Running Man host Jee Seok-jin returns to variety show following hiatus for health reasons

The South Korean entertainer announced his break in December. 

South Korean actor-singer Jee Seok-jin will return to filming hit variety game show Running Man, a month after taking a hiatus due to health issues.

Korean network SBS, which airs the TV show, announced that he will return on Monday (Jan 15), and the episode featuring him will air on Jan 28.

The 57-year-old, who has been part of Running Man since 2010 and is one of the original members of the show, had previously revealed his temporary break through his agency, ESteem Entertainment, in December last year. 

The agency explained that Jee had opted to take a break after a health checkup, during which he intended to undergo treatment and rebuild his physical health. 

He told the press last year: "I will take a short break to rebuild my physical strength and do my best to come back with a healthier version of myself as soon as possible.” 

While broadcasting officials had expected him to return in February, Jee has made a comeback after a five-week hiatus. 

Jee received the Producers’ Award, which is chosen by producing directors, during the 2023 SBS Entertainment Awards. In the same award show, Running Man won Program of the Year through viewer voting, while Running Man cast members Kim Jong-gook and Yang Se-chan received the Most Viewed Hot Clip Award and Scene Stealer Award, respectively.

Running Man will be celebrating its 15th anniversary this year.