Kim Jong Kook has become something of a sensation in China after becoming highly popular through 'Running Man.' 

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The tv personality is said to be just as popular as Kim Soo Hyun and Lee Jong Suk, according to a rep from the Chinese entertainment industry. This raised speculation about Kim Jong Kook's pay in China, and 'One Night of TV Entertainment' mentioned that the words on the street is that he makes nearly 1.5 billion KRW (~$1.27 million USD) for a a collaborative project between Korea and China. While on the Chinese version of 'Running Man,' Kim Jong Kook earns around 360 million KRW (~$306,000 USD). 

However, reps from Kim Jong Kook's side are calling the rumors absurd. One representative told Newsen earlier today, "From a logical standpoint, don't you think [$1.27 million USD] is a bit too much? It's not realistic," relaying their disappointment that such an exaggeration was stated on broadcast. The rep further stated that the speculations are "groundless," calling them as a misunderstanding.