Drama Digest
“Chung Chun Hyang Jeon” is a modern retelling of Chunhyangjeon, also known as The Tale of Chunhyang. Sung Chunhyang is a younger girl who falls in love with Yi Mongryong, who needs to travel to the capital and requests Chunhyang to look after him till he returns. When a new government official named Byeon Hakdo arrives in the town, he tries to force Chunhyang to be his prostitute, but she refuses and is imprisoned as a result. Yi Mongryong reappears in disguise as a secret royal inspector, and the pair has a happy ending. This modern series follows Chun Hyang, a 24-year-old woman who works as a waitress at a guesthouse to pay off her college loans. When she was 18, she fell in love with Mong Ryong, but she didn’t hear from him for six years after he relocated to Seoul. He reappears as a medical student, but a young entrepreneur called Byun Hak Do shakes up the pair’s romance.
The Feel-Good Part
Despite the cliché elements, the characters are enjoyable to watch. Their interactions are a combination of comedy and drama. Almost every scene contains elements of lighthearted romance. The actors’ chemistry is well portrayed. You could expect some dramatic or heated exchanges between the characters. No. Positive energy is always flowing between and among the characters. The shooting locations are very gorgeous. The setting and music contribute to the series’ pleasant features.
The Disappointing Factor
Although the premise was fascinating, the plot felt mundane and predictable. Conversations may have also been better. It felt a little contrived and lacked passion and emotion. Although clichéd, it was entertaining to watch. However, as a modern retelling of an old tale, one would expect a faster pace and an exploration of more mature themes suited to the present period. Chun Hyang and Byun Hak Do’s romance also felt a little contrived.
In-Depth Analysis
The series has done an excellent job with casting and soundtrack. To be blunt, the current premise does not gel with the way they have told the narrative. There is a void in the storyline, or perhaps it is within the characters. The characters lack character development. Some supporting characters do not contribute to the plot’s development. Their presence does not imply a relationship between the protagonists. Except for Chun Hyang, the other characters seem a little superficial.
Star Power
The ensemble is brilliant as idol actors are also present.
Overall Opinion
The storyline could be better.
