The popular tvN drama Lovely Runner, featuring stars Byeon Woo-seok and Kim Hye-yoon, celebrated its first anniversary on April 8, 2025. Originally airing from April 8 to May 28, 2024, the series captured the hearts of audiences both in South Korea and globally.
To commemorate this milestone, the cast, including Byeon Woo-seok, Song Geon-hee, Song Ji-ho, Seo Hye-won, and Heo Hyung-kyu, took to social media to share cherished memories from the show. Byeon Woo-seok posted a behind-the-scenes snapshot along with an image of himself in the studio, indicating he was potentially recording songs for the OST of Lovely Runner.
Other cast members also joined the celebration by sharing exclusive photos on Instagram. Additionally, fan clubs across South Korea and China displayed digital advertisements to honor the anniversary. Fans took the opportunity on social media platform X, reflecting on their love for the show and its impact.
“Best comfort drama ever!”a fan said.
“A year ago today, Lovely Runner was released, marking one of the biggest hits in K-drama history—truly a masterpiece from casting to cinematography to the direction,”a fan added.
“If there’s only 1 person left in the world who loves Lovely Runner and Ryu Sun-jae, it’ll be Byeon Woo-seok. We can’t compete with that,”another user commented.
Viewers once again expressed their admiration for Lovely Runner, particularly applauding its execution within the romantic comedy genre.
“It’s rare for a rom-com to receive even a single nomination at the Baeksang, yet Lovely Runner has secured multiple nominations. It’s an organic hit that cannot be overlooked,”a fan asserted.
“The cast all posting about the show’s first anniversary and gathering together for a celebration is so rare. Lovely Runner feels special not just to the fans but also to the entire cast,”another fan remarked.
“An example of that rare magic. It transcends being merely a romantic comedy—it is a heartfelt project crafted with immense dedication,”a netizen commented.
Many fans enthusiastically reminisced about their favorite moments from the show, including the fictional band Eclipse and Ryu Sun-jae’s charming character.
“One year ago, we witnessed Ryu Sun-jae become the biggest loser in K-drama history.. I miss him so much,”a netizen mentioned.
“No other show has filled me with as much joy & excitement. A year ago, #LovelyRunner began lighting up our dreary Mondays with its captivating blend of comedy, fantasy, and melodrama,”a user stated.
“The birth of a fictional band called Eclipse, dominating the real music industry, competing with actual idols, and winning real awards—although with a vocalist possessing the most unreal visual,”a fan wrote.
Five Nominations for Lovely Runner at the 61st Baeksang Art Awards
On April 7, 2025, the Baeksang Art Awards revealed the nominations for various categories in film, variety shows, and dramas. Lovely Runner is proud to have received five nominations, showcasing its outstanding achievements.
The 61st Baeksang Art Awards nominations include:
- Best Drama
- Best Actor—Byeon Woo-seok
- Best Actress—Kim Hye-yoon
- Best New Actress—Song Geon-hee
- Best Screenplay—Lee Si-eun
Lovely Runner tells the gripping story of a girl, Im Sol (portrayed by Kim Hye-yoon), who travels back in time to save her beloved idol, Ryu Sun-jae (Byeon Woo-seok), from a tragic fate. After an accident during her teenage years crushed her dreams, Im Sol, inspired by Ryu’s music, embarks on a thrilling journey to ensure his survival.
Ryu Sun-jae, a top celebrity, appears to have it all but is actually exhausted by the pressures of fame and ultimately faces despair. Im Sol’s mission becomes her sole focus as she navigates her way through the past.
Lovely Runner is currently available for streaming on Netflix.