S1·E21 KTX Race

Episode recap

Running Man Season 1, Episode 21, titled “KTX Race,” was filmed at Gwangmyeong Station in Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi‑do. The episode follows the established format of the series, in which the regular cast members are tasked with completing a succession of games and missions designed to test speed, teamwork, and strategic thinking. As with other installments of the program, the competition is framed as a race, with the ultimate goal of securing a win for the participating team.

A notable feature of this episode is the appearance of guest Kim Je‑dong, who joins the regular cast for the day’s challenges. Kim Je‑dong’s involvement follows the series’ practice of inviting public figures to participate alongside the core members, adding a fresh dynamic to the competitive environment. The guest’s presence is integrated into the mission structure, allowing him to engage directly in the tasks that unfold at the station’s various locales.

The setting of Gwangmyeong Station provides a recognizable landmark that serves as the backdrop for the episode’s activities. The station’s facilities and surrounding area are utilized as the stage for the challenges, offering both indoor and outdoor spaces that accommodate the physical and mental components typical of Running Man’s game design. Throughout the episode, the cast navigates the station’s environment while adhering to the rules and objectives laid out by the production team.

Consistent with the show’s comedic and reality‑based style, the participants’ interactions generate humor and tension as they vie for advantage in each segment. The episode maintains the series’ pacing, moving from one mission to the next, culminating in a final determination of which team succeeds in the “KTX Race.” By combining the distinctive location of Gwangmyeong Station with the guest appearance of Kim Je‑dong, the episode adds a unique chapter to the early run of Running Man while preserving the core competitive spirit that defines the program.