The World Turned Upside Down: Social Change in Historical Kdrama

Chun Doong and Gwi Dong, The Duo
Chun Doong and Gwi Dong, The Duo

One of the most common plots in sageuk (historical Kdrama) pits those with power against those without power.  These tensions become even more complicated with friendships and romantic relationships.  Nothing makes the elite more nervous than when the “riff raff” start to question “the natural order of things.”  Historical Kdramas like The Duo and Hong Gil Dong begin with the possibility of social change, but end up reinforcing the status quo.  However, Tree with Deep Roots sustains the promise of social change to the end. Continue reading “The World Turned Upside Down: Social Change in Historical Kdrama”

The Men Who Would Be Kings In Kdrama

The throne hall in Seoul’s Changdeokgung Palace. Source: http://blog.rhapsody.com/2009/03/soundtreks-the-soul-of-seoul-or-five-days-of-korean-music.html

More often than not, a sageuk (historical Kdrama) will center on the shenanigans of royalty.  And what is royalty without a king? Kdrama not only offers a wide array of historical kings, but also imbues them with personalities that enthrall modern audiences.

Continue reading “The Men Who Would Be Kings In Kdrama”