‘Jewel in the Palace’ star Lee Young-ae to reprise role after 20 years

Lee Young-ae as Seo Jang-geum in “Jewel in the Palace.” Image: MBC

More than 20 years after captivating viewers as Jang-geum, Lee Young-ae will reprise her beloved role in an upcoming historical series which is said to be a continuation of “Jewel in the Palace’s” storyline.

Lee was propelled to superstardom after she was cast as the titular Seo Jang-geum in the 2003 Korean drama “Dae Jang-geum” (or “The Great Jang-geum”), although the drama is best known as “Jewel in the Palace” among viewers.

The actress’ casting was reported by South Korea-based media outlet Ilgan Sports on Tuesday, Jan. 30, saying the project will revolve around Seo Jang-geum after the events of the original series.

Lee Young-ae speaks at the press conference in Seoul. FILE PHOTO (Yonhap) via The Korea Herald

“The blockbuster drama ‘Female Physician Jang-geum’ will start filming in October. With lead actress Lee Young-ae cast last year in June, we recently wrapped up signing the contract with its scriptwriter,” entertainment company Fantagio said in the report, per a Soompi translation.

Filming of “Female Physician Jang-geum” is said to be “more meaningful” this time around, as it will take place 20 years after the hit show aired its final episode.

The drama, which is “in production,” will reportedly be aired sometime in 2025. Details about Lee’s castmates and plot are yet to be disclosed.

Apart from the drama’s storyline, Seo Jang-geum is a significant historical figure in South Korea after she became the first female royal physician. She was born in 1474 during the Joseon Dynasty and went on to live until 1550.

Historical accounts said Jang-geum was trusted for her medical knowledge, particularly by the then-King Jungjong. However, little information is known regarding her identity, with some historians debating her existence, per reports.

Lee is also known for her lead roles in “Saimdang, Memoir of Colors” and “Inspector Koo.” She also appeared as the voice narrator of the hit 2021 series “Taxi Driver” which starred Lee Je-hoon, Esom, and Kim Eui-sung.