On November 7, MBC's Friday-Saturday drama 'Moon River' (directed by Lee Dong-hyun, written by Jo Seung-hee) aired its first episode, captivating viewers with the narration of the matchmaker god, Wolha, and the thrilling first encounter between Crown Prince Lee Kang (played by Kang Tae-oh) and merchant Park Dal-i (played by Kim Se-jeong), who come from opposite worlds.
The first episode recorded a nationwide viewership rating of 3.8% and 3.7% in the metropolitan area, with a peak of 6.2% during the scene where Park Dal-i falls from a roof and is caught by Lee Kang, marking a promising start (according to Nielsen Korea).
Crown Prince Lee Kang, who is acting as a regent for the incapacitated king, begins his day in a robe tailored to his personal style, observing the bickering of court officials. He shocks the court by declaring his intention to visit a gisaeng house to meet his cousin, Prince Je-un (played by Lee Sin-young), leaving all decisions, including the selection of a crown princess, to the powerful Left State Councilor Kim Han-cheol (played by Jin Goo).
Despite his seemingly reckless exterior, Lee Kang harbors a deep longing for his wife, who was a victim of Kim Han-cheol's power. His eyes, filled with determination for revenge, reveal his inner turmoil, especially when he sees his late wife's face in Park Dal-i.
Meanwhile, Park Dal-i, who lost her memory in an accident, believes she is a runaway slave from Hanyang, based on her family's explanation. Mistaking Lee Kang, who pursues her with a mysterious expression, for her master, she hides in a secluded greenhouse, only to be knocked unconscious by a falling watch dropped by Prince Je-un, providing a moment of comic relief.
When Park Dal-i regains consciousness, she is confronted by an angry Prince Je-un, who demands compensation for the broken watch. In a desperate attempt to escape, she climbs onto the roof, only to find herself surrounded. In a bold move, she jumps off the roof, surprising everyone.
At that moment, Lee Kang, standing below, catches the falling Park Dal-i, their eyes meeting. The sight of Park Dal-i, who resembles his deceased wife, stirs a storm of emotions within Lee Kang.
The revelation that Park Dal-i is actually the deceased Crown Princess Kang Yeon-wol adds to the shock. The mystery of why Kang Yeon-wol is living as Park Dal-i and the fate that binds Lee Kang and Park Dal-i intrigues viewers.
'Moon River' weaves an unbreakable destiny between Crown Prince Lee Kang and merchant Park Dal-i, heightening the drama's intensity from the first episode. The poignant romance between Lee Kang and the Crown Princess, the fierce palace intrigue, and the comedic elements offer a diverse array of entertainment.
Kang Tae-oh's charismatic portrayal of Lee Kang and Kim Se-jeong's witty performance as Park Dal-i, along with the dedicated performances of the cast, enhance the viewing experience. The narrative of the matchmaker god, Wolha, the stunning visuals, and the vibrant depiction of fate and destiny create a unique world for 'Moon River,' leaving viewers eager for the next episode.
The fantasy romance of Crown Prince Kang Tae-oh and merchant Kim Se-jeong, connected by a red thread, continues in the second episode of MBC's Friday-Saturday drama 'Moon River,' airing on November 8 at 9:50 PM.
Reporter: Im Chae-ryeong, TENASIA syjj426@tenasia.co.kr