S1·E572 Female Volleyball Team, Fierce Transfer Contract

Episode recap

In episode 572 of Running Man, titled “Female Volleyball Team, Fierce Transfer Contract,” the program brings a new set of competitors onto the familiar playing field: the members of South Korea’s women’s national volleyball team. The episode’s central premise is the 2022 Running Man League Draft, a recurring competition in which the regular cast members face off against guest participants in a series of games designed to test teamwork, strategy and physical skill. The volleyball athletes arrive prepared to challenge the Running Man members, turning the draft into a showcase of athletic ability and the show’s characteristic humor.

A notable element of the episode is the presence of a guest on the volleyball squad who bears a striking resemblance to Kwang‑Soo, one of the long‑standing Running Man cast members. The similarity extends beyond appearance to mannerisms, prompting the regulars to comment on the uncanny likeness. This visual gag adds a layer of comedic intrigue, as the cast reacts to the unexpected mirror image of one of their own within the opposing team.

The episode also highlights a shift in Jong Kook’s demeanor. Historically portrayed as the more domineering or “bossy” figure among the Running Man members, Jong Kook appears more relaxed and less authoritative while interacting with the volleyball players. His altered attitude is emphasized through his cooperation with the guests, suggesting that the presence of the national team members influences his usual on‑screen dynamics.

Throughout the draft, the two groups compete in the format typical of Running Man: a blend of physical challenges, strategic tasks and light‑hearted banter. The involvement of the women’s national volleyball team provides a fresh competitive edge, while the Kwang‑Soo look‑alike and Jong Kook’s changed behavior serve as the episode’s primary sources of humor and character interaction. The result is a blend of sport‑centric competition and variety‑show entertainment that aligns with the series’ established style of pairing celebrity guests with the regular cast in playful, high‑energy contests.