The Unexpected Rise of Lee Kwang Soo: From Unknown Rookie to “Running Man” Star

Lee Kwang Soo’s journey to becoming a beloved cast member of “Running Man” is a tale of serendipity and talent recognition. The story begins with a chance encounter and culminates in a career-defining opportunity.

The Fateful Meeting

Yoo Jae Suk’s Keen Eye for Talent

Yoo Jae Suk, a veteran in the Korean entertainment industry, first crossed paths with Lee Kwang Soo on the set of “Come To Play,” another television series. During this interaction, Jae Suk’s instincts told him that Kwang Soo had potential in variety shows.

The Recommendation

A Leap of Faith

When the producers of “Running Man” were in the casting phase, Yoo Jae Suk didn’t hesitate to recommend Lee Kwang Soo. This decision was based on Jae Suk’s belief in Kwang Soo’s comedic abilities, despite Kwang Soo being relatively unknown at the time.

The Initial Doubts

Overcoming Skepticism

Interestingly, not everyone shared Jae Suk’s confidence in Kwang Soo’s variety show potential. Ji Suk Jin, another cast member, initially doubted Kwang Soo’s suitability for the format. This contrast in opinions highlights Jae Suk’s unique ability to spot and nurture talent.

The Encouragement

Building Confidence

Even before “Running Man” began, Yoo Jae Suk had been encouraging Lee Kwang Soo, telling him that he found him funny. This support likely played a crucial role in boosting Kwang Soo’s confidence and preparing him for the challenges of variety television.

The Result

A Star is Born

The decision to cast Lee Kwang Soo proved to be a masterstroke. His participation in “Running Man” not only earned him thousands of fans worldwide but also catapulted his career to new heights. Kwang Soo became an integral part of the show, known for his commitment to games and his countless hilarious moments.

The Legacy

A Decade of Entertainment

Lee Kwang Soo remained a regular cast member of “Running Man” from June 2010 until May 2021, with his final appearance airing on June 13, 2021. His decade-long stint on the show solidified his status as a variety show icon and opened doors for his acting career.

This story of Lee Kwang Soo’s casting on “Running Man” serves as a testament to the power of mentorship, talent recognition, and the unpredictable nature of success in the entertainment industry.