My saeguk-fusion drama for 2011. It has 24 episodes (4 more than 2010's Sungkyungkwan Scandal) which means I spent almost 3 months waiting for Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Dubbed as the Romeo and Juliet of the Joseon Period, I didn't plan on watching this as I felt that I have "outgrown" my fondness for this Shakespearean tragedy. Although looking back, even when I was in high school and loving all the Sweet Dream books, I never really find Romeo and Juliet as romantic.
Elements that I enjoyed in this kdrama:
1. the official soundtrack - wanted to post my favorites but no more "Music" option after clicking Post;
2. Moon Chae-won's hanboks - even when she became a servant-maid, she looks fantastic in them;
3. presence of a male gisaeng - it's refreshing that this saeguk feature such a character; and
4. the senior actors whose mere screen presence commands respect worthy of the royalty role that they play.
I was torn between wanting a tragic and happy ending. Overall, I am happy that the Korean queen in this saeguk is wise and we have a character who saved the not so star-crossed Joseon Korean lovers.
