I Am a Running Mate

Synopsis

I Am a Running Mate with Yoon Hyun-soo, originally titled 러닝메이트, is a compelling South Korean political drama series set to premiere in 2025. The show follows the journey of Yoon Hyun-soo, a charismatic but unconventional politician, as he campaigns for public office alongside his dedicated running mate. The series delves deeply into the dynamics of political partnerships, the challenges of election campaigns, and the personal sacrifices made behind the scenes. Through its intricate storytelling and well-developed characters, the show explores themes of trust, ambition, and the often complex nature of political alliances. With a mix of intense drama and moments of levity, it offers viewers both an inside look into Korean politics and a universal story of camaraderie and perseverance.

Cast

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  Yoon Hyun-soo

  Noh Se-hoon

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  Lee Jung-sic

  Kwak Sang-hyun

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  Kim Ji-woo

  Ha Yoo-kyeong

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  Choi Woo-sung

  Yang Won-dae

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  Hong Hwa-yeon

  Yoon Jung-hee

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  Lee Bong-joon

  Park Ji-hoon

Reviews

Critics have generally responded positively to ‘I Am a Running Mate with Yoon Hyun-soo,’ praising its nuanced depiction of political life and the chemistry between the leads. On Rotten Tomatoes, the series holds an 88% approval rating, with several reviews commending its realistic portrayal of election campaigning and the emotional depth of the characters. One reviewer noted, “The series stands out for its fresh perspective on political relationships, avoiding clichés and delivering authentic moments.” IMDb ratings average at 7.9/10 based on early audience feedback, with viewers highlighting the strong performances and well-written script. However, some critics from Metacritic, where it scored a 75/100, mentioned that pacing issues in a few episodes slightly undermined the show’s overall impact. Despite these minor criticisms, the consensus is that the show successfully balances political intrigue with personal drama, maintaining engagement throughout. Its ability to provide insight into Korean electoral culture without becoming overly technical is often highlighted as a key strength.