This is exactly the rom-com we needed
I have been anticipating this drama since they announced it. I honestly, watched the first episode after it's released without thinking about the consequence and pain having to wait for a new episode each week but we're here! Lol Never ever crossed my mind that they would give us THIS much chemistry and let alone be obsessed with SolJae couple. Seriously, this pairing is so GOOD and so cute.Kim Hye Yoon deserves to be casted as she truly portrayed Im Sol. She shined so much here. Her versatility and her showing so many emotions all at once is remarkable.
Byeon Woo Seok, delivers Ryu Sun Jae's character as well. His dynamics and expressions are on point. I'm literally in awe of how talented he is?! Like, his vocals??? He could do KPOP/Band vocalist full time! So happy for him he's getting the popularity he deserves now. (Don't sleep on him! He might be the next rom-com king!)
This is exactly the rom-com I needed. I honestly love this so much as I have been looking for dramas that are light and not stressful. This is what I'm hoping for! All tropes that I like are visible here. I just hope they won't focus on the thriller/murder part because that's seriously a turn off. Lol
It's still early to say as we gradually go on with the episodes but 9.1 rating is so deserving!!!!
🧏🏼♀️Dimple couple🧏🏻♂️~~~!!! Fighting!!!!
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This review may contain spoilers
The defniton of mood swings
I started watching this on Sunday and I was hesitant to watch it due to the drama around but hey yoon is my favourite actress so why not, i really enjoyed it and that's the suppressing considering i don't really like unexpected twists in dramas it was very emotional ( i didn't cry though ) i enjoyed this drama however there are a few things that could've been different.1. The chemistry I didn't think their chemistry was bad or awkward it just didn't feel natural, especially in the last few episodes
2. i felt like they could've gone in more depth like what does the grandma know? Why does she change time or world or whatever? which world or time is the real one? It feels like it needed more than 16 episodes and there were A LOT of things that were left unexplained
3. i understand why the fl was frustrated but why did she have to lie and pretend like she didn't like him or shout at him because he got her a gift... like girl be happy after changing time and dimensions about 100000 times you would think would realise there's no reason for her to lie or pretend to be okay.. or act like she hates him right? but no
but yeh watch it i haven't watched a drama without dropping it for months so it must've been good
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This review may contain spoilers
No matter where we are...The end is always YOU! (Why 'Lovely Runner' Stole My Heart in 2024)
“Is there such a thing as destiny in life? Something we can neither change nor defy. Something like inevitability.” – Im Sol" Lovely Runner" is officially one of my all-time favorite dramas, and I can't stress this enough. This show left me blushing, giggling, swooning and crying like a baby, and the emotions it stirred within me were simply unparalleled. To be honest, it hasn't just made its way into my top ten favorites, but it's actually bumped off a couple of other shows and claimed the top spot. " Lovely Runner" has officially stolen my heart, and I can't recommend it highly enough. If you haven't watched it yet, drop everything you're doing and start now - trust me, you won't regret it!
Alright, strap in folks, because the review you're about to read is as long as a novel (seriously, you might want to grab a snack before getting started). But trust me, it's worth it, because this drama had me going through all the emotions - laughter, tears, frustration, happiness, and everything in between. So buckle up and get ready for a wild ride as I take you on a journey through my thoughts on " Lovely Runner."
From the first episode to the last, this drama was a rollercoaster of emotions that left me feeling warm and fuzzy inside. The story, which revolves around a celebrity and his lifelong admirer, was beautifully executed and had me rooting for their love story at every turn. Every single character was fleshed out and well-developed, and the chemistry between the two leads was simply off the charts. So let me break down all the things that made this drama a 10/10 "must watch" for me...
CAST/ACTING:
The cast of " Lovely Runner" was simply phenomenal,top-notch, making for a truly compelling and immersive viewing experience.. Byeon Woo Seok was absolutely amazing in his role, bringing depth and charisma to Ryu Seon-Jae. His chemistry with Kim Hye Yoon, who played Im Sol in the most amazing & cute way, was palpable and their performances together truly made the drama come to life. The supporting cast was equally impressive, each actor bringing their own unique touch to their characters and adding to the richness of the story.
♥Main Leads Chemistry: The heart-warming and dreamy chemistry between the two leads of " Lovely Runner" was truly something special.It was so magnetic and believable that it added an extra layer of emotional depth to the show, making it even more enjoyable to watch. Byeon Woo Seok & Kim Hye Yoon are prolly now one of my top fav "kdrama couple" in all Dramaland!
“Given how many times we’re running into each other, isn’t the universe basically pushing us toward each other?” – Ryu Sun Jae
At this point please allow me this little fangirl moment...here we go... (1/2)
Byeon Woo Seok's performance in " Lovely Runner" was undoubtedly exceptional. After stunning audiences with his villainous role as Ryu Shi Oh in " Strong Girl Namsoon" and capturing the hearts of viewers (cause let's be honest it was the first time we were all rooting for the ruthless but charming as hell villain), his portrayal of Ryu Seon-Jae proved his versatility as an actor. As the charismatic and dreamy Ryu Seon-Jae, Byeon Woo Seok's charisma shone through and he effortlessly embodied the ideal boyfriend material, making viewers swoon and fall in love with the character. His talent for bringing complex characters to life and his ability to seamlessly switch between genres is truly impressive, and he's definitely a force to be reckoned with in the Korean entertainment industry.
CINEMATOGRAPHY:
From the cinematography to the styling, and from the beautifully shot scenes to the close-ups in " Lovely Runner" everything was exquisitely executed. The use of colors like warm reds and pinks created a romantic and dreamy atmosphere throughout the series, perfectly complementing the themes of love and fate. The camerawork was impeccable, with carefully composed shots capturing the subtle details and emotions of the characters. Close-ups, panned shots, and sweeping scenic views were all utilized to great effect, enhancing the overall visual experience of the drama and adding depth and dimension to the story. The use of close-up shots allowed for a strong emotional connection with the characters, and the stunning scenery, particularly the falling flower petals, added a sense of magic and romance to the series. The thoughtfully placed symbolism throughout the drama added layers of depth and meaning, such as the recurring theme of time and fate. These elements combined created a truly visually captivating and emotionally impactful drama.
MUSIC:
The music soundtrack for me is amongst the "Golden OST Dramas" like "Goblin", "Crash Landing on You", "Hotel del Luna", "while you were sleeping", "Moonlovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo" & rightfully so! Every song chosen for each scene was perfect & matched the mood of the scene, adding depth and feeling to the story. Songs like a"Star" by N.Flying captured the hopeful and optimistic tone of the drama, while "Like a Dream" by Minnie had a more melancholic and contemplative feel, perfectly complementing the show's themes of destiny and longing. The incorporation of "Spring snow" by 10cm and "a day" by ATEEZ's Jongho were especially noteworthy & they are hands down my faves. "Spring snow" added a touch of melancholy and longing, perfectly capturing the emotional turmoil of the characters. "a day", on the other hand, injected a dose of warmth and happiness to balance the drama's emotional depth, creating a truly memorable listening experience. Like honestly the soundtrack of " Lovely Runner" was truly one of the best ever. The songs seamlessly fit into the scenes and heightened the emotional impact of the drama. From the romantic ballads to the upbeat tracks, each song was carefully chosen to complement the storylines and characters perfectly. Whether evoking laughter, tears, or a mix of both, the soundtrack of " Lovely Runner" was a masterclass in creating the perfect atmosphere and eliciting the desired emotions from the audience.
At this point please allow me another fangirl moment...I can't help it...I'm an ATINY!
"A Day":The song's message of treasuring each and every moment aligned perfectly with the drama's themes of love, regret, and the fragility of time. The song's lyrics spoke of cherishing each day and the precious moments that make up life, themes that were central to " Lovely Runner." The uplifting and hopeful tone of the song countered the often bittersweet and melancholic moments in the drama, encapsulating the beauty and importance of savoring each day to the fullest.
ATEEZ'S very own amazing vocalist Jongho's voice in "a day" was simply angelic and heartwarming. His velvety tone added a touch of warmth to the drama's emotional rollercoaster. Each note he sang felt like a ray of sunshine piercing through the rain clouds, bringing a sense of tranquility and hope. The way he hit those high notes and transitions effortlessly between different registers was truly impressive, showcasing his exceptional vocal abilities. Simply put, Jongho's voice in " Lovely Runner" was nothing short of amazing, and every time his songs comes on, I can't help but fangirl over his talent!
WHAT I LIKED: (pretty much everything xD)
1. Heartwarming and emotional storyline and relatable characters
2. Great character development and portrayal and casting
3. Stunning cinematography and visual elements
4. Memorable & beautiful soundtrack with emotional and touching songs
5. Engaging plot with unexpected twists and turns
6. Satisfying and uplifting ending that leaves viewers feeling fulfilled and happy
7. The beautiful quotes in the dialogues!
8.Perfect chemistry between the leads that make your heart melt and steals the show
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE:
1.The stalker killer taxi driver plot line was not resolved in a satisfying way and seemed like a rushed afterthought.
2.Im Sol's constant avoidance and pushing away of Seon-Jae was frustrating.
3. SMLKim Tae Sung deserved a "happy ending" too :(
Overall, "Lovely Runner" really stands out as a 10/10 drama for me.I LOVED IT WITH ALL MY HEART! It's a highlight of 2024 in Kdramaland and has quickly become one of my all-time favorites. Everything about it is just perfect - the captivating storyline, lovable characters, beautiful cinematography, and memorable music. I couldn't have asked for anything more from this drama, and it's definitely left a lasting impression on me and i will most definitely watch it 100 times and cry my eyes out till i die from dehydration buried under a mountain of tissues! If you're looking for a heartwarming love story that pulls on your heartstrings and leaves you with a warm fuzzy feeling inside and if you are a sucker for "fluffiness overload-comfort" dramas like silly lil me, then "Lovely Runner" is the drama for you! ♥
“At that moment, this crossed my mind. That our fate was just going around in circles just like this Ferris wheel.” – Im Sol
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Honest Review: Not Perfect, yet one of the best of 2024!
There have been moments in my 18 years of drama-addicted life, where I have been obsessed with a drama - its plot, actors, characters, scenes - to the point that made people question my sanity. But never have I come across a drama, that too airing, that has impacted me so much from Day 1 like Lovely Runner! I hardly have time to sleep/eat managing my work-personal life, but for this show - I decided to throw it all away to engage in MDL theories, comment and even create a Insta page dedicated to this show!Now that you have got an understanding of obsession, and I know this is going in the HALL OF FAME as one of the best K-dramas I have seen till date BUT it is IMPERFECTLY BEAUTIFUL. Hence, please read my un-biased review of this drama:
❤️ Ep 1-10 - Literal Perfection
Heart Fluttering Romance ✔ | Well-Timed Comedy ✔ | right amount of fantasy, suspense & angst ✔ | Music that heals ✔
Basically these episodes had sugar and spice - think of everything that you like in a drama, irrespective of genre, and Lovely Runner has it. The hype it initially created deserved every bit of recognition - and everyone in the cast and crew gave it their heart, which made the final presentation something to look forward to even on dreaded Mondays!
❤️ Byeon Woo Seok & Kim Hye Soon
I cannot even begin to describe the love & pride I feel for these two. Those who are acquainted with their journey would understand how long it has taken for them to be recognized as main leads in this industry. They literally breathed life into their characters - making the chemistry palpable that I won't be surprised if they share they are dating IRL. I think when we say that you cannot imagine anyone else doing these roles OR their character names is recalled more than their real names - it is a testimony of a job fabulously done. They were both amaJING and unbelieBUBBLE and I cannot wait to see them in new projects. Literally the example of #onwards-and-upwards - I am rooting for their success & happiness, and grateful that they took this project and gifted me with such a beautiful experience & memory.
❤️ Music:
I really love how they used the plot story and band - Eclipse and released the OST. Really love these kind of witty nuggets - am such a sucker for it. Thinking from a business perspective - this opens so many doors for BWS who has sung these tracks - to host concerts or sing in his fan meetings. I guess the sharp minds of the industry and agency must have already thought of it.
But I feel the main track - Sudden Shower (Sonaki/소나기) is so damn beautiful and I loved how catalytic it was in the plot.
Other favorites: Spring Snow by 10cm, Like a Dream by Minnie. Already a part of my playlist, and I know it will stay for long.
Now, onto what could have been better? Ep 11 and onwards
Please note that I write this with the mindset of "WABI-SABI" i.e. Beauty in Imperfection. The drama is still is great, but it is not without flaws:
✘ Character Development:
Harsh but true - the leads were uni-dimensional, having only one goal throughout FL wants to save ML, ML is all about puppy love for FL. Not bad per se, but by stretching this overkilled what was initially cute, heart warming, toe curling into fillers. Even the support characters (brother/best friend, In Hyuk, Tae Seong, FL & ML's parents) & villain were not judiciously used to their potential. They were enjoyable whenever onscreen, but the same kind of comedy due to repeating timelines killed the initial excitement thereby not leaving with the greatest impression.
Had this been a 10-12 episode drama format, it would have more impactful, as the repeats/fillers would have not been there. I quote this from a fellow MDL user, Kate's review: it did seem like that they ran out of what to create, in the second half and therefore repurposed many of the epic scenes in new timeline packaging. (Read her review here: https://mydramalist.com/profile/Shini/review/363193)
❤️Overall
In the end - the anticipation and fun that we had as we watched while it aired might not be felt by those who binge it. Hence I am fearful the high ratings we see now, might dwindle. But honestly, this has been a very refreshing, feel good, guilty pleasure drama (thirst trap - included: BWS shirtless scenes, them veiny forearms & hands, long fingers, ability to catch a woman by her waist - OOOHLALALA!) but mainly a show that has after a long time: made me smile in a way that split my face in half or snort like a goofy person at the antics the drama characters played. And what else do you want from a drama : Other than the fact that it makes you feel happy from the bottom of your heart! Lovely Runner did that and more and hence recommend it to be watched at least once ❤️
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tell me why this has to end?
Now that we have two remaining episodes left I'm already feeling sepanxx over this and will surely feel this way for few weeks. The last time I got hooked by Kdramas is the year 2016 - 2017 where Kdramas are truly perfection you can binge watch one after another. It's the time when Kdrama is at it's peak.Nowadays it's really hard to finish one I have so many pending Kdramas in my list and I can't seem to find my motivation to finish them but this came along and Lovely Runner ended my longing for a really damn good Kdrama. This drama gave me the same feeling once again, the thrill and excitement that I feel in every episode made me want to watch this in just one day. It's a masterpiece that I've been craving for so long. This is a romcom heartfelt drama with a mix-up of thriller, nostalgic coming-of-age story.
I am so happy that I finally watch this after ignoring this from my recommendation for so long and to every person who haven't watch this yet, you are missing out a lot. Lovely Runner may not be on Netflix and does not have the highest ratings on Television but you can clearly see it's popularity and how well-received it is by the fans like me. If ever they decide to hold a concert for the fictional band Eclipse, I bet the tickets would be sold out. The OST and cinematography is exquisite. This drama is not overrated at all, it even deserves more than a 10 rating. I'm not yet ready to let this go. I will surely miss SolJae dimple couple <3
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This review may contain spoilers
BEAUTIFUL, FLUFFY AND TRULY LOVELY DRAMA!!
LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE!!! I just love how it was a simple drama that wasn't too complicated, and I love that they didn't waste time and focus on creating some backstory for the villain; he is just a bad guy who happens to be present. This is the first time in a while where a drama didn't lose me because I felt the storyline was getting weaker. The drama stayed true to what it was meant to be, a cheesy rom-com with all the cliches and I love when a rom-com is unapologetically exactly that. It was simply full of fluff and I don't remember any product placements being shoved in my face, which was nice. I'm glad everyone had a beautiful and fulfilling ending, and this is definitely a drama I would rewatch.Everyone worked so hard on this drama after having so many setbacks. I'm glad it got popular, and I really hope more dramas like this will be produced. It truly is nice to simply watch a lighthearted drama. I was giggling and grinning from episode one all the the way to the last episode, even when the last timeline began and Sunjae didn't remember Sol, his personality didn't change and the couple still managed to make me laugh. The music in the drama was also so beautifully done, spring snow in particular might just be one of my favourite OSTs of all time. Thank you to everyone who worked on this and thank you for letting me experience such a wonderful drama. <3
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Renewed my absolute love for Kdramas
this is hands down one of the few kdramas I would rewatch from beginning to end without skipping a single second, sobbing and feeling all the emotions like I’m watching it for the first time. now don’t get me wrong, there are definitely others I have watched that I would rewatch simply for the good moments and the moments that really made me feel something, but this is different. this show is magnificent as a whole; from the acting to the story to the perfectly chosen OST by 10cm.would highly recommend - anyone could find something about this to fall in love with
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NON-STOP SWOONING watching the last 6 minutes of Episode 2
Non-stop swooning watching the last 6 minutes of Episode 2 helppppp needed asapI was so sad watching Episode 1 😭😭😭😭😭
But Episode 2 is sooooo cuteeee I can't stop watching 🥰 what is happeninggg
why soo cuteeee 💞💞
Please tell me this swooning continues??? I'm scared to go further if it's going to be sad but I got a feeling it will all change.. The photo at the end.. ottokeee ottokeeeee
Will it change?? Tell me pleaseee
I mean don't tell me but tell me if I should continue?? I want a super happy ending for this cute lively character Im Sol 🍀 The actress is playing this role to a T 👏🏻💯
Please tell me it's more like Episode 2 going further and less like Episode 1??? 💞🌧
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This review may contain spoilers
Life Changing Experience (literally).
Words cannot convey how I felt watching Lovely Runner and the journey it took me through.I was sceptical at first because they painted this as an idol-fan love story (and what I thought would be a weird age-gap), so I wasn't exactly looking forward to it, but I love Hyeyoon to pieces and was familiar with Wooseok (hated his character in Record of Youth or cried for him in 20th Century Girl), so I decided to give it a go. Episode 1 was alright, surprisingly left me wanting more, but nothing too extraordinary. I waited another day for Episode 2 to be release and well, I watched it and here I am, still in my Lovely Runner sh*t. I think everything changed for Subeom nation after that episode 2 ending, and from that moment I knew this would become a favourite of mine.
A girl time travelling to save the boy who gave her courage to live but that boy loved her all along for like 15 years? Dude, I don't know about you but I was OBSESSED. And from that moment on, my Mondays and Tuesdays became such a source of happiness to the point I hated weekends. Crazy, right? Plot-wise, this was brilliant. Even the smallest details made sense, and even thought there were a couple plot-holes (as expected since time-travelling media can't help but have them), this was brilliantly executed. From small things such as Sunjae realising Sol is from the future because she's singing Sudden Shower to more complex things such as Sol going further back into the past to erase herself from Sunjae's past, marvellous and beautiful.
Character-wise, I've got absolutely nothing to complain about, either.
Let's start with Im Sol, played by one of the greatest actresses of our generation, Kim Hyeyoon. This role was literally (because it was, in fact) written for her and no one, absolutely no one could've pulled it off the way she did. We saw Sol go through so many things in order to save Sunjae, sometimes failing to realise she was slowly losing herself during the process. But I am so happy that even though she had to endure a lot, at the end, all that effort paid off for her. I laughed with and at her, I cried with and for her, and I felt this character so much that I simply couldn't help but love her to pieces. I never understood the hate she was receiving, I believe her to be one of the most selfless characters I've come across and one I'm sure we will cherish for a long time.
As for Ryu Sunjae, played by big softie Byeon Wooseok, all I gotta say he deserves this huge blow up. which I gotta say, I'm not sure why he didn't get huge after (at least) 20th Century Girl, where he played a very similar character. Nevertheless, really happy for him because he became a global sensation, so deserved! Anyway, Sunjae!! God, Sunjae!! Leader of Subeom nation, a pathetic malewife and certified loser, I love you so much. Wooseok played Sunjae in a way I believe no one else could have, and we're all the richer for it. Sunjae was just a simply little (2 meter) guy who fell in love and that's it, but that doesn't mean his story ends there. He showed us perseverance, longing, grief, love, happiness, so many raw emotions we rarely see from male characters, and I think you will all agree with me that you just simply love him.
And finally, our Kim Taesung, played by the amazing Song Geonhee. I am very pleased to say I never disliked him, jokes on y'all for never seeing his potential! Taesung, thank you for showing the audience that second leads do not need to be toxic and clingy in order to stay relevant. Geonhee played such a charming Taesung that one couldn't just help but love him (which was my case). He was always there for Sol as a friend (and I'm so glad Sol never lead him on), and that he believed and trusted her when she asked for things that did not make any sense (future related, of course). Such a refreshing character that I will miss dearly.
I would also like to point out two more things regarding this drama. The first one is the make up and costume department, I AM CLAPPING AT THIS VERY SAME MOMENT. How were you able to convince me that Hyeyoon and Wooseok were 19 at some point and 34 at the other and so on? I mean, the actors of course had a great deal to do with this, but I believe the make up and costume team did a marvellous job that needs to be recognised.
THE OST! It's been such a while since an all-rounder OST came along, I will forever remember how desperate we all were for Spring Snow to be released, we were truly losing my minds. And I'm also forever thankful we had Wooseok sing Sudden Shower because that just adds a great deal more of emotion to the whole thing. Great singer choices, great songwriting, 10/10.
Overall, this drama did everything splendidly, and I am so sad that I have to let it go after 2 months, I wish I could forget it all so I can watch it again for the first time. I'm sure I'll rewatch from time to time (tomorrow, maybe hahah). If what you're looking for is a refreshing experience, I do certainly recommend this one right here. You won't be disappointed.
Perfection does not exist, but if it did and it came in the shape of a Korean television series, it would be Lovely Runner.
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Happy Pill
It’s hard to put perfectly into words just how amazing Lovely Runner is, but it is without a doubt, one of the best ones out there. Aside from the fiery chemistry of the leads. The storyline and narrative itself is just top notch. The way it could just make viewers like me feel so giddy in one second and fearful and stressed on the next is just perfect. I also loved how the ending unfolded. How it stressed that memories are etched in the heart. I just wish we had more time to uncover if and how is Grandma connected to the time traveling that’s happened. Speaking of Grandma, big kudos as well to the great family dynamics of this show. Within all the timelines all the family interactions where great. The love showcased within was truly heartwarming. Ahh~ would definitely rewatch this again.Was this review helpful to you?
it's really worth watching
I really cried when I saw the ending of episode 4. Their acting was really real and it melted my heart. The OST really got me into this drama. I'm sure you will like it. Kim Hye Yoon really got into Im Sol, blowing me away with her incredible performance. Byun Woo Seok is no less cool. I can feel their chemistry is very strong. I look forward to many more of your project. I also hope you understand the storyline which I feel is quite realistic to idol's life now. Don't forget to give your review so you can share information..Was this review helpful to you?
If you could forget any show just to rewatch it again, what show would it be? This one.
Let me just say this, I did not expect to enjoy this drama as much as I actually did when I read the mdl description. Before starting Lovely Runner, I was in a drama slump. Unable to finish ones I had began because they became too stale midway through or the ones airing just did not sound interesting to me. I have had Lovely Runner on my to watch list because I like both Byeon Wooseok and Kim Hyeyoon's acting and thought that the description seemed interesting so I gave it a try.I am so happy that I watched this series. I do not think there were many dull moments throughout this show as for my episode rankings every single episode got either a 9 or a 10, no episode ever went below a 9 for me. I cried many times throughout this show, not full blown sobs but teary eyed, and my throat clenched up quite a bit as well. The way this show was able to grab at your heart strings and keep you wanting to come back for the next episode was fantastic.
For my typical reviews I do a "favorite character of the series", but it is such a difficult one to choose for this review as I genuinely loved everyone. The way Baek Inhyuk was used as a major comedic relief, seeing him on the screen was always such a treat. I loved the growth we saw of Kim Taesung throughout the series. I will genuinely miss this series and it is definitely one of those "If you could have a show you could ever forget just to rewatch one more time what would it be" show.
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