“We can only look forward to the 15th year [of Running Man] because of all of you,” Yu Jae Seok shared, capturing the mutual affection between the Running Man members and their Filipino fans during the Run 2 U: Running Man Live in Manila at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Amidst the year 2024 teeming with concerts and fan meets, Run 2 U: Running Man Live in Manila stands out as a joyous and one of the best events yet. The members’ interactions and performances left the audience in awe, with their energy palpable throughout the night.
Curious to relive the night? Let’s dive in!
The event started with a dynamic opening dance by the Running Man PH Cast, featuring Glaiza De Castro, Mikael Daez, Kokoy de Santos, Lexi Gonzales, Buboy Villar, Angel Guardian, and Miguel Tanfelix. Their performances showcased why they were the chosen ones for Running Man PH.
Highlights included Buboy’s rendition of “Raining in Manila” by Lola Amour, and Miguel and Kokoy’s powerful performance of “Maharani” by Alamat and “Gento” by SB19. Glaiza stunned with “Tala” by Sarah Geronimo, while Angel and Lexi charmed with Bini’s “Pantropiko” and “Salamin Salamin”. The group’s rendition of the Running Man PH Original Title Soundtrack concluded their segment.
Expressing gratitude, the Running Man PH Cast thanked Filipino Runners for their support and teased the second season of the show, featuring an episode with HaHa, set to air on July 7, 2024.
The Running Man Korea Cast captivated fans with their opening performance of BTS’ “Spring Day,” reminding everyone of their versatility, warmth, and professionalism. Following introductions in multiple languages, the members engaged in lively banter, reminiscent of their show’s charm (actually feels just like watching their Running Man episodes!). They shared their culinary experiences with Filipino cuisine, highlighting Seokjin’s love for lechon and sisig, and their wish to taste Filipino alcohol and to have time for shopping.
Yu Jae Suk urged fans to enjoy the night, promising a well-prepared show. The games segment featured members guessing hidden sentences from Running Man videos and identifying K-pop songs played simultaneously, complete with impromptu dances and celebrations.
The solo stages were a highlight, with Jihyo’s adorable performance of Bibi’s “Bam Yang Gang,” Seokjin’s soulful rendition of John Legend’s “All of Me,” and Sechan’s electrifying “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen. HaHa and SRG’s hip-hop number and Jong Kook’s heartfelt “One Man” performance added to the excitement. Yu Jae Seok’s signature “Redevelopment of Love” rounded out the solos.
A cosplay relay with fans and special stages by SRG kept the energy high, leading to unit performances. HaHa and Sechan turned the arena into a party, while Jihyo and Jong Kook’s sweet duet delighted fans. The event closed with heartfelt messages from the members, expressing their gratitude and commitment to their fans, especially how the Filipino Runners have been a large part of their 14-year journey, and how are the reason for walking towards the 15th year and beyond. The members also mentioned how they will always keep running and sharing the same energy that the Runners give, while also wishing to have another opportunity to be back in Manila and share another time with them.
Running Man is one of South Korea’s most popular and longest-running reality-variety show loved in Asia and beyond. Running Man is classified as an urban action variety show, where members are tasked to complete missions and races against each other and guests.
Run 2 U: Running Man Live in Manila is brought to fans by Pulp Live World Production and was hosted by Ryan Bang and Kring Kim.
Words by Kenneth Hizon | Photos by Brian Osorio
