Lovely Runner has completed its 16 episodes, wrapping up the story beautifully on May 28, 2024. The drama has left a lasting impression on its viewers, making it hard for fans to move on from the enchanting tale. Beyond the romance between Ryu Sun Jae (Byeon Woo Seok) and Im Sol (Kim Hye Yoon), another compelling aspect is the parenting wisdom imparted by Sun Jae’s father, Ryu Geun Deok (Kim Won Hae). These insights can serve as valuable lessons for parents everywhere. Let’s dive in!
Be the Main Supporter of Your Child’s Dreams
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Ryu Geun Deok exemplifies the ultimate supportive parent. When he discovered Sun Jae’s passion for swimming, he spared no effort in providing the necessary resources, from securing top-notch training facilities to finding an excellent mentor. Even when Sun Jae faced a severe injury, Geun Deok prioritized his son’s recovery and sought the best rehabilitation options available.
But his support wasn’t just financial. Despite his busy schedule as a restaurant owner, Ryu Geun Deok made it a point to attend all of Sun Jae’s matches, ensuring his son knew he always had someone cheering him on. This unwavering support played a crucial role in Sun Jae’s journey, showcasing the profound impact of being your child’s biggest fan.
Provide Trust and Affection
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Trust and affection form the cornerstone of Ryu Geun Deok’s parenting philosophy. He often referred to Sun Jae as “pure as oxygen,” a simple yet powerful testament to his love and trust in his child. This trust extended to respecting Sun Jae’s decisions, even when he chose to quit swimming and explore other interests.
By believing in Sun Jae’s choices, Geun Deok empowered his son to pursue his path confidently. This trust acted as a pillar of strength for Sun Jae, enabling him to thrive while maintaining a strong bond with his father.
Accompany Children Through Disappointment
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When Sun Jae suffered a shoulder injury, Ryu Geun Deok’s initial disappointment turned into a lesson in compassionate parenting. Instead of criticizing or blaming, he became a source of comfort for Sun Jae, encouraging him to express his feelings without fear of judgment.
This approach not only helped Sun Jae cope with his setback but also reinforced the importance of being a supportive and understanding parent during tough times. It highlighted the significance of creating a safe space for children to share their struggles and fears.
Be Close to Your Child’s Friends
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Ryu Geun Deok’s relationship with Sun Jae’s best friend, Baek In Hyuk (Lee Seung Hyub), is another testament to his excellent parenting. In Hyuk felt so at home at Sun Jae’s house that he could eat and stay over comfortably. This warmth and openness stemmed from Geun Deok’s efforts to build a good rapport with his son’s friends.
Knowing your child’s social circle is crucial. It allows parents to understand their children’s interactions and influences better, fostering a healthy and supportive environment.
Understand Everything from Your Child’s Perspective
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In the end, Lovely Runner showcased a humorous yet poignant moment between Ryu Geun Deok and Im Sol’s mother. Initially, Geun Deok couldn’t fathom why his special son would fall for the seemingly ordinary Im Sol. However, he soon realized the importance of understanding and accepting his son’s choices.
Parents often have preconceived notions about their children’s lives. However, Ryu Geun Deok demonstrated that embracing and supporting their decisions, as long as they lead to happiness, is essential. This acceptance and support can significantly contribute to a child’s well-being and success.
My Take
Watching Ryu Geun Deok in Lovely Runner is like getting a masterclass in parenting. His ability to balance support, trust, and understanding is something many parents can learn from. The drama beautifully captures the essence of what it means to be a good parent, emphasizing that love and support are the foundation of a child’s success. So, parents out there, take a page from Ryu Geun Deok’s book and see the difference it can make in your child’s life!
