Super Junior‘s Shindong recently appeared on MBC‘s variety program Radio Star on September 3, 2025, and shared a disappointing experience he has faced multiple times in his career. He revealed that he was removed from two television shows without any prior notice from the production teams. Instead, he found out about both situations through online news articles.
Shindong has been a familiar face in the entertainment industry for years, both as a member of the popular group Super Junior and as a regular on various variety programs. His recent candid discussion on Radio Star highlighted a side of the industry that often remains behind the scenes.
How Shindong Learned About His Removal from Great Escape
During the show, the hosts brought up how Shindong was unable to continue as an original member of the program Great Escape. This led to an emotional moment where Shindong explained that this was not an isolated incident. He pointed out that a similar situation had happened to him with Radio Star itself.
Shindong shared, โI was removed from Radio Star and Great Escapeโno one told me that I was being cut. I found out through news articles both times.โ He mentioned that the most recent case involved Great Escape: The Story, a revival of the show that originally aired five years ago. The new season features a changed lineup, including new members Baekhyun, Yeo Jin Goo, and Go Kyung Pyo, while Shindong and other original cast members were not invited back.
Earlier Incident with Radio Star
Shindong also recounted a past incident involving his departure from Radio Star. He discovered he was being replaced after coming across a news article with the headline, โKim Guk Jin will replace Shindong.โ This memory has stayed with him, especially since it has happened more than once.
โI found out from an article titled, โShindong replaced by Kim Guk Jin.โ I canโt forget it because it keeps happening,โ he explained. Shindong was one of the original members of Radio Star, but his time on the show was affected by competition from other programs, which limited his screen time.
Mixed Reactions from Netizens
After the episode aired, netizens had mixed reactions to Shindongโs revelations. Some expressed sympathy for him, understanding how hurtful it can be to learn about such changes through the media. Others pointed out that cast changes are common in the broadcasting industry and production teams are not always expected to inform every outgoing member personally.
One netizen commented, โThey are making a new series with just the IP, so is it really necessary for them to let him know that heโs not a part of the show? Even letting him know sounds funny.โ Another added, โI think the production team changedโฆdo they have to contact him? I mean, I understand that heโs disappointed, butโฆโ However, many fans and supporters felt that better communication and respect for artists should be a standard practice.
Background on Shindongโs Variety Show Journey
Shindong has been a part of the entertainment industry for over two decades, debuting with Super Junior in 2005. His variety show involvement includes being an original cast member of both Radio Star and Great Escape. His recent appearance on Radio Star was part of a special episode featuring guests like Seo Jang Hoon, Shin Gi Ru, and Na Sun Wook.
Earlier this year, in February 2025, Shindong had also mentioned on JTBCโs Knowing Bros that he did not receive a call to join the new season of Great Escape. He clarified at the time, โI never got a call. I found out from the news. I didnโt reject themโthey rejected me.โ
Industry Practices and Emotional Impact
Shindongโs experience opens up a broader discussion about how cast changes are handled in the entertainment industry. While such changes are not unusual, the way they are communicatedโor not communicatedโcan significantly impact the artists involved. Shindongโs heartfelt confession resonates with many entertainers who may have faced similar situations but remain silent about them.
His story reminds us that behind the glamour of television shows, there are human emotions and professional courtesies that matter. Shindongโs willingness to speak up on a public platform like Radio Star has sparked conversations among fans and industry watchers about the importance of transparency and respect in professional relationships.
Also Read: Super Juniorโs Shindong Reveals Regret as Dating News Takes Backseat to IU-Lee Jong Suk Romance
