Run On (2020)

Sometimes it's ok to be selfish.

I don't normally write reviews for dramas, but I had to make one for this. This is one of the underrated dramas that deserved more recognition.

At first glance, the storyline may seem like a typical romcom, but NO. This drama is unique in such an amazing way. Let me start with the characters. The characters in this story are not the typical romcom character you've seen, even the supporting characters are unique! We have Oh Mi Joo who's a freelance translator, who found comfort in watching movies despite having a rough past and happens to have a unique hobby of collecting fake guns. Ki Seon Gyeom who's a national athlete with elite family background and may seem aloof at first, but actually cares a lot about the people around him. He cares so much about the people around him that he forgets that sometimes he has to be selfish and take care of himself. We have Seo Dan Ah who may seem like some rude and sarcastic CEO who only cares about herself and her company and likes to play with other people's feelings, but as we get to know her more, she's actually just lonely and has no one who would look out for her. Lee Young Hwa who's seems like an easy-going, sometimes childish, art student, but we get to see that he's not as immature as we think he is. I could go on about how amazing the supporting characters are too but this review would be too long. All I can say is Seo Tae Woong is my favorite supporting character and I'd love to be an alphabet (you'll know what I mean once you watch the drama).

The storyline itself develops at the right speed, not too fast or slow, and there were no boring episodes. The storyline was just BEAUTIFUL. They gave enough time for each character to develop and the ending was perfect. The ending did not feel rushed and they gave each character the ending they deserve without ruining the plot. This is by far one of my favorite romcom dramas, where I didn't feel like the main couples had cringe-worthy moments from being too cheesy. Everything felt natural and I love how they did not make the female lead as someone who's overly dependent on the male lead. The main couple displayed a great example of what a healthy relationship should be like. The drama taught me that it's ok to be selfish sometimes and that we all have to fall in order to learn how to stand up on our own. I also think that we all need a boyfriend like Ki Seon Gyeom (or a girlfriend like Oh Mi Joo). The actors definitely did justice to the storyline and characters they played, they did such an outstanding job.

The OST for this drama is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!! I have been listening to them nonstop on Spotify because it's so good! The songs all matched the scenes they were used in. There wasn't a time where I felt like the song they used was inappropriate or unsuitable for the scene.

Do give this drama a try and I promise you will not regret it! I couldn't stop watching the drama once I started. I would love to rewatch this drama soon!

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Slice of life at its finest

Run On is so creative, fresh, and fun! I found myself holding back from watching the last couple episodes because I didn't want it to end. Heck, I even watched Misaeng in the middle to cure my impending Im Siwan withdrawal (which, by the way, is now out in full force).

Run On is a show about communication, and shines with its wonderful pacing. Somehow, there's enough conflict to keep things interesting, but without too much drawn out noble idiocy or frustrating conflicts. It's light, fluffy, and warm — the perfect kind of show to help you feel better during the crazy times of 2020/2021. The cinematography is BEAUTIFUL, the dialogue is witty, and all the characters are loveable and redeemable (except maybe the slimeball director at the beginning, although he ultimately became irrelevant?).

Above all, Oh Mi Joo and Ki Seon Gyeom SHONE in this show. I rooted for them so hard, and I wished I could've seen their subtle care for each other for episodes on end. I mean, the other storylines were great as well — but I always felt sad when the scenes stepped back from these characters, and wanted to see more of them interacting with each other and their broader orbit. For once, the two leads stole the show (how rare is that in a kdrama?!). I loved how Seon Gyeom was less innocent and cheekier than he seemed. I loved how straightforward Mi Joo was, and how resilient she was too (plus, a lifestyle like hers is hardly ever depicted? How refreshing! I want to be friends with her!). Their chemistry made me want to watch all the behind-the-scenes clips. And although I know it's not the right thing to do.......... let's just say I wouldn't be opposed if they started dating in real life.

Seo Dan Ah and Lee Yong Hwa's relationship in one word would be "COMPLICATED." There was so much angst and a lot left unsaid. I must admit that some of it might've gotten lost in translation, or simply flew over my head. I'm satisfied with the ending here, although they definitely got me in the last couple of episodes. I think my perspective was like Yong Hwa's, so it was cool to be able to see Dan Ah's perspective too. I didn't understand what was wrong with the original painting until I saw the final one. I didn't understand the distinction between forcing Yong Hwa into Dan Ah's world until I saw the foil with Seon Gyeom and Mi Joo. The bbq and food scenes helped assure me they figured it out eventually.

Also, can we appreciate all these side characters? Candy is a BAMF mother. I loved the little pairing of May and Mr. Jeong. The inclusivity was done well — I like the coffee shop apology and the fact that no feelings were ever discounted. I liked the camping scene to demonstrate how families can reconcile and overcome differences. I liked our little idol for finding the love and support he always sought after (haha!). Even our hatable Assemblyman figured it out in the end. Can I say that ending this show in a movie theatre was PERFECT?

My only regret is that there were SO MANY movie references throughout the show that flew way over my head. I am not a film buff, so they ruined the immersion for me at times. And Seon Gyeom's friends never felt that necessary to me (Woo Shik is a golden retriever; you can't convince me otherwise), but I'm glad they existed. I also wish Kim Seon Ho's cameo was as Ryan, but hey, we're really grasping at straws to critique here.

Run On is a great show to watch when you want something light and lovely. This is slice of life at its peak form.

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BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN UNIQUE CHARACTERS WITH AN AESTHETICALLY PLEASING ATMOSPHERE.

First and foremost ,this is not a sports drama. So people who are not into sports and find sports dramas boring dont worry,this ain't one.
Ki seon gyeom is the main male lead and he's a sprinter. His character is so unique and realistic that most of the times i felt that he was so unreal.
The way he treats everyone around him,the way he stands up for his fellowmates (how he took responsibilty for having assaulted those two guys for hitting his junior) etc.
He is not like other kdrama characters. He is innocent but also mature.
Mijoo on the other hand is the main female lead . She is not a damsel in distress and can always stand up for herself. (no wonder seon gyeom fell for her ). She is the only one who helps and support KSG for who he is and likes him genuinely. She corrects him if he's wrong or appreciates him if he's right. A very straightforward strong woman I'd say.
Younghwa is a painter as you may all know .He acts like he's innocent especially with KSG ( i love their bromance and interactions.They're so cute) but when it comes to painting its serious business. He fell for dan ah at first sight but its more like an attraction.I can't wait to see how it develops .
Dan ah is one hell of a complicated character... there were a few references to her being gay ,but maybe it was all a reason to avoid marriage . So far her relationship with her family seems to be somewhat broken even though i've not seen her disrespecting her father ,even though she does'nt like her family. Her brother is such a cute and dumb kpop idol and it would also be interesting to see how his relationship develops with seo dan ah. Currently she hates him because they're from the same family .Well that's the excuse she gave (i find it kind of weird) but there might be more to it .
The rest of the cast are also lovable ,like seo dan ah's secretary ,KSG's parents (his dad might seem to be annoying but whatever he does is done by all dads tbh ).
KSG's sister reminded me of gu jun pyo's sister in boys over flower . A badass strong woman who is strong and also supportive of her brother.
There are no villains or bad guys in this drama ,so its free of evil.
Every character has it own flaws which makes the plot more interesting .
Overall this drama is not like other ones where its driven by its plot .Its the characters that make the drama interesting to watch and hence it might not be interesting for all people ,but I'd recommend this to all since it actually a mind healing one ...trust me it really boosts your spirit whenever you feel down .
So for having said that ,i hope you all enjoy it :)

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I'm glad I found this drama

Although the meeting of the leads are those typical coincidence, but this drama may taught us many lessons or inspiration. I love how their conversations are sometimes weird, funny and MATURED and it's like a real life conversations and expressions. I felt emotionally connected to them. The leads have really great chemistry too! I actually have struggles on choosing what to watch and I tried many new dramas this year but this is one of those dramas that I want to continue until the end. I dropped some popular dramas on internet after 1-3 episodes because I think this is better so far. So I'm really glad I found this drama! It saves me! Highly recommended!

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Slice of life dramas defying tropes!

Run On is a heartwarming, wholesome drama which will leave you with more feels for the characters than for the plot. In many other dramas, these might go hand in hand, but in Run On, you will find the story to be more influenced by the people the characters are. It's the kind of drama you may either love or dislike. You are bound to like it if you are tired of the same old character and plot tropes that exist in pretty much every drama. In the leads we have refreshing characteristics where communication and support for each other is what helps them develop the relationship. Both of them begin to work on what's lacking in each other upon being pointed out by the other. With the second leads, it's similar but it's a burst of emotions and extra at every level while the story of the main leads is more subdued.

What I loved the most in this drama is how every character - major and minor - has grown throughout the story. The beginning of the episodes start with pulling you in, wanting to find out who these people are, and then you stay because you are so comfortable and invested in their arcs. In the end, Run On leaves you with a lesson to change yourself for the better. It's a brilliant drama with lots of positivity and healthy relationships' portrayal. I personally felt that the last episode was little out of pace from the rest, but that can be ignored.

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No hay quimica!

Los primeros 3 capítulos me llamaron la atención, el personaje de Dan ah me encantó, me pareció fresco y diferente.
La pareja principal comenzó bien luego a medida que ellos tenían mas contacto no vi química ninguna, parecen 2 amigos. En mi opinión hicieron mal al elegir el personaje principal masculino, una actuación bastante regular, no solo parece un robot sino que es mas femenino que la protagonista. Creo que la principal equivocación fue elegir a Im Si-wan. Lo voy a terminar porque ya lo empecé pero sigo sintiendo que es una perdida de tiempo. Una pena!

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A MUST WATCH !!!

Im Siwan strikes AGAIN !!! Honestly ever since I knew he was going to be the lead i expected this to be good but i did not expect this to be THIS good. Shin Sekyung is also doing an amazing job she really breathed life into oh mijoo’s character. All four characters are so different yet so real, they are not perfect, a bit weird but that’s how we all are. the chemistry is off the charts. but what really impressed me is how well written this drama is. the dialogues are so perfectly written you just keep going back to their conversations. It may look like a usual sport drama but trust me it’s so much more. if you are looking for a some light hearted easy on the mind kind of drama this one’s for you. In short, don’t miss out on this masterpiece.

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Something Was Missing

Even though I would like to, I feel as though I can't write an actual in-depth review considering the fact that I had only watched 10 episodes before dropping it. Here's the thing, the show isn't bad at all. In fact, the characters are great and it has a really promising storyline. The problem for me is that I felt like something was missing, and it is frustrating because I don't know what that something is.

The cast is great, and I was especially excited because Im Siwan is an incredible actor, on top of the fact that I am a huge fan of Sooyoung because of SNSD so of course I would automatically watch anything she's in. The biggest issue is that I don't know what the issue is and it drove me crazy. I found myself getting bored and distracted even though this drama has everything I would enjoy. The two leads were so sweet and the second leads were just as entertaining but yet, I still kept pausing the show, going on my phone, or even walking away while it played(and then I would have to rewind because I was confused).

Maybe one day I'll revisit the show, especially since so many people loved it and because the characters were all so lovely, but for now, I will give it a low rating and keep it pushing.

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Best in a long time!

I don't do 10s. This is the best rating I've ever given to any drama. At first it was a little hard to like it, because it's like nothing I've seen. Completely character driven, which I love, the dialogue is fast and funny, but in translation and with subtitles it's a little harder to catch the tone of the wit. But witty it is, and sarcastic, and eccentric. Nearly every character is odd in their own way, and some are very unlikable, anti-social, sociopathic - yet I like them. There is hardly any character in this drama who is unlikable - perhaps one, and yet even he has moments of humanity. It did take a little while for this drama to get into its stride, but it is well worth the wait. Much of the drama feels aimless, while characters spend time finding their direction, but as they begin to find their feed, the story begins to blossom, has setbacks, but continues. This is a very human drama, makes me feel warm and fuzzy without being sentimental, and also touches on some real issues which seem to pervade Korean society. It may be unrealistic in some ways (no one seems to be really struggling or overwhelmed by life, for example , but in other ways it shows relationships in down to earth, maybe even humdrum detail, but makes them engaging and beautiful. Can;t recommend it enough.

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The perfect drama for everyone

So, I'm currently at episode 9 and I am not afraid to give this a 10. This is the first time I'm reviewing a drama, I've given a 10 score to other dramas before but this is the first time I really wanna write something about it. This is such a new and fresh drama style, I really like this. The story is nothing new, you won't be surprised by plot twists and everything else, it's just the daily life of our 4 main characters and oh...thos 4 characters!!!

The cast is just PERFECT, for everyone who's considering not watching this because of Shin Se Kyung past acting roles, just forget about them and give this drama a shot, she's INCREDIBLE, she surprised me so much that even made it to my favorite actresses of all time hahah, the other actors are just as incredible as her, their acting is incredible, it's really easy to connect to each one of them and they did an amazing job.

The ost are all amazing, I keep listening to them on spotify whenever I can, they fit the drama really well.

Overall, this drama is really great, not everyone will like it but If you just want to chill and watch a story that will hook you up all night and want to laugh a little bit with a slow burn romance, give this one a chance and you'll not be disappointed :)

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Beautiful journey into self-discovery and human connection

I enjoyed this drama more than I thought I would. My favourite aspect was the portrayal of quirky personalities that find others to understand and accept them
as they are. The dialogues are a masterpiece, it really allows the viewers to understand the what, why and how of everything that’s going on. We’re all different and dramas often portray certain stereotypes in an unrealistic way, this show didn’t do that.

The premise of he story seems quite simple, but it touches on common issues in a very meaningful way such as greed, family, socioeconomical and gender power dynamics, meaning of sportsmanship, self-discovery and how to be true to oneself. The story develops and builds in such a beautiful and realistic way and the I could really feel the main characters inner struggles and their growth. I really appreciated the various emotional dynamics, especially between ML and FL. Their connection was soulful, on a deeper level and full of vulnerability. This series was quite profound, but managed to remain light and wasn’t overly dramatic in a forceful way. My only complaint was the lack of romance in the story or the discrepancy between what I felt was the depth of the characters feelings vs how little they acted on them. Realistically, if you show a lot of vulnerability, closeness should match.

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Pleasant to watch

Really liked this drama so far. I have watched 3 episodes .. loving it..

This drama has differnt story .. loved it and so i decided to give review after 3rd episode

All the stars have done well. Very nice chemistry between the leads. Maturity can be seen from the way its enacted specially for male lead.. in the end of third episode his decision turns around the situation. His firmness not to surrender to corrupt practises and to stand for what he believes right ... very nicely depicted..

surprisingly this is first drama i am watching for Im *Shi Wan*.. its just impressive.. he is fit to be an athlete

In third episode.. Dilemma of female lead not to sway away when offered bribery is shown beautifully . *Shin ke kyun* did good job as always

It involves sports and politics relating to it but it also focuses on ethics and values that young generation stands for..


Good investment of time if you wish to see something lighter , romantic with hansome male lead with a dash of politics and sportsmanship

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