The drama Lovely Runner has captivated audiences with its intricate plot and compelling characters. Even after the finale aired on May 28, 2024, fans are buzzing with theories and discussions, particularly around the motivations of the antagonist, Kim Young Soo. Why is he so fixated on chasing Im Sol and Ryu Sun Jae? Let’s dive into the details and theories surrounding this mystery.
Theories About Kim Young Soo’s Background
Despite the drama’s conclusion, fans are still fervently discussing the myriad of theories about Kim Young Soo’s actions in Lovely Runner. The most pressing question is why he targets Im Sol and Ryu Sun Jae. Various theories have emerged on social media, suggesting different motivations for Young Soo’s relentless pursuit.
One popular theory is that Kim Young Soo is also a time traveler. This would add a layer of complexity to his character, potentially linking him to events in the past that drive his current actions. Another theory posits that Young Soo’s vendetta is personal, connected to a tragic event involving Im Sol’s family. Some fans believe he harbors a grudge due to a past incident involving Im Sol’s grandmother’s deceased husband. This long-standing grudge could explain his obsessive behavior.
Heo Hyeong Gyu in Lovely Runner (doc. tvN/Lovely Runner)
Heo Hyeong Gyu’s Explanation
To address the swirling theories and fan questions, Heo Hyeong Gyu, who portrays Kim Young Soo, provided some insights into his character’s motivations. In a video posted on the Keyeast YouTube channel on May 28, 2024, Hyeong Gyu clarified that Young Soo’s actions stem from a chance encounter with Im Sol. He emphasized that Young Soo is inherently a bad person, with no deeper, redeeming backstory.
“What’s the reason Young Soo did that? No, there’s no reason. He’s just a bad person and don’t try to understand Young Soo. He’s just a bad person who unfortunately was caught by Im Sol. But Im Sol wasn’t wrong,” explained Heo Hyeong Gyu. This explanation dismisses the notion of a complex backstory, presenting Young Soo as a pure villain driven by his malicious nature rather than any specific past event.
Lovely Runner Footage (Dok.tvN/Lovely Runner)
No Background Story for Kim Young Soo
Adding to this, Hyeong Gyu reiterated that there is no elaborate backstory for Kim Young Soo. He advised fans against overanalyzing or creating speculative theories about Young Soo’s past. “Young Soo is just a bastard. So don’t make up stories that exaggerate Young Soo. There’s no need to be curious either. I don’t like Young Soo either,” he concluded.
This straightforward explanation might disappoint those hoping for a more nuanced villain, but it aligns with the show’s depiction of Young Soo as an irredeemable antagonist. It also emphasizes the show’s focus on the core narrative without unnecessary complications.
Still cut Lovely Runner (Instagram.com/keyeastofficial)
My Take on Kim Young Soo’s Character
In my opinion, the decision to portray Kim Young Soo as a straightforward villain without a convoluted backstory is both bold and refreshing. It simplifies the narrative, allowing viewers to focus on the hero’s journey and the central themes of the drama. While some might crave a deeper dive into his motivations, sometimes a villain is just a villain. Lovely Runner maintains its intrigue by keeping the focus on the protagonists and their struggles, rather than getting bogged down by the antagonist’s history.
The allure of Lovely Runner lies in its ability to keep viewers engaged with its main characters and their development, rather than getting sidetracked by the complexities of the villain. This approach ensures that the drama remains accessible and relatable, staying true to its core storytelling.
In conclusion, Kim Young Soo’s pursuit of Im Sol and Ryu Sun Jae can be summed up simply: he’s a bad guy, and sometimes, that’s all the explanation we need.
