The Legend of the Blue Sea
In The Legend of the Blue Sea, Lee Min Ho stars as Heo Joon Jae, a brilliant con artist with a mysterious past, while Jun Ji Hyun plays Shim Cheong, a mermaid navigating the human world in search of love and belonging. Their fates intertwine in a story that bridges modern-day Seoul with the Joseon era, revealing a centuries-old connection between their souls. As Shim Cheong adapts to life on land, her naivety and heartwarming innocence create comical yet touching moments, especially as she struggles to understand human customs. Meanwhile, Joon Jae's charm and wit mask his loneliness, making their encounters a blend of humor, romance, and emotional depth. Together, they unravel secrets of their intertwined past lives, rooted in the tragic tale of Kim Dam Ryung and Se Hwa, their historical counterparts. The series masterfully weaves fantasy, drama, and romance, capturing the complexities of love across time. With a backdrop of breathtaking visuals, including underwater scenes and iconic locations in Seoul and Spain, the drama creates an enchanting world that draws viewers into its magical narrative. The Legend of the Blue Sea isn’t just a love story; it’s a tale of redemption, destiny, and finding courage in the face of adversity. With standout performances by Lee Min Ho and Jun Ji Hyun, this K-drama is a must-watch for fans of fantasy and heartwarming romance.
Details
🙂 Native Title: 푸른 바다의 전설
🌎 Also Known As: The Legend of the Blue Sea, Puleun Badaui Jeonseol
🎭 Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Comedy, Drama
🏷 Tags: Reincarnation, Mermaid, Joseon Era, Forbidden Love, Rich Male Lead, Star-Crossed Lovers
✍ Screenwriters: Park Ji Eun
🎬 Directors: Jin Hyuk, Park Seon Ho
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Episodes: 20
🗓️ Aired: Nov 16, 2016 – Jan 25, 2017
📅 Airing Days: Wednesday, Thursday
📺 Original Network: SBS
⏰ Duration: 60 min per episode
🔞 Content Rating: 15+ – Teens 15 or older
Best Scenes
- The heartwarming reunion of Heo Joon Jae and Shim Cheong after a long separation, blending romance and nostalgia.
- The underwater sequence where Shim Cheong saves Joon Jae, showcasing breathtaking visuals and emotional depth.
- The flashback scene to the Joseon era, revealing the tragic love story of Kim Dam Ryung and Se Hwa.
- Shim Cheong’s comical attempts to understand human life, such as learning to eat ramen or navigating city life.
- The intense confrontation between Joon Jae and Ma Dae Young, where past and present collide dramatically.
Filming Locations
- Barcelona, Spain – Stunning scenes at Park Güell and other iconic landmarks provide a romantic European backdrop.
- Muuido Island, South Korea – The serene beach scenes emphasize the connection to the mermaid’s origin.
- Seoul’s Gangnam District – Captures the bustling city life and contrasts Shim Cheong’s innocence with urban sophistication.
- Han River – Frequently used for dramatic encounters and emotional moments between the leads.
- Namsan Tower – A symbolic location highlighting the romantic tension and longing in pivotal scenes.
Visual Design and Costumes
- Shim Cheong’s shimmering mermaid tail reflects her ethereal and magical nature.
- Joon Jae’s sleek, modern suits mirror his sophisticated and charismatic con artist persona.
- The Joseon-era costumes showcase historical authenticity and highlight the timeless love story.
- Vibrant colors in Shim Cheong’s wardrobe post-transformation symbolize her adaptation to human life.
- The intricate set designs, such as the underwater world and Joon Jae’s luxurious house, enhance the fantastical elements.
Themes and Messages
- Timeless Love – Explores how true love transcends time and space, connecting souls across centuries.
- Redemption – Highlights the importance of second chances and correcting past mistakes.
- Courage and Adaptation – Shim Cheong’s journey emphasizes bravery in embracing new worlds and experiences.
- Fate and Destiny – Explores how destiny intertwines lives and shapes the future.
- Good vs. Evil – A classic theme depicted through Joon Jae’s battle with Ma Dae Young and his own personal struggles.
Interesting Facts
- Lee Min Ho and Jun Ji Hyun’s on-screen chemistry was a major draw, earning the drama widespread acclaim.
- Inspired by a Joseon-era folktale about a magistrate who released a captured mermaid.
- Filming in Barcelona drew attention from international fans, boosting the show’s global popularity.
- The underwater scenes were shot with advanced technology to ensure lifelike and magical visuals.
- Jun Ji Hyun performed many of her own stunts, including underwater sequences, showcasing her dedication to the role.
Awards
“The Legend of the Blue Sea” has received several awards and nominations, highlighting its excellence in various aspects:
-
Macau International TV Festival (2017):
- Best Directing for a Television Series awarded to director Jin Hyuk.
- Best Writing for a Television Series nomination for screenwriter Park Ji Eun.
- Best Television Series nomination.
-
SBS Drama Awards (2016):
- Top Excellence Award, Actor in a Fantasy Drama won by Lee Min-ho.
- Best Couple Award won by Lee Min-ho and Jun Ji-hyun.
- Top 10 Stars Award won by Lee Min-ho
These accolades underscore the series’ outstanding direction, writing, and performances.
Real-Life Loves on Set
While the on-screen chemistry between Shin Min Ah and Lee Seung Gi in “My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho” captivated audiences, there is no evidence to suggest that their relationship extended into real life. Shin Min Ah has been in a relationship with actor Kim Woo Bin since 2015.
Lee Seung Gi was previously linked to Girls’ Generation’s Yoona; however, they have since parted ways.
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Music / OST
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