The buzz around the TV series “Lovely Runner” may have diminished since its finale, but the cast, particularly Byun Woo-seok, who played Ryu Sun-jae, remains in the limelight. His rise from a model to a sought-after actor is a story of hard work and charm.
Byun Woo-seok’s on-screen journey began with a role in the tvN drama “Dear My Friends” in 2016 and included parts in “Moon Lovers” and “Weight Lifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo.” He cemented his status in the industry with significant roles in hit dramas like “Record of Youth,” “Moonshine,” and “Strong Woman Gang Nam-soon,” as well as in the films “20th Century Girl” and “Soul Mate.”
Byun’s roles in “Record of Youth” and “20th Century Girl” commanded attention, but it was “Lovely Runner” that skyrocketed his popularity. Instagram followers are a testament to his growing fame, with a leap from 2 million during “Strong Woman Gang Nam-soon” to over 9.5 million after “Lovely Runner.”
Good Data Corporation’s platform FUNdex highlighted Byun as a frontrunner in TV-OTT drama popularity for four weeks straight in May. Byun also topped both the drama and non-drama actor popularity surveys, a first since Good Data Corporation’s analysis inception in 2015. His roles in “Lovely Runner” and “You Quiz On The Block” gathered impressive points, securing his leading position.
Such popularity has led to Byun being dubbed “the actor who lost his name,” as fans affectionately call him “Ryu Sun-jae” more often than his own name. The “Lovely Runner” OST “Sudden Shower” even made it onto the Billboard Global 200 chart, adding further to his international recognition.
Byun’s fan following is evident wherever he goes, be it a crowded cafe during interviews or at international airports, with fans showing up in throngs to catch a glimpse of their favorite star.
Byun Woo-seok, synonymous with his character Ryu Sun-jae, has blended his real-life persona with that of his character’s. Engaging with fans on communication platforms and through offline events, Byun extends the “Ryu Sun-jae Craze” into the “Byeon Woo-seok Syndrome.”
Ultimately, be it as Ryu Sun-jae in “Lovely Runner” or as himself, Byun Woo-seok continues to captivate the public with his charismatic presence across various activities and interactions. As a result, his fan base is growing, ensuring his enduring popularity beyond his role as Ryu Sun-jae.
FAQs about Byun Woo-seok and Ryu Sun-jae
Q: Who is Byun Woo-seok?
A: Byun Woo-seok is a South Korean actor and model known for his roles in dramas like “Record of Youth” and the recent hit “Lovely Runner.”
Q: What role did Byun Woo-seok play in “Lovely Runner”?
A: Byun Woo-seok played the character Ryu Sun-jae in the drama “Lovely Runner.”
Q: How has Byun Woo-seok’s popularity changed after “Lovely Runner”?
A: Byun Woo-seok’s popularity surged dramatically after his appearance in “Lovely Runner,” with his Instagram followers increasing from around 2 million to nearly 10 million.
Q: Has Byun Woo-seok won any popularity awards?
A: Yes, Byun Woo-seok topped Good Data Corporation’s TV-OTT drama popularity surveys and actor popularity surveys in May.
Q: How is Byun Woo-seok maintaining his popularity?
A: Byun Woo-seok remains popular by engaging with fans through various activities and social media, opening communication platforms, and holding fan meetings.
