The most interesting mystery in the Korean drama Lovely Runner (2024) revolves around Im Sol’s (Kim Hye Yoon) attempts to alter Ryu Sun Jae’s (Byeon Woo Seok) destiny. Ryu Sun Jae, a singer adored by Im Sol, tragically took his own life after a concert with his band, Eclipse.
Deeply affected, Im Sol makes a plea to save her idol. Miraculously, she gains the chance to travel back in time and change Ryu Sun Jae’s fate.
The drama Lovely Runner is based on the webtoon titled The Best of Tomorrow, originally published in 2019. For those curious about whether Im Sol succeeds in rescuing Ryu Sun Jae in the webtoon, read on for the explanation!
Warning: Spoilers ahead.
1. The Cause of Ryu Sun Jae’s Tragic End in the Webtoon
stills from the webtoon The Best of Tomorrow (doc. Kakao Webtoon/The Best of Tomorrow)In the webtoon, Ryu Sun Jae’s reason for his demise is simpler compared to the drama version. As an additional member of the idol group Kamjajeon, Ryu Sun Jae faced rejection and hostility from fans, leading to immense pressure and depression. The constant hate drove him to overdose on cold medicine, ending his life prematurely.
2. Im Sol’s Journey to Alter Ryu Sun Jae’s Fate
stills from the webtoon The Best of Tomorrow (doc. Kakao Webtoon/The Best of Tomorrow)Im Sol, deeply devoted to Ryu Sun Jae, discovers a pocket watch that allows her to travel back in time. She endeavors to prevent his tragic end by any means necessary, resorting to unconventional methods to garner his attention and express her love for him.
3. Im Sol’s Emotional Impact on Ryu Sun Jae
stills from the webtoon The Best of Tomorrow (doc. Kakao Webtoon/The Best of Tomorrow)Though Ryu Sun Jae initially misunderstands Im Sol’s actions, her unwavering love eventually touches his heart. Despite their brief encounter, Ryu Sun Jae is drawn to Im Sol’s affection.
4. Overcoming Despair: Ryu Sun Jae’s Resilience
stills from the webtoon The Best of Tomorrow (doc. Kakao Webtoon/The Best of Tomorrow)Following Im Sol’s return to the future, Ryu Sun Jae faces challenges without her memory of him. Despite this setback and the ongoing struggles with his band, Ryu Sun Jae holds onto hope, fueled by the prospect of reuniting with Im Sol.
5. Reunion and Changed Futures
stills from the webtoon The Best of Tomorrow (doc. Kakao Webtoon/The Best of Tomorrow)Upon Im Sol’s return to the future, she finds a different reality where her room lacks any traces of Ryu Sun Jae. However, she discovers that her efforts have altered the future for the better. Though their initial encounter is rocky, Im Sol and Ryu Sun Jae strive to rebuild their relationship.
In conclusion, Im Sol’s endeavors in The Best of Tomorrow webtoon lead to success. Will Lovely Runner also provide a similarly happy ending? Tune in to find out!
