Drama Digest
Yi San is an arrogant and perfectionist young prince in Korea during the second part of the 1700s. His father’s murder haunts him, even if it puts him in line to succeed his grandfather, the harsh and vicious current King responsible for Yi San’s father’s death. He has decided to become a kind monarch who would change the law when he ultimately ascends to the throne. His father’s murder has emotionally traumatized him.
He meets a young woman called Sung Deok-Im at court. Yi San falls for her and persuades her to become his official concubine. Sung Deok Im, on the other hand, is strong-willed and free-spirited. She is also wise enough to see that being a royal consort to the future King is a prestigious position, but one that would limit her independence and likely offer her little joy. But Yi San’s feelings for Sung Deok Im are genuine, and she realizes that marrying him will aid his struggling realm in the long run.
The Feel-Good Part
Lee Se-young conveys this inner turmoil brilliantly with her huge, expressive eyes, good diction, and well-modulated voice. Her performance is nothing short of outstanding, and part of me wishes Sung Deok-Im had waited 200 years to be resurrected as this fantastic actress to tell her story. While Lee Junho and Lee Se-young have incredible chemistry, their push-pull dynamic makes for an uncomfortable slow-burn relationship.
The Disappointing Factor
Nothing is disappointing in the series.
In-depth Analysis
The Red Sleeve is a fictitious dramatization of the well-known historical romance between King Jeongjo of Joseon and his royal mistress, Uibin Sung, set in 2021, South Korea. It stars Lee Jun-ho (2PM), Lee Se-young, and Kang Hoon.
Before becoming a royal concubine, the heroine, Sung Deok-Im (Lee Se-young), a lively court maid. She is well-known among court women for her lovely handwriting and occasional part-time employment as a book reader. Since the drama is set in the Joseon era, when not everyone (mainly women) could read and write, Deok-Im is a savvy young lady who understands how to make the most of her abilities. She then met Crown Prince Yi San (Lee Jun-ho). He is the son of Crown Prince Sado, who was assassinated by his grandfather.
San’s commitment and intellect, show that he is meant to be the King. San ascended to the throne with the support of faithful allies and Deok-Im by his side. San’s tribulations were typical of a historical drama, yet it was nonetheless satisfying. Jun-ho successfully conveyed the character’s genuine emotions. The plot centered mostly around Deok-Im’s internal conflict over whether to remain at San’s side as his concubine or to remain a court maid, where her heart truly resides.
Deok-I’m is adamant from the outset that she wants the freedom to select what she wants. It’s the simplest thing, yet Deok-Im appreciates her life the most. The situation deteriorated after San became the King. If Deok-Im chooses to remain with San, she will lose her life and be imprisoned in an imagined jail cell with no freedom, and she will become the King’s possession. San has her heart, no doubt about it. But he will never be her spouse, and she will never really commit to him.
Deok-Im is adamant from the outset that she wants the freedom to select what she wants; despite the limited alternatives she has. It’s the simplest thing, yet Deok-Im appreciates her life the most. The situation deteriorated after San became King. If Deok-Im chooses to remain with San, she will lose her life and be imprisoned in an imagined jail cell with no freedom, and she will become the King’s possession. San has her heart, no doubt about it. But he will never be her spouse, and she will never really commit to him.
Star Power
This is Lee Jun Ho’s first acting job after being dismissed from the South Korean military in 2021 in this must-see historical drama. Lee Jun Ho, together with an amazing group of beloved Korean drama performers, provides tremendously poignant performances that will tug at your emotions. Stellar performances by Kang Hoon, Park Ji Young, and Jang Hee Jin in the supporting cast enhance the sumptuous visual arts and stunning costumes. At the same time, the music director No Hyung Woo produces an elaborate musical soundtrack.
Overall Opinion
The storyline, the actors and their chemistry, and even the cinematography were all excellent. I have to add that the Director and Writer did an outstanding job in depicting the truth of the love between two individuals in that historical period. In the middle, it was a bit confusing about what was holding Deok-Im from being with San, but towards the end, I realized why and how they wanted the audience to experience it realistically. Lee Se Young is also a fantastic performer, and their chemistry was flawless; they appeared to be a real couple. The series is unquestionably a MUST SEE… congratulations to the whole cast and crew for their efforts.
