On Board the Korean History Train Bound for Astonishing Historical Narratives
Happy New Year to everyone and anyone reading this article!
In celebration of a brand new year and a brand new beginning, it’s worth looking back and reminiscing on the past. After all, building a solid plan by reflecting on the past is said to yield smoother navigation in life as it reflects on your future.
Now let’s take a step back into the past––maybe further back than you anticipated. (It may be a bit of a stretch back in time, but as we always say, we are able to learn from past mistakes and better society in the present day!)
tvN STORY’s storytelling show Korean History is arguably the perfect way to kick off the New Year. Make yourself at home and take a dive into the wide historical landscape of the Korean peninsula and explore the striking incidents in the country’s dynastic kingdoms revolving around those who reigned in power.
Introducing the Essence of Korean History
In building up to the airing of Korean History, the outstanding performance of the broadcasting company’s original storytelling program History (벌거벗은 세계사) played a crucial role.
The successful attempt in garnering attention to the importance of analyzing incidental events in world history inspired the production crew to launch a new series solely focusing on South Korean history.
Choi Taesung takes the role of the guide for the weekly trip to various points across the historical timeline. As a renowned expert in Korean history who authored Korean history textbooks, Choi Taesung encompasses eminent suitability as the show’s instructor. With his years of expertise in teaching students via online lectures, the history teller utilizes his spectacular speaking skills to capture the viewer’s attention.
The program is formatted in a similar manner to the production crew’s primitive history storytelling show in that distinguished experts (referred to as professors) are invited alongside the titular guide to narrate the chosen stories of the day. Hearing from notable figures who have studied various aspects of history from different cultural perspectives is a spectacular experience, and having the opportunity to take in such knowledgeable insights as a point of reference in the broad scope of the historical event is more than helpful.
Welcome the Cast
Taking the cast as well as viewers on a journey through the HTX, or the History Train Express as established in the show’s conceptual universe, the program’s titular instructor guides the immersive experience as he unravels the story of historical figures in detail.
The show’s cast features three prominent characters in the industry, especially in the variety show field. Variety star Kim Donghyun is one of the three main cast members of the show. Prior to his active performance in the entertainment realm, Kim Donghyun was and is an icon who truly pioneered the advancement of martial arts in his home country. Marking his presence in an immensely deep talent pool of incredible fighters, “Stun Gun” also made history as a UFC fighter mainly performing in the Welterweight division. Currently a retired MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighter, Kim Donghyun is making waves as a stable variety star through his notable performances in variety shows such as Master in the House (집사부일체) and We Kick Together (뭉쳐야 찬다). With his passion for Korean history, Kim Donghyun joins in on the weekly adventure alongside viewers to explore hidden narratives.
Jang Yewon sits on the History Train Express as a passenger with her fellow cast members. A former SBS announcer, Jang Yewon is a famous host and television personality who has made appearances in a number of different shows. Throughout the years, the television personality showcased her multifaceted character and talent as an emcee on economic, variety, social, and other diverse shows.
Jonathan joins the history crew as the final passenger on the History Train Express. A popular television personality, the star has pretty much established a stable reputation with his activity in the YouTube realm of variety and entertainment. Alongside such achievements, Jonathan is gaining traction in television entertainment with his witty speech and notable reactions. As much as he revealed his goal of becoming a naturalized citizen of South Korea, Jonathan approaches the historical tales with genuine interest that seems to grow deeper every week.
The storytelling show Korean History really emphasizes the idea of exploring the foundation of the country in the analysis of people. Uncovering complicated or hidden stories, the historical train ride is almost hypnotic as it maps out an alluring plotline that often seems unbelievable. An immersive experience that is bound to catch your attention, this storytelling program will nourish one’s mind through the subtle addition of historical knowledge. Looking deep and beyond the surface of the figures both in and out of power, the dramatic lives of individuals illustrate joy and tragedy which ultimately outline the history of the Korean people.
Edited by Deshalia Murray