Still not over the feels that Lovely Runner brought? Then let’s relive those moments as we dive into the cast of the series.
Lovely Runner, starring Byun Woo Suk as Ryu Sun Jae and Kim Hye Yoon as Im Sol, became a worldwide hit since it first aired. Even now, it continues to captivate viewers with its storyline, cast, and emotional depth.
The series follows Ryu Sun Jae, a popular artist who had shined throughout the years. However, despite his façade of a happy and perfect life, he grew exhausted. Im Sol, one of Sun Jae’s fans, found comfort in his music.
On the brink of giving up on life, Sol heard Sun Jae’s words of encouragement, which gave her the strength to keep going and follow his journey. But when she discovered that Sun Jae died, she was suddenly transported 15 years into the past.
There, she met the 19-year-old Sun Jae and tried to change his fate by preventing his tragic demise.
If you wish to get to know the actors who brought Lovely Runner to life, this article will introduce them one by one.
Disclaimer: This article may contain some spoilers about Lovely Runner. If you haven’t watched the series yet, please read at your own discretion.
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Byeon Woo Seok as Ryu Sun Jae
Byeon Woo Seok’s portrayal of Ryu Sun Jae in Lovely Runner earned praise for its ultimate “green flag” role. His character practically screams the phrase, “In every universe, I’ll choose you.” Sun Jae is adored by many—for his visuals and undeniable talent. But behind his success lies a heart filled with loneliness.
Woo Seok’s character reflects not just Sun Jae’s life, but also the reality of artists. While some believe success equates to happiness, Sun Jae proves there’s more beneath the surface than what you see on screen.
If you liked Woo Seok’s performance as Sun Jae, you might also find him astonishing in his other works. He starred in dramas such as Record of Youth (2020), Moonshine (2021), and Strong Girl Namsoon (2023).
Beyond series, Woo Seok also shines in films. In 2022, he played Poong Woon Ho in 20th Century Girl, a role that left lasting pain for viewers. Additionally, he appeared in Soulmate (2023).
He has also made TV appearances in shows like Running Man (2010), Amazing Saturday (2018), and Screwballs (2025).
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Kim Hye Yoon as Im Sol
Im Sol was brought to life by the talented actress Kim Hye Yoon. Sol was one of Sun Jae’s millions of fans and grew to love him after hearing his advice during a phone call at the lowest point of her life. However, her world crumbled when she learned of Sun Jae’s death.
Devastated, she was suddenly transported back to the past—where she met a teenage Sun Jae.
Kim Hye Yoon is one of Korea’s most versatile actresses. Some of her notable series include The Legend of the Blue Sea (2016), Tunnel (2017), Extraordinary You (2019), and Snowdrop (2021).
If you’d like to explore her versatility in films, check out Dawn to Dawn (2018), Our Summer Poem (2020), and Midnight (2021).
Seong Geon Hee as Kim Tae Seong
Lovely Runner also brings on the dreaded “second lead syndrome” through Seong Geon Hee’s portrayal of Kim Tae Seong, Im Sol’s university love interest.
Geon Hee’s performance brought heartbreak to audiences as he embodied the pain of the second lead. He may not be Im Sol’s endgame, but he certainly captivated viewers’ hearts.
He began his acting career with his first major role in Hot (2016). Since then, he has appeared in series such as Flat (2017), Missing: The Other Side (2020), and Alice, The Final Weapon (2022).
He also guested on variety shows like Amazing Saturday (2018), Hangout with Yoo (2019), and Country Life of Gen-Z (2024).
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Lee Seung Hyub as Baek In Hyeok
Playing Sun Jae’s best friend and fellow artist, Lee Seung Hyub’s Baek In Hyeok added a whirlwind of comedic relief to Lovely Runner. His presence made each episode lighter and funnier.
Although at first his attitude made him hard to like, the flashbacks revealed his true colors—a loving and loyal friend to Sun Jae.
Lee Seung Hyub debuted in 2016 with a minor role in Entertainer. Since then, his acting career has flourished with roles in All-Boys High (2019), Nevertheless (2021), Love Next Door (2024), and Spring of Youth (2025).
Apart from acting, Seung Hyub debuted in 2015 as a member of N.Flying. In September 2021, he also debuted as a solo artist under the stage name J.Don, releasing his single album On The Track.
Song Ji Ho as Im Geum
Im Sol’s brother, Im Geum, was portrayed by Song Ji Ho. His performance was spot-on—equal parts endearing and frustrating. Im Geum was careless, passionate, and sometimes hard-headed.
What made his character memorable, however, was his way of loving—especially when it came to his special someone.
Song Ji Ho has played multiple supporting roles that showcased his acting ability. His works include Memory (2016), Sketch (2018), Never Give Up (2022), and Doctor Cha (2023).
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Seo Hye Won as Lee Hyeon Ju
Seo Hye Won’s portrayal of Lee Hyeon Ju in Lovely Runner was truly remarkable. As Im Sol’s reliable friend—the one who never left her side—she became an anchor throughout the story.
She even went on to marry Im Sol’s brother, Im Geum, adding a layer of warmth and healing to the drama.
Throughout her career, Seo Hye Won has taken on diverse roles. Some of her dramas include True Beauty (2020), Nevertheless (2021), Alchemy of Souls (2022), and Love Scout (2025).
The Cast of Lovely Runner
Now that we’ve listed the cast of Lovely Runner, are you familiar with all of them? If not, maybe it’s the perfect time to binge-watch their works. Missing Lovely Runner might sting a little less once you see them again on screen.
The series consists of 16 episodes and is available for streaming on Netflix. It will make you roll around your bed with heart-fluttering moments—while also delivering excruciating pain that might leave you crying for weeks. Either way, this series is a must-watch!
Photos: TVN
