
Moon Embracing the Sun
The Moon That Embraces the Sun is a mesmerizing historical Korean drama that weaves a tale of forbidden love, political intrigue, and mystical elements. The story follows Lee Hwon (played by Kim Soo Hyun), a young king burdened by the loss of his first love, Heo Yeon Woo (portrayed by Han Ga In), who was presumed dead under mysterious circumstances. Unbeknownst to him, Yeon Woo is alive, living as a shaman named Wol, her memories erased by powerful forces. The drama takes viewers through a heart-wrenching journey as Lee Hwon discovers Wol’s true identity and fights to uncover the conspiracy behind her disappearance. Meanwhile, Prince Yang Myung (Jung Il Woo), Lee Hwon’s half-brother, harbors unrequited love for Yeon Woo, adding a layer of complexity and rivalry. The court’s political schemes, led by Queen Dowager Yoon Dae Hyung (Kim Young Ae) and her allies, threaten not only the throne but also the fate of the two lovers. The series explores themes of love, destiny, and sacrifice, delving into the struggles of the main characters as they navigate personal desires and political responsibilities. The younger versions of the leads, played by Yeo Jin Goo and Kim Yoo Jung, deliver standout performances, captivating audiences with their innocence and chemistry. Directed by Kim Do Hoon and Lee Sung Joon, The Moon That Embraces the Sun is a visual masterpiece, blending stunning historical costumes with a gripping narrative. With its compelling story and stellar cast, the drama became a cultural phenomenon, cementing its place as one of Korea’s most beloved historical dramas.
Details
🌎 Also Known As: The Sun and the Moon, The Moon Embracing the Sun
🎭 Genres: Historical, Romance, Drama, Fantasy
🏷 Tags: Royalty, Forbidden Love, Shaman Female Lead, Childhood Friends, Love Triangle
✍ Screenwriters: Jin Soo Wan
🎬 Directors: Kim Do Hoon, Lee Sung Joon
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Episodes: 20
🗓️ Aired: Jan 4, 2012 – Mar 15, 2012
📅 Airing Days: Wednesday, Thursday
📺 Original Network: MBC
⏰ Duration: 1 hr. 5 min. per episode
🔞 Content Rating: 15+ – Teens 15 or older
Best Scenes
- The emotional reunion of Lee Hwon (Kim Soo Hyun) and Wol (Han Ga In) under the moonlight, filled with longing and unspoken truths.
- The dramatic confrontation between Prince Yang Myung (Jung Il Woo) and Lee Hwon, showcasing their brotherly rivalry over love and power.
- Yeon Woo’s (Kim Yoo Jung) supposed death scene, a pivotal moment that sets the stage for the entire narrative.
- The powerful scene where Lee Hwon uncovers the conspiracy behind Yeon Woo’s disappearance, exposing court corruption.
- The final coronation of Lee Hwon and Yeon Woo’s reconciliation, offering a heartwarming conclusion to their turbulent journey.
Filming Locations
- Gyeongbokgung Palace, serving as the grand setting for royal court scenes.
- Korean Folk Village, providing authentic Joseon-era backdrops for everyday life depictions.
- Jeonju Hanok Village, highlighting the historical beauty of traditional Korean houses.
- Namsangol Hanok Village, used for intimate moments and shamanic rituals.
- Mount Seorak National Park, showcasing breathtaking natural landscapes for pivotal outdoor scenes.
Visual Design and Costumes
- Lavish hanboks (traditional Korean attire) for royalty, reflecting their power and elegance.
- Intricate hairstyles and accessories for Queen Dowager Yoon (Kim Young Ae) and other noblewomen, emphasizing their status.
- The simple yet symbolic white robes worn by Wol (Han Ga In) as a shaman, representing purity and mysticism.
- Stunning use of lighting and shadows in night scenes, enhancing the drama’s ethereal atmosphere.
- Attention to detail in props, from royal seals to ceremonial items, immersing viewers in the Joseon era.
Themes and Messages
- Love and Destiny: Explores the unbreakable bond between Lee Hwon and Yeon Woo, destined to be together against all odds.
- Betrayal and Loyalty: Delves into the complexities of relationships within the royal court.
- Power and Corruption: Highlights the dangerous consequences of ambition and greed.
- Resilience and Redemption: Showcases characters overcoming personal tragedies to reclaim their rightful places.
- Family and Sacrifice: Examines the sacrifices made by individuals for the greater good of their loved ones.
Interesting Facts
- The drama achieved record-breaking ratings, peaking at 42.2%, making it one of the highest-rated Korean dramas of all time.
- Kim Soo Hyun and Han Ga In received widespread acclaim for their chemistry and performances.
- The younger cast, including Kim Yoo Jung and Yeo Jin Goo, captivated viewers with their exceptional acting.
- The series won multiple awards, including Best Drama at the 48th Baeksang Arts Awards.
- Based on a novel by Jung Eun Gwol, the story blends historical accuracy with fantasy elements, adding a unique twist to traditional sageuks.
Awards
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48th Baeksang Arts Awards (2012): Best Drama; Best Actor for Kim Soo-hyun.
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Shanghai International TV Festival (2012): Magnolia Award for Best Foreign TV Series.
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MBC Drama Awards (2012): Drama of the Year; Newcomer Award for Yeo Jin-goo.
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Korea Drama Awards (2012): Best Original Soundtrack for the song “Back in Time.”
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Nickelodeon Korea Kids’ Choice Awards (2012): Favorite Actor for Kim Soo-hyun.
These accolades underscore the series’ exceptional storytelling and performances.










