The Tale of Nokdu

In "The Tale of Nokdu," Jang Dong Yoon portrays Jeon Nok Du, a young man forced to disguise himself as a woman to uncover the truth behind his family's mysterious past. Alongside him, Kim So Hyun dazzles as Dong Dong Joo, a skilled and determined young woman seeking vengeance against those who wronged her. As their paths intertwine, secrets unravel, and a gripping tale of love, loyalty, and deception unfolds amidst the backdrop of the Joseon era.

Driven by a desire for justice and fueled by an unexpected romance, Nok Du and Dong Joo embark on a perilous journey filled with twists and turns. With their lives entangled in a web of political intrigue and personal vendettas, they must navigate treacherous waters to protect their loved ones and uncover the truth. Supported by a talented cast including Kang Tae Oh as Cha Yool Mu and Jung Joon Ho as King Gwang Hae, "The Tale of Nokdu" captivates audiences with its riveting storyline and dynamic performances.

As Nok Du and Dong Joo navigate the complexities of their intertwined destinies, they encounter allies and adversaries alike, each with their own motivations and secrets. From the power struggles within the royal court to the clandestine activities of a mysterious group known as the Muwoldan, every twist and turn keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. With its blend of romance, action, and suspense, "The Tale of Nokdu" offers a captivating glimpse into the tumultuous world of Joseon-era Korea.

With its compelling narrative, rich historical setting, and stellar performances from Jang Dong Yoon, Kim So Hyun, and the rest of the cast, "The Tale of Nokdu" stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Korean historical dramas. As viewers embark on a journey of love, betrayal, and redemption, they'll find themselves drawn deeper into the intrigue and drama of Nok Du and Dong Joo's quest for truth and justice.

Details

🙂 Native Title: 조선로코 녹두전
🌎 Also Known As: Mung Bean Chronicles, The Joseon Romantic Comedy: Tale of Nokdu
🎭 Genres: Historical, Romance, Comedy, Action
🏷 Tags: Gender Bender, Cross-Dressing, Secret Identity, Revenge, Martial Arts
✍ Screenwriters: Im Ye Jin, Baek So Yeon
🎬 Directors: Kim Dong Hwi
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Episodes: 32
🗓️ Aired: September 30, 2019 – November 25, 2019
📅 Airing Days: Monday & Tuesday
📺 Original Network: KBS2
⏰ Duration: 35 minutes per episode
🔞 Content Rating: 15+

Best Scenes

The breathtaking rooftop swordfight between Jeon Nok Du and Cha Yool Mu, showcasing their martial arts skills and intense rivalry.
The mesmerizing dance sequence at the traditional gisaeng house, blending elegance, grace, and cultural authenticity.
The heart-pounding action scenes set against the backdrop of lush forests and rugged landscapes, adding depth to the storyline.
The tender moments of romance between Nok Du and Dong Joo, capturing the blossoming of their forbidden love amidst adversity.
The emotionally charged confrontations between characters, filled with raw emotion and gripping performances that leave a lasting impact on viewers.

Filming Locations

Historic sites such as Hwaseong Fortress and Namsangol Hanok Village in Seoul, providing authentic backdrops for Joseon-era scenes.
Picturesque landscapes of Buyeo and Jeonju in South Korea, offering scenic beauty and historical charm for outdoor filming.
Traditional Korean palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, showcasing the grandeur and elegance of royal settings.
Charming villages and rural areas in Gyeonggi Province, evoking the rustic charm and simplicity of countryside life.
Cultural landmarks such as Andong Hahoe Folk Village and Gyeongju Historic Areas, enriching the drama’s portrayal of traditional Korean culture.

Visual Design and Costumes

Exquisite hanbok designs adorned with intricate embroidery and vibrant colors, reflecting the elegance and sophistication of the Joseon period.
Authentic set designs of bustling markets, serene palaces, and quaint villages, transporting viewers to a bygone era with meticulous attention to detail.
Creative use of lighting and cinematography to capture the beauty and atmosphere of each scene, enhancing the visual storytelling.
Symbolic motifs and traditional Korean symbols incorporated into props and set decorations, adding cultural richness to the narrative.
Seamless integration of CGI effects to bring to life fantastical elements such as martial arts sequences and supernatural phenomena, elevating the drama’s visual appeal.

Themes and Messages

The exploration of gender identity and societal expectations, as Nok Du navigates the challenges of living as a woman in a patriarchal society.
The pursuit of justice and redemption, as characters seek to uncover the truth behind their pasts and right the wrongs of the past.
The power of love and friendship to overcome adversity, as Nok Du and Dong Joo’s bond grows stronger in the face of danger and betrayal.
The importance of self-discovery and acceptance, as characters embark on personal journeys of growth and transformation.
The celebration of Korean culture and heritage, with themes of loyalty, honor, and resilience woven throughout the narrative.

Interesting Facts

“The Tale of Nokdu” is based on a popular webtoon of the same name by Hye Jin Yang, known for its engaging storyline and dynamic characters.
Jang Dong Yoon underwent rigorous martial arts training to prepare for his role as Jeon Nok Du, showcasing his dedication to bringing authenticity to the action scenes.
Kim So Hyun’s portrayal of Dong Dong Joo earned praise for her strong-willed and independent character, defying traditional gender norms.
The drama’s OST, featuring haunting ballads and upbeat tracks, received widespread acclaim and topped music charts during its airing.
“The Tale of Nokdu” received nominations and awards at various Korean drama award ceremonies, recognizing its excellence in storytelling, acting, and production value.

Awards

KBS Drama Awards: Jang Dong Yoon won the Excellence Award, Actor in a Miniseries, for his portrayal of Jeon Nok Du.
Baeksang Arts Awards: Kim So Hyun received a nomination for Best Actress in a TV Drama for her role as Dong Dong Joo.
Korea Drama Awards: “The Tale of Nokdu” was nominated for Best Drama.
Seoul International Drama Awards: The drama received recognition for its cultural significance and contribution to the Korean entertainment industry.

Real-Life Loves on Set

While rumors circulated about potential romances among the cast of “The Tale of Nokdu,” no confirmed reports of real-life relationships emerged during filming. However, the chemistry between the lead actors, Jang Dong Yoon and Kim So Hyun, fueled speculation among fans. Despite the rumors, both actors maintained professionalism on set, focusing on their roles and delivering captivating performances. While viewers may have imagined romantic sparks flying behind the scenes, any real-life loves remained a mystery, leaving fans to cherish the on-screen chemistry that made “The Tale of Nokdu” a memorable drama.