Goong - Episode 1

Goong starring Yoon Eun Hye and Joo Ji Hoon

An instant classic upon its broadcast in 2006, this is perhaps Korea's most famous re-telling of the Cinderella story. When a plucky poor girl is engaged to the country's arrogant Crown Prince, will true love result? Airing to ratings of almost 30%, Goong, also known as Palace or Princess Hours, propelled both of its almost unknown leads to superstardom, and redefined Korean dramas with its high-budget sets, beautiful cinematography, and young, charming cast, as well as its boldly imaginative premise. Utterly compelling and addicting, Goong is a refreshing blend of the inner workings of royal life, youthful romance, and endearing comedy.

In an imaginary world, modern-day Korea is run by a constitutional monarchy which is facing crumbling popularity and power after the recent death of the reigning King. In a move to shore up their status and restore confidence in their ability to rule, the Royal Family decides to marry off the Crown Prince, Lee Shin (Joo Ji Hoon) prior to his ascension to the throne. To their horror, however, they discover that the dead King's father, Shin's grandfather, had before his death made a pact with a commoner that they would marry their grandchildren to each other, and that Shin is for all intents and purposes betrothed to a girl neither he nor they has ever met. The intended bride?

Headstrong, klutzy, poor-girl Shin Chae Kyung (Yoon Eun Hye), who comes from an average family and is attending high school oblivious to the fact that she's engaged to the country's Crown Prince. Her life is about to change forever, however, as the Royal Family swoops in and carries her off to the palace for princess training. Haughty, arrogant Prince Shin has no intention of making things easy for his commoner fiance, however, especially as he's half in love with childhood friend Min Hyo-Rin, and Chae Kyung soon finds her work cut out for her in adapting to palace life and trying to please the Royal family.

Her optimistic and upbeat spirit however capture the attention of Lee Yul (Kim Jeong Hoon), the other contender for the throne who returns to Korea after 14 years in England, and who, in trying to sway the Crown Princess in order to undermine the Prince, finds himself falling in love with her for real. Among the plots, deceptions, and expectations swirling around them, can the Royal couple see each other for who they are, overcome their differences, and fall in love?

Also known as Palace, Princess Hours, or Imperial Household. Visit our friends at Drama Wiki and Hancinema for additional information about this drama.