'Descendants of the Sun 2' release date news: Drama shifting its focus as Song Joong Ki and Song Hye Kyo not returning?

Filming for "Descendants of the Sun 2" is reportedly underway, but lead actor Song Joong Ki is also reportedly working on another project.

The heartthrob is expected to replace Gary Kang from the hit SBS variety show "Running Man," where they both got a start in their respective careers.

Moving forward, Kang will no longer be part of "Running Man" to focus on his music career. A representative of SBS stated via Jakarta Post that his final appearance was yesterday, Oct. 31.

"We appreciate his dedication to the program since it started from scratch," the rep continued. However, contrary to the rumors, the show will not seek a replacement.

This suggests that the "Descendants of the Sun" actor might not return after all. Like Kang, Song Joong Ki was part of the show from the beginning up until he performed military service.

With regards to his stint in "Descendants of the Sun 2," there are conflicting reports about the romance drama's comeback to the small screen.

There are rumors that Song Joong Ki and Song Hye Kyo are not looking to return to "Descendants of the Sun 2" and that the secondary characters will take the spotlight.

This means that Seo Dae-Young (Jin Goo) and Yoon Myung-Joo (Kim Ji Won) could be the focus of the new season of the Korean drama. The former has already expressed his interest in returning to "Descendants of the Sun 2."

Interestingly, Song Joong Ki and Song Hye Kyo reportedly decided against reprising their roles. The former is said to be busy with filming "Battleship Island."

This means that even if he will be in "Descendants of the Sun 2," a rumored 2017 premiere for the show, will be unlikely. For Song Hye Kyo's part, the actress is believed to be on a hiatus at the moment.