgence now. Some of those plans I have seen are indeed good. However, that does not mean that a crisis won't strike again. But even if we do need to change members, I still have some doubts about replacing them with Mr. Kang Ho-dong. However, I would like to hear what Jung Kook and Ji-hyo think about stepping down." Director Zhao looked at Jung Kook and Ji-hyo.
Jung Kook smiled slightly and shook his head. He understood that the overall situation was basically settled; if Minister Kwon was determined to replace them, then no matter how reluctant they were, it would be meaningless—like a dog barking without making any impact, merely annoying Minister Kwon.
"I believe... if it truly benefits Running Man, then I will certainly comply with the arrangements," Jung Kook said with a slight smirk.
"I... I share the same opinion as Jung Kook," Ji-hyo said quietly.
"Jung Kook, Sister Jihyo... you guys," Kwang-soo expressed his frustration and then looked at Minister Kwon, saying, "Minister Kwon, I really cannot understand why, when everything is improving, you want to let Jung Kook and Sister Jihyo leave?"
Minister Kwon frowned and replied, "Some things require a broader perspective. Jae-seok, what do you think?" Minister Kwon turned to Yoo Jae-suk, who had been silent.
Yoo Jae-suk took a deep breath and maintained his expressionless demeanor as he said, "I disagree with removing Ji-hyo and Jung Kook. If you truly believe this is the right course of action, then I have no choice but to continue doing my job well. However, I cannot agree with your approach."
This was the first time Yoo Jae-suk spoke so candidly in front of so many people without sparing Minister Kwon's feelings. Minister Kwon became furious, slammed the table, stood up, and said, "You all really think you've grown wings. Without me, which of your plans would work?! I want to see who is right!" With that, he stormed out.
And just like that, the meeting ended on an unhappy note...
Everyone sat in the conference room, and apart from the occasional sigh, there was an endless silence as they all lowered their heads. After what felt like a long time, Yoo Jae-suk lifted his head and said, "Alright, everyone can go now. Let's wait for the meeting notice. Don't think too much about it; we have filming tomorrow, so everyone should go home and rest well."
Lee Kwang-soo still remembered what Dong Wan had whispered to Brother Jae-seok when he left the conference room: "Hyung, why do I feel like Running Man won't last much longer? Over the past six months, Anna and I have been through so much for this show... How did it end up like this?"
Lee Kwang-soo had never seen that expression on Dong Wan's face before. Even during the long periods of low ratings, he had never looked like this. Perhaps back then, they still believed that things would get better someday. But now, with this look on his face, how could they continue to believe?
Yoo Jae-suk was at a loss for words. He patted Dong Wan on the shoulder but couldn't say anything. Not even a comforting lie could find its way out.
Meanwhile, Anna, who had been waiting anxiously in the car, felt like every minute dragged on like a year. Finally spotting Kwang-soo, she was relieved to see Sister Jihyo and Brother Jae-seok getting into Kwang-soo's car as well.
"Anna? You're here too?" Yoo Jae-suk and Ji-hyo were clearly surprised to see Anna.
"Yeah, I heard about what happened and came over with Brother Kwang-soo," Anna replied. "What was the outcome?"
"The result is still undecided," Yoo Jae-suk said.
"However, Minister Kwon has already thought of replacements. It seems this idea has been brewing for quite some time," Ji-hyo said with a self-deprecating smile.
Outside the car window, Jung Kook's car passed by with Haha and Seok-jin waving as they left the parking lot. Kwang-soo started the car, fastened his seatbelt, and followed them out.
"Let's go grab some dinner and chat while we eat. We agreed to meet at that old barbecue restaurant," Yoo Jae-suk suggested. " Ji-hyo, should we invite Gary too?"
"No need; he's been busy writing songs lately. I don't plan to tell him about this for now," Ji-hyo replied.
Yoo Jae-suk nodded.
The pork belly was sizzling, emitting a tempting golden hue, but with just a few people gathered around the table, they quickly lost their appetite after only a few bites.
"Minister Kwon's meeting today was actually inevitable; I just didn't expect everyone to oppose it so strongly, which is why it hasn't been finalized," Ji-hyo said, taking a sip of Soju. "It's not that I have much to say, I'm just a bit reluctant." She lowered her head, her long hair falling over her face, and tears dripped onto the table.
Not knowing how to comfort her, Anna, sitting nearby, felt a lump in her throat. Anna asked, "Brother Kwangsoo said Minister Kwon already has someone in mind to replace him. Who is it?"
"Brother Tiger Dong," Yoo Jae-suk replied.
"What?" Anna exclaimed in surprise. "What kind of change does he want to make?"
"We don't know yet," Yoo Jae-suk said.
"With so many past examples, why does Minister Kwon still want to do this? The previous XMAN ended within six months due to major changes, and Family Birth's second season completely revamped its cast with dismal ratings. Why would Minister Kwon pursue this?" Anna questioned.
"Who knows," Haha scoffed.
"If this continues, just sitting here like this is pointless," Jung Kook said.
"Hey, brother, how can you say that? The situation isn't final yet; no one knows what the outcome will be. Besides, Minister Kwon being opposed like this after just one meeting might lead to indefinite postponement," Haha replied.
"Don't you all understand Minister Kwon's style? Once he decides something, what can change? What hasn't he accomplished?" Jung Kook chuckled self-deprecatingly. "Where there is gathering, there will be parting. Perhaps since Gary left, we have already reached the point where we need to start separating."
"Brother, don't say that," Kwang-soo said. "The results aren't out yet."
"This time, we can only take it one step at a time. I've known Brother Tiger Dong for many years, and actually, a couple of days ago, he called me about this matter. This means that Minister Kwon has probably already discussed this privately with Brother Tiger Dong. Ever since that incident, Brother Tiger Dong's career hasn't been the same, and he is quite anxious about replacing Ji-hyo and Jung Kook on this show. He feels a lot of pressure, but right now he is more inclined to follow the company's arrangements and doesn't want to stir up any more trouble. So if Minister Kwon reaches an agreement with Brother Tiger Dong's agency, then this situation will change significantly," Yoo Jae-suk said.
"Brother, you knew all along?" Kwang-soo was surprised, and the others were equally astonished.
Yoo Jae-suk nodded helplessly and said, "Yes, the reason I didn't mention it is that nothing is set in stone yet. Plus, once you all know about this, everyone will be anxious, which won't help and will only create more chaos. I just know that Brother Tiger Dong doesn't really want to interfere with Running Man right now."
"I have a rough idea of what kind of person Brother Tiger Dong is; the key to this matter still lies with Minister Kwon," Haha said.
Everyone sighed in unison.
"Let's wait a bit longer; let's eat something first; the meat is getting burnt," Jae-seok said.
That night, everyone stayed until very late before finally dispersing. The group was in disarray; apart from sighs, there was a deep sense of helplessness. By the end, Anna remembered Sister Jihyo crying particularly hard. She could understand because Sister Jihyo, as a woman, had put in so much effort in such a physically demanding variety show. Moreover, Running Man had brought her an incredible surge in popularity, which held significant meaning for her.
When Running Man first stepped out of Korea and was welcomed by the enthusiastic reception of Asian fans at the airport, who among them didn't have red eyes?
And Anna couldn't even say a word like "Sister Jihyo, don't be sad," because their mutual sadness was unspoken and could not be comforted.
The next morning, although there was no schedule for the morning, Yoo Jae-suk received a call from Minister Kwon. Roh Jeong-eun saw him leave with a worried expression and felt a deep concern in her heart.
Passing by the Running Man studio and seeing its lifeless atmosphere inside, Yoo Jae-suk initially wanted to say a few words to Dong Wan but ultimately remained silent and went straight to the minister's office.
Knocking on the door, Minister Kwon responded from inside, and Yoo Jae-suk entered the office, where Minister Kwon was seated along with the new Kim PD from Running Man and Director Zhao.
"Come in, have a seat," Minister Kwon said.
Yoo Jae-suk sat down without speaking first.
"Let's get straight to the point," Minister Kwon said. "During last night's emergency meeting, everyone was against the decision to remove Song Ji-hyo and Kim Jong Kook, so today I wanted to ask you, Yoo Jae-suk, for your opinion."
"Minister Kwon, I already made my position clear yesterday," Yoo Jae-suk replied.
"There were many people present yesterday. I know you want to reach a consensus that everyone agrees on, but things can't always be absolute or perfect; compromises must be made. Given the current situation of Running Man, wouldn't changing members and initiating a second season be the best solution?" Minister Kwon said. "After all, Running Man is a show and also a product. If the product can no longer create value, it needs to be reformed."
Yoo Jae-suk calmly listened to Minister Kwon's words. After pondering for a moment, he said, "Minister Kwon, what do you think is the reason why viewers enjoy watching Running Man?"
"Interesting, funny, innovative," Minister Kwon answered.
"You are right, Minister Kwon. However, I believe that viewers' perception of innovation in Running Man has significantly diminished. Without innovation, the show will eventually fail. I don't know what is more important for Mr. Yoo Jae-suk: individual members or the continued survival of Running Man," Kim PD said with a half-smile.
"Innovation?" Yoo Jae-suk looked at Kim PD and asked, "What viewers need in terms of innovation is whether it's reckless member changes or more appealing show planning?"
"Mr. Yoo Jae-suk is suggesting that our recent show planning lacks innovation and fun," Kim PD remarked.
"I'm just stating the facts," Yoo Jae-suk replied.
“Jae-seok, you should know the pros and cons, why are you being so stubborn this time?” Minister Kwon frowned and said, “I want to tell you that tomorrow morning, I will announce on the official website that Song Ji-hyo and Kim Jong Kook will be leaving. So, you must agree with me in tonight's meeting; otherwise, I will make Running Man disappear!”
“Minister Kwon, you... do you know how much effort everyone has put in to get Running Man to this point? I really cannot agree with your approach. Moreover, announcing this recklessly will lead to extreme backlash from netizens. If you really want Mr. Kang Ho-dong to participate in this program, this approach will only put immense pressure on him as well,” Yoo Jae-suk said.
“I don't need you to teach me. SBS has created so many high-rated programs under my guidance. Do you really think you can succeed just by yourself? Without my support, no program would survive,” Minister Kwon replied.
“Indeed, a program needs financial support from the company to survive, but what’s more important is the collaboration and effort of the behind-the-scenes team and the members on screen. Most importantly, it requires the audience's affection. Minister Kwon, you have also worked behind the scenes; why would you say such things today?” Yoo Jae-suk truly could not understand why Minister Kwon, who used to be a bold and serious producer, had become so stubborn after becoming a minister over the years. Was it merely a change over time or did power blind him? Director Zhao remained silent in this situation; even though he felt reluctant about Running Man, his current position forced him to prioritize interests as an executive leader. Remaining silent might already be a form of care for Running Man.
“It seems this conversation is truly unnecessary. I thought you were someone who knows how to adapt, but it turns out age has made you inflexible.”
“Perhaps so, Minister Kwon; indeed, I have grown older.”
“Leave.”
“Okay.”
After leaving the SBS Building, Yoo Jae-suk drove alone without notifying his manager. Over the past two years, he had experienced so much; although it sounded cliché, life was indeed like waves—sometimes soaring high into the clouds and sometimes plunging into the depths. Reflecting on his twenties when he was constantly seeking opportunities, he finally got his break with Co-habitation and Co-fall, XMAN, and Infinite Challenge. Riding the wave of success, he reached the peak; however, later on, Infinite Challenge faced strikes and consecutive member departures. Just as he had recently emerged from that low point, this miraculous Running Man that had gained fame across Asia suffered a devastating blow. He truly did not know where Running Man would end up this time.
He had never wavered in his thoughts and still believed firmly that he had something he could not give up.
Meanwhile, Anna had been lying in bed staring blankly since she woke up in the morning. She could now understand how others felt when she left; those who remained were often the ones who suffered the most.
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