‘Running Man’ Set to Crown 2025 ‘Settlement King’ in Tax-Themed Race
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A unique challenge awaits viewers of the popular South Korean variety show, ‘Running Man,’ as the program prepares to reveal its 2025 ‘Settlement King of the Year’ in an episode airing today, December 28th. The competition centers around a playful take on year-end tax settlement, tasking participants with “settling taxes” on various products using in-game badges, all while avoiding duplication with fellow contestants.
A Watery Challenge and Rising Stakes
The core of the episode revolves around a mission where one representative must collect as much water as possible from unexpected spills. According to reports, the challenge quickly captivated the other members, who paused in anticipation with each move the representative made. As Yoo Jae-seok assumed the role of the representative with the most power, the situation escalated into a comedic crisis.
He skillfully activated a “Jangku” button and engaged in a playful, physically demanding game of tag, mimicking the act of spilling water. The excitement reached a peak when Yoo Jae-seok performed an impromptu “fountain show,” filling his mouth with water and spraying it out, prompting a reaction from actress Ji Ye-eun. “It’s obscene!” she exclaimed, playfully begging for a splash, further amplifying the laughter. The episode promises to reveal which contestant will ultimately overcome the obstacles and amass the most water.
Penalties and Last-Minute Reversals
As the contestants approach the final “payment” stage, a new element of pressure is introduced: penalties. These punishments reportedly left the lower-ranked members feeling the heat, creating a tense atmosphere. Despite a prevailing sentiment of helplessness – with members repeatedly stating, “There is nothing we can do about it” – the contestants engaged in a strategic battle of wits, employing deception and maneuvering until the very end.
Ultimately, one contestant managed a remarkable turnaround, securing a victory with a bold, last-minute gamble. The identity of this “King of Settlement,” the show’s model taxpayer, will be revealed during the broadcast, which airs at 6:10 pm today.
The episode was reported by Ten Asia Reporter Lee So-jeong.
