Hanbando (South Korean Television Series)

Hanbando (Korean: 한반도), also known by its literal English title Korean Peninsula, is a South Korean television drama series that aired on the cable network TV Chosun in 2012. The series, directed by Lee Hyeong-Min and written by Yoon Sun-Joo, consists of 18 episodes and was broadcast from February 6 to April 3, 2012.

Plot Synopsis

The series is set in a near-future scenario where relations between South Korea and North Korea have significantly improved. The two nations collaborate on a joint project to develop a methane hydrate extraction station located off the coast of North Korea. The project is led by South Korean scientist Seo Myung-Joon (played by Hwang Jung-Min) and North Korean scientist Lim Jin-Jae (played by Kim Jung-Eun).

As the project progresses, political tensions persist beneath the surface of the cooperation. While the North Korean leader visits South Korea for a symbolic event, hardline factions within the North Korean military, led by characters such as Jo Kook-Cheol, attempt to undermine the peace efforts. Amidst this geopolitical backdrop, the protagonists must navigate professional pressures and their own complex personal history, having first met a decade prior to the events of the series.

Production

Hanbando was produced for TV Chosun, a cable channel that had been established on October 3, 2011. The production faced casting adjustments during its development, notably the departure of Im Seul-Ong, who was originally scheduled to portray the NIS agent Kang Dong-Won but withdrew due to scheduling conflicts.