Memory Fail! Ji Seok-jin Can't Recognize His Own Home After 40 Years

Ji Seok-jin revisited his childhood home on Save Me! Holmes
But, he couldn’t recognize it
Meanwhile, he just celebrated Running Man 15th anniversary

South Korean television icon Ji Seok-jin, affectionately known as the "Big Nose" of Running Man, recently made headlines for an emotional yet humorous trip down memory lane. The 60-year-old star, celebrated for his wit and charm, revisited his childhood neighborhood—only to realize he couldn’t recall key details of his past. 

Meanwhile, his long-standing variety show Running Man marked a historic 15th anniversary, solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon. Amid health challenges and a thriving YouTube venture, Seok-jin continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Ji Seok-jin ‘Forgets’ His Childhood Home in Emotional Return

In a poignant episode of MBC’s Save Me! Holmes, Ji Seok-jin embarked on a sentimental journey to Suyu-dong, Gangbuk-gu, where he spent his formative years. Accompanied by close friends Kim Soo-yong and Yang Se-chan, the broadcast revisited local landmarks—but the trip took an unexpected turn when he failed to recognize his own childhood home. Standing before an empty lot where his house once stood, the usually quick-witted star fell silent. 

“Was this really my house?”

Seok-jin murmured, leaving Yang Se-chan stunned. The emotional weight of the moment was undercut by Ji Seok-jin’s candid admission,

“I don’t remember.” 

Yang Se-chan, ever the comedian, teased, 

“This is the tear-jerking point. You have to shed tears like Jang Dong-min.”

But Ji Seok-jin only laughed, confessing he felt no nostalgia. The trio later explored Suyu Market, which he recalled visiting as a child. 

“I remember holding my father’s hand and walking forever to get here,” he said, surprised to find it was just a short distance away.

The episode also highlighted Suyu-dong’s Rose Garden, a nod to the area’s 1980s rose farm. Yang Se-chan, who lives in a remodeled 2025-era home nearby, joked about the MZ generation’s trend of renovating old houses. Ji, however, stole the spotlight by revealing, 

“This is the elementary school [Yoo] Jae-seok attended,” sparking laughter from the crew. 

The full segment aired on July 24, offering a blend of humor and heartache.

Ji Seok-jin Celebrates Running Man’s 15th Anniversary 

July 2025 marked a milestone for SBS’s Running Man, which celebrated 15 years on air with a staggering 759 episodes—the most for any Korean variety show. Ji Seok-jin, a founding member since its 2010 debut, joined co-stars Yoo Jae-suk, Kim Jong-kook, and Haha in reflecting on the program’s legacy. The show’s peak rating of 21.9% (Episode 133, Nine Swords) and global adaptations—like China’s Run, Brother and Vietnam’s 2018 season—underscore its enduring appeal.

Despite the rise of OTT platforms, Running Man remains a powerhouse, winning Wave’s Entertainment of the Year for four consecutive years (2020–2024) and the Brand Customer Loyalty Award for three. Its YouTube channel boasts 3.35 million subscribers, with videos hitting 36.37 million views. During the anniversary recording, Yoo Jae-suk expressed gratitude,

“We came this far thanks to viewers’ love,” said Yoo Jae-suk.

PD Choi Hyeong-in added, 

“I hope it becomes like Diary of the Countryside in the Entertainment World at its 30th anniversary.”

The July 13 episode featured a special race honoring the cast’s chemistry. Ji Seok-jin, known for his “race starter” persona, showcased his trademark humor, proving why he’s beloved across generations.

Ji Seok-jin’s Hiatus and Triumphant Return to Running Man

Before in December 2023, Ji Seok-jin shocked fans when his agency, ESteem Entertainment, announced a hiatus due to health concerns. 

“Following a medical examination, Ji Suk Jin decided to take a break per doctor’s advice,” they stated. 

The news sparked worry, given his relentless work ethic since 2010. However, true to his resilient spirit, Ji Seok-jin returned just five weeks later. On January 15, 2024, SBS confirmed:

“Ji Seok-jin will participate in today’s filming, airing January 28.”

His comeback was met with relief and applause, especially after he won the Producers’ Award at the 2023 SBS Entertainment Awards. Co-star Yang Se-chan joked, 

“Hyung missed us so much he couldn’t stay away.” 

While viewers flooded social media with support. Ji Seok-jin’s dedication mirrors Running Man’s ethos—perseverance with a smile.

When not filming, he helms Ji Seok Jin World, a YouTube channel blending casual talks with A-list guests. A recent highlight was his chat with actress Lee Sun-bin, girlfriend of former Running Man member Lee Kwang-soo. The duo’s playful banter—touching on Kwang-soo’s quirks—drew 1,5 million views. Other guests include K-pop idols and fellow comedians, offering fans a relaxed, unfiltered side of the star.

Ji Seok-jin’s ability to reinvent himself—from variety veteran to digital creator—proves his versatility. As Running Man charges toward its 20th year, and his YouTube channel grows, one thing’s clear: Ji Seok-jin’s charm is timeless.

Source: Chosun, Dispatch, AllKpop, X