The plot and actors of the series "Pearl of the Palace"

2024 Author: Leah Sherlock | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 05:25

The "Pearl of the Palace" series is the most successful South Korean television project. Since its premiere in 2003, it has been exported to 91 countries. The series has become one of the symbols of the so-called Korean wave. This expression refers to the worldwide spread of the pop culture of a small Asian state. In 2007, all episodes of the series "Pearl of the Palace" were broadcast on one of the Russian television channels.

Peculiarities of the era

The action takes place in the 15th and 16th centuries, during the reign of kings from the Joseon Dynasty. The series tells the story of the life of Jang Geum, the first Korean woman to receive the post of court physician. This was a huge achievement by the standards of Confucian society, in which women were given a very minor role. Approximately three billion people around the world watched this colorful drama, and the actors of the series "Pearl of the Palace" became known far beyond Korea.

Jang Geum entered the palace at a young age and began her career in the royal kitchen. She diligently studied the secrets of cookingKorean food and traditional medicine. In those centuries, women often died from illnesses without receiving the necessary treatment, since most doctors were men, and Confucian ethics provided for a strict separation of the sexes. Such a sad fate could befall both a noble lady and a simple maid. In order to solve this problem, one of the kings of the Joseon Dynasty ordered to teach medicine to girls occupying a low position in the court hierarchy.

Storyline

At the beginning of the series, the story of the main character's parents is told. Jang Geum So Chung Soo's father serves in the court guard and, by order of the king, takes part in the execution of the concubine princess, whose son is the heir to the throne. Many years later, the new monarch kills him in order to avenge the death of his mother. Seo Chung Soo's wife also dies at the hands of enemies. Jang Geum remains an orphan. She ends up in the royal palace, where, thanks to her talent and diligence, she reaches an unusually high position. Jang Geum is based on a real historical figure. Her name was mentioned several times in official documents during the Joseon Dynasty.

Main characters

The Court Physician is the brightest character among all the roles and actors of the series "Pearl of the Palace". Intelligence, beauty, sociable character and enthusiasm set her apart from the crowd. In the palace, Jang Geum faces many hardships and trials, but overcomes them with determination andpersistence. With a strong will, she strives to achieve her goal, regardless of the circumstances. Thanks to her knowledge of medicine and high moral principles, Jang Geum becomes the first woman in history to be appointed to the position of personal physician to the king. The official title "Great" is added to her name.

The main male character of the series is the handsome Min Jong Ho, a Confucian scholar and martial artist. On behalf of the king, he exposes corruption among government officials. One day, Jang Geum saves Min Jong Ho, who was wounded by an arrow, from death. A romantic relationship develops between them. Min Jong Ho becomes Jang Geum's only true love.

The main rival of the main character is the ambitious and arrogant Choi Geum-yong, the niece of the influential lady Choi Song Geum, who holds a high position at the court. She is envious of Jang Geum's talents and tries to surpass her in everything.

Sub-characters

King Junjong belongs to the heroes of the second plan. The main feature of his character is extreme indecision. The monarch is often gentle and kind. After the death of his wife, who was forced to commit suicide by ministers for political reasons, the king's heart turned to stone. After meeting Jang Geum, Junjong begins to feel attracted to her and subsequently makes her his concubine.

Another minor character is Mrs. Khan, the head chef of the royal kitchen. She has a brilliant knowledge of the art of cooking. Mrs. Khanmotherly to Jang Geum, but never forgets her role as a strict teacher.

Actors of the series "Pearl of the Palace"

The image of the main character was embodied on the screen by Lee Yong Ae, known to the audience for the thriller "Joint Security Area", one of the most successful South Korean films in the world box office. Like other actors of the series "Pearl of the Palace", the story of the royal doctor brought Lee Yong Ae popularity in many Asian countries.

The main character was played by Chi Jin Hee, for whom the role of Min Jong Ho was the first real breakthrough in the movie. Inferior in experience and professionalism to the rest of the actors of the series "Pearl of the Palace", thanks to his external attractiveness, he won the sympathy of the female audience throughout Asia.

The role of the main character's rival was played by Hong Ri Na, well known to fans of South Korean TV dramas, and her aunt was played by the popular pop singer Ken Mi Ri.