
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo tells the mesmerizing story of Go Ha Jin, played by IU, a modern woman who finds herself mysteriously transported to the Goryeo Dynasty during a solar eclipse. Reborn as Hae Soo, she becomes entangled in the lives of the royal family, where love, rivalry, and ambition drive the course of history. In the heart of the Goryeo royal court, Hae Soo’s connection with Lee Joon Gi's Wang So, the mysterious and misunderstood 4th Prince, blossoms into a deep, yet tragic romance. While battling his dark past and his quest for power, Wang So finds solace in Hae Soo, despite the political chaos and familial betrayals surrounding them. Alongside them, Kang Ha Neul's Wang Wook, the compassionate 8th Prince, creates a tender yet heartbreaking love triangle. As the princes vie for the throne, alliances shift, secrets unravel, and loyalties are tested. Hae Soo's modern perspective brings both hope and turmoil, as she becomes a confidante to some and a threat to others. With the charismatic Nam Joo Hyuk as the artistic 13th Prince Wang Baek Ah and Byun Baek Hyun as the playful 10th Prince Wang Eun, the drama weaves complex relationships filled with humor, friendship, and sorrow. This visually stunning drama, filled with breathtaking costumes and intricate storytelling, is a rollercoaster of emotions. Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo is not just a historical K-drama but an unforgettable journey of love, ambition, and destiny, making it a must-watch for fans worldwide.
Details
🙂 Native Title: 달의 연인 – 보보경심 려
🌎 Also Known As: Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo
🎭 Genres: Historical, Romance, Fantasy, Melodrama
🏷 Tags: Time Travel, Royal Court Politics, Love Triangle, Tragic Romance, Strong Female Lead
✍ Screenwriters: Jo Yoon Young
🎬 Directors: Kim Kyu Tae
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Episodes: 20
🗓️ Aired: August 29, 2016 – November 1, 2016
📅 Airing Days: Monday, Tuesday
📺 Original Network: SBS
⏰ Duration: 60 minutes per episode
🔞 Content Rating: 15+ – Teens 15 or older
Best Scenes
- Wang So and Hae Soo’s First Meeting: The intense and emotional moment when the 4th Prince Wang So meets Hae Soo for the first time, setting the tone for their relationship.
- The Eclipse and Time Travel: The captivating scene where Go Ha Jin is transported back to the Goryeo Dynasty, marking the start of her journey.
- Wang So’s Mask Removal: A powerful moment as Wang So reveals his scarred face, symbolizing his vulnerability and trust in Hae Soo.
- Hae Soo’s Dance: A mesmerizing cultural performance by Hae Soo that captures the attention of the royal court.
- The Tragic Farewell: The heart-wrenching parting between Wang So and Hae Soo, leaving viewers in tears.
Filming Locations
- Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park: The historical site served as the backdrop for many palace scenes.
- Baekje Cultural Land: A recreation of a traditional Goryeo village used for outdoor sequences.
- Ondal Tourist Park: Featured in battle scenes and royal processions.
- Damyang Bamboo Forest: The lush location for romantic and reflective scenes.
- Naju Image Theme Park: A versatile set used for both indoor and outdoor royal court scenes.
Visual Design and Costumes
- Intricate Hanboks: Stunning traditional outfits for the royal family, emphasizing rank and personality.
- Symbolic Colors: Each prince’s costume color reflected their character traits and role in the story.
- Detailed Set Design: Authentic palace interiors that brought Goryeo’s royal court to life.
- Hair Accessories and Jewelry: Beautifully crafted ornaments added to the elegance of the female characters.
- Battle Gear: Wang So’s armor and mask became iconic symbols of his character’s strength and mystery.
Themes and Messages
- Love Across Time: Explores the enduring nature of love, even in the face of impossible circumstances.
- Power and Betrayal: Highlights the complexities of royal court politics and the sacrifices made for power.
- Identity and Acceptance: Wang So’s journey of self-acceptance and finding love despite societal judgment.
- Friendship and Loyalty: Examines the deep bonds between the princes and their challenges when divided by ambition.
- Fate and Destiny: A recurring theme as characters grapple with their predetermined paths and choices.
Interesting Facts
- Chinese Adaptation: The drama is based on the Chinese novel Bu Bu Jing Xin by Tong Hua, with a Korean twist.
- Star-Studded Cast: Features top actors like Lee Joon Gi, IU, and Kang Ha Neul, who brought the characters to life.
- Global Popularity: Despite modest domestic ratings, the series gained massive international acclaim.
- Iconic OST: The soundtrack, including songs by EXO’s Chen and Davichi, enhanced the emotional depth of the series.
- Fan Demands for Season 2: The ending left fans clamoring for a sequel to continue the epic tale.
Awards
“Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo” has received several awards and nominations:
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2016 SBS Drama Awards:
- Excellence in Acting (Fantasy Drama): Kang Ha-neul
- Hallyu Star Award: Lee Joon-gi
- Top 10 Stars Award: Lee Joon-gi
- Best Couple Award: Lee Joon-gi & IU
- Special Acting Award (Fantasy Drama): Seohyun
- New Star Award: Byun Baekhyun
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2016 Asia Artist Awards:
- Rookie of the Year (Actor): Ji Soo
- Rookie of the Year (Actor): Byun Baekhyun
- Rookie of the Year (Actor): Nam Joo-hyuk
- Best Star (Television/Film): Kang Ha-neul
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2017 Baeksang Arts Awards:
- Most Popular Actor: Lee Joon-gi
- Most Popular Actress: IU
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12th Annual Soompi Awards:
- Best Adaptation Award: “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo”
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4th Korean Brand Awards:
- Grand Prize, K-Culture Pride Award (Global Korea Category): “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo”
These accolades highlight the series’ exceptional performances and its significant impact on the Hallyu wave.