Live Up to Your Name
Live Up to Your Name takes viewers on a thrilling journey between two eras, blending historical intrigue with modern-day drama. The series stars Kim Nam Gil as Dr. Heo Im, a renowned acupuncturist from the Joseon dynasty, known for his unmatched skills and unwavering dedication to his craft. Despite his talents, Heo Im grapples with societal limitations and his own insecurities. One fateful day, Heo Im is mysteriously transported to modern Seoul, where he encounters Kim Ah Joong as Dr. Choi Yeon Kyung, a fiercely talented cardiothoracic surgeon. The two couldn’t be more different—Heo Im relies on traditional medicine, while Yeon Kyung firmly believes in the scientific precision of modern practices. Their clashing ideologies set the stage for fiery debates, heartfelt connections, and unexpected teamwork. As Heo Im navigates the bustling streets of Seoul, he not only learns about advanced medical practices but also confronts his personal fears and unresolved past. Together with Yeon Kyung, they tackle complex cases that combine traditional and modern approaches, proving that healing knows no boundaries. Their growing relationship adds a layer of romance to the drama, filled with humor, tension, and poignant moments. With its stellar cast, gripping storyline, and exploration of medical philosophies, Live Up to Your Name offers a refreshing blend of historical fantasy and contemporary drama. It’s a tale of redemption, love, and the timeless pursuit of saving lives, making it a must-watch for K-drama enthusiasts.
Details
🌎 Also Known As: Myeongbulheojeon, Deserving of the Name, Live Up to Your Name, Dr. Heo
🎭 Genres: Historical, Romance, Medical, Fantasy
🏷 Tags: Time Travel, Joseon Dynasty, Acupuncture, Strong Female Lead, Character Development
✍ Screenwriter: Kim Eun Hee
🎬 Director: Hong Jong Chan
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Episodes: 16
🗓️ Aired: August 12, 2017 – October 1, 2017
📅 Airing Days: Saturday, Sunday
📺 Original Network: tvN
⏰ Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes per episode
🔞 Content Rating: 15+ – Teens 15 or older
Best Scenes
- Heo Im’s First Encounter with Modern Seoul: The comedic chaos as Dr. Heo Im (Kim Nam Gil) navigates the bustling streets of modern-day Seoul, bewildered by cars and skyscrapers.
- Yeon Kyung Saves a Life: A tense and emotional moment where Dr. Choi Yeon Kyung (Kim Ah Joong) performs a life-saving surgery under immense pressure.
- Heo Im vs. Yeon Kyung Debate: A heated exchange between traditional and modern medicine philosophies, showcasing the strong personalities of both leads.
- Time-Travel Twist: The thrilling scene when Heo Im unexpectedly returns to the Joseon era, bridging the two worlds.
- Romantic Confession: A heartfelt moment when Heo Im and Yeon Kyung acknowledge their feelings, blending humor and emotion seamlessly.
Filming Locations
- Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul: Used to depict the Joseon-era setting, with traditional Korean houses and streets adding authenticity.
- Gangnam Streets, Seoul: The vibrant modern streets contrast with Heo Im’s historical background, emphasizing his cultural shock.
- Medical Center Sets: Both modern hospitals and traditional clinics were intricately designed for key scenes.
- Namsan Tower: Features a romantic scene between the lead characters with a breathtaking city view.
- Han River: Serves as a backdrop for reflective and emotional moments in the series.
Visual Design and Costumes
- Traditional Joseon Attire: Heo Im’s period costumes showcase authentic designs with intricate details.
- Modern Hospital Settings: The sleek and realistic depiction of Seoul hospitals highlights the contrast between eras.
- Color Symbolism: Warm tones represent Joseon-era scenes, while cool tones dominate the modern-day sequences.
- Props for Authenticity: From acupuncture needles to surgical tools, the series meticulously incorporates realistic props.
- Elegant Wardrobe for Yeon Kyung: Her professional yet stylish outfits reflect her confidence and expertise as a surgeon.
Themes and Messages
- The Power of Healing: Highlights how both traditional and modern medicine play crucial roles in saving lives.
- Time and Cultural Differences: Explores the challenges and learning opportunities that arise from crossing eras.
- Personal Growth: The characters undergo significant transformations, embracing their strengths and overcoming fears.
- Compassion in Medicine: Emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in patient care.
- Love Across Boundaries: Explores romance that transcends time and societal expectations.
Interesting Facts
- Kim Nam Gil’s Immersive Performance: He underwent extensive training in acupuncture to portray Heo Im convincingly.
- Time-Travel Twist: The blend of historical and modern elements sets the series apart in the medical drama genre.
- Real-Life Medical Cases: Some episodes were inspired by real medical dilemmas, adding depth to the story.
- Award-Winning Drama: Both Kim Nam Gil and Kim Ah Joong received acclaim for their performances, boosting the show’s popularity.
- Global Appeal: The drama gained a strong international fanbase, praised for its unique plot and stellar cast.
Awards
“Live Up to Your Name” has received the following award nomination:
- 2017 The Seoul Awards: Nominated for Best Actress (Kim Ah-jung)
Real-Life Loves on Set
As of now, there are no confirmed reports of real-life romantic relationships developing among the cast members of Live Up to Your Name. While the on-screen chemistry between Kim Nam Gil and Kim Ah Joong was praised by viewers, their interactions off-screen have remained professional. Both actors focused on delivering compelling performances to bring their characters to life, leaving fans captivated by their portrayal of a time-crossing romance.
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