Explore our spoiler-free review of the hit Korean historical rom-com drama ‘Rooftop Prince’.  Get general series information, plot summary, and my personal thoughts and rating, all 100% spoiler-free!  If you have already seen this drama and are interested in a more full review, including character analysis, highlights, and ending explanation,  please click on the link below.

This classic historical romantic comedy originally appeared on SBS TV. It was directed by Ahn Gil Ho, who went on to direct popular dramas such as ‘Stranger’ in 2017 and ‘The Glory’ in 2022 and Shin Yoon Sub who also directed ‘Catch the Ghost’ in 2019.

Air Date: March 21 – May 24, 2012

Episodes: 20

Where to Watch: Viki

Genre: Historical Rom-Com

Starring: Park Yoo Chun and Han Ji Min

While still reeling from the murder of his wife, a Joseon Crown Prince suddenly finds himself and three of his officials transported to a rooftop apartment in modern day Korea.  And as he begins to meet the present day doppelgangers from his past, including a very much alive, modern version of the Crown Princess, he is sure he has been brought to the future to solve the mystery of who killed his wife and why.

But that isn’t the only mystery he needs to solve.  It seems his own modern day doppelganger has mysteriously disappeared under suspicious circumstances.  Now he hopes to find out the truth of what happened to both victims and return everything to its proper place.   But things become complicated when the Prince finds himself developing feelings for another present day woman.  And they will both be surprised to discover that they also have a connection in the past.

‘Rooftop Prince’ is a time-travel rom-com with a touch of murder mystery.  To say this one is a historical drama seems a bit misleading since very little of the drama actually occurs in the Joseon period.  The secondary cast has a fun chemistry and although the drama is 20 episodes, it is a pretty light, easy watch. 

I feel like it’s important to remember that this drama is from 2012, and it does show its age at times.  Don’t expect the smooth camera angles and complex plots of modern dramas.  It does get pretty melodramatic at times, with some fairly ridiculous story elements.  It also gave us with an open ending that left way more to my imagination than I would have liked.     I give “Rooftop Prince’ a 7 out of 10 ramen.

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Han Ji Min started her career in 1999 as a model who made appearances in commercials and music videos before appearing in her first drama, the crime melodrama ‘All In’, in 2003.  Other popular dramas she has appeared in include the Netflix romantic drama ‘One Spring Night’ and the Paramount + sci-fi drama ‘Yonder’.  Look for her to star in the upcoming fantasy drama ‘Heavenly Ever After’ premiering April 19th.