If you had to guess which Hallyu stars were as popular in China as Kim Soo Hyun, you might think Ji Chang Wook or Lee Min Ho. And while these stars do have millions of loyal fans in China, they might lose the competition to the "Running Man" stars Lee Kwang Soo and Kim Jong Kook.
According to Star News, the "Running Man" regulars are known in China as the "third generation of Hallyu Kings."
In November Kim Jong Kook was ranked the second most popular male Korean celebrity, according to the Chinese portal site Baidu. In January 2015 the popular Chinese website People's Daily Online conducted a poll to determine the "2014 Korean Most Influential Stars," and he landed in second place.
Their popularity is due in part to the international success of "Running Man." The variety show has been so popular in China that there's now a Chinese version, called "Hurry Up Brother." Originally also called "Running Man" the show had to change its name to comply with Chinese broadcasting rules.
Popular Chinese actors such as Deng Chao, Wang Bao Chang, Wang Chu Lan, Chun Ga, Lee Chun, Jung Kai and Angela Baby are regular cast members. Kim Jong Kook even made a guest appearance on "Hurry Up, Brother."
Lee Kwang Soo was already popular in China because of his "Running Man" appearances but he became even more popular after starring in the hit k-drama "It's Okay That's Love." He will appear on a Chinese dating program titled "If You Love." Other k-celebs who have appeared on the show include miss A's Fei and 2PM's Nickhun and Chansung. Lee Kwang Soo will be paired on the program with Chinese actress and supermodel Lee Hung. The program features three male and three female contestants to see which couple succeeds in finding love. And it's not the only Chinese television program that Lee Kwang Soo has received offers for. He's considering a few.
Kim Jong Kook, who is making his drama debut in the upcoming drama "Producers," has even received acting offers in China. According to Son Hyung Nam, the director of his agency Urban Works Entertainment, the singer and variety show regular recently received a casting offer for a Chinese film. And it's not a cameo role.
"We even got a request from China to cast Kim Jong Kook as the main character of a movie," said Son.
Lee Kwang Soo and Kim Jong Kook don't need the money. The "Running Man" celebrities reportedly receive between $45,000 and $90,000 for each show.
