Sunday Variety Shows Ratings Review: “1 Night, 2 Days” and “Running Man” Rise in Viewership.

“1 Night, 2 Days” showed a rise in viewership ratings this past weekend, perhaps signaling the end to the “Kang Ho Dong Shock.” “Running Man” also received much love for its Beijing Special.

The latest broadcast of “1 Night, 2 Days” was the final episode of the “Viewer’s Tour Part 3.” It produced nationwide rating of 17.4% (AGB Nielsen Media Research), which was as 1.5% rise from the previous week’s of 15.9%.

The episode showcased the special stages that “1 Night, 2 Days” cast had prepared for their viewers, featuring a duet by Lee Seung Gi and Sung Si Kyung, and a special surprise appearance by the idol group, BEAST.

The guests of “Running Man” were actor Kim Joo Hyuk, actress Lee Yeon Hee, and Kara’s Ji Young, who came in place of Song Ji Hyo. Audiences were treated to the spectacular sight of a race through Beijing, China and along the Great Wall. You could also see  many Chinese fans follow the cast members with signs and cameras, affirming “Running Man’s” popularity abroad.

“Running Man” recorded a 16.2% viewership rating, placing first in its time slot. It was a rise of nearly 3% from the previous week’s. Its competition, “A Man’s Privilege,” recorded 12.5%.

“1 Night, 2 Days” also placed first in its own time slot, against the competition “I Am A Singer,” which recorded 13.2% ratings. It was a 2.4% ratings rise for “I Am A Singer,” which featured the newly added musician, Kim Kyung Ho.

The episode of “1 Night, 2 Days” drew attention as it might last episode featuring Kang Ho Dong. It is unsure as of yet whether Kang Ho Dong will come out to record a “farewell” episode for the variety show.