Lovely Runner is the latest hit to capture viewers’ imaginations. This new Monday-Tuesday drama from tvN, which premiered on the 8th, follows the story of Lim Sol (Kim Hye Yoon), a fan who, in a moment of despair over the sudden death of the favorite star Ryu Seon Jae (Byeon Woo Seok) who once saved her life, travels back in time to save her bias. The series is based on the popular web novel The Best of Tomorrow by Kim Bbang.
The series has not only garnered attention for its faithful adaptation and the casting of Kim Hye Yoon and Byeon Woo Seok but also for enhancing its storytelling with a nostalgic journey back to 2008. The premiere episode featured cameos by K-pop icons from Girls’ Generation Yuri, Kara’s Han Seung Yeon, and even Olympic gold medalist Park Tae Hwan.
선업튀 최애 우산씬을 고르시오. pic.twitter.com/n2GkyFEznC
— tvN drama (@CJnDrama) April 12, 2024
Adding to the charm, the show featured hit songs like “Umbrella” by Younha, along with references to Cyworld, the social media platform that dominated that era in Korea, evoking nostalgia among viewers in their 30s and 40s, and providing a fresh twist for Gen Z viewers.
However, what truly catapulted the engagement with Lovely Runner was the narrative twist revealed at the end of episode two. Until then, the show’s romance had been primarily driven by Lim Sol’s unidirectional pursuit. But the closing moments of the second episode unveiled that Seon Jae had been smitten with Lim Sol’s radiant smile ever since he moved into the house across from hers and had secretly harbored feelings for her ever since. This revelation of mutual affection transforms their dynamic into a heartfelt romance, raising anticipation for how their tender yet clumsy love will unfold.
입꼬리 내려와 니 썸 아니야😚
알고 보니 솔이보다 더 오래된 선재의 마음..(이마짚)그럼 이제 서로 쌍방인 건가 |ૂ•ᴗ•⸝⸝)”♥
[월화] 저녁 8:50 | tvN#선재업고튀어 #LovelyRunner pic.twitter.com/W7o46LKmF8— tvN drama (@CJnDrama) April 11, 2024
While the initial viewer ratings stood at 3.1% (according to Nielsen Korea), the growing buzz on social networks and online drama communities suggests that Lovely Runner could be on its way to becoming the network’s next hit, potentially following in the successful footsteps of Marry My Husband.
>> ‘Lovely Runner’ Kim Hye Yoon Carries Byeon Woo Seok on Her Back
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