“Pump Up the Healthy Love” Promises Laughter, Healing, and Muscle Gains – kdramadiary
KBS2 TV’s new midweek drama is ready to flex its way into viewers’ hearts when it premieres on April 30.
Pump Up the Healthy Love is a heartwarming muscle-growth comedy (with a dash of romance!) that follows the down-to-earth gym manager Do Hyun-joong as he unexpectedly helps a group of anxious gym members transform their lives, one workout at a time.
At the heart of the story is Do Hyun-joong, a world-renowned bodybuilder who unexpectedly finds himself managing a run-down neighborhood gym. Played by Lee Jun Young, Hyun-joong is rough around the edges in everything except fitness, and his journey of awkwardly navigating gym life—and the lives of its members—is both hilarious and heartwarming. “Hyun-joong’s growth outside of lifting weights will be a key part of the fun,” Lee teased.
Jung Eun Ji stars as Lee Mi-ran, a gym newbie who joins after a painful breakup and finds more than just muscle in her healing process. “This show is light and breezy—no heavy plot twists,” Jung explained. “You can just enjoy it with ease. And if you’re into fitness, you’ll definitely laugh and relate.”
Lee Mi Do, who plays Rosa, the no-nonsense gym owner, emphasized the drama’s relatable characters and energetic tone. “Everyone will see a bit of themselves in at least one character. Pump UP the Healthy Love is pure power. It’s the kind of show that motivates you to build not just your body, but your spirit too.”
Lee Seung Woo, cast as the upbeat gym mascot Alex, highlighted the emotional arcs behind the workouts. “It’s about how people from different walks of life come together, push through pain, and find strength—in both body and heart—through fitness.”
The gym’s unforgettable trio—Park Sung-yeon, Lee Ji-hye, and Hong Yoon-hwa—collectively dubbed The Witch Trio, each offered a unique take on what makes the show special. Park called it “muscle-pumping,” noting the dual gains of heart and strength. Lee Ji-hye pointed out the episodic structure where each character gets the spotlight, saying, “You’ll see diverse ways people tackle life’s challenges and learn to love themselves.” Hong Yoon-hwa added with a laugh, “Watching our physical transformations will be a show in itself—don’t miss it!”
Whether you’re in it for the laughs, the feels, or the flex, Pump Up the Healthy Love is shaping up to be a feel-good series that delivers more than just fitness gains. Tune in for a dose of motivation, humor, and self-love—all set in the most unexpected place: a quirky little gym that changes lives.
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