Jeon So Min filmed her last episode of 'Running Man' on October 30. With the departure of Jeon So Min, 'Running Man' is experiencing another member change after Lee Kwang Soo's departure two years ago and is now drawing attention to how it will transform.

On October 23, the entertainment industry received the news of Jeon So Min's exit from the beloved variety show 'Running Man.' This announcement came through an official statement from King Kong by Starship, expressing that Jeon So Min decided to film her final episode on October 30, KST. The decision to leave the show, which she has been a part of for six years, came after extensive deliberation with the 'Running Man' team and her agency. Jeon So Min ultimately decided that she needed some time to recharge in order to show a better side of herself.

The departure of Jeon So Min poses a significant moment of change for 'Running Man,' reminiscent of past instances when other beloved original cast members, such as Gary and Lee Kwang Soo, left the show. Such transitions have historically impacted the show's dynamics and viewership ratings.

The show's producer, Jung Cheol Min, highlighted during a 2019 press conference that Gary's exit in 2016 marked a particularly challenging time as ratings plummeted to the single digits. Similarly, the episode marking Lee Kwang Soo's departure saw a dip in viewership, which continued to hover around the 5% range, signaling a concern for the show's stability.

The integration of new members has historically breathed fresh life into the show. Yang Se Chan and Jeon So Min's inclusion post-Gary's exit played a pivotal role in attracting a younger demographic and diversifying the game formats, leading to a surge in ratings, especially in the coveted 20-49 age demographic.

Currently, in its 13th year, the show faces the prospect of further evolution. However, an official from 'Running Man' indicated to media outlet OSEN that there are no immediate plans to fill Jeon So Min's vacancy. Instead, the show will continue with its six current members: Yoo Jae Suk, Ji Suk Jin, Kim Jong Kook, Haha, Song Ji Hyo, and Yang Se Chan. This decision underscores the production team's cautious approach to selecting new additions to the cast.

The decision to maintain a six-member ensemble raises questions about the show's format moving forward. After Lee Kwang Soo's departure, the program proceeded without a new member, and now, with Jeon So Min leaving, the balance of male-to-female participants is an additional point of consideration. 'Running Man' stands at a crossroads, contemplating its next steps to maintain its cherished place in viewers' hearts.