Lovely Runner (2024)

Tomorrow's Best

Lovely Runner is based on a web novel titled Tomorrow's Best. I personally read the manhwa while the series is on-going I can see that they made some drastic changes from the story. The manhwa is less complicated compared to the series, but I like the changes they made on the story it actually adds up to the uniqueness of the drama. What I really love about Lovely Runner is that it never fails to make me laugh every single time. I like the balance of the show's theme it's a combination of comedy, romance, thriller, mystery and drama.

Aside from this the cast did so well that their acting felt so natural, all of them deserves to be recognised for their versatility and they played an integral part on the story. The villain did his job so well that I almost wanted to be included on the story just to choke this guy. I would also like to point out how I love Baek In Hyuk's character, he's the best wing man ever. Ryu Sun Jae would've been a forever simp without the help of this guy. I am looking forward to Lee Seung Hyub's future drama where he'll be the leading man, I bet he's gonna be a great male lead since he already showed his exceptional talent in Lovely Runner.

Kim Tae Sung's character is also my favorite from this drama, his character development is the most noticeable among them all. He unknowingly fulfilled his promise to Im Sol that he'll protect Sun Jae in the future. It's just kinda sad that we didn't get to see a glimpse of his back story.

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Yes, it is overhyped...

Let's start with the worst: The Story
Once you truly reflect about this drama, then you will be aware, that the story is lacking. Neither time travel nor the motive of the villain is truly explained. For the villain, they just could have added one scene as an explanation. And the whole time travelling left us with thousands of questions. We don't even know how this whole world works, where the story is happening. But also Sol as a 30+ years old travelling back to a highschoolers body, didn't behave the way one would....

But aside from the story, everything else is perfect (or at least for me). All the actors did a wonderful job, making "boring" characters lovable and charming! Especially FL & ML portrayed the emotions so well, one could feel all the pain and heartache! Their chemistry was great!
The music was phenomenous! While "Sonaki" is a very beautiful love letter, "Spring Snow" sums up the whole drama wonderfully. "Like a dream" is also one of my favourites!

Would I rewatch it? Absolutely! It is sooooooo hilarious! And the romance is very good, got me grinning and kicking like Minmin!

So, why is it overhyped? For a romcom, it's a great series! Fun, lovable and rewatchable with great acting and music. However, for a series, it is lacking (as previously mentioned). So, the more you look into reasoms and try to analyse it, the more you will realize how imperfect this series is. Imo it was a great choice to neglect the background of the whole time travalling, instead of coming up with a not good enough explanation, that would have ruined the whole vibe.

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Never Have I Ever Imagine A Parasocial Relationship with My Idol

On the contrary by public prediction, I only cried once at the first episode because it reminds me so much about the moment we lost our dearest Jonghyun, RIP, we miss you so much...

But boy do I giggled and slouching down at my seat in the office because I was...FLABBERGASTED? SHOOKED? for the rest of the show? HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!

You really cannot hate Im Sol (though I feel like she fainted too much and does questionable choices) her selflessness and her natural adorableness will make you fall in love, as quickly as Ryu Sunjae does probably. While Ryu Sunjae is potrayed as a cool and very unbothered king at first, once we figured he is a big fat loser it is hard not wanting to protect him at all cost (yes, he is 6 feet tall, what about it!)

Told about the Idol!Sunjae and Fan!Sol who met after a concert before a tragedy where Sunjae passed away falling down from his apartment. Sol wishes she can protect him from harm before finally traveling in time back to realize that they were both in the same timeline of life as classmates and Sol needs to convince the stranger Sunjae that in his future he has some kind of choices to avoid his death.

NO but when they traveled back in time and turns out to be classmates I was...prolifically GIGGLING, because never have I ever written me as a fan and my idol together in the parallel universe as someone who shares the same timeline with me like THAT! Though the context is very different, to imagine that Sol was very starstrucked to realize that her idol actually only her neighbour next door to see him just as Sunjae, the guy she likes has hit me like a freaking ROCK ON MY TOES. I adore the slow revelations at epilogue how we found out that Sunjae has his own history of feelings towards Sol and the first plot we have is actually not one-sided? At how Sol can possibly has different future because his feelings towards Taesung is also always reciprocated too in each timeline? WHOA, I AM.

What is lacking though is how time-travelling system is exclusive only to Sol that we as an audience is carried at Sol's perpective only and have limited creativity about how we wish or re-write different plot of the scenes. And, what vexed me too is the villain character who wants to harm Sol. It is unknown his motives so it seems really a nuisance to figure out how he still chases Sol and Sunjae through his adulthood too. If we are left with a motives or interlinked with their relationship, it probably makes even more sense that Sol and Sunjae will travel in time to fix that too.

While the story is focusing on how Sol and Sunjae starting different role of relationship in different timeline and roles, my liking to this story is that it also digs the matter of friendship and family. Not that just by time traveling we can see different choices of how they build friendships, it is also shows how Sol wishes to treat her mother and brother results to many kinder outputs and to Sunjae to understand his father a little bit more. The warmth this drama cooks is so comforting. The comedy of the friendships shared between Hyunju and Inhyuk with them is also laugh-worthy.

In my opinion, as a picky romance eater, I take a good small bites of this drama and ended up finishing a jar. It is a drama worth to watch by the end of the day. Without further more looking to analyze the drama though, I can enjoy most of the bits where they only stare at each other while I stare back at the wall in front of me wishing this happened to me instead (no, I don't want the nuisances Sol has ever occurred but...save me..180cm tall man...loser man....down bad for me first encounter man...)

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My kdrama comeback

-Before watching this kdrama i was on a kdrama break for some reason i couldn't find anything interesting until i gave lovely runner a chance
- the story : the story is very creative it's not just a regular time traveling kdrama also it's not easy to expect what's going to happen next which really made me interested more
-the cast : the cast is incredibly suitable for their roles the casting is out of this world and the biggest evidence is how the main lead got incredibly popular after the show even though they weren't as popular before
- music : i mean who didn't listen the songs in the kdrama they were beautiful specifically the one that sungjae wrote for seoul
- rewatch value: i would definitely rewatch this everytime i feel like there's nothing interesting

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that chemistry...

Sometimes it happens to find a gem: this show is one. Just finished after a 20hours marathon to watch it in one shot, because after the first episode I just could not stop watching it. Literally. I waited for the last episode to be published on May 28 and I made a good choice. I was fully involved, and felt a lot of emotions, from amusement to sadness, from laughs to sobs. Great story. Great cast. Nice plot. Nice direction.
The two leads were simply adorable. I didn't know a lot Kim Hye Yoon. And she was a nice surprise to me: charismatic, talented, expressive, fascinating and what's about her stunning smile? While I had already chances to appreciate Ryu Seon Jae, who's not just a tall giant, but he's able to show charisma and scenic presence, from the comic till the dramatic scenes. But what I liked a lot was the chemistry between them: simply unbelievable, intense, moving, sparkling. Time has passed since the last time I found something similar. And I can even say when: watching Crash Landing on You and those Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin (who were also mentioned at a certain point). I guess that who wrote that there is not chemistry, well: he/she apparently watched something else.
I liked the plot and how the stories were presented, the personalities of each character, and also the way the other lead and support roles were developed, which often are overlooked. And among them I appreciated a lot the figure of Kim Tae Sung and the loyal relationship he shares with the leads.
Actually the structure of the story do not bring anything very new: this is not the first show seeing the leads wrappend around a story, which happens along an extended timeframe and enriched by fantasy elements. But who developed the plot did a very nice work in making it so intense keeping the spectator literally glued to the screen.
Well done!!

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In the track of my heart, you are the only runner.

Lovely Runner it's undoubtedly one of the best dramas of 2024.

It has all the elements that make a drama a mega hit: comedy, romance, time travel, well written characters (both leads and supporting ones) and an engaging plot line that never bores you. Starring Kim Hye Yoon and Byeon Woo Seok, adapted from the web novel The Best of Tomorrow by screenwriter Lee Shi Eun and directed by Yoon Jong Ho and Kim Tae Yub, the Lovely Runner team achieved a perfect execution in front and behind the scenes.

I think the true star of this drama it's the writing and on this I can't commend Lee Si Eun enough. I had already seen her potential in dramas like True Beauty but here she really manages to shine through a well crafted, smart and cohesive story with no loose ends. I'm incredibly impressed by her talent.

The writing was perfectly complemented by the directors's outstanding work in leading a film crew that was on every detail of each part of the story, in each timeline, never missing a beat. Always delivering their A+++ game. But there was also great work done from the directors part in helping the actors get the comedic timing exactly right, the more emotional scenes to deliver and the team work among cast and crew to be flawless.

This might be a big hit now, but it's actually a sleeper hit because the lack of promotion this drama had was embarrassing to watch and if it wasn't for the devoted fans, studio executives would have never realized they had a gem in their hands. So, Lovely Runner it's not only a great drama with a super fandom that really fought for this story, it's also becoming yet another prime example in the list of films and tv that achieved all of it by themselves because artists delivered nothing short of excellence.

On this point I can't ignore the incredible performances given by the entire cast. Kim Hye Yoon and Byeon Woo Seok are definitely the standouts, they stole the show, this is their story and the actors chemistry it's electrifying. But the way supportive actors would show up in a scene and push the story forward in a coherent way and even make it better, it's wild to me. The chemistry this cast had it's a rare feat for an ensamble cast and how they managed to transition seamlessly through different phases of their characters's lives and relationships when events, in each timeline, were changing because of the things our leads did they still remain truthful. So, not only the leads are well developed in this drama but also every single character that shows up, no matter how small the role is.

The best example of this it's actor Heo Hyeong-Gyu who has been working for sixteen years, playing very minor characters, finally having a breakthrough in the industry because of his role in this drama. And while his presence was prominent and important to the story, he barely had lines. So his entire performance is mainly based on micro-expressions or physical stunts.

I also fully expect the actors like Song Geon-Hee, Lee Seung-Hyub, Song Ji-Ho or Seo Hye-won to receive a lot of what korean entertainment industry calls "love calls" aka commercials, dramas and films, among other things.

Experiencing watching Lovely Runner alongside the fandom, waiting every week for a new episode, it's a big part of what made this drama so good. Healthy and good loving fun people, clowning, poking fun at our faves and crying at heartbreak. It's been a long time since I have been able to engage in this way with other fans and I am thankful for them, the cast and crew for all these amazing weeks of fun.

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Romance and comedy

Lately, the recent wave of Kdramas left me feeling a bit underwhelmed, but this particular drama managed to capture my attention in a way that others haven't. It truly hit the mark for me. I found myself drawn into the storyline, enjoying every moment of the captivating romance unfolding between the main leads. The chemistry between the male lead (ML) and female lead (FL) was simply enchanting, tugging at my heartstrings and leaving me eagerly anticipating their every interaction. Even the second male lead (2ML) added an extra layer of charm to the drama.

What stood out the most for me was the perfect balance struck between humor and romance. While some recent releases may have veered too far into melodrama or relied on tired clichés, this series managed to keep things fresh and engaging. The genuine moments of laughter and heartfelt connection between the characters brought a sense of authenticity to the story, making it easy for viewers to get invested in their journey.

The dynamic between the ML and FL was a true highlight of the series. Their on-screen chemistry was palpable, radiating a genuine warmth and affection that made their relationship feel incredibly relatable and endearing. From their sweetest moments to their playful banter, every scene they shared was filled with undeniable passion and emotion. It was impossible not to root for them ❤️

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A heart-warming yet heart-wrenching series

I waited for this one to end airing so that I could make myself a marathon and it was so good!

Let me tell you, I really love my fluffy romances and looking at the poster I never thought how many tears I'd shed because of the story. I had some moments where I could relate from my personal life too, even conversations that I've had, and that hit home too hard at times тт.тт

ML and FL had a good chemistry and personally I think they re-enacted the characters exactly how they were supposed to be. Side characters were also interesting and fun to watch! From acting stand point, I think it is very decent. I first watched Byeong Woo Seok in Record or Youth and I'm glad to see how much he improved ~

Тime travel is not a new concept, however they made it so interesting here and the story felt quite refreshing as well. The series were shot so well and aesthetic, such an eye-pleaser! The music too, one of the best OSTs of the year for sure ~

I definitely recommend to people searching for youth, first love, wanting to fix regrets from the past, and a little suspence but also happy ending for their next watch.

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An addictive, super-romantic drama with a superb OTP

There is a lot of hype for this show. As a romantic comedy/drama this show hits out of the park and deserves that hype. It's addicting, fun, hilarious, melodramatic, romantic, and has writing that if inconsistent still attempts to be somewhat thought-provoking and character-driven. And the main pairing is one for drama history.

If you're expecting anything other than that, this will fall very flat for you.

Watch this immediately if you are looking for:
- Painfully dreamy ML
- Heart-fluttering romance, high chemistry, sweet and touching love story
- Humor, fun, something to binge/be addicted to

Skip this or save it for a slump if prefer stories that have:
- Plots that are super coherent/tight
- Engrossing/realistic character arcs
- Though-provoking explorations of ideas/ themes

Here are the elements broken down:

SUPERB----

MALE LEAD: The absolute highlight of this show. Sun Jae is the ultimate "lovable loser." On the outside he pretends to be cool, logical, and independent, but on the inside he is a clingy, cringy, dork. He will steal your entire heart. Played pitch perfectly by Byeon Woo Seok.

SECOND MALE LEAD: Tae Sung re-invents the definition of second male lead syndrome. In any other drama I would have been rooting for him over the ML. I expect to see Song Geon-lee leading a drama soon, he stood out in every single scene he was in.

ROMANCE/CHEMISTRY: The main couple oozed chemistry out of every pore. The longing looks, the cute interactions, the sexual tension. Your heart will flutter, then it will break. you'll scream, you'll cry, you'll jump for joy and throw things at the screen for them.

BROMANCE: The ML with is various homies (including Tae Sung) had such natural, fun chemistry. Just as engaging as the main couple romance. I loved every scene he had with his bros.

HUMOR: 10/10: I laughed out loud more times than I can count. The writer put them all in such ridiculous situations, played by a cast of actors who all had fantastic comedic timing. So many memorably funny moments.

MUSIC: The sountrack is top notch, including the songs sung from the band in the show.

GOOD---

FEMALE LEAD: For most of the drama she is funny, quirky, cute, fiesty and compassionate. But there are a few eps where she is so frustratingly stubborn and clueless in service of a poorly executed plotline that I came to dislike her for a while. I adore the actress on the whole and think she captures the soul of Im Sol well, she has to cry almost every episodes and cries so convincingly and with such heart. But there were times when she pulled the same facial expression over and over (she had a very overused wide-eyed look of clueless surprise quite often, for example).

MEH---

SIDE CHARACTERS/PLOTS: There were some funny moments involving the MCs families, but for the most part they had nothing to do with the main plot and seemed like filler, I had no real connection to any of the family. I started fast-forwarding through most of them by the end. The acting was serviceable but none of them stood out especially.

CHARACTER ARCS: While they went through a lot, I didn't see that the characters actually grew or changed much in any particular way. 2ML had a small arc, but it was glossed over and he was not used as much as he could have been. The characters have the same exact personalities and tendencies in the beginning as in the end, although there were many touching moments of realization and character moments throughout. Just no strong overall arcs.

MIXED---

PLOT
- EPS 1-8 (9/10) - The first 8 eps are full of intriguing twists and turns and raise a host of questions about the meaning of memory and fate.
- EPS 9-13 (5/10) - The middle episodes are dominated by an unnecessary and repetitive almost wholly unrelated crime storyline that drags and makes the characters act in uncharacteristic and frustrating ways. There are some cute and funny moments, but the romantic plotline became fluffy filler and the story completely loses its thematic center and meanders sloppily along.
- EPS 14-16 (7/10) - The story finds its footing again towards the end, but never really pays off the questions or ideas raised in the theme at the beginning of the show, even if it does somewhat try and close that loop. The romance tension fires back up at this point as well, and the ending is satisfying if nothing spectacular.

100% worth a watch if romantic comedies are your jam.

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A romcom that everyone needs to watch!

I just wanna say how much I LOVE this drama!!!

It was the perfect romcom drama to watch if you don’t want heavy plot twist and all that. I honestly watched this with another on going drama (iykyk) but I dropped the other one because I am not liking the direction it was going.

I didn’t have high expectations for this. I just decided to watch this since I was intrigued with the synopsis, being a kpop fan myself. It was a great decision to try it out because I was hooked just from the first episode. (And ofc, I had to mention the ending of 2nd ep!)

It was well written and the production and direction of this drama was sooo good. The comedy parts are really comedy, in addition to the sound effects they added that makes the scenes more funny. 😂

Sunjae (my fav character) is such a green flag. Imagine loving someone for YEARS and being so faithful, even if you are not remembered and known by that someone? (the first timeline). And in all of the timelines, where he’s just down bad no matter what. Now everyone wants their own sunjae 🥹

The OST was such a treat to the ears as well! They chose the songs that would fit the scenes perfectly. At first I thought the songs of the band (eclipse) was recorded by others, but it turned out that it was recorded by the actors themselves! ☺️

The only thing that stops me from giving it a 10 was because it wasn’t totally clear how halmeoni was able to know about the watch and time travel??? Like if she was the reason, how was she able to have such privilege? Other than that, I can just ignore the obsession of the taxi driver because I want to believe that he’s just a psycho.


PS one of my fav scenes is the last scene of sunjae and halmeoni. It was so heartwarming 🥹❤️

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A must watch- Kdrama returns to true romcom with Lovely Runner

I loved this drama so much. I hadn't been inspired by most dramas coming out with the exception of Queen of Tears, but I felt that Lovely Runner surpassed it in many ways.

The storyline of Lovely Runner felt complete, the plot points weren't based on miscommunications like most dramas have. The comedy and humor was on point, large in part to the acting of Kim Hyeyoon and Byeon Wooseok, as well as the efforts of the whole ensemble cast. The ending was a breath of fresh air compared to other action-adjacent dramas which tend to leave defeating the villain to the very last second, while Lovely Runner was able to complete its own love story with time and care.

I felt the time travel was well executed and the different times helped explore Sol and Sunjae's love story and made it all the more devastating when Sol tries to save Sunjae. The mix between comedy, romance, sadness, compelling story telling, thrill, and action was able to be executed only by this cast, with special consideration to Kim Hyeyoon, who was likely the only actress who could have pulled off such stunning character work. Byeon Wooseok also deserves significant praise for his masterful portrayal of the different timelines of Sunjae, and his ability to reflect the nature of unrequited love in its many forms.

Lovely Runner was an incredible watch that I was happy to have completed in real time. I strongly urge those considering it to give Lovely Runner a watch as it is my favorite drama of the year. There is a nostalgia in watching Lovely Runner, both because of the literal time travel and because of the sense of returning to the days of classic romcoms that are so fun to watch. This drama represents an incredibly moving, fun, and wonderful story that I suggest everyone should see.

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