The iconic Korean variety show Running Man has officially landed in Thailand, and it’s already making waves. The first episode premiered on February 22, 2026, drawing massive online buzz and topping trends on X (formerly Twitter).
This Thai adaptation, brought to life by iQIYI in collaboration with Korea’s SBS Studio, features a star-studded cast navigating intense competitions, hilarious missions, and surprise guest appearances — including some flying in straight from Korea (though details remain under wraps for now).
Airing Sundays at 6 p.m. on One31 Channel, with an uncut version available on the iQIYI app at 8 p.m., the show is poised to capture the hearts of Thai audiences while honoring its Korean roots.
The Original Running Man: A 14-Year Legacy of Chaos and Comedy
The original Running Man debuted in South Korea on July 11, 2010, as part of SBS’s Good Sunday lineup. What started as a simple urban action variety show — celebrities running through cities, completing absurd challenges, and outwitting each other — quickly became a cultural phenomenon.
Led by Korea’s most beloved MC, Yoo Jae-suk (often called the “Nation’s MC” for his quick wit, impeccable humor, and everyman charm), the show boasted an original cast including Haha (the sneaky schemer), Ji Suk-jin (the hapless elder brother figure), Kim Jong-kook (the super-strong “Sparta Kook”), Song Ji-hyo (the tough “Ace” who joined in episode 2), Gary (the non-mainstream rapper), and Lee Kwang-soo (the goofy “Betrayer” prince).
At its peak in the early 2010s, Running Man averaged 20% ratings in Korea and exploded internationally, thanks to its mix of physical comedy, strategic games, and genuine cast chemistry.
The signature “name-tag ripping” game — where teams chase each other to tear off opponents’ name tags in a high-stakes elimination battle — became synonymous with the show’s chaotic energy.
Over the years, it has evolved from urban missions to themed episodes with elaborate sets, celebrity guests, and even international specials. Ratings have dipped in recent years (now averaging 3–5% domestically), but the show maintains a consistent, loyal following, with over 700 episodes and counting. Departures like Gary (2016) and Lee Kwang-soo (2021, after a car accident and health issues) shifted the dynamic, but the core group’s enduring bond keeps it fresh.
Running Man Thailand: Star-Studded Cast and Tailored Flair
The Thai version adapts the format for local tastes, with SBS assisting on game design, scriptwriting, and structure to blend Korean flair with Thai humor and cultural nuances. Episodes follow celebrities through grueling missions — think relay races, puzzle-solving, and betrayal-filled games — all while fostering the same laugh-out-loud chemistry that made the original a hit.
The cast is drawing massive attention for its mix of A-list talent from music, acting, and variety worlds:
- Pramote “Oat” Pathan: The comedian-host known for his quick wit and physical comedy from shows like The Mask Singer — perfect for the show’s chaotic energy.
- Worakamol “Jeff” Satur: The rising singer-actor (from KinnPorsche fame) whose charismatic presence and musical talents could shine in game segments.
- Waruntorn “Ink” Paonil: The actress-singer with strong vocals and screen charm, expected to bring emotional depth to team moments.
- Tawan “Tay” Vihokratana: A beloved BL drama star (Cherry Magic), catching eyes for his boy-next-door appeal and athleticism.
- Chawarin “Nunew” Perdpiriyawong: The young idol-actor (Cutie Pie) whose fresh energy and fanbase are already boosting hype.
- Pittaya “Daou” Saechua: The actor-model known for intense roles, adding a competitive edge.
- Pongsatorn “Phuak” Jongwilas: The veteran comedian from Hormones, whose timing could make him the show’s breakout “betrayer.”
This lineup’s diversity — blending humor, looks, and talent — is a smart choice, resonating with Thai viewers who love variety shows with relatable stars.
Why Running Man Resonates Across Cultures
At its heart, Running Man is pure comedy gold — the kind that transcends borders because it’s built on universal fun: friends competing, betraying, and laughing through absurd challenges.
The format lets individual personalities shine, whether it’s Yoo Jae-suk’s masterful hosting or a guest’s unexpected talent, creating moments of genuine surprise and relatability. This flexibility has allowed adaptations in countries like China (Keep Running, since 2014), Vietnam (Running Man Vietnam, since 2019), and the Philippines (Running Man Philippines, since 2022) to succeed by infusing local humor and stars without losing the core thrill.
The signature name-tag game, in particular, captures that mix of strategy and slapstick — it’s simple yet endlessly replayable, turning celebrities into “ordinary” players scrambling for victory. Across cultures, it taps into the joy of watching polished idols get messy, fostering fan connections through memes, fan edits, and viral clips.
Evolving Legacy & Current Buzz
In Korea, Running Man has lower ratings now but a steadfast fanbase, thanks to its evolution from high-stakes missions to character-driven episodes and fan-service specials. Globally, it’s a K-pop gateway for many, with over 1 billion YouTube views on official clips.
The Thai version’s premiere topped X trends and drew positive feedback for its fresh energy, though some note the challenge of matching the original’s chemistry. With secret Korean guests and tailored games, it’s already catching eyes as a must-watch for blending nostalgia with Thai flair.
Running Man Thailand airs Sundays at 6 p.m. on One31, uncut on iQIYI at 8 p.m. If the original’s 14-year run is any indicator, this could be the start of something big.
What’s your take on the Thai cast or favorite original moment?
