RReframe← All stories
Television Drama

Sangdo (2001 TV Series)

Sangdo (Korean: 상도) is a South Korean historical drama series that aired on MBC from October 15, 2001, to April 2, 2002. Directed by Lee Byung-hoon, the 50-episode series explores the life, business philosophy, and moral challenges of the historical figure Im Sang-ok (1779–1855), a legendary merchant during the Joseon Dynasty.

Promotional poster for the drama Sangdo
Promotional poster for the drama Sangdo.

Plot

The series dramatizes the life of Im Sang-ok, focusing on his rise from a humble trader to one of the most successful merchants in Korean history. The narrative emphasizes the ethical dilemmas faced by merchants in the late Joseon period and explores the concept of wealth through the lens of Confucian values and commercial integrity.

Cast

The series features an extensive ensemble cast portraying the various figures in Im Sang-ok's life and business circle.

Actor Lee Jae-Ryong
Lee Jae-Ryong as Im Sang-ok.
Actor Lee Sun-Jae
Lee Sun-Jae as Park Joo-myung.
Actress Kim Hyun-Joo
Kim Hyun-Joo as Park Da-nyung.
Actor Jung Bo-Suk
Jung Bo-Suk as Jung Chi-soo.
Actor Park In-Hwan
Park In-Hwan as Hong Deuk-joo.
Actress Hong Eun-Hee
Hong Eun-Hee as Hong Mi-geum.
Actress Han Hee
Han Hee as Jang Mi-ryung.
Actress Kim Yu-Mi
Kim Yu-Mi as Chae-yeon.
ActorRole
Lee Jae-RyongIm Sang-ok
Lee Sun-JaePark Joo-myung
Kim Hyun-JooPark Da-nyung
Jung Bo-SukJung Chi-soo
Park In-HwanHong Deuk-joo
Hong Eun-HeeHong Mi-geum
Han HeeJang Mi-ryung
Kim Yu-MiChae-yeon

End of story