Controversy Arises Over Potential Associations, Prompting Denial from Production Company

Courtesy of CJ ENM

Producers of the new Monday-Tuesday drama "Lovely Runner" on tvN have denied intentional references to the late Jonghyun from the K-pop group SHINee, amidst concerns raised by online users.

The drama follows Im Sol, portrayed by Kim Hye-Yoon, a dedicated fan who travels back in time to 2008 to prevent the death of her favorite celebrity, Ryu Sun-jae, played by Byeon Woo-Seok.
 

▲ The poster for "Lovely Runner" / Courtesy of CJ ENM

Based on the 2020 web novel "Tomorrow's #1," the drama adaptation penned by Lee Si-eun introduces elements not present in the original work, such as Ryu's portrayal as a radio DJ.

Online users have voiced suspicions regarding potential connections to Jonghyun, who passed away in 2017, citing similarities such as the protagonist's journey back to 2008, coinciding with SHINee's debut year, and the drama premiering on Jonghyun's birthday.

CJ ENM, the production company behind "Lovely Runner," refuted the allegations, asserting that the debut year of the drama's male protagonist is 2009, and the adaptation is based on the aforementioned web novel, without intentions to reference real-life individuals.

▲ Jonghyun of SHINee / Courtesy of SHINee's instagramIn response to questions about setting the drama in 2008, rather than its original timeframe, CJ ENM explained the decision as a narrative choice to emphasize the contrast between eras.

During a press conference, director Yoon Jong-ho addressed the controversy, highlighting the significance of the Beijing Olympics in 2008 as a backdrop for the story. He dismissed any insinuation of intentional timing regarding the drama's premiere, attributing the broadcast schedule to logistical constraints.

Sayart 

Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com