"The Three Musketeers" is making conquests around the world. The k-drama inspired by the Alexander Dumas novel-and the story of a real-life crown prince who defied his father-has been sold to six countries so far. And it's being sold for top dollar.
The drama, which stars Lee Jin Wook and Jung Yong Hwa, was recently sold to Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia, France and Belgium. It was also sold as video on demand to the U.S. and China.
According to Seo Jang Ho, the manager of CJ E&M's contents overseas business team, the drama is in high demand.
"We recently confirmed the drama's overseas sales in Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia, France and Belgium and in Thailand, it has been sold under the highest price for any Korean drama so far. In Japan, the drama will be introduced on TV starting in December."
More contracts are currently being discussed.
"We're expecting to get some remarkable results," said Seo.
Part of the drama's selling power is the appeal of actor-singer Jung Yong Hwa, who previously had roles in the popular dramas "You're Beautiful" and "Heartstrings." He's also well known as a member of the band CNBlue and for his work as a solo artist. In "The Three Musketeers" he plays Park Dal Hyang, an idealistic adventurer who serves Crown Prince Sohyun, even though the prince married his first love. Park Dal Hyang is a skilled swordsman and an enthusiastic believer in justice.
Lee Jin Wook is also a talented actor with plenty of fans. Last year he appeared in the acclaimed k-drama "Nine: Nine Time Travels," which is being adapted for American television. In "The Three Musketeers" Lee Jin Wook plays Crown Prince Sohyun. The prince risks everything by defying his father because he thinks it will save his country from war. Despite the fact that he knows Park Dal Hyang was the first love of his princess-wife he still takes a liking to the serious swordsman.
The drama also stars Jang Dong Gun and Jung Hae In as the other two musketeers. Seo Hyun Jin plays the princess and Yoo In Young plays the prince's treacherous first love, Jo Mi Ryung. Kim Myung Soo plays the prince's father, the confused King Injo.
"The Three Musketeers" will be divided into three seasons. Season One only has four more episodes to air. Are you watching this drama? What do you think?
