Mr. Sunshine is a critically acclaimed South Korean historical drama series that aired on tvN from July 7 to September 30, 2018. Set in the early 1900s, this epic tale weaves a captivating narrative of love, patriotism, and sacrifice against the backdrop of a nation struggling to maintain its sovereignty in the face of Japanese imperialism.
- Director: Lee Eung-bok
- Screenwriter: Kim Eun-sook
- Episodes: 24
- Starring:
- Lee Byung-hun as Eugene Choi
- Kim Tae-ri as Go Ae-shin
- Yoo Yeon-seok as Goo Dong-mae
- Kim Min-jung as Kudo Hina
- Byun Yo-han as Kim Hee-sung
Synopsis:
Born into slavery, Eugene Choi escapes to the United States after the 1871 Shinmiyangyo (U.S. expedition to Korea). He returns to Joseon as a U.S. Marine officer and falls in love with Go Ae-shin, an aristocrat’s daughter and a member of the Righteous Army, a secret resistance group fighting for Korean independence. Their love story unfolds amidst political intrigue, societal constraints, and the looming threat of colonization.
Where to Watch:
You can stream Mr. Sunshine on Netflix.
Popularity in Korea:
Mr. Sunshine was a massive hit in South Korea, consistently achieving high viewership ratings and garnering widespread critical acclaim. It was praised for its compelling storyline, stellar performances, stunning cinematography, and poignant exploration of historical themes.
Episode Guide:
While a detailed recap of each episode would be extensive, here’s a brief overview of the major plot points:
- Episodes 1-4: Eugene Choi arrives in Joseon and encounters Go Ae-shin, Goo Dong-mae, and Kim Hee-sung. Their lives become intertwined as they navigate the complexities of their personal relationships and the growing political tension.
- Episodes 5-8: The Righteous Army’s activities intensify, and Ae-shin becomes more deeply involved. Eugene grapples with his dual identity as an American officer and a Korean by birth.
- Episodes 9-12: Romance blossoms between Eugene and Ae-shin, but their different social standings and political beliefs create obstacles. Dong-mae’s feelings for Ae-shin add another layer of complexity.
- Episodes 13-16: The Japanese tighten their grip on Joseon. The Righteous Army faces increasing danger, and Eugene finds himself caught between his loyalty to the U.S. and his love for his homeland.
- Episodes 17-20: Betrayal and sacrifice mark this turning point in the series. The characters face difficult choices as they fight for their beliefs and the future of their nation.
- Episodes 21-24: The fight for independence reaches its climax. The characters make their final stand against the Japanese, leading to a poignant and unforgettable conclusion.
Why You Should Watch It:
- Historical Significance: Mr. Sunshine sheds light on a turbulent period in Korean history, portraying the struggle for independence against Japanese colonialism.
- Complex Characters: The drama boasts a compelling cast of characters with intricate backstories and motivations.
- Stunning Cinematography: The series is visually stunning, with beautiful scenery and meticulous attention to period detail.
- Epic Love Story: The romance between Eugene and Ae-shin is both passionate and heartbreaking.
If you are interested in Korean history, political intrigue, or simply a well-crafted love story, Mr. Sunshine is definitely worth watching.
