According to the official Running Man YouTube channel, a preview of the July 19 episode captured the cast discussing the filming schedule and game times. During the conversation, Yoo Jae Suk proposed changing the time, saying: “At this point I’d rather start at 1 a.m. than come back at 4 a.m. That 4 a.m. schedule is really embarrassing.”
Kim Jong Kook immediately objected, insisting that the early schedule worked for him. “Then I can finish playing soccer, do laundry and come here,” he joked, making it clear that he had no intention of giving up his usual football session.
Yoo responded with a playful complaint, telling him, “Skip football for a week.” Kim, however, refused without hesitation. “I can’t skip football. I’ve been looking forward to it all week,” he responded, once again demonstrating his well-known passion for the sport.
Amused by Kim’s unwavering dedication, Yoo jokingly declared, “I would like to appoint Kim Jong Kook as president of the Korea Football Federation.”
Instead of dismissing the comment, Kim immediately embraced the idea. “I’m confident. I wouldn’t even need to receive a 10 won salary” he joked that he would be willing to serve as president of the association without any financial compensation.
The lighthearted exchange attracted even more attention because it came at a time when South Korean football is going through significant changes.
Following the national team’s disappointing elimination from the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calls for reform within the Korean Football Federation have intensified. As public criticism mounted, Chung Mong Gyu resigned as KFA president after serving for more than 13 years.
In response, the new K-Football Innovation Committee, which includes former national team stars such as Park Ji Sung, Lee Young Pyo and Park Joo Ho, was formed to help guide the reforms.
However, the committee has already encountered resistance. Some leaders of regional football associations have publicly questioned the qualifications of former players, arguing that they lacked the necessary skills to lead such a major restructuring effort.
Sources: Daum
