Faith (South Korean TV series)
Faith, also known as The Great Doctor, is a 2012 South Korean fantasy historical television drama series broadcast on SBS. It stars Lee Min-ho and Kim Hee-sun. The series centers around a modern-day plastic surgeon, Yoo Eun-soo, who is kidnapped and taken back in time to the Goryeo Dynasty by Choi Young, a royal bodyguard.
Synopsis:
Choi Young, a warrior of the Goryeo Dynasty, travels through a mysterious portal to the 21st century in order to bring back a "heavenly doctor" to treat the ailing Princess Noguk. He believes Yoo Eun-soo, a modern-day plastic surgeon, possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to save the princess. Eun-soo is initially skeptical and resistant, but she is eventually coerced into returning with Choi Young. Once in the Goryeo Dynasty, she finds herself caught in the political turmoil surrounding King Gongmin and Queen Noguk. As Eun-soo struggles to adapt to the unfamiliar historical setting and grapples with the ethics of altering history, she and Choi Young develop a complex relationship, tested by loyalty, duty, and the vast difference in their worlds. The drama explores themes of love, sacrifice, political intrigue, and the consequences of changing the past.
Cast:
- Lee Min-ho as Choi Young
- Kim Hee-sun as Yoo Eun-soo
- Yoo Oh-sung as Ki Chul
- Ryu Deok-hwan as King Gongmin
- Park Se-young as Princess Noguk
- Lee Philip as Jang Bin
Production:
The series was directed by Kim Jong-hak and written by Song Ji-na. It faced production delays and budget issues, impacting its initial broadcast schedule.
Reception:
Faith received moderate ratings in South Korea. It gained a significant international following, particularly in Asia, due to the popularity of its lead actors and the blend of historical and fantasy elements. Reviews were mixed, with some praising the performances and action sequences, while others criticized the pacing and plot inconsistencies.