The series "Pearl of the Palace" is the most successful South Korean television project. After the premiere in 2003, it was exported to 91 countries. The series has become one of the characters of the so-called Korean wave. This expression refers to the spread around the world of pop culture of a small Asian state. In 2007, all series of the series “The Pearl of the Palace” were broadcast on one of the Russian television channels.
Features 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 Chan Gum, the first Korean woman who received the post of court doctor. This was a huge achievement by the standards of Confucian society, in which women played a very insignificant role. About 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.
Chan Gum at a young age came to the palace and began her career in the royal kitchen. She diligently studied the secrets of cooking Korean dishes and traditional medicine. In those centuries, women often died of diseases without receiving the necessary treatment, since most doctors were men, and Confucian ethics provided for a strict division of the sexes. Such a sad fate could befall both a noble lady and a simple servant. In order to solve this problem, one of the kings of the Joseon dynasty ordered the girls who occupy a low position in the court hierarchy to teach medicine.
Plot
At the beginning of the series, the story of the parents of the main character is told. Father Chan Gym Soh Cheong-su 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. Wife So Cheong Soo also dies at the hands of enemies. Chan Gum remains an orphan. She ends up in the royal palace, where, thanks to her talent and hard work, she reaches an unusually high position. The image of Chan Gum is based on a real historical personality. Her name was mentioned several times in official documents of the Joseon Dynasty.
main characters
The court healer is the brightest character among all the roles and actors of the series "Pearl of the Palace". Mind, beauty, sociable character and enthusiasm set her apart from the crowd. In the palace, Chan Gum faces many difficulties and trials, but overcomes them with determination and perseverance. Possessing a strong will, she seeks to achieve her goal regardless of circumstances. Thanks to his knowledge of medicine and high moral principles, Chan Gum becomes the first woman in history to be appointed to the post of personal king's doctor. The official title "great" is added to her name.
The main male character in the series is handsome Ming John Ho, a Confucian scholar and martial artist. On behalf of the king, he exposes corruption among government officials. One day, Chan Gum rescues Ming John Ho from a wounded arrow. Between them there is a romantic relationship. Min John Ho becomes the only true love in Jang Gum's life.
The main rival of the main character is the ambitious and arrogant Choi Gym Yong, the niece of the influential mistress Choi Song Gym, who occupies a high position at court. She envies Chiang Gum's talents and tries to surpass her in everything.
Minor Characters
The supporting heroes include King Chungjon. The main feature of his character is extreme indecision. The monarch often shows gentleness and kindness. After the death of his wife, which the ministers forced to commit suicide for political reasons, the king's heart turned to stone. Acquainted with Chan Gum, Chungjong begins to feel attracted to her and subsequently makes her his concubine.
Another minor character is Ms. Khan, a senior chef in royal cuisine. She has a brilliant knowledge of the art of cooking. Ms. Khan is motherly related to Chan Gum, but she 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 Yeon-eh, known to the audience for the thriller "United Security Zone", one of the most successful South Korean films in the box office. Like other actors in the series "The Pearl of the Palace", the story of the royal physician brought Lee Young-ee popularity in many Asian countries.
The main character was played by Chi Jin Hee, for whom the role of Min John Ho was the first real breakthrough in the movie. Losing in experience and professionalism to the other actors of the series "The Pearl of the Palace", thanks to his external attractiveness, he won the sympathy of a female audience throughout Asia.
The role of the rival of the main character was played by Hong Ri Na, well known to lovers of South Korean television dramas, and her aunt was played by popular pop singer Ken Mi Ri.