Watch Dong Yi
- TV-Y
- 2010
- 1 Season
-
8.1 (2,218)
Dong Yi is a historical Korean drama series that aired on MBC America in 2010. It tells the story of a young woman named Dong Yi, played by Han Hyo-joo, who rises from being a lowly servant to becoming a concubine of King Sukjong, played by Jeong Jin-yeong. Despite not being from a noble family or of high status, Dong Yi proves her worth through her intelligence, kindness, and perseverance.
The show begins with Dong Yi's childhood, where she and her father were forced to live as fugitives after being framed for a crime they did not commit. They eventually settle in Hanyang, the capital city, where Dong Yi starts working as a maid in the Bureau of Music, a government agency responsible for designing and performing music for the royal court.
Dong Yi's life changes when she saves the life of Queen Inhyeon, played by Park Ha-sun, who was unfairly accused of poisoning the king. In gratitude, Queen Inhyeon takes Dong Yi under her wing and helps her climb the social hierarchy. Dong Yi's talents soon catch the attention of King Sukjong himself, who appoints her as a court lady and later as a concubine.
As Dong Yi navigates the complex and treacherous political landscape of the palace, she also falls in love with Captain Jang, played by Bae Su-bin, a royal guard who has dedicated his life to protecting the king. However, their love is forbidden, as Dong Yi's status as a concubine means that she can never marry anyone else.
Throughout the show, Dong Yi faces many challenges and obstacles, including political rivals who want to bring her down, conspiracies to overthrow the king, and personal tragedies that threaten to break her spirit. However, she never gives up and remains loyal to the king and the people she loves.
The show also features many other memorable characters, including Queen Inhyeon, who becomes Dong Yi's mentor and friend; Seo Yong-gi, played by Choi Cheol-ho, a powerful minister who becomes Dong Yi's enemy; and Cha Chun-soo, played by Jin-hee Ji, Dong Yi's boss at the Bureau of Music who helps her hone her musical talents.
The production values of Dong Yi are impressive, with beautiful costumes and sets that bring the historical setting to life. The acting is also top-notch, especially by Han Hyo-joo, who gives a captivating and nuanced performance as Dong Yi. Jeong Jin-yeong is also excellent as King Sukjong, portraying the character's complexities and contradictions with skill and charisma.
Overall, Dong Yi is a compelling and engaging drama that combines romance, politics, and history into a captivating story. It explores themes of class, gender, and power in a nuanced and thought-provoking way, while also providing plenty of drama and suspense to keep viewers hooked from beginning to end. Whether you are a fan of historical dramas or just looking for a well-crafted story with great characters, Dong Yi is definitely worth watching.