Lovely Runner officially ended on Tuesday (28/5/2024). Despite facing initial rejections from various actors and low expectations for success, this drama has captured the hearts of Korean drama fans worldwide. Although its television ratings were not the highest, Lovely Runner achieved the number one spot in various countries.
This drama, which is adapted from a webtoon, presents a love story filled with humor and emotion. It follows the tumultuous relationship of Ryu Sun Jae (Byeon Woo Seok) and Im Sol (Kim Hye Yoon). Their ups and downs resonate deeply with the audience, making us feel every twist and turn in their journey. Here are four love lessons we can learn from Sun Jae and Sol’s story in Lovely Runner.
1. Love Can Make Anyone Look Foolish
excerpt from the drama Lovely Runner (doc. tvN/Lovely Runner)
Sun Jae is initially portrayed as a singer idolized by Sol. However, it’s revealed that Sun Jae liked Sol first, even back in high school. His overwhelming crush often leads him to act foolishly. He frequently exhibits random, quirky behavior around Sol, especially when she gets close to Kim Tae Sung (Song Geon Hee), who is part of a band with Bae In Hyuk (Lee Seung Hyub).
Even in adulthood, Sun Jae’s silly antics continue. He smiles to himself, reminiscing about his times with Sol, and even dares to meet her publicly despite being warned to keep their relationship secret. Sol, equally smitten, often shows her own silly side when they are together. This endearing foolishness is a reminder that love can make us all act a little crazy.
2. Acceptance of Unreciprocated Feelings is Crucial
excerpt from the drama Lovely Runner (doc. tvN/Lovely Runner)
Tae Sung had a genuine affection for Sol, which she only saw as puppy love. He was heartbroken when she broke up with him, thinking their relationship was merely playful. Even as they grew older, Tae Sung knew Sol’s heart wasn’t his, but he never forced her to accept him. Instead, he continued to treat her kindly, valuing their friendship despite his unreciprocated feelings. This teaches us the importance of sincerity and acceptance when our feelings aren’t returned.
3. Sacrifices are Sometimes Necessary for Love
excerpt from the drama Lovely Runner (doc. tvN/Lovely Runner)
In the first episode, Sun Jae is shown attempting suicide. Sol, given the chance to time travel to 2008, decides to prevent this tragedy. She sacrifices a lot to keep Sun Jae alive, including going through multiple time travels and carrying the burden of their shared memories alone, as Sun Jae’s memories reset after each travel. To save him, she even decides to avoid him, keeping him safe from a grim fate.
On the other hand, Sun Jae makes significant sacrifices too. He hides his feelings for 15 years, thinking Sol despises him. He endures pain and even risks his life to protect her. His ultimate sacrifice, dying to save Sol from a kidnapper, underscores his deep love and commitment.
4. Communication is Key to Avoid Misunderstandings
excerpt from the drama Lovely Runner (doc. tvN/Lovely Runner)
One of the main challenges Sun Jae and Sol face is a lack of communication. Sol cannot reveal future events to Sun Jae, leaving him confused by her actions. Eventually, Sun Jae pieces together that Sol is from the future and understands the potential consequences of their relationship. He accepts this and asks Sol to stay with him regardless of the risks.
Sol, fearing for Sun Jae’s safety, initially rejects him, only expressing her true feelings after learning he hasn’t forgotten her in 15 years. This highlights the vital role of communication in preventing misunderstandings and building a strong relationship.
Final Thoughts
Lovely Runner beautifully illustrates the complexities of love and the sacrifices it often demands. Sun Jae and Sol’s journey teaches us that love can make us act foolishly, that we must accept unreciprocated feelings, make significant sacrifices, and communicate effectively to avoid misunderstandings. Their story is a touching reminder that love, with all its challenges, is worth every effort.