| Hwang Jin-i | |
|---|---|
Promotional poster for the series |
|
| Genre | Korean drama |
| Written by | Yoon Sun-joo Kim Chul-kyu |
| Starring | Ha Ji-won |
| Country of origin | South Korea |
| Language(s) | Korean |
| Broadcast | |
| Original channel | KBS |
| Original run | October 11, 2006 – December 28, 2006 |
| External links | |
| Website | |
Hwang Jin-i (황진이) is a popular, award-winning[1] Korean drama broadcast on KBS. The series was based on the life and loves of Hwang Jin-i, a 16th-century kisaeng (female Korean entertainer). Internationally popular, it was broadcast in South Korea in late 2006,[2] in the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the Philippines in 2007,[3] and in Japan beginning in April 2008.[4] The series was inspired by a renewed interest in kisaeng in South Korea during 2006, and its success drove the entertainment industry to produce more kisaeng-related materials.[5] Lead actress, Ha Ji-won won KBS' "Best Actress" award for her role in the series.[1]
Contents |
The series is based on the life of Hwang Jin-i, the great Joseon-era poet, musician, dancer, and gisaeng, who lived during the reign of King Jungjong. The difficulties that Hwang experienced due to her social class are a focus of the series. Hwang's first love ends tragically after Kim Eun-ho's parents refuse to accept the relationship due to class differences. As the illegitimate daughter of a kisaeng and a nobleman, Jin-i belongs to a lower class than Eun-ho. Then, Eun ho dies of pneumonia in a futile attempt to elope with Jin-i.[2]
The shooting schedule for Hwang Jin-i was particularly arduous for a television series, sometimes going on for seven days without break.[1] In addition to such popular younger actors as Ha Ji-won, Wang Bit Na and Jang Geun-suk, the series featured many noted veteran Korean actors, including Kim Young-ae and Kim Bo-yon.[1] The costumes, dances and music in the series were noted for their flamboyance and sensuality.[1] The program's popularity inspired a boom in interest in kisaengs in South Korea. The Hankook Ilbo reported that dramas, cartoons, musicals and films were produced following the success of Hwang Jin-i.[1]