Boys Over Flowers (2009 South Korean TV Series)
Boys Over Flowers (Korean: 꽃보다 남자; RR: Kkotboda Namja) is a South Korean television series that aired on KBS2 from January 5, 2009, to March 31, 2009. The 25-episode drama is based on the Japanese shojo manga series Hana Yori Dango, written and illustrated by Yoko Kamio, which was serialized from 1992 to 2004.
Plot
The story follows Geum Jan-di, a girl from a modest background who receives a scholarship to attend the prestigious Shinhwa High School, an institution for the children of the ultra-wealthy. Upon her arrival, she encounters the F4, a group of four influential and affluent young men led by the heir to the Shinhwa conglomerate, Koo Jun-pyo. The narrative explores the complex social dynamics and romantic entanglements that develop between Jan-di and the members of the group.
Production
The series was directed by Jeon Ki-sang with a screenplay by Yoon Ji-ryeon. While the characters were adapted to fit a Korean setting, the central group retained the name "F4." The title Hana Yori Dango is a Japanese pun on the proverb "dumplings over flowers," which refers to individuals who prioritize material benefits over aesthetic appreciation during traditional flower-viewing festivals.
Production faced challenges during its run. In March 2009, lead actress Ku Hye-seon was involved in a car accident while traveling to Seoul, resulting in a minor mouth injury that required stitches. Consequently, the broadcast of episode 17 was delayed from March 9 to March 10, with a special episode airing in its place.
Cast
The primary cast included:
- Lee Min-ho as Koo Jun-pyo
- Ku Hye-seon as Geum Jan-di
- Kim Hyun-joong as Yun Ji-hu
- Kim Beom as So Lee-jeong
- Kim Jun as Song Woo-bin
