Examining the Korea Khitan Struggle 8/7/24

Examining the Korea Khitan Struggle 8/7/24

Dive into the Epic Saga

'Korea-Khitan War': A Historical Drama Review

Explore the riveting tale of courage, strategy, and sacrifice in the Korean historical drama, ‘Korea-Khitan War’. Our in-depth review covers everything you need to know about this must-watch series.  If you have already watched this drama and would like a full review, please click the link below.

Examining the Korea Khitan Struggle 8/7/24

General Information

All You Need to Know About 'Korea-Khitan War'

Air Date: 11/11/23 – 3/10/24

Episodes: 32

Where to Watch: Viki

Genre: Historical Military Drama

Starring: Kim Dong Jun and Choi Soo Jong

Plot Summary

A Tale of Valor and Strategy

A young man rises from humble beginnings to become the King of Goryeo during a tumultuous time of war with the Khitans of the Liao Dynasty.  With the help of one honest and out-spoken official, he will try to find a way to free his country from foreign rule and protect his people at the same time.  But the price of war will sit heavily on his conscious and he will learn the difficulties of leadership and the burden of sacrifice.  Together, the King and his military commander will devise a strategy in the hopes of bringing peace to their tired nation and ending a 26 year old war.  

Personal Insights and Rating

‘Korea-Khitan War’ is a historical drama created to commemorate the 50th anniversary of KBS Network. It is based off a novel by Gil Seung Soo called  “Goryeo-Khitan War: Sweet Rain in The Winter”.  It focuses on the King and his close relationship with his military commander. These anniversary dramas are known for their large budgets, epic style, and all-star cast, and this one is no exception.  With 32 total episodes, the characters and the story are well-developed and engaging, and the battle scenes are impressive in scale and cinematic style.  The drama not only showcases the strategic military maneuvers but also delves into the personal lives and struggles of the characters. This duality makes the series both entertaining and thought-provoking.

 

But the warning at the beginning of the drama should be a red flag for all history buffs.  While based on historical fact, there is plenty of artistic license taken.  The author himself has expressed adamant concern that, especially in the second half of this drama, the departure from both the historical facts and the original text are glaring.  But if you don’t mind your historical entertainment laced with a considerable amount of “fiction”, this one is a touching story about love, friendship, and the price of leadership.  I give ‘Korea Khitan War’ an 8 out of 10 ramen.  

🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜

Meet the Leads

Meet the Stars of 'Korea-Khitan War'

Examining the Korea Khitan Struggle 8/7/24

Kim Dong Jun and Choi Soo Jong did an amazing job in this drama. If you are interested in seeing other dramas that they have performed in, check out the links below!

Kim Dong Jun debuted as a member of the K-Pop group ZE:A in 2010 and began his acting career later that same year with a guest role in the drama ‘Prosecutor Princess’.  His first starring role came in 2011 with the drama ‘The Clinic for Married Couples: Love and War 2’.  Other popular dramas he has appeared in include the sci-fi thriller ‘Black’ and the family drama ‘Still Loving You’.  

Choi Soo Jong debuted  in 1987 in the Koran soap opera ‘Love Tree’.  His first starring role came a year later in the historical drama ‘The Memoirs of Lady Hyegyeong’.  He is best known for his role in the 2004 historical drama ‘Emperor of the Sea’.  Other popular dramas he has starred in include the historical documentary ‘Three Kingdom Wars: Imjin War 1592′ and the family drama “My Only One’.

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Heroic Strategies and Bravery 8/7/24

Heroic Strategies and Bravery 8/7/24

In-Depth Review of 'Korea-Khitan War'

Heroic Strategies and Bravery 8/7/24

Explore every aspect of ‘Korea-Khitan War’ in this comprehensive review. Dive into character insights, strengths, and weaknesses. If you haven’t seen the drama yet and are looking for a spoiler-free review, check out the link below.

Spoiler Alert!

Warning: This review contains major spoilers for the Korean drama Korea-Khitan War. Proceed with caution if you have not yet watched the series.

Key plot points and character developments will be discussed in detail.

Reading further may reveal significant story elements that could affect your viewing experience.

Series Details

General Information

Air Date:  November 11, 2023 – March 10, 2024

Episodes: 32

Where to Watch: Viki

Genre: Historical Military Drama

Starring: Kim Dong Jun and Choi Soo Jong

Story Summary

Korea-Khitan War: A Historical Epic

A young man rises from humble beginnings to become the King of Goryeo during a tumultuous time of war with the Khitans of the Liao Dynasty.  With the help of one honest and out-spoken official, he will try to find a way to free his country from foreign rule and protect his people at the same time.  But the price of war will sit heavily on his conscious and he will learn the difficulties of leadership and the burden of sacrifice.  Together, the King and his military commander will devise a strategy in the hopes of bringing peace to their tired nation and ending a 26 year old war.

Hyun Jong and Kang kam chan

Exploring the Leads

Kim Dong Jun as Hyun Jong

Hyun Jong's Story

Hyun Jong was sent out of the palace at a young age, and grew up in the peace of a local buddhist temple.  After his cousin is murdered, he is called back to the capital and crowned King.  But his lack of family support leaves him feeling unprepared and overwhelmed with the responsibilities of leadership.

Unecpectedly, he finds a friend and mentor in the outspoken official, Kang Kam Chan.  And while their opinions aren’t always in sync, they develop a trust that allows them to speak openly, even when they disagree.  And their shared commitment to defeat the Khitan army once and for all drives them to develop a military strategy that is bold and unexpected.  But this strategy will require years of preparation and diligence.  And it will be Jong’s responsibility, as the leader of his nation, to lead and protect the people in the meantime.

 

 

 

Heroic Strategies and Bravery 8/7/24

Hyun Jong's Character

Hyun Jong is a kind and compassionate young man with a playful nature.  But when he moves to the palace, he is forced to mature quickly.  Luckily, he never loses his compassion, although he is often called to make difficult decisions that weigh on him because of it.  His journey from innocent youth to wise and determined king is a story of growth and resilience.  I loved the humanity Lee Dong Jun brought to this role.  The focus on the king’s relationships and personal struggles really allowed the actor to give a heartfelt and emotion-filled performance.  

Choi Soo Jong as Kang Kam Chan

Kang Kam Chan's Story

Kang Kam Chan is serving outside of the palace until he is suddenly called back into the service of the King.  In his first meeting with the king and his counsel, Kam Chan refuses to agree with his fellow officials, which gains the attention of the King.  When the King talks to him privately, Kam Chan bold expresses his own thoughts, which allign closely with the King’s.  And from that moment on, the King begins to seek Kam Chan’s opinions. 

Over time, Kam Chan becomes the King’s mentor and closest ally.  Eventually he is promoted to the position of Chief Military Advisor.  It is his strategy, carried out with the King’s support over an eight year period, that finally defeats the Khitan army and leads the nation of Goryeo into a period of peace.

Heroic Strategies and Bravery 8/7/24

Kang Kam Chan's Character

Kang Kam Chan refuses to back down from what he believes is right, much to his wife’s constant chagrin.  His history as a scholar and his ability to see beyond the obvious war strategies of the time, give the Goryeon army the edge that they need to outmaneuver the Khitans.  His unwavering determination allows him to continue when others would have tired and given up.  I loved Choi Soo Jong in this role.  He played Kang Kam Chan with a charming bravado that always felt more like righteous pereseverence than arrogance.  And he was rough enough around the edges to make a convincing military hero.  

Heroic Strategies and Bravery 8/7/24

Supporting Cast Insights

Meet the Secondary Cast

Ji Seung Hyun as Yang Kyu

Heroic Strategies and Bravery 8/7/24

Military Captain Yang Kyu fights off the vicious Khitan attack in Heunghwajin.  He is stoic and loyal to his job as commander in charge of the city and its people.  His initial victory sets the stage for everything the Goryeon army is able to do afterwards.  Eventually he dies making a second valiant stand.

Lee Jae Yong as Park Jin

Heroic Strategies and Bravery 8/7/24

Park Jin is one of the powerful nobles in charge of the area of Chungju.  He lost both of his sons to the war and now blames the King for the end of his family line.  He devises a plan of revenge that includes trying to lead a rebellion.  But his plan is unsuccessful and he eventually dies by those guarding the King.

Ha Seung Ri as Queen Wonseong

Heroic Strategies and Bravery 8/7/24

Queen Wonseong was the daughter of the governor serving in Chungju.  She meets the King when he visits her father.  Later, the King offers to marry her in order to save her father when he is in danger of being killed by the Khitans.  Although the third ranking Queen, she gives the King his first heir.  

Highlights of 'Korea-Khitan War'

What I Loved About the Drama

Kang Kam Chan's Wife

I loved that they made Kang Kam Chan and his wife comic relief, with their endless nagging and verbal sparring.  It was a nice change that it came off as affectionately playful rather than angry and bitter.  It also showed us the softer side of Kam Chan in private.  His wife was a really good addition to the cast and I looked forward to the couples’ scenes.  

Queen Wonseung

I enjoyed Queen Wonseung’s character as a pleasant contrast from the staunchly noble, royalist Queen Wonjeong.  She was independent and intelligent, and the support she showed the King was a nice touch.  It seemed fitting that they avoided overly-romanticizing their relationship, while making it feel mature and genuine.  I also appreciated her respect for Queen Wonjeong, even when she didn’t deserve it.  

Tempo and Focus

With 32 episodes, this drama gets a chance to develop the characters slowly and thoroughly.  While these lead characters are heroes whose names appear in the annals of history, it was fun to see them also as real people,  husbands, and insecure leaders.  And while I love a good love story, I was intrigued by a drama that referred to romance only in passing, but took great detail to discuss military strategy and war-time operations,  

Critiques of 'Korea-Khitan War'

What I Didn't Love About the Drama

Spoiler Titles

Maybe this is just me, but I really hate dramas that show a character with the caption “future so and so”.  I would rather wait and see the story play out than have their outcomes told to me in advance.  I would have found out she was the Queen later.  I didn’t need to know if from the beginning for any reason.  So let me make those guesses myself and enjoy the story as it unfolds.  

Khitan General

I felt like they kept teasing some interesting backstory for General Xiao Pai Ya.  He and Kang Kam Chan seemed to have some significant history.  True, they would end up going head to head as the military leaders, but I kept expecting some interesting background for the enemy General.  I was disappointed when nothing really surfaced.  

Negative Portrayals

I know that these anniversary sageuks are a celebration of not just the network but Korean history, and that the Khitans are supposed to be seen as the villains in this story, but I felt like they were portrayed very unflatteringly.  While the Korean army was disciplined, noble, and brave, the Khitans were really treated as true “barbarians”.  I’m all for villanizing the “bad guys’, but it seemed like this drama lacked a bit of finesse in this department.  Even the Khitan leaders seem one-dimensional and uninteresting.  

The Conclusion of 'Korea-Khitan War'

Drama Ending Explained

‘Korea-Khitan War’ ends with Hyun Jong and Kam Chan managing to finally outsmart the Khitans and lead their troops to victory.  More important than the victory itself is the fact that it ushers in a long period of peace for Goryeo.  The peace offer itself is a bold move that shows wisdom, maturity, and the valuable experience Hyun Jong and Kam Chan have earned together.  They are able to use their victory to bolster a strong sense of neutrality with all their neighboring nations and resilience among themselves. 

And with that, Kam Chan is finally able to retire quietly and live out his life in peace.  Hyun Jong, now a father and successful ruler, would spend the rest of his reign reaping the benefits of all he had endured. The final  scene shows him paying tribute to all those who helped him pave the way for his victory by having him walk through a procession of the cast members who had passed away.  I was happy to hear that this event ushered in 150 years of peace, not just in Goryeo, but much of East Asia.  But I was sad to see that this seemingly young and healthy King only lived to the age of 40.   

Personal Insights

Reflecting on 'Korea-Khitan War'

‘Korea-Khitan War’ is a historical drama created to commemorate the 50th anniversary of KBS Network. It is based off a novel by Gil Seung Soo called  “Goryeo-Khitan War: Sweet Rain in The Winter”.  It focuses on the King and his close relationship with his military commander. These anniversary dramas are known for their large budgets, epic style, and all-star cast, and this one is no exception.  With 32 total episodes, the characters and the story are well-developed and engaging, and the battle scenes are impressive in scale and cinematic style.  The drama not only showcases the strategic military maneuvers but also delves into the personal lives and struggles of the characters. This duality makes the series both entertaining and thought-provoking.

But the warning at the beginning of the drama should be a red flag for all history buffs.  While based on historical fact, there is plenty of artistic license taken.  The author himself has expressed adamant concern that, especially in the second half of this drama, the departure from both the historical facts and the original text are glaring.  But if you don’t mind your historical entertainment laced with a considerable amount of “fiction”, this one is a touching story about love, friendship, and the price of leadership.  I give ‘Korea Khitan War’ and 8 out of 10 ramen.  

🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜

 

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      The Secret Romance in Hagwon 7/31/24

      The Secret Romance in Hagwon 7/31/24

      A Deep Dive into 'The Midnight Romance in Hagwon'

      Explore the competitive world of hagwons in this romantic Korean drama that has captured hearts worldwide. Join us as we explore the general storyline, my spoiler-free insights, and  the lead actors.  

      The Secret Romance in Hagwon 7/31/24

      If you have already watched this drama and would like a full review with spoilers, please click on the link below.

      “The direction of public education is the guidance of teachers.”

      General Information

      All You Need to Know

      Air Date: May 11 – June 30, 2024
      Episodes: 16
      Where to Watch: Viki
      Genre: Romantic Drama
      Starring Cast: Jung Ryeo Won and Wi Ha Joon

       

      The Secret Romance in Hagwon 7/31/24

      Drama Story Summary

      A Tale of Love and Judgment

      An influential cram school academy teacher is reunited with her first student when he comes to teach alongside her.  And as they work together, their close bond deepens.  But when the instructor becomes the target of a ruthless rival, they will face judgment and opposition from co-workers and parents that may threaten the very existence of the school she has worked so hard to build.  Now they will have to tread carefully as they try to find a way to protect all the things they love the most to them, including each other.  

      “If you’re able to read, you think. If you’re able to think, you get curious. If you get curious, you’ll end up studying on your own.” – Lee Jun Ho

      My Personal Insights and Rating

      ‘The Midnight Romance in Hagwon’ is a slow-paced romantic drama that focuses on the world of after-school education.  It paints an interesting picture of the politics and cut-throat competitiveness of cram academies and their place in the educational system in Korea that I found fascinating.  I also appreciated the mature relationship and slow-burn chemistry between the leads, and the idea of being willing to stand up for something you really believe in, even if it challenges long-standing social stigmas.

      But the teacher student relationship does brings up questions of the misuse of authority for some, even if he is now an adult.  And, this slice of life tempo isn’t for everyone. So, if this slow burn, noona-style romance bothers you, then I would skip this one.  I give ‘The Midnight Romance in Hagwon’ a 8 out of 10 ramen.

      🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜🍜

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      Meet the Stars of 'The Midnight Romance in Hagwon'

      The Midnight Romance in Hagwon 7/31/24

      Jung Ryeo Won and Wi Ha Joon did an amazing job in this drama. If you are interested in seeing other dramas that they have performed in, please see the links below.

      Jung Ryeo Won started her career as a singer in the group Chakra.  After the group disbanded in 2006, she turned her attention to acting, taking a supporting role in the drama ‘Saxaphone’.  Some of her more popular dramas include ‘Wok of Love’ and ‘Witch’s Court’.  Look for her to star in the upcoming romantic drama “The Married Couple is Jobless” and “Hello Singles”.  

      Wi Ha Joon started his career as an actor and model after graduating college as a theater major. He debuted as a supporting actor in 2015 in the movie ‘Coin Locker’ and appeared in his first drama ‘Good-bye, Mr. Black’ in 2016. Some of his more popular dramas include ‘Romance is a Bonus Book’ and ‘Bad and Crazy’.  He has a starring role in the upcoming sequel to the hit ‘Squid Games’ and the upcoming melodrama ‘Que Sera, Sera’.

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