Yu Jae-seok. [Newsis]
Yu Jae-seok. [Newsis]

Broadcaster Yu Jae-seok received the Order of Cultural Merit (Bogwan), and his "Running Man" castmates celebrated the honor — while nudging him toward a career in politics.

On Sunday's episode of the SBS variety program "Running Man," the cast congratulated Yu on receiving the decoration.

Kim Jong-kook praised him, saying "Receiving a cultural merit award is no easy thing," while Song Ji-hyo added, "I'm so proud of you."

SBS "Running Man"
SBS "Running Man"

When Yu responded, "I owe it all to you," Ji Seok-jin fired back, "Now all you have to do is run for office," drawing laughter from the group.

HaHa joined in, saying, "Just one thing left — Jong-kook becomes head of the football association, and Jae-seok becomes president."

Ji also reflected on the weight of the honor. "A decoration is truly something remarkable — not just anyone can receive one," he said. "That means the responsibility on your shoulders has grown."

Yu received the Order of Cultural Merit (Bogwan) at the 17th Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards, held Oct. 29 at the Haeoreum Grand Theater of the National Theater of Korea in Jung-gu, Seoul. It was his third national honor, following a prime minister's commendation in 2012 and a presidential commendation in 2018.


choigo@heraldcorp.com