S1·E4 Gwacheon National Science Museum, Part 1

Episode recap

The fourth episode of the first season of Running Man takes place at the Gwacheon National Science Museum, a venue that provides a lively backdrop for the show’s characteristic blend of competition and humor. In this installment the regular cast members are joined by two special guests, Nichkhun and Jessica, whose appearances add an extra layer of excitement to the day’s events. Consistent with the program’s format, the participants are divided into two opposing groups, labeled the “Child” team and the “Adult” team, a division that sets up a playful contrast in age‑related strategy and physicality.

The central challenge for both teams is to locate a series of “Golden Pigs” hidden throughout the museum. Each pig is associated with a monetary value, and the teams must work together to uncover as many as possible, aiming to accumulate the greatest amount of money. The mission’s premise follows the series’ usual structure, in which members compete in a sequence of games and tasks designed to test speed, teamwork, and ingenuity. The presence of the museum’s exhibits offers opportunities for the contestants to interact with scientific displays while pursuing the hidden prizes, turning the cultural site into an arena for the show’s signature antics.

Throughout the episode the competition is punctuated by the guests’ contributions, which create moments of surprise and amusement that complement the regular cast’s efforts. The “Child” and “Adult” teams each develop distinct approaches to the hunt, reflecting the show’s emphasis on contrasting tactics and the playful rivalry that drives the narrative forward. As the episode progresses, the race to collect the Golden Pigs intensifies, building anticipation for the resolution that will be continued in the subsequent part of the episode.

By the end of this first segment, the teams have gathered a notable tally of money, but the final outcome remains unresolved, setting the stage for the continuation of the museum mission in the next episode. The episode exemplifies Running Man’s formula of combining celebrity guests, themed locations, and competitive games to deliver an entertaining variety experience.