Im Sol’s Despair and Ryu Seon Jae’s Lifeline
In the first episode of tvN’s “Lovely Runner,” Im Sol (played by Kim Hye-Yoon) finds herself on a heartbreaking path after a life-altering accident leaves her unable to walk. Confined to a hospital bed and consumed by despair, Im Sol receives an unexpected lifeline during a random radio call with Ryu Seon Jae (Byeon Woo Seok) of the K-Pop group Eclipse.
Despairing over her immobility, Im Sol vents her anger on the phone call. But Ryu Seon Jae offers Sol solace with a gentle, “Just live for today, it’s a good day,” saving her from the brink. This simple act of kindness sparks a devotion within Im Sol, who becomes a devoted fan of Eclipse and Ryu Seon Jae.
Im Sol’s Devotion and Fate’s Intervention
Two years later, in 2022, Im Sol’s room is a testament to her unwavering devotion to Eclipse and Ryu Seon Jae. Eager to attend their concert, fate seems to conspire against her, preventing her from entering the venue. Despite the setback, Im Sol’s spirit remains unbroken, and she enjoys the concert from outside.
A Snowy Night and a Touch of Kindness
On her way home, fate takes a cruel turn. Im Sol’s wheelchair malfunctions, leaving her stranded and in tears. Just as despair threatens to consume her again, a familiar car pulls up. It’s none other than Ryu Seon Jae. Sheltering Sol under a large umbrella, Ryu Seon Jae asks with concern, “Why are you here? Wheelchair trouble?”
Tears welling up, Sol exclaims, “I’m so happy! I’m a huge fan, been following you since your debut!” A heartwarming reunion unfolds, but a shadow hangs over Ryu Seon Jae. Unlike Sol’s elation, he wrestles with the idea of retirement, a troubled look etched on his face.
Im Sol’s Grief and a Twist of Fate
In stark contrast to Im Sol’s elation, Ryu Seon Jae appears burdened. The weight of his career weighs heavily on him, leading him to contemplate retirement. Tragically, he chooses a drastic path, ending his life. Witnessing this devastating event, Im Sol is filled with grief. As she clutches her watch in despair, time itself seems to warp, sending her on an unexpected journey.
Im Sol’s Journey: Back to Ryu Seon Jae
Im Sol finds herself back in high school, unsure if it’s a dream or reality. Convinced it’s a dream, she impulsively hugs Ryu Seon Jae and confesses her love. The sensation of pain jolts her back to reality – she’s alive! A phone call from her mother and a glance at a 2008 calendar confirm her suspicions – she’s traveled back in time.
A New Beginning: Im Sol and Ryu Seon Jae Under the Umbrella
The next day, Im Sol revels in the joy of being in the past. Her excitement grows as she sees Ryu Seon Jae waiting for her at the school gate. As rain begins to fall, history seems to repeat itself. Ryu Seon Jae offers her his umbrella, triggering a wave of emotions in Im Sol. Tears stream down her face as she remembers his past demise. With a gentle gesture, Ryu Seon Jae shields her once again, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, a chapter rewritten by time itself.
