'Running Man' Star Kim Jong Kook to Marry Non-Celebrity, Ending 20-Year Yoon Eun Hye Love Line

The much-anticipated news is out: Kim Jong Kook, the beloved "Commander" of SBS's "Running Man," is officially tying the knot! The singer-entertainer is set to marry his non-celebrity fiancée on May 5th in a private ceremony, bringing a definitive end to the iconic 20-year "love line" with actress Yoon Eun Hye.

The wedding will be held in Seoul, with only close family and friends in attendance, respecting the privacy of his future wife and her family. Kim Jong Kook personally broke the news to his dedicated fanbase via his official fan cafe, expressing his nervousness and excitement: "I always knew a day would come when I'd write a post like this, but preparing it now, I'm more nervous and excited than I imagined. I'm getting married."

He first shared the happy news with his "Running Man" castmates during a recording on April 18th, just 18 days before the wedding. He even asked fellow host Yoo Jae Suk to officiate, though Yoo Jae Suk playfully noted a scheduling conflict.

Details about Kim Jong Kook's fiancée remain scarce, fueling public speculation. Rumors have circulated online, suggesting she could be a 38-year-old beauty startup CEO in LA or a 20-years-younger daughter of a famous English instructor working in a major corporation's overseas sales team. However, Kim Jong Kook's agency has stated, "Beyond what Mr. Kim Jong Kook shared on his fan cafe, we cannot disclose any further information. It is his private life, and we do not know the details."

The legendary "love line" between Kim Jong Kook and Yoon Eun Hye, which originated from the "Of Course!" game on the 2005 hit show "X-Man," has been a running gag and source of entertainment for two decades. With Kim Jong Kook's marriage, this beloved on-screen romance now gracefully bows out, becoming a cherished memory. Yoon Eun Hye recently garnered attention herself by revealing her 13-year single status on Park Na Rae's YouTube channel.

Regarding his role on "My Little Old Boy" (Miwoosae), rumors of his departure due to marriage emerged, but SBS quickly clarified, "There are no changes in his status," confirming his continued participation in the show.

Kim Jong Kook, often dubbed "The Commander" or "Sparta Kook," debuted in 1995 as part of the popular duo Turbo and later achieved significant success as a solo artist with hits like "One Man" and "Lovable." He is widely recognized for his long-standing roles in hit variety shows like "X-Man" and "Running Man," where his exceptional physical abilities and witty humor have endeared him to a global audience. His career spans decades, solidifying his status as a versatile and beloved entertainer in South Korea and beyond.