So-min channels cinema-grade intensity, while Yoo Jae-suk breaks into laughter

Jeon So-min brought a surprisingly cinematic turn to Running Man, partnering with Yoo Jae-suk in a moment that felt ripped from a drama. The latest episode featured So-min and guest Yang Se-chan joining the Gold Hunters race, adding a playful layer to the competition.

Ahead of the round, So-min, Ji Seok-jin, and Yang Se-chan were asked who, in the team, ranks first in looks and to name three reasons why. All three men briskly agreed: Yoo Jae-suk is the top choice, and they could indeed explain why. So-min leaned into the moment, playfully counting Yoo Jae-suk’s appeal with a dead-serious expression.

She then locked eyes with Yoo Jae-suk in a way that suggested she’d stepped onto a different stage, a gaze more fitting for a drama than a variety show. Yet Yoo Jae-suk broke into a smile first, puncturing the moment with light humor and making her intense moment feel even more entertaining.

The moment grew livelier as Yang Se-chan tried to derail the drama by rattling off a string of fish names—such as “Hak-kongchi” and “Im Yeon-soo” —that supposedly resemble Yoo Jae-suk. Despite the distraction, So-min managed to keep a straight face, turning the pressure into another playful beat of the game.

Once the mission wrapped, laughter returned, and So-min teased Yoo Jae-suk with a lingering compliment: “This is a smile of love. Yoo Jae-suk is so handsome.” The exchange underscored the charm of their on-screen dynamic, blending So-min’s dramatic flair with Yoo Jae-suk’s quick-witted humor.