Actress Kim Hye Yoon on Lovely Runner and embracing the role of Im Sol

When Lovely Runner first premiered on Viu, it swiftly captured audiences with its engaging narrative and the charming chemistry between leads Kim Hye-yoon and Byeon Woo-seok.

Adapted from the webtoon The Best of Tomorrow, the series centres on Im Sol, a dedicated fan who is transported 15 years into the past to save her favourite celebrity, Ryu Sun-jae, from a tragic fate.

Kim Hye-yoon has definitely captivated viewers with her performance in this romantic comedy. Writer Lee Si-eun, who’s also behind popular K-drama True Beauty, revealed that she designed the character of Im Sol specifically with the actress in mind, and the result is a compelling role that showcases her remarkable talent. 

We caught up with the star to discuss her role, the show’s unique elements, and her personal preferences.

What attracted you to the role of Im Sol in “Lovely Runner,” and how did you prepare for this character?

From the moment I first received the script for ‘Lovely Runner,’ I thought it was incredibly interesting. I decided to take on this role because I was excited about the opportunity to portray a character’s diverse appearances and performances through time travel, spanning from their teenage years to their 20s and 30s.

What do you think sets “Lovely Runner” apart from other romantic comedies?

I believe what distinguishes ‘Lovely Runner’ from other works is its unique concept of ‘mutual salvation romance.’ While other possible storylines might solely focus on Im Sol’s perspective, ‘Lovely Runner’ also presents the same scenes from Seon Jae’s point of view, enabling viewers to experience both characters’ emotions together. I think this approach adds a distinctive charm to ‘Lovely Runner.’

If you had a choice to time travel to the past or to the future, which choice do you think you will make? Can you share your reasons as well? 

I would choose to travel to the future. While going back to the past could be a way to eliminate my regrets or disappointments, I believe my current self is the result of all my past choices. Therefore, I am more interested in seeing the future rather than dwelling on the past.

Are you or were you a fan of any artist in real life? 

I love BLACKPINK!

What do you think sets ‘Lovely Runner’ apart from other romantic comedies?

I believe what distinguishes ‘Lovely Runner’ from other works is its unique concept of ‘mutual salvation romance.’ While other possible storylines might solely focus on Im Sol’s perspective, ‘Lovely Runner’ also presents the same scenes from Seon Jae’s point of view, enabling viewers to experience both characters’ emotions together. I think this approach adds a distinctive charm to ‘Lovely Runner.’

In real life, would you prefer the pursuit of Sun Jae or Tae Sung?

I think both Seon Jae and Tae Sung are equally precious and important to Sol, so it’s difficult to choose just one of them.