Dae Jang Geum: A Historical Overview

Dae Jang Geum (Korean: 대장금), internationally known as Jewel in the Palace, is a South Korean television drama that aired on MBC from September 15, 2003, to March 23, 2004. Directed by Lee Byung-Hoon and written by Kim Young-Hyun, the series consists of 54 episodes.

Background and Plot

Set during the Chosun Dynasty, the drama is inspired by the historical figure Jang-Geum, who is noted in the annals of the era as the first woman to serve as the supreme royal physician. The narrative follows her journey from a low-class background through the rigid social hierarchies of the time. She initially serves as a royal cook before advancing to become a royal physician, eventually earning the title "The Great Jang-Geum" from the king.

Cast

The series features a large ensemble cast, with Lee Young-Ae in the titular role of Seo Jang-Geum and Ji Jin-Hee as Min Jeong-Ho.