MBN's marathon variety show 'You Have to Run' is set to premiere on the 19th. The program, which captures the real growth stories of 16 'beginner runners' challenging the marathon full course for different reasons in life, is generating anticipation as it promises entertainment, authenticity, and even emotional depth. Ahead of the premiere, we looked at key points to pay attention to in 'You Have to Run.'
# Birth of the first 'marathon variety show'
'You Have to Run' is the first marathon variety show in Korea, featuring the growth stories of 16 'beginner runners' who will challenge the 42.195km 'marathon completion.' Ranging from those with some running experience to others with almost none, these individuals approach the challenge with different conditions and backgrounds but are all equipped with a unique determination and authenticity aimed at the goal of 'completing the marathon.' They already completed the '5km marathon' as their first test in early March and have been battling themselves for more than a month under the command of Director General Sean and Deputy Director General Lee Young-pyo, going through focused training. On April 19, they will participate in the 'Yeongjongdo Marathon' organized by MBN, and in the following events like the 'Boseong Marathon,' the ultimate 'MVP' will be selected to compete in the 'Sydney Marathon,' one of the seven major marathons in the world. Curiosity rises as to which of the 16 stars will earn the honor of competing in the 'Sydney Marathon.'
# A fantastic lineup from Sean and Lee Young-pyo to Hur Jae and Yang Jun-hyuk...
'You Have to Run' has gained attention as 'marathon charity angel' Sean and former national soccer team player Lee Young-pyo take on the roles of Director General and Deputy Director General, respectively. Additionally, stars who have received great love in various fields, including Hur Jae, Bang Eun-hee, Yang Jun-hyuk, Yang So-young, Han Sang-bo, Jung Ho-young, Bae Yoon-jung, Jang Dong-seon, Son Jung-eun, Jo Jin-hyung, Choi Jun-seok, Sleepy, Kim Seung-jin, Ahn Sung-hoon, Yul-hee, and Lee Jang-jun, have joined as the 16 'beginner runners,' demonstrating their genuine commitment to the marathon.
Former national marathon runner Kwon Eun-joo has been selected as the director to assist the 'beginner runners' in their marathon challenge. Additionally, former athlete Lee Yeon-jin, the 'top sports creator in Korea' Shim Eui-ddeum, and record-holding marathoner Ko Han-min will join the coaching staff to provide full support to the 16 'You Have to Run' crew members. The broadcasting team of Bae Sung-jae and Yang Se-hyung has been chosen to convey the vivid marathon challenges to viewers.
# Heartfelt stories and fierce challenges promise 'empathy + emotion'
The 16 'beginner runners,' completing this golden lineup, each carry their own dramas into the marathon challenge. Hur Jae said, "I want to be a source of hope for people in my age group," while Yang Jun-hyuk noted, "I felt physical limits while raising children." Yul-hee expressed, "I want to show that divorce is not a failure in life. Also, for those in similar situations, I want to offer hope that they can rise again even after facing major difficulties," appealing to their sincerity.
Director General Sean emphasized that "I have heard that all 16 individuals have their own stories. Running is not just for the body; it gives strength to shed life's worries and rise again. For that, a healthy body is fundamental," indicating a commitment to support their challenges in every possible way. Deputy Director General Lee Young-pyo also mentioned, "Nowadays, many people start running not for health but because they feel mentally strained," adding, "I hope this program will be a catalyst for healing for both the participants and viewers." Furthermore, Lee pointed to Hur Jae, Yang Jun-hyuk, and Choi Jun-seok as the 'runners who may struggle the most,' stating, "It doesn't have to be the best; running with sincerity in itself is moving," showing support for their challenges and growth.
Meanwhile, Yang Se-hyung, who joined as a broadcaster, revealed his identity as a 'running enthusiast,' saying, "In my case, after being discharged, when a comedy program was canceled, I found myself in a situation without a job or agent, and I was left with nothing. It was so hard that I ran along the Han River without any plan. I felt very strongly that I was alive while running. After that, I recommended running to friends suffering from panic disorders or burnout," he shared. He added, "Through the growth stories of this 'beginner runners,' I hope many people gain courage and hope," urging viewers to watch the show live.
In addition, 'You Have to Run' is carrying out donation activities in collaboration with the Korea Habitat Foundation to improve the living conditions of descendants of independence activists. Donations will be made in the name of the star selected as the MVP each episode, based on the distance covered by the 'beginner runners.' Featuring stars from various fields challenging the marathon for their own reasons, MBN's 30th anniversary special project 'You Have to Run' will premiere on the 19th (Saturday) at 8:20 p.m.
[Photo] OSEN DB, MBN
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