Jang Hee-bin (2002 South Korean TV Series)

Jang Hee-bin, also known as Royal Story, is a South Korean historical television series that aired on KBS2 from November 14, 2002, to October 23, 2003. The drama consists of 100 episodes and explores the life of Jang Hui-bin, a historical figure from the Joseon Dynasty who rose from a lady-in-waiting to become a royal concubine and eventually Queen.

Promotional poster for the 2002 drama Jang Hee-bin — Promotional artwork for the 2002 series.

Plot Summary

The series follows the narrative of a young woman who enters the royal court as a lady-in-waiting. Her beauty and intelligence attract the attention of King Sookjong, leading to her elevation as a royal concubine. The drama depicts her subsequent rise to power, the birth of her son, and the political machinations she employs to secure her status as Queen, navigating the complex factional struggles of the royal court.

Cast

The series features an extensive ensemble cast portraying historical figures from the Joseon period.

Kim Hye-soo as Jang Hee-bin
Jeon Kwang-leol as King Sookjong
Park Sun-young as Queen Inhyun
Cho Yeo-jeong as Concubine Kim
Park Ye-jin as Concubine Choi
Yoo In-chon as Prince Dongpyung
Ha You-mi as Queen Sook-jung
Lee Bo-hee as Jang Hee-bin's mother

Kim Hye-soo as Jang Hee-bin — Kim Hye-soo in the title role.

Promotional image for the drama — Promotional image from the series.

Production

The series was directed by Lee Young-kook and Han Chul-kyung, with the screenplay written by Kang Tae-wan. It aired on KBS2 on Wednesday and Thursday nights at 21:55.