S1·E456 9 Years of Running Man (5), Lyrics Writing Race (1)

Episode recap

In the episode identified as the fifth installment of the “9 Years of Running Man” series and the first segment of the “Lyrics Writing Race,” the regular cast members turn their attention to the creation of a new set of nicknames that will be incorporated into the program’s theme‑song lyrics. The premise of the segment is that each participant, including the others and themselves, proposes a nickname that reflects personal traits, memorable moments, or humorous exaggerations. The brainstorming session yields a mixture of positive and negative monikers, illustrating the playful rivalry that characterizes the show’s format.

Following the nickname‑generation phase, the cast engages in a series of competitive races designed to determine which member will have the decisive authority over the final lyrical content. The races are conducted in the typical Running Man style, with physical challenges and strategic maneuvering, though the specific nature of each race is not detailed in the source material. The outcome of these contests is pivotal: the winner is granted the exclusive right to select which of the previously suggested nicknames will be officially incorporated into the theme‑song lyrics for each cast member.

The episode therefore combines two core elements of the series—creative collaboration and competitive play. By allowing the victorious participant to shape the lyrical representation of the group, the program reinforces the importance of both individual performance and collective identity. The segment concludes with the chosen nicknames being set to music, completing the “Lyrics Writing Race” and adding a fresh lyrical layer to the long‑running variety show’s signature theme. This format underscores the show’s ongoing tradition of blending humor, teamwork, and competition while marking another milestone in its nine‑year celebration.