Jewel in the Palace
Rating: ***** (FULL RATING!)

Cast:










Lee Young-Ae (Jang-geum)












Ji Jin-Hee (Jang Geum's love)










Hong Li-na (Geum Yong - her competitor)









Im Ho (Emperor)










Yang Mi-gyeong (her teacher)

Or more commonly known as "Da Chang Jin" or "Daejanggeum".

How could I have forgotten to talk about this reknown 70-episode Korean epic drama. I watched the whole thing twice! Once in Mandarin another one in Korean. The storyline is based on a true story about a girl who aspires to work in the royal kitchen and be the Highest Madam - a highly respected and sought after position. She later created history by becoming the first lady royal physicial in the palace.

Absolute tear jerker but not just for the sake of it.

Chup thinks dramas are nothing but a waste of time was hooked. So was Aunt Rose. And Chup's tennis kaki who happened to be 65 years old and stayed awake till 4 am to watch the series. The list goes on...

I was determined to publicize and introduce the series to as many people as possible.

Soon, I managed to get my colleagues addicted as well!

What you would expect:
- rich & very accurate depiction of Korean culture & history
- numerous hierarchy in the Korean Royal Palace
- very carefully and meticulously written storyline
- sumptuos and beautiful looking dishes
- superb acting from the little children to old ladies
- power of love and loyalty to the king
- politics and more politics
- and of course, great looking casts!

Of course, there is a minority group who finds the drama too slow and draggy. My mom being one example.

Nevertheless, it's a must watch!

... the one whose in laws are now glued to the television set watching the series at this very minute