Yang Se-chan Criticized Over Ji Ye-eun Incident

The Yang Se-chan Ji Ye-eun controversy has ignited widespread outrage online, with viewers condemning his physical behavior toward Ji Ye-eun, also known as Gaun, during a recent episode of Running Man. The backlash comes after a scene from the May 11 broadcast began circulating across major Korean forums on May 13, prompting intense criticism.

Viral Clip Fuels Backlash Toward Yang Se-chan

A clip titled “Yang Se-chan’s hitting Gaun’s head” went viral, showing the cast playing a punishment game. Only one losing team member could avoid the consequence. When Ji Ye-eun playfully called out “Oppa!” to Yoo Jae-suk in an attempt to be spared, Yang Se-chan snapped, shouting, “Stop it! I’m sick of hearing it!” before pushing her arm and lightly striking her head.

While some brushed off the moment as friendly teasing, many viewers expressed discomfort, particularly because this wasn’t the first time such behavior had occurred.

Pattern of Behavior Raises Concerns

The moment quickly reignited memories of a similar instance from October 2024, when Yang Se-chan hit Ji Ye-eun on the head during a quiz game. After Haha failed to answer correctly, Yang redirected his irritation by striking Ji Ye-eun in what appeared to be a casual gesture.

Online reactions ranged from concern to outright anger:

• “Why hit someone’s head, no matter how close you are?”
• “It’s inappropriate behavior regardless of gender.”
• “Even if it’s a joke, that kind of physical action isn’t acceptable anymore.”
• “He seriously needs to fix that habit.”

Though some defended Yang’s intent, noting his close relationship with Ji Ye-eun, the consensus leaned toward a growing demand for better judgment and sensitivity on national broadcasts.

Running Man’s Ongoing Issues With On-Screen Conduct

This controversy is not isolated—Running Man has faced repeated criticism over the years for questionable on-air behavior. In 2023, the program aired a heated argument between cast members where censored curse words were still contextually clear to the audience.

The show also caught heat for parodying an R-rated scene from Inside Men involving soju bombs, which viewers deemed inappropriate for a family-friendly weekend time slot. The Korea Communications Standards Commission responded by issuing formal guidance and a warning to SBS.

Evolving Standards Challenge Variety Show Traditions

After more than 15 years on the air, Running Man holds iconic status in Korean entertainment. But as public expectations shift, the line between humor and harm is increasingly scrutinized. Physical antics or suggestive humor, once standard variety fare, are now being reassessed through a modern lens.

The Yang Se-chan Ji Ye-eun controversy reflects this changing cultural climate. Viewers are no longer willing to excuse repeated physical contact as harmless comedy, even among close castmates.

Calls for Accountability and Professionalism

As criticism mounts, many are urging both the cast and production team to exercise more professionalism and self-awareness. What may seem like innocent banter within the group can translate into deeply uncomfortable moments for viewers at home.

This latest incident serves as a wake-up call for Running Man and other variety shows: the standards have changed, and with them, so must the behavior of those on screen.