7.5 / 10 (based on 239 reviews)
Bossam was a custom in Joseon period, in which a bachelor, who missed marriage secretly wrapped up a widow in a blanket at night and made her his wife. This custom changes the fate of Ba Woo when he kidnaps a princess by mistake.
Genre: Drama, History, Romance
Main Cast: Il-Woo Jung, Yuri Kwon, Hyun-soo Shin, Shin Dong-mi
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1 season, 20 episodes, 65-minute runtime
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In the landscape of Korean dramas, where romantic comedies and historical epics often dominate, “Bossam: Unmyeongeul Humchida” (2021), or “Bossam: Steal the Fate,” emerges as a refreshing blend of history, romance, and adventure. This series, set during the Joseon Dynasty, introduces viewers to a unique premise wrapped around the historical practice of bossam – a custom where a widow is kidnapped in the night to be remarried, often without her consent. This might sound like a setup for a dark, heavy narrative, but “Bossam: Unmyeongeul Humchida” balances its themes with care, offering a compelling story that’s as much about finding love and redemption as it is about the characters’ fight for survival.
The Premise
At the heart of “Bossam: Unmyeongeul Humchida” is Ba-Woo (played by Jung Il-woo), a man living under a false identity who makes his living through bossam. Despite his rough exterior and morally ambiguous profession, Ba-Woo is driven by a strong sense of justice and loyalty, making him a complex and relatable protagonist. His life takes an unexpected turn when he accidentally kidnaps Princess Soo Kyung (played by Kwon Yuri), a widow with a tragic past and the daughter of King Gwanghae. This sets off a chain of events that neither of them could have anticipated, leading them on a dangerous journey that threatens their lives but also brings them closer together.
Characters and Relationships
Ba-Woo and Soo Kyung
The dynamic between Ba-Woo and Soo Kyung is one of the show’s standout features. Initially, their relationship is fraught with tension and mistrust, which is understandable given their circumstances. However, as they spend more time together, they begin to see past their prejudices and recognize the strength and kindness in each other. Their romance develops slowly, built on mutual respect and shared experiences, making it all the more satisfying to watch.
Supporting Cast
“Bossam: Unmyeongeul Humchida” also boasts a strong supporting cast that adds depth to the story. From Ba-Woo’s loyal friend and accomplice, Chun-Bae, to the menacing Lee Yi-Cheom, who seeks to use Soo Kyung for his own gain, each character is well-developed and contributes to the narrative in meaningful ways. The interactions between the characters, whether they are allies or adversaries, are rich with tension and intrigue, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish.
Themes and Messages
Identity and Redemption
One of the central themes of “Bossam: Unmyeongeul Humchida” is the search for identity and redemption. Both Ba-Woo and Soo Kyung are haunted by their pasts and the mistakes they’ve made. Through their journey, the series explores the idea that it’s never too late to change your fate and make amends for past actions. This message of hope and transformation resonates deeply, making the characters’ struggles and victories feel all the more meaningful.
Power and Corruption
Set against the backdrop of the Joseon Dynasty’s political intrigue, the show also delves into the themes of power and corruption. It portrays the dangerous game of politics in the royal court and the lengths people will go to secure their position and influence. This not only adds an exciting layer of suspense to the story but also serves as a commentary on the corrupting nature of power and the importance of integrity and justice.
Why Watch “Bossam: Unmyeongeul Humchida”?
Unique Storyline
In a sea of predictable plots and familiar tropes, “Bossam: Unmyeongeul Humchida” stands out for its unique premise and historical setting. The concept of bossam, while controversial, serves as a fascinating backdrop for the story, offering a glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of Joseon society. This, combined with the engaging plot and character development, makes the series a must-watch for fans of historical dramas.
Stellar Performances
The cast of “Bossam: Unmyeongeul Humchida” delivers stellar performances that bring the characters to life. Jung Il-woo, in particular, shines as Ba-Woo, perfectly capturing the character’s complexity and emotional depth. Kwon Yuri also impresses as Soo Kyung, portraying her transformation from a grieving widow to a strong, independent woman with nuance and sensitivity. The chemistry between the leads, along with the strong performances of the supporting cast, elevates the series and makes it all the more compelling.
Cinematography and Production Design
The series is a visual feast, with stunning cinematography and meticulous production design that transport viewers to the Joseon Dynasty. From the intricate costumes to the breathtaking landscapes, every detail is carefully crafted to create an immersive historical setting. The action scenes are also well-executed, adding excitement without overshadowing the story’s emotional core.
Conclusion
“Bossam: Unmyeongeul Humchida” is a gem of a series that offers something for everyone – a captivating story, complex characters, romance, and adventure, all set against a rich historical backdrop. It’s a testament to the creativity and talent of its creators and cast, and a reminder of the power of storytelling to entertain, educate, and inspire. Whether you’re a fan of Korean dramas or new to the genre, this series is well worth your time.