Lovely Runner is gaining global acclaim for its brilliantly crafted plot and exceptionally authentic chemistry. Every member of the cast shines with their performances, and every scene and every dialogue is executed with such finesse that each re-watch reveals something new.
The series, based on a popular web novel and penned by Lee Si Eun, the acclaimed writer of True Beauty, Lovely Runner, is a time-slip romance drama that poses the intriguing question: "What would you do if given the chance to save your ultimate bias?" Kim Hye Yoon takes the lead as Im Sol, a devoted fan shattered by the loss of her beloved star Ryu Sun Jae, portrayed by Byeon Woo Seok, who embarks on a journey through time to rescue him.
The series seamlessly blends nostalgia, romance, a murder subplot, and the emotional turmoil of time travel, transcending the typical tropes to become something truly extraordinary. Nearly every scene of the show has attained iconic status, sparking global trends. Let’s take a look at some of the most amazing scenes the show has gifted us.
Episode 2 ending: The one that changed it all
Undoubtedly, one of the most iconic moments in Lovely Runner occurs in episode 2. Throughout the first episode and much of the second, we see Im Sol's determined efforts to befriend Sun Jae, aiming to protect him and alter his destiny. However, Sun Jae remains cold towards her, puzzled by her sudden change in behavior. The episode concludes with a major twist that captivated viewers: revealing that Im Sol is Ryu Sun Jae's first love.
Im Sol's simple act of carrying an umbrella and flashing her radiant smile makes Ryu Sun Jae's fall for her instantly. Before Im Sol became Sun Jae’s devoted fan, the 19-year-old Sun Jae experienced love at first sight with her. Their initial encounter, depicted in episode 1, gains deeper meaning as Sun Jae remembers her as his first love while she recalls him merely as an idol she admires, illustrating the connection between them for 15 years. This contrast highlights how their paths intertwined unexpectedly, shaping their destinies.
Im Sol’s iconic birthday dance for Tae Sung
In our story, there are two versions of Sol: the 34-year-old Im Sol, who travels back in time to save Sun Jae, and the 19-year-old Sol, who is in love with Tae Sung. When Im Sol returns to the present right after Tae Sung's confession, the 19-year-old Sol resurfaces and accepts his confession, breaking Sun Jae's heart.
So, when the 34-year-old Sol makes it back, she realizes she's now in a relationship with Tae Sung. On his birthday, they go out to eat at a restaurant where the 19-year-old Sol had prepared an adorable yet embarrassing video of herself dancing and singing for Tae Sung, which quickly became iconic.