BTS' eldest member and beloved "silver vocalist," Kim Seokjin, has made a much-anticipated return with his brand-new variety show, *Run Jin,* a spin-off of the popular *Run BTS* series that featured all seven members of the globally renowned group. This new show marks Jin's first solo venture into the variety show genre since completing his military service, and it has quickly become a hit among fans, eager to see more of his charming and humorous personality.
*Run Jin* kicked off its first episode with a breathtaking adventure, as Jin set out to hike the Hallasan mountains in Jeju. The episode begins with Jin in his hotel room, meticulously packing the essentials for his journey. His natural humor and playful demeanor shine through as he interacts with the camera, offering fans several entertaining moments, such as his amusing struggles with the microphone and camera setup.
The hike itself began early, at 5:50 AM, with Jin starting the ascent confidently. Given his recent discharge as an elite soldier, the initial part of the trek appeared relatively easy for him. However, as the hike progressed and he entered the more challenging "red zone," Jin faced several obstacles that tested his endurance. Despite these challenges, he remained upbeat, completing various tasks set by the production team in exchange for coffee breaks and other rewards.
One of the episode's most heartwarming moments came during a task where Jin was required to collect congratulatory messages from five people in return for a special lunch. During his interactions on the mountain, he met a group of children who, in a sweet gesture, offered him a honey stick as a gift. This touching encounter highlighted Jin's genuine connection with people, regardless of age.
Another memorable moment in the episode involved Jin calling up renowned chef Baek Jung-won to play the "Guess Where Am I" game. Jin's close bond with Chef Baek, already well-known to fans, provided an additional layer of warmth and humor to the episode, making it a highlight for many viewers.
After completing the challenging trek, Jin rewarded himself and the production staff with a well-deserved meal of *jari mulhwe*, a traditional Korean dish. The episode concluded with Jin reflecting on the journey and sharing his happiness at having accomplished the climb, all while posing amid the serene countryside.
For fans who have been missing the distinctive *BTS* style of entertainment found in *Run BTS*, the first episode of *Run Jin* was a delightful return to form. The teaser for upcoming episodes promises even more excitement, with Jin visiting a high school and taking on various challenges designed to test his wits against Gen Z.
New episodes of *Run Jin* will stream every Tuesday on YouTube, ensuring that fans have a regular dose of Jin's endearing antics and adventures to look forward to.
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