They say April is the cruelest month but not for lovers of historical kdramas. This season offers lots of choices when it comes to shows with great sets, lavish costumes and hold-your-breath martial action.
Two of these shows have already started but a weekend's marathon could help you catch up. Already being shown are "Cruel Palace: War of Flowers" and "Gu Am Heo Joon."
"Cruel Palace" depicts the battles between concubines in the royal palace, so you know there are going to be some great costumes and settings. These women will do whatever it takes to gain the love of the king and the power his favor bestows. Centering the story is the beautiful but evil concubine Jo So Young, played by Kim Hyun Joo. She tries to impress King In Jo, played by Lee Duk Hwa, but when this lowborn beauty gets the power she desires, more struggles ensue. It also stars Jung Sung Woon as Crown Prince So Hyun.
"Gu Am Heo Joon" tells the story of Heo Joon, a court physician during the reign of King Seonjo of the Joseon Dynasty. It's a compelling story about a commoner who rose through the ranks to write the medical texts that defined Korean medicine. Kim Joo Hyuk stars as Heo Joon. Park Jin Hee plays Ye Jin and Park Eun Bin plays Da Hee.
Two new historical dramas slated to start soon are "Jang Ok Jung" and "Gu Family Book."
"Jang Ok Jung," starring Kim Tae Hee, Hong Soo Hyun and Jae Hee tells the story of Jang Ok Jung, the royal concubine during the Joseon Dynasty who was responsible for the exile and possibly the death of Queen In Hyun. Although Jang OK Jung's life has been portrayed in many dramas, this version of the story will focus on her talents as well as her flaws.
"Gu Family Book" adds a little fantasy to the historical drama genre. In the drama, Choi Kang Chi, played by Lee Seung Ki, is born as a half-human-half-mythical-creature, who struggles to become more human. He meets Dam Yeo Wool, played by Suzy. Besides being a master of martial arts and archery, she is also very concerned with what it takes to live an honorable life.
These four series offer an entertaining way to expand your historical drama viewing.
