Ji Suk-jin & Ji Ye-eun’s Hilarious 'Chungju Ji-ssi' Debut: When AR Steals the Spotlight on Running Man!

The Unexpected Debut: Chungju Ji-ssi Takes the Stage

Did you know that Ji Suk-jin and Ji Ye-eun teamed up as the mixed group 'Chungju Ji-ssi' for a special debut on SBS’s Running Man? On June 22, 2025, the duo performed their new song 'Milkshake,' but this wasn’t your typical idol debut. The production team set a playful rule—only 30 seconds of free song promotion, with the rest coming at the cost of meals and coffee for the cast and crew. This quirky setup instantly set the tone for a debut full of laughter and camaraderie, showing just how uniquely Korean variety shows blend music and humor.

AR Overload: When Technology Becomes the Main Act

As soon as Chungju Ji-ssi started their performance, fans and cast alike noticed something odd—the AR (All Recorded) backing track was so loud that it drowned out the singers’ real voices. Members joked that it sounded like the song was playing even when no one was singing! This over-the-top use of AR became the episode’s running gag, with everyone poking fun at how little of the actual vocals could be heard. It’s a classic example of how Running Man isn’t afraid to turn technical mishaps into comedy gold.

Raw Vocals Revealed: Ji Ye-eun’s Unique Style Exposed

In a twist that had everyone laughing, the production team decided to strip away the AR and let Ji Suk-jin and Ji Ye-eun perform live. What followed was a hilarious reveal of Ji Ye-eun’s distinctive, goat-like vocal tone—a moment that instantly went viral among fans. The cast’s reactions ranged from mock shock to genuine amusement, proving once again that authenticity (and a bit of self-deprecating humor) is always a hit on Korean TV.

Fan Reactions: Social Media Buzz and Fandom Energy

International and local fans took to social media and blogs to dissect every moment of Chungju Ji-ssi’s debut. Many praised the duo’s willingness to poke fun at themselves, while others highlighted how the exaggerated AR use actually made the performance more memorable. Blog reviews noted the clever interplay between scripted comedy and spontaneous reactions, emphasizing that Running Man continues to set the bar for innovative variety content. The episode quickly became a hot topic on Naver and Tistory, with fans sharing memes and clips of the AR mishap.

Cultural Context: Why AR and Humor Matter in K-Variety

For those new to Korean variety, the use of AR and Auto-Tune isn’t just about masking vocal flaws—it’s often a deliberate comedic device. Running Man, in particular, is famous for blending musical performances with slapstick humor and meta-commentary. By exaggerating the AR, the show both parodied and paid homage to K-pop’s polished image, creating a space where even veteran entertainers like Ji Suk-jin can reinvent themselves. This approach makes variety shows accessible and relatable, even for international audiences who may not understand every joke but can appreciate the playful spirit.

Behind the Scenes: Cast Dynamics and Production Secrets

The episode also offered a peek into the off-camera relationships among the Running Man cast. Yoo Jae-suk’s jokes about Ji Suk-jin’s expenses for the debut, and the playful negotiations over how long they could perform, highlighted the genuine friendships that keep the show fresh after so many years. Fans on blogs and forums noted how these interactions are a big part of why Running Man remains beloved both in Korea and abroad.

The Lasting Impact: A Debut to Remember

Chungju Ji-ssi’s debut wasn’t about flawless vocals or perfect choreography—it was a celebration of personality, humor, and the unpredictable magic of live TV. For international fans, this episode is a perfect introduction to the cultural quirks that make Korean variety shows so addictive. Whether you’re a longtime Running Man viewer or a newcomer, the AR-filled chaos of this debut is sure to leave you smiling and maybe even searching for more moments where music and comedy collide on Korean television.