The TV drama Lovely Runner, recently aired on tvN, is based on the popular webtoon The Best of Tomorrow from 2019. The lead roles in this drama are played by Byeon Woo Seok as Ryu Sun Jae and Kim Hye Yoon as Im Sol.
After four episodes, it’s evident that there are significant differences in the storyline between the drama and the webtoon. Let’s explore some conflicts unique to the drama version of Lovely Runner that don’t appear in the webtoon!
1. Im Sol’s Accident:
still cut drama Lovely Runner (instagram.com/tvn_drama)In the drama, Im Sol experiences a life-altering accident that leaves her paralyzed. This event doesn’t occur in the webtoon. The details of the accident aren’t fully revealed in episode four, but it profoundly impacts Im Sol’s relationship with Ryu Sun Jae, diverging from the webtoon’s storyline.
Furthermore, in the drama, Ryu Sun Jae saves Im Sol during the accident. However, Im Sol, resentful of her newfound disability, blames Ryu Sun Jae for saving her. She’d rather have died than live as a paralyzed girl, leading to a strained dynamic between them. Despite this, Ryu Sun Jae still harbors feelings for Im Sol, evident until their last encounter on a bridge.
2. Mystery Surrounding Ryu Sun Jae’s Death:
still cut drama Lovely Runner (instagram.com/tvn_drama)In the webtoon, Ryu Sun Jae’s death is explained clearly. He faces bullying after joining the idol group Kamjajeon, ultimately leading to his suicide. However, in the drama, his death is shrouded in mystery. Some fans speculate he was murdered, with episode four hinting at a connection between his death and his remorse over Im Sol.
3. Love Triangle:
still cut drama Lovely Runner (instagram.com/tvn_drama)The drama introduces Kim Tae Sung as a rival for Ryu Sun Jae’s affections towards Im Sol, a character absent from the webtoon. While Im Sol initially admires Baek In Hyuk, who is Ryu Sun Jae’s best friend in both versions, Kim Tae Sung adds a new layer of complexity to the love triangle.
4. Ryu Sun Jae’s Failed Athletic Career:
still cut drama Lovely Runner (instagram.com/tvn_drama)In the webtoon, Ryu Sun Jae faces disappointment during his trainee days but eventually debuts. Conversely, in the drama, he is portrayed as a promising swimming athlete whose career ends abruptly due to a shoulder injury. This setback marks a turning point in his life, shaping his journey as an idol.
5. Im Sol’s Family Dynamics:
still cut Lovely Runner (instagram.com/zifffo)In the webtoon, Im Sol is depicted as an only child. However, the drama introduces her older brother, Im Geum, who shares an intriguing relationship with Im Sol’s best friend, Lee Hyun Joo. This addition adds complexity to Im Sol’s family dynamic and hints at potential romantic subplots.
These conflicts inject excitement into the drama version of Lovely Runner, making it a compelling watch. Tune in every Monday and Tuesday for new episodes to see how the story unfolds. What other conflicts do you anticipate in the future?