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Jumong (TV series)

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“Jumong” is a South Korean epic television series that explores the life of King Dongmyeong. He was the historical founder of the Goguryeo kingdom. The series originally aired on the MBC network from 2006 to 2007. It served as a special production for the network's 45th anniversary. The show was so successful that MBC extended its run. While originally planned for 60 episodes, the series was lengthened to 81 episodes due to its popularity.

Jumong site 3
Jumong site 3

The narrative begins following the conquest of Gojoseon by Han China in 108 BCE. During this era, the surviving tribes of Manchuria and the northern Korean Peninsula were subjugated. They served as tributaries to the Han, who ruled from the Four Commanderies. The plot follows the resistance led by Haemosu and the Damul Army. Haemosu teams up with Prince Geumwa of Buyeo to protect Gojoseon refugees. A complex lineage drives the drama, as Jumong is actually the son of Haemosu and Lady Yuhwa. However, he is raised believing Geumwa is his father.

Jumong's journey involves many stages of growth and conflict. As a young prince, he is viewed as weak and cowardly. He faces intense scorn from his half-brothers, Daeso and Youngpo. These brothers compete for the Buyeo throne and view Jumong as a threat to their inheritance. After an assassination attempt, Jumong leaves the palace and encounters the elderly, blind Haemosu. Under Haemosu's secret tutelage, Jumong masters the art of combat. He eventually forms a vital alliance with Lady Soseono of the Gyeru trading clan.

Jumong site 1
Jumong site 1

The series details the political and military maneuvers required to build a nation. After discovering his true parentage, Jumong vows to avenge his father and expel the Han forces. He leads the Buyeo army against the Lintun and Zhenfan Commanderies. Even after being presumed dead in battle, he survives and eventually returns to Buyeo. He uses deception to earn the trust of his rival, Daeso. Jumong then leads refugees to Mount Bongye to establish a fortress. This group re-forms the Damul Army to challenge existing powers.

As the Damul Army grows over three years, it begins uniting various local tribes. This expansion causes discomfort for both Buyeo and the Han. After the death of the trader Wootae, Jumong and Soseono unite the five clans of Jolbon. This powerful entity successfully conquers the Xuantu Commandery. This victory allows them to establish the Kingdom of Goguryeo. Jumong and Soseono eventually rule as King and Queen of this new nation.

Jumong site 3
Jumong site 3

The impact of the series was reflected in its massive viewership ratings. In 2006, “Jumong” held the highest viewership ratings of all Korean dramas. The ratings were remarkably high, with some episodes reaching over 50% in Seoul. In Iran, the most popular episodes attracted a viewership rating exceeding 90%. The show's success led to many prestigious awards. It won the Grand Prize (Daesang) at both the MBC Drama Awards and the Baeksang Arts Awards. Lead actor Song Il-gook also received multiple acting honors.

Jumong site 1
Jumong site 1

Production for the series relied on large-scale historical settings. Much of the filming took place at Yongin Daejanggeum Park in the Cheoin District. This location is a major hub for period dramas in South Korea. Other famous series, such as "Queen Seondeok," were also filmed there. The show's reach was truly global. Broadcast rights were sold to dozens of countries, including Turkey, Japan, and the United States. From Vietnam to Fiji, audiences across different cultures connected with this epic history.

Jumong site 3
Jumong site 3
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