Looking for a way to spice up your next gathering? Inspired by the popular Korean variety show, these Running Man games bring endless laughter, competition, and camaraderie to any event. Dive into this guide to explore some of the best Korean games from the show, complete with tips for setup, adaptable play options, and adjustments for any group size.
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What Are Running Man Games?
Running Man is a wildly popular Korean variety show where contestants play hilarious, heart-pumping games that push them to outsmart, outrun, and outwit each other. The show’s unique blend of teamwork, rivalry, and unpredictable punishments has inspired countless party and team-building games worldwide.
Running Man games are great for any setting, whether you’re planning an icebreaker activity, a large group event, or a relaxed family day. Let’s explore how these games work—and how you can bring the excitement to your gathering!
Top 5 Running Man Games for Any Event
Name Tag Elimination
Game Rules
Name Tag Elimination is one of the most iconic games from Running Man, combining stealth, speed, and strategy. Each player wears a name tag on their back, with the goal of removing opponents’ tags without getting theirs pulled off. The game typically requires self-adhesive name tags and enough space for players to move freely.
Setup Tips
This game is versatile and can be adapted for both indoor and outdoor settings. For indoor play, use a spacious room or a gym to allow plenty of running space. If outdoors, set boundaries to prevent players from wandering too far, and ensure the ground is safe for running. Larger spaces add excitement, as players can strategize and find hiding spots!
Adaptation Ideas:
For small groups, play in individual mode where everyone competes against each other. For larger groups, form teams with one “protected” player per team whose name tag must be defended. You can also add timed rounds to create a sense of urgency, or vary the rules by allowing players to regain tags if they complete a challenge or successfully tag someone else.
Zombie Game
Game Rules
Welcome to the Zombieland! The Zombie Game is a thrilling, high-energy game where a few players start as “zombies” and chase the others to turn them into zombies. Once tagged, the player joins the zombie team and helps chase down the remaining players. The game continues until only one player remains uninfected, crowning them the winner.
Funny Punishments and Twists
Adding funny punishments can make the game even more memorable. For instance, players who get turned into zombies could have to shuffle around like classic horror zombies or make funny noises. To add suspense, have “zombies” wear silly hats or glow-in-the-dark accessories in low-light settings.
Safety Tips
Since this game involves a lot of running and chasing, it’s best played outdoors or in a large gym. Set clear boundaries to prevent accidents and, if younger players are involved, establish a “safe zone” where they can rest or take a break. For nighttime play, consider glow sticks to improve visibility.
Paper Flick Duel
Game Rules
The Paper Flick Duel is a simple yet competitive game where players try to flick a folded paper toward each other, aiming to push it past their opponent’s edge on a table. The player who flicks the paper past their opponent’s side or off the edge wins the round.
Setup and Equipment
This game requires only folded pieces of paper and a flat table surface, making it a great low-cost, no-fuss option. To set up, sit two players across from each other, and have them place their paper on the table. Players take turns flicking the paper, trying to outmaneuver their opponent with each flick.
Variations for Group Play
For a large group, organize a paper flick tournament. Pair off players and let the winners of each match advance to the next round. Alternatively, split players into teams and hold rounds where each team member faces off against a player from the opposing team. This game is also a quick and fun icebreaker for those who may not know each other well.
Catch the Thief
Game Rules
Catch the Thief is a strategic game where one player is secretly designated as the “thief” and the others are “detectives” who must deduce who the thief is. The thief tries to avoid detection by blending in with the group while carrying out their objective (such as stealing or hiding an object).
Team Building Elements
This game requires careful observation and teamwork, making it ideal for team-building events. Players must communicate and share suspicions, creating an atmosphere of cooperation and friendly rivalry. Team members take turns guessing who the thief might be, helping them develop trust and camaraderie.
DIY Setup Ideas
No special equipment is needed to play Catch the Thief. A simple token like a handkerchief, button, or coin can serve as the “stolen” item. Add some playful suspense by dimming the lights or adding background music to increase the mystery. For a larger group, consider multiple rounds with rotating thieves to keep the game dynamic.
Obstacle Course Challenges
Game Rules
Inspired by the action-packed challenges from Running Man, Obstacle Course Challenges involve setting up a series of physical activities that participants must complete. The course might include hurdles, balance beams, crawling sections, or jumping exercises. The goal is for each player (or team) to complete the course as quickly as possible.
Team Play Variations
This game can be adapted for team competition, with teams racing to complete the course in the shortest time. In team versions, players can either run the course together or divide the obstacles among teammates. Each teammate completes a section before tagging the next, creating a relay race.
Space and Material Tips
For outdoor events, use natural features like trees or park benches for obstacles, or set up cones and ropes. Indoors, chairs, mats, or tape lines can create an engaging setup with minimal equipment. To add more fun, consider using themed obstacles, like a “lava floor” section where players have to hop between “safe” islands, adding a playful twist.
Running Man Games for Different Occasions
Whether it’s a family gathering, team-building event, or outdoor party, Running Man games bring the perfect mix of fun, competition, and laughter. Discover the best Running Man games for your group and make any event unforgettable!
Family-Friendly Running Man Games
If you’re planning a family event, look no further than these Running Man games that keep the fun lighthearted and suitable for all ages:
- Bingo Challenge: This game puts a twist on classic bingo. Each player receives a bingo card with different physical or mental challenges in each box (e.g., “Do a silly dance” or “Name a fruit in 5 seconds”). The first to complete a line wins!
- Balloon Pop Race: This game adds a fun competitive element as players work to pop balloons with their body, without using hands. Set up a course where players must reach balloons, pop them, and then proceed to the next in line.
- Sponge Relay: Perfect for outdoor summer fun, each team must pass a soaked sponge down the line, with the goal of transferring as much water as possible from a bucket at the start to an empty bucket at the end.
These games are adaptable for younger participants and bring the classic Running Man silliness to your family event.
Best Running Man Games for Team Building
Running Man games are known for creating bonds through teamwork and shared challenges, making them perfect for corporate or group team-building sessions:
- Trust Fall Challenge: Divide players into pairs for a trust fall activity, but add Running Man’s humorous twist by having one “catcher” try to distract the “faller” (gently!) before catching them. This game reinforces trust in a fun way.
- Spy Hunt: In this game, one person is the “spy” with a secret objective. Other team members must work together to figure out who the spy is through clues and strategic teamwork. This game encourages observation and communication.
- Human Knot: Players stand in a circle, grab hands with people across from them, and try to untangle themselves without letting go of each other’s hands. This game is great for team-building as it requires patience, communication, and problem-solving.
These games not only help break the ice but also create a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can enjoy working as a team.
Running Man Games for Icebreakers
Quick and lively, these Running Man games are perfect for starting any event on a high note and getting people to relax and engage:
- Balloon Challenge: Give each participant a balloon and set a rule: they must keep the balloon in the air at all times! If a balloon falls, the player is temporarily “out” until a mini-challenge is completed. This game is a great way to get people moving and laughing.
- Speed Sketch: Players draw random prompts on a whiteboard or paper within a time limit. The faster the rounds, the funnier the sketches and guesses get! This simple game lightens the mood and sparks conversation.
- Whisper Relay: A classic icebreaker, one player starts with a funny sentence whispered to the next player, who passes it along. By the end of the line, the sentence is often completely different—guaranteed laughs!
These games are easy to set up, quick to play, and perfect for easing people into a social setting.
Running Man Games for Large Groups
For events with many participants, try these Running Man games that can be scaled up for bigger crowds, ensuring everyone is involved:
- The Tearing Flag Game: Similar to “Capture the Flag,” each team has a flag that they must defend while attempting to capture the other team’s flag. This game is ideal for large groups as it encourages coordination and teamwork.
- Giant Tug-of-War: This simple game divides players into two teams who compete in a tug-of-war match, trying to pull the rope over to their side. For extra fun, add markers on the ground as “goals” for each team to reach.
- Relay Obstacle Course: Set up an obstacle course with stations for activities like crawling, hopping, and balance challenges. In large groups, each team member completes part of the course, passing the “baton” to the next teammate.
These games add excitement and keep everyone actively participating in a lively group setting.
Outdoor-Friendly Running Man Games
Outdoor spaces allow for larger, more physically active Running Man games that are sure to bring out everyone’s competitive spirit:
- Running and Jumping Challenges: Set up a series of cones or markers that participants must run around or jump over. Add challenges at each station, such as “hop on one foot” or “do 10 jumping jacks,” to keep things interesting.
- Water Balloon Dodge: A perfect game for summer, this dodgeball-style game uses water balloons instead of balls. Players attempt to avoid getting hit, and the last one standing wins!
- Scavenger Hunt Challenge: Divide players into teams and give them a list of items or clues to find around the outdoor space. The first team to complete the list wins, making this game fun for those who enjoy exploration and problem-solving.
With these games, you can make the most of an outdoor setting and encourage everyone to get moving.
Running Man Games Without Tools
Sometimes, the best games require no tools at all. Here are a few Running Man favorites you can play without any props:
- Freeze Tag: One player is “it” and chases the others, who must freeze when tagged. To unfreeze, another player must touch the frozen player. It’s a simple yet thrilling game that works well without any equipment.
- Follow the Leader: One player is chosen as the “leader,” and everyone else must mimic their actions. Add funny moves or change leaders every few minutes to keep everyone laughing.
- Red Light, Green Light: Another game requiring no tools, players move only when the leader says “green light” and must stop immediately when “red light” is called. This game adds suspense and is perfect for groups of any size.
These games are easy to explain, require zero setup, and bring instant fun to any gathering, no tools required!
If you’re ready to transform your next gathering with laughter, excitement, and a dash of Running Man drama, try these games! With options for large groups, outdoor spaces, and icebreaker moments, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So gather your friends, set up your “game show,” and let the good times roll—Running Man style!