Hwarang

Hwarang

Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth is a vibrant Korean historical drama set in the ancient kingdom of Silla, blending youth, friendship, romance, and politics. The story follows Moo Myung (played by Park Seo Joon), a low-born young man who joins an elite group of warriors called the Hwarang to fight for justice, love, and his own identity. Alongside him is the hidden king Sam Maek Jong (played by Park Hyung Sik), who seeks to claim his rightful throne while hiding his identity within the group. Amid the thrilling sword fights and political conspiracies, Hwarang also highlights heartfelt relationships. Ah Ro (played by Go A Ra), a spirited young woman, captures the hearts of both Moo Myung and Sam Maek Jong, creating a bittersweet love triangle that adds emotional intensity to the drama. Supporting characters like Soo Ho (played by Choi Min Ho of SHINee) and Suk Han Sung (played by V of BTS) bring humor, loyalty, and brotherhood to the team of warrior youths. The drama beautifully showcases the journey of these young warriors as they grow from rebellious, carefree youths into responsible leaders and protectors of their nation. Themes of friendship, loyalty, courage, and love are interwoven into a story that remains both timeless and relatable. Each character battles internal struggles and societal expectations, making their transformation all the more inspiring and heartwarming to watch. With stunning performances by Park Seo Joon, Park Hyung Sik, Go A Ra, Choi Min Ho, and V (Kim Taehyung), Hwarang captivates audiences with its rich storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and memorable OST. For fans searching for a romantic, action-packed, and coming-of-age historical K-drama, Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth is an absolute must-watch.

Details

🙂 Native Title: 화랑
🌎 Also Known As: Hwarang, Hwarang: The Beginning, Flower Knights: The Beginning
🎭 Genres: Action, Historical, Comedy, Romance, Youth
🏷 Tags: Brotherhood, Hidden Identity, Love Triangle, Coming of Age, Royal Politics
Screenwriters: Park Eun Young
🎬 Directors: Yoon Sung Shik, Kim Young Jo
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Episodes: 20
🗓️ Aired: December 19, 2016 – February 21, 2017
📅 Airing Days: Mondays & Tuesdays
📺 Original Network: KBS2
Duration: 60 minutes per episode
🔞 Content Rating: 15+ – Teens 15 or older

  • Moo Myung’s transformation into Sun Woo is a powerful moment where he embraces his new identity and destiny among the Hwarang.

  • Sam Maek Jong revealing his true identity as the hidden king is a breathtaking turning point that reshapes relationships and alliances.

  • The heartfelt brotherhood oath among the Hwarang members captures the spirit of friendship, loyalty, and courage.

  • The love confession scene between Moo Myung and Ah Ro, filled with raw emotion, becomes one of the drama’s most romantic highlights.

  • Han Sung’s tragic death, portrayed by V (Kim Taehyung), is one of the most emotional and unforgettable moments, leaving a deep impact on viewers.

  • Korean Folk Village in Yongin was used extensively to authentically recreate Silla-era architecture and bustling market scenes.

  • Andong Hahoe Folk Village provided traditional Korean backdrops for historical depth and cultural richness.

  • Yeongju Museom Village‘s picturesque settings were featured in outdoor scenes showcasing nature’s beauty and serenity.

  • Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park served as the stunning mountainous area for many action and training scenes.

  • Specially built historical sets in Suwon allowed for large-scale royal palace and noble family residence scenes.

  • Colorful hanboks with symbolic colors reflected each Hwarang’s personality and social status, creating a vibrant visual palette.

  • Intricately designed armor and warrior outfits showcased the strength and elegance of the elite Hwarang warriors.

  • Soft lighting and natural scenery enhanced emotional and romantic scenes, highlighting youth and vulnerability.

  • Royal court costumes for Queen Mother Ji So and the nobles emphasized the political power dynamics through luxurious design.

  • Accessories like headbands, jewelry, and embroidered sashes subtly signified rank and character evolution throughout the series.

  • Coming of age and self-discovery are central themes as each Hwarang member finds his path, identity, and sense of duty.

  • Brotherhood and loyalty are celebrated, emphasizing how bonds between friends can change the course of history.

  • Struggle between personal desires and public duty plays out intensely, especially for Sam Maek Jong as the hidden king.

  • Romantic love blooming amid political chaos showcases the timeless struggle between heart and responsibility.

  • Breaking down class barriers is a recurring message, as characters from different backgrounds unite for a greater cause.

  • V (Kim Taehyung) from BTS made his acting debut in Hwarang, charming fans worldwide with his role as Han Sung.

  • Real friendships blossomed among the cast, especially between Park Seo Joon, Park Hyung Sik, and V, who remain close friends today.

  • The drama was filmed before BTS skyrocketed internationally, making V’s participation even more nostalgic for fans.

  • The original soundtrack (OST), including V’s and Jin’s song “It’s Definitely You,” gained massive popularity.

  • Park Seo Joon trained extensively in sword fighting and horseback riding to prepare for his role as the fierce but kind-hearted Moo Myung.

🏆 Awards and Nominations for “Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth”

🎖️ 2017 KBS Drama Awards

  • Best Supporting Actor: Choi Won-young – Winner

  • Best Supporting Actor: Kim Won-hae – Nominated

  • Top Excellence Award, Actor: Park Seo-joon – Nominated

  • Excellence Award, Actor in a Mid-length Drama: Park Seo-joon – Nominated

  • Excellence Award, Actress in a Mid-length Drama: Go Ara – Nominated

  • Netizen Award, Actor: Park Seo-joon – Winner

  • Netizen Award, Actor: Park Hyung-sik – Nominated

🎶 2017 Melon Music Awards

  • Best OST: “Even If I Die, It’s You” by V (Kim Taehyung) and Jin – Nominated

There are no confirmed reports or official statements indicating that a real-life romance developed among the cast members of Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth.

Although the drama’s cast, including Park Seo Joon, Go A Ra, Park Hyung Sik, Choi Min Ho, and V (Kim Taehyung), displayed excellent on-screen chemistry and developed genuine close friendships during filming, particularly among the male cast, none of these relationships turned into real-world romantic relationships.

Notably, Park Seo Joon and Park Hyung Sik, along with V, built such a strong bond on set that they have maintained their friendship long after the drama ended, often meeting up personally and even supporting each other’s new projects.

Thus, while Hwarang gave fans unforgettable love stories and emotional connections on-screen, no real-life dating rumors were officially confirmed among the main cast.

Trailer

Music / OST

Gallery

Cast

Choi Min Ho
Choi Min Ho
Go A Ra
Go A Ra
Kim Geum Soon
Kim Geum Soon
Kim Won Hae
Kim Won Hae
Park Hyung Sik
Park Hyung Sik
Park Seo Joon
Park Seo Joon
Seo Yea Ji,Seo Ye Ji,Seo Ye-ji
Seo Yea Ji
V - Kim Taehyung
V (Kim Taehyung)

Share on Social

We would appreciate it if you could share this on social media and support us. Let’s grow Asian World together.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *