The Return of Iljimae (2009 TV Series)
The Return of Iljimae (Korean: 돌아온 일지매; RR: Dolahon Il Ji-Mae) is a South Korean television series that aired on MBC from January 21 to April 9, 2009. The 24-episode drama is based on the serial comic strip Iljimae by Ko Woo-yeong, which was originally published in the Daily Sports newspaper between 1975 and 1977.
Plot
The story follows the life of Iljimae, a man born out of wedlock to a high-ranking official and a servant. Abandoned as an infant to protect his father's social standing, he is left under an apricot tree, which inspires his name. After being raised by a family in the Qing Kingdom, he returns to Korea to seek his roots, only to face rejection from his biological father. Driven by his personal history and the injustices he witnesses, he becomes a masked hero who fights against tyranny, leaving behind a branch of an apricot tree as his signature. The narrative emphasizes his personal growth and his relationship with a woman named Wol-hee.
Cast
The series features an ensemble cast, including:
- Jung Il-Woo as Il Ji-Mae
- Yoon Jin-Seo as Wol-Hee
- Kim Min-Jong as Ku Ja-Myeong
- Jung Hye-Young as Baek-Mae
- Park Geun-Hyung as Kim Ja-Jum
Production and Context
The series is distinct from other adaptations of the Iljimae legend, such as the 2008 SBS drama Il Ji-Mae: The Phantom Thief. While the SBS production focused heavily on social commentary and political themes, The Return of Iljimae is noted for its focus on the protagonist's personal life and emotional development.
