A race against fate to rewrite a tragic love story.
When we reflect on the past, the question “What if?” often haunts us. “What if I had chosen differently?” “What if that event had never occurred?” “What if I had known it was our last moment together?” These thoughts can bring sadness, for we know that returning to those moments is impossible.
This story explores such a possibility. “What if we could return to the past, fully aware of its significance?” It follows a girl who travels back in time to rediscover the precious moments of her life that had slipped her memory. Remember, even as a single second ticks by, the present quickly becomes the past. Cherish today—the most special moment—is when you are with your loved ones.
The Heart of the Story
“Lovely Runner,” based on the popular web novel “Tomorrow’s Best” by Kim Bbang, later adapted into a webtoon by Doong Doong, unfolds the life of Im Sol, a woman whose dreams are shattered by a tragic accident. Sol finds solace in the music and presence of Ryu Sun-jae, a top star whose own life mirrors the loneliness often hidden behind the glitter of stardom. When Sol learns of Sun-jae’s untimely death, her world crumbles—only to be given a miraculous chance to alter the fabric of time.
Transported 15 years back to 2008, Sol encounters a younger Sun-jae, then a dedicated high school swimmer unaware of his future fame—and his fate. Determined to change the course of events, Sol navigates the complexities of the past, aiming to save Sun-jae and perhaps, forge a new future for them both.
The Cast
Bringing this intricate story to life are Byeon Woo-seok as Ryu Sun-jae and Kim Hye-yoon as Im Sol. Woo-seok captures the dual essence of Sun-jae’s charisma and underlying struggles, while Hye-yoon embodies Sol’s resilience and warmth, making her character’s journey both believable and deeply relatable. They are joined by a talented supporting cast, including Song Geon-hee and Lee Seung-hyub, who add depth and richness to the narrative tapestry.
Themes and Direction
Directed by Yoon Jong-ho, known for his work on “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God,” “Lovely Runner” blends elements of romantic comedy, fantasy, and drama to explore themes of redemption, the impact of fame, and the power of human connection. The drama’s time-slip element is not just a plot device but a profound medium to discuss the what-ifs of life, the choices that define us, and the relentless quest for meaning and happiness.
Why Watch “Lovely Runner”?
“Lovely Runner” offers more than just a temporal escape; it provides a heart-stirring look at how love can transcend time. The chemistry between the leads, coupled with a well-crafted script and compelling direction, makes this series a must-watch for fans of K-dramas and new viewers alike.
The series aired on tvN and is available for streaming on various platforms like TVING, U-Next, Vidio, Viki, Viu, and Netflix in selected regions, making it accessible to a global audience eager to dive into its enchanting story.
Conclusion
As “Lovely Runner” weaves its narrative spell, viewers are invited to reflect on their own life choices and the ripple effects they create across time. It’s a series that combines the thrill of fantasy with the emotional depth of real-life challenges, promising to be a memorable addition to the landscape of Korean dramas.
Sign up for a free membership on Viu and stream “Lovely Runner” for free, along with a plethora of other captivating Korean dramas. Dive into a world where the past holds the key to the future, and a second chance at saving a loved one is just a play button away!
