BABYMONSTER members Ahyeon and Asa will make their debut appearance on the popular SBS variety show "Running Man" as the group prepares for their highly anticipated July comeback.
The episode featuring the two members is scheduled to air on July 6, just a few days before the girl group releases their pre-release single "HOT SAUCE" on July 1.
Ahyeon and Asa reportedly completed filming for the show alongside actress Joo Hyun-young, who will join them as a fellow guest. The recording took place on the morning of Monday, marking the first "Running Man" appearance for the two BABYMONSTER members.
Their appearance represents a strategic promotional move ahead of the girl group's summer comeback, which has been described by YG Entertainment's chief producer Yang Hyun-suk as "a gift prepared to help fans enjoy the summer." He characterized the upcoming single "HOT SAUCE" as "a highly addictive hip-hop song reminiscent of the late 1980s."
The July 6 episode will showcase a different side of BABYMONSTER, as Ahyeon and Asa are expected to demonstrate their variety show skills. This follows the November 2024 appearance of fellow members Rami and Rora, who expressed their deep appreciation for the program by saying they grew up watching "Running Man."
Joo Hyun-young, who has appeared on "Running Man" multiple times due to her connection with cast member Ji Seok-jin, brings established chemistry with the show's regular cast. The actress has become known for her entertaining presence on the program and has even been recommended as a potential temporary cast member.
The timing of this variety show appearance coincides with BABYMONSTER's planned comeback schedule. Following the July 1 release of "HOT SAUCE," the group is set to continue its promotional activities throughout the summer, with additional releases planned for September and October.
BABYMONSTER's previous variety show experiences have proven quite successful, with their April 2024 debut on JTBC's "Knowing Bros" generating positive responses from viewers. The group's ability to showcase their personalities beyond their musical performances has become an important aspect of their promotional strategy.
The "Running Man" episode featuring Ahyeon, Asa, and Joo Hyun-young will be broadcast on SBS every Sunday at 6:10 PM KST. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how the two BABYMONSTER members will interact with the show's established cast and participate in the program's signature games and challenges.
