The Running Man 2025 Cast: The Full Roster, New Permanent Member, And Shocking Return Rumors

As of December 21, 2025, the legendary South Korean variety show *Running Man* has officially entered a thrilling new era, solidifying its latest cast lineup after a period of significant change and speculation. The show, which has been a global phenomenon for over a decade, is moving forward with a revised permanent roster and an innovative "rental member" system, promising a fresh dynamic for the 2025 season. This transition follows the high-profile departure of one of its most beloved members, leading producers to introduce new blood and a flexible format to maintain the show's high energy and unpredictable comedy. This article provides the definitive, up-to-date look at the *Running Man* cast for 2025, confirming the new permanent addition, detailing the full roster of the *Running Man Family*, and exploring the persistent, exciting rumors surrounding a potential comeback that could reshape the show once again. The commitment to topical authority ensures you have the most current information, including the latest production changes and the full biography of the core members.

The Official Running Man Cast Roster for 2025 (The Unbreakable Core)

The current core cast of *Running Man* for the 2025 season maintains the strong foundation that has made the show a global success, while welcoming a fresh face who has proven her worth over months of challenging missions. The show's enduring popularity is a testament to the chemistry of these members, often referred to as the *Running Man Family*.

Current Permanent Cast Members (The Running Man Family)

The following members form the permanent, official cast of the SBS variety program as the show heads into 2025: * Yoo Jae-suk (The Grasshopper/Yoo-ruce Willis): The Nation's MC and the undisputed leader of the cast. His quick wit, impeccable hosting skills, and ability to set up gags for every member are the backbone of the show. * Jee Seok-jin (Big Nose Hyung/Race Starter): The oldest member, known for his hilarious bad luck, easy-to-trick persona, and the running gag of being the first to be eliminated. * Kim Jong-kook (The Commander/Sparta): The physical powerhouse and *ace* of the show, known for his strength in the *Nametag Elimination* game and his constant bickering with Yoo Jae-suk and Haha. * Haha (Haroro/Penguin): The resident mischievous member, often playing the role of the betrayer or the one who gets caught up in schemes with the younger members. * Song Ji-hyo (Ace/Blank Ji-hyo): The only female *original* member, famed for her unexpected flashes of brilliance, competitive spirit, and her sometimes sleepy, 'blank' on-screen persona. * Yang Se-chan (Yang Se-ba): Known for his dynamic energy, hilarious reactions, and his role as the youngest male member who frequently partners with the *ace* or the *commander*. * Ji Ye-eun (The New Ace): Officially recognized as a permanent cast member after a successful six-month trial period, Ji Ye-eun brings a refreshing, competitive spirit and a surprising talent for missions, effectively filling a much-needed permanent spot. Her official status marks the most significant permanent cast change in the show's recent history.

The New 'Rental Member' System: A Flexible Era

Following the departure of a key member, the *Running Man* production team, now led by the new Main Producer (PD) Kang Hyung-seon in 2025, adopted a flexible strategy instead of immediately naming a replacement. This led to the introduction of the "Rental Member" system, where popular celebrities join the cast for a set number of episodes, offering a constantly rotating dynamic. Key Rental Members who have joined the show in late 2024 and early 2025 include: * Kang Hoon: Known for his enthusiastic participation and competitive nature, he has been a recurring guest and a successful example of the *rental member* concept. * Choi Daniel: An actor who has successfully transitioned into an "entertainment rookie," bringing a quirky and silly charm to the show during his contract period. This system allows the show to test new chemistry, inject fresh topical entities, and keep the format unpredictable, ensuring that viewers are constantly surprised by the new guest interactions.

The Jeon So-min Return Rumors: Will The Crazy Sister Come Back in 2025?

One of the most talked-about topics among the *Running Man* fandom heading into 2025 is the potential return of former member Jeon So-min. Jeon So-min, who departed the show in November, left a massive void in the cast, having been a central figure known for her unpredictable "crazy sister" persona, unique comedic timing, and close relationship with the other members.

The Exciting Speculation

Recent news reports and fan discussions have fueled the speculation of an exciting return for the actress in 2025. While her departure was officially to focus on her acting career, the bond she formed with the cast and the production team remains strong. * Producer's Strategy: The show's decision to use a *rental member* system instead of immediately appointing a permanent replacement was seen by many as leaving the door open for So-min's eventual comeback. * Fan Intention: The intention of the fan base is clear: her return is highly anticipated, and her unique brand of comedy is sorely missed. * Reported Return: Several outlets have reported that Jeon So-min is set to make a comeback to the show in 2025, though the exact date and the nature of her return (permanent or as a long-term guest) remain a subject of intense curiosity and official confirmation is awaited. If confirmed, Jeon So-min’s return would instantly restore the beloved eight-member dynamic that viewers cherished, bringing back the popular *Running Mate* and *Sibling Rivalry* topical authority that defined the show's second era.

Running Man’s Core Members: A Brief Biography and Topical Authority

To understand the show's *topical authority* and enduring success, one must look at the core cast, whose biographical details form the foundation of their on-screen personas and the show's comedy.

Yoo Jae-suk (The Nation's MC)

• Birth Name: Yoo Jae-suk (유재석)
• Date of Birth: August 14, 1972
• Role/Nickname: Main Host, The Grasshopper, Yoo-ruce Willis
• Topical Authority: Widely regarded as one of the most respected and influential entertainers in South Korea. He is the anchor of *Running Man* and other major variety shows like *Hangout with Yoo*.

Kim Jong-kook (The Commander)

• Birth Name: Kim Jong-kook (김종국)
• Date of Birth: April 25, 1976
• Role/Nickname: The Commander, Sparta, Kook-jong
• Topical Authority: A successful singer (member of Turbo) and entertainer. His persona is built on his immense physical strength, making him the ultimate threat in *Nametag Elimination* and the perfect foil for the weaker members.

Song Ji-hyo (The Ace)

• Birth Name: Cheon Soo-yeon (천수연)
• Date of Birth: August 15, 1981
• Role/Nickname: Ace, Blank Ji-hyo, Mong Ji
• Topical Authority: A popular actress who has successfully transitioned into a full-time variety star. Her *ace* status comes from her ability to win missions unexpectedly, often when she appears least engaged.

Jee Seok-jin (Big Nose Hyung)

• Birth Name: Jee Seok-jin (지석진)
• Date of Birth: February 10, 1966
• Role/Nickname: Big Nose Hyung, Race Starter, Impala
• Topical Authority: The oldest member, often the subject of playful teasing and pranks by the younger members. His role as the 'weakest link' provides consistent comic relief.

Haha (Haroro)

• Birth Name: Ha Dong-hoon (하동훈)
• Date of Birth: August 20, 1979
• Role/Nickname: Haroro, Penguin, The Schemer
• Topical Authority: Known for his short stature and his playful, sometimes rebellious, personality. He is a key entity in the *Betrayal Club* and a successful singer and TV personality.

Yang Se-chan (Yang Se-ba)

• Birth Name: Yang Se-chan (양세찬)
• Date of Birth: December 8, 1986
• Role/Nickname: Yang Se-ba, The Youngest
• Topical Authority: A popular comedian who joined the show in 2017. His energetic, quick-witted comedy and ability to take on any comedic role make him a valuable part of the current lineup.

The *Running Man* cast for 2025 is a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh, competitive energy. With Ji Ye-eun now a permanent fixture and the exciting possibility of Jeon So-min’s return, the show is poised to continue its legacy as a must-watch global entertainment phenomenon, constantly adapting its format and topical entities to keep its millions of viewers engaged. The *rental member* system ensures that the show remains dynamic, while the core cast's established chemistry guarantees the familiar, hilarious interactions that fans have loved for over a decade.

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