Emotions and Endorphins Collide in ’24 Hours Health Club’ Episode 7

The emotional stakes soared in Episode 7 of KBS 2TV’s Wednesday-Thursday Drama ’24 Hours Health Club’, as viewers witnessed a heartfelt transformation in the dynamic between Do Hyun-jung (played by Lee Jun-young) and Lee Mi-ran (played by Jung Eun-ji).

Still reeling from a painful breakup, Mi-ran declared she would quit the gym, citing her loss of motivation—a phenomenon the show cleverly dubs “Workout Burnout.” Spotting the signs, fitness-obsessed trainer Hyun-jung earnestly pleaded for a chance to help her reignite her love for physical activity.

From rifle shooting to basketball, Hyun-jung went the extra mile to bring back Mi-ran’s drive, but his efforts initially only deepened her visible emotional scars. Surprisingly, Mi-ran showed exceptional athletic skill, revealing that her past fitness endeavors were a desperate attempt to gain love and approval. This poignant insight added layers to her character.

As Mi-ran’s emotional turmoil deepened, Hyun-jung visited her workplace, courageously declaring, “I can’t give up on you.” This bold gesture, misinterpreted by Mi-ran’s colleagues as a romantic move, prompted humorous encouragement from all sides—resulting in Mi-ran reluctantly joining him again.

The story took a dramatic turn during a hike when Mi-ran suddenly disappeared. Hyun-jung found her standing near a cliff, only to realize she wasn’t suicidal—just battling food poisoning—causing unexpected comic relief in an otherwise tense scene.

Sharing his own vulnerabilities for the first time, Hyun-jung revealed his childhood struggles and how he found strength through gym mentor Dong Han-chul (Choi Moo-sung). Yet, the moment he felt strongest, he was abandoned by his mentor—or so he thought.

Prompted by Mi-ran’s encouragement to “lead by example,” Hyun-jung visited Han-chul’s hospital room, where he found an old training log. The emotional moment proved that Han-chul had never abandoned him, disarming viewers with quiet sentiment.

Meanwhile, Mi-ran found the closure she needed with her ex, Yeom Joon-seok (Jung Wook-jin), ultimately returning to the gym, motivated and clear-eyed. Just as balance seemed restored, the episode concluded with the shocking return of Hyun-jung’s ex, Kang Sol (Park Hae-in), who calmly greeted him by name after signing a new PT contract at the gym.

What could her sudden reappearance mean? With wounds healing and new ones potentially opening, Episode 8 promises to continue the emotional rollercoaster with more heart, humor, and hope.