A time-traveling romance that became China's most expensive Korean drama export
In short: When a 21st-century woman is transported to 10th-century Goryeo, she enters a deadly web of royal rivalry. While the series faced mixed critical reviews, its international value skyrocketed, making it a record-breaking success in the Chinese streaming market.
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo is a South Korean television series that aired on SBS from August 29 to November 1, 2016. Adapted from Tong Hua's Chinese novel Bu Bu Jing Xin, the plot concerns 25-year-old Go Ha-jin, who is transported to 941 during King Taejo's rule. Transported into the body of Hae Soo, she becomes entangled in the political struggles and romantic rivalries of the ruling Wang family. The protagonist finds herself navigating the treacherous court politics of the Goryeo period. She eventually finds herself caught in the middle of intense rivalries among the many princes of the Wang family.
The production was a massive undertaking with a budget of US$13 million, involving significant investment from YG Entertainment and NBC Universal. The series achieved significant commercial milestones in China; the streaming platform Youku purchased the series for $400,000 per episode. This deal made it the most expensive Korean drama ever sold to China at that time, surpassing the previous records held by Descendants of the Sun and Uncontrollably Fond.
Despite its commercial reach, the 20-episode series received mixed reviews from critics. While the acting of Lee Joon-gi and the series' photography were praised, other elements like the rapid pacing and the focus on a love triangle were criticized. Some observers suggested that a deeper focus on the power struggles of the early Goryeo Dynasty might have better engaged viewers interested in political dramas, rather than leaning into a style reminiscent of 'Boys Over Flowers'. The production featured over one hundred custom-made masks designed by artist Lee Hoo-chang. Additionally, the intricate jewellery used throughout the drama was crafted by Jung Jae-in of Minhwi Art Jewelry.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo
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