The Great Jang-Geum
The Great Jang-Geum is a South Korean historical drama television series directed by Lee Byung-hoon that premiered in 2003. From September 15, 2003, to March 23, 2004, it was the top program on MBC, with an average viewership rating of 45.8 percent and a peak of 57.1 percent (making it the 10th highest-rated Korean drama of all time). Produced for US$15 million, it was later exported to 91 countries and earned US$103.4 million worldwide, making it one of the primary proponents of the Korean Wave by promoting Korean culture abroad.
Starring Lee Young-ae in the title role, it tells the tale of an orphaned kitchen cook who went on to become the King's first female physician. In a time when women held little influence in society, young apprentice cook Jang-geum strives to learn the secrets of Korean cooking and medicine to cure the King of his various ailments. It is based on the true story of Jang-geum, the Joseon Dynasty's first female royal physician. Her perseverance and the portrayal of traditional Korean culture, including Korean royal court cuisine and traditional medicine, are the main themes. Lee Young-ae won the Grand Prize (Daesang) and Top Excellence Award for Actress for this film at the 2003 MBC Drama Awards.
Detailed information:
Directed by: Lee Byung-hoon
Starring: Lee Young-ae, Ji Jin-hee, Hong Ri-na, Im Ho, Yang Mi-kyung, Kyeon Mi-ri
Release date: September 15, 2003
