Posted by admin in TelevisionNov 24th, 2008 | no responses

The popular South Korean mini-series DAE JANG GEUM (aka JEWEL IN THE PALACE) earned that country`s highest-ever television ratings with an epic blend of historical and personal intrigue. Based on a true story, the period-piece costume drama centers on its titular heroine, Jang-geum (Yeong-ae Lee), a 16th-century orphan girl who enters the king`s royal court as a lowly kitchen maid. When the political machinations of an evil duchess send Jang-geum into exile, she leaves to study medicine and triumphantly returns to the palace as the King`s personal physician. Bolstered by strong acting, a gripping plot, and well-drawn character development, the series` most remarkable achievement remains the lavish, detail-rich production design that presents an educational and historically accurate depiction of 16th-century Korean history, culture, and politics--as well as mouthwatering cooking sequences a la BABETTE`S FEAST. This second volume continues the series with episodes 19-36.