The “Running Man” PD shares why he chose Ji Ye Eun as a regular on the show

In a phone interview with OSEN on December 23, PD Choi Hyung In discussed the recent confirmation of Ji Ye Eun’s addition to the popular SBS variety show.

When asked why Ji Ye Eun solidified herself as an official member, Choi Hyung In explained, “We didn’t label her as an ‘official member’ through the captions, but she naturally joined the team. Many people were curious and left comments like, “Is Ji Ye Eun a regular member or not?” You can think of him as part of the team long term. Ji Ye Eun is now a member of ‘Running Man.'”

Ji Ye Eun’s inclusion comes a year after Jeon So Min left the show following its last broadcast in November last year. After Jun So Min’s departure, Song Ji Hyo remained the only female cast member until the addition of Ji Ye Eun.

Since joining the cast earlier this year, Ji Ye Eun has impressed viewers with her strong chemistry with the cast. PD Choi Hyung In shared his optimism, “Ji Ye Eun works well with all the members. Whether it’s Haha, Ji Suk Jin or Yang Se Chan, they all have great synergy with her. I think his interactions with Kim Jong Kook and Song Ji Hyo will also be fun moving forward.

Attention also shifted to the status of Kang Hoon, who appeared as a “guest member.” Addressing this, Choi Hyung In explained, “The ‘guest member’ system was created to accommodate those who have busy schedules and cannot commit to working full time. When they are available, we consider them family and welcome them at any time.”

He added, “Kang Hoon is always welcome to join us whenever his schedule allows. Once he finishes his current projects, we hope he can appear more frequently. The addition of Ji Ye Eun does not mean that the host system is finished.”

Choi Hyung In concluded the interview with a heartfelt message for fans, “I want to ask for your support for Ji Ye Eun. She reads all the comments, so I hope people leave positive comments and encourage her.”

Ji Ye Eun’s official debut as a regular member has brought new energy to “Running Man,” and fans are eager to see how she contributes to the long-running show.