It's amazing to me how the Korean Entertainment industry has made such an impression throughout the world. I went through a time myself of being obsessed with Korean Dramas and K-pop stars... through the experience, I even learned a bit of Korean (the common words that come up in Korean Dramas, like saranghaeyo (I love you) and pogoshippoyo (I miss you), etc...). Comment if you've had similar experiences; I know a lot of my friends have :) It's such a huge thing that I've seen presentations done on the Korean Drama phenomenon in college. And initially, that may seem a bit funny. But I honestly believe that drama-watching (of any country) is extremely educational. Entertainment is a reflection of and a part of culture. Yes, of course it is inaccurate sometimes. However, it is a great opportunity to learn the language, get a glimpse of the culture, and learn about history and people of the country.
TODAY'S DRAMA: DAE JANG GEUM (lit. The Great Jang Geum)
I actually started watching this drama from the influence of my mother, who has dramas famous in Japan sent to her by my great-aunt. Dae Jang Geum (called The Jewel in the Palace in America, and called Chyangumi in Japan) is a popular drama both in Korea and internationally, and has been translated to many languages. The series is extremely long, and can take weeks upon months to get through-- but this fascinating, beautiful, thought-provoking drama talks about many interesting aspects of Korea's history.
It exposes us to many points:
If you have the time, a love of food, and a passion for Asian culture, I definitely recommend you to watch it! Even just a few episodes shows you parts of Korean culture that you have never noticed/seen before.
Enjoy!
Until next time,
justajae
It exposes us to many points:
- Women in Korea (including the idea that women who worked in the palace belonged to the King)
- Korean Traditional Medicine
- Korean Traditional Food (Royal Court Cuisine)
- Court Life in Korea (from love life to executions)
- Social Hierarchy in Korea
- Traditional Dress in Korea
If you have the time, a love of food, and a passion for Asian culture, I definitely recommend you to watch it! Even just a few episodes shows you parts of Korean culture that you have never noticed/seen before.
Enjoy!
Until next time,
justajae