This drama marks the debut of writer Park Si-hyun, who was an assistant writer for hits like Descendants of the Sun and Mr. Sunshine.
I personally enjoy debut works of drama writers, novelists, or webtoon artists. There’s something about an artist’s first piece that, while it may lack a bit in technique, bursts with inspiration, unique ideas, and a fearless spirit. It’s like a fresh veggie salad, barely dressed. If you take a bite, you might hear that satisfying ‘crunch’.
This drama began just like that. Even if you set everything else aside, the fun of the characters exchanging lines was enough to keep you hooked for the next episode. It was refreshing, like a breeze. The characters voiced their thoughts as they were, without tailoring them for courtesy, and it was exhilarating.
Have you ever had a conversation like this in real life? I haven’t been able to deliver such witty and clear lines in the moment, but I’ve often held back words, filtered by the usual social norms. Of course, some people speak their minds without hesitation (lucky them!).
When I read the drama’s introduction, I was like, ‘Of course!’ The writer clearly wanted to talk about the big theme of communication. Or maybe someone else wrote that intro? Anyway, it’s described as a romance drama about people from different worlds communicating in their own languages, forming relationships, and ‘running on’ towards love in an era where communication is tough, even though we speak the same language.
To be honest, the drama isn’t entirely fresh. Some characters and situations feel familiar. But what truly matters is not the novelty of the setup, but the details that draw viewers in. It’s like making the character seem like the person who glanced at you on the subway. For that to happen, the actors and the writer need to resonate together.
The main actors in this piece are delivering their roles sincerely. Im Si-wan, once an idol, has transformed into a full-fledged actor, and Shin Se-kyung, whose name alone needs no further introduction. I mentioned that the dialogues are entertaining, but it’s undeniable that their delivery amplified the feeling. And Shin Se-kyung’s sweet, honey-dripping gaze towards Im Si-wan is just adorable…
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We all know those people who are hard to read, right? You can’t tell if they’re good or bad. Personally, I dislike such ambiguity, and I’m glad this drama doesn’t have such characters. Everyone says what they think, and they appear just as they are.
‘What’s it like to have running as a job?’
When Oh Mi-joo (Shin Se-kyung) asks this at a street stall, Ki Sun-gyeom (Im Si-wan) replies,
‘Breathless feeling?’
Doesn’t it feel like he just voiced his thoughts directly? I really liked this seemingly simple reply.
I sometimes bike along the Han River. Usually, I ride leisurely, people-watching, gazing at the riverside buildings, and looking up at the sky. It doesn’t feel like a job. But sometimes, I focus solely on pedaling efficiently and quickly, as if that’s my purpose. All I hear is my heartbeat, and all I see is the path ahead. Nothing else exists. It feels like time stops, and the only thought in my head is that breathless feeling. Perhaps that’s what Im Si-wan was talking about. Though cycling isn’t my profession.
From that ‘breathless feeling’ answer, I felt the heavy weight of having a profession. Whether it’s running, writing novels, or working in an office, they all carry a seriousness. Once you finish your education and step into society, you redefine your identity. Are you satisfied with it? Can you bear its weight?
Sorry for the tangent, but that dialogue made me reflect on my own job. The drama is only at episode 4, so I’m not sure if it will get even more exciting or fizzle out. Maybe I should watch a bit more before recommending it?
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