The Merchant: Gaekju 2015
The Merchant: Gaekju 2015

TV Show spotlight

The Merchant: Gaekju 2015

2016
TV Show
Ended
1 Season
Korean

Many great men come from humble beginnings. During the end of the tumultuous Chosun Dynasty, Chun Bong Sam is a poor peddler who inherits a run-down inn. Through hard work and perseverance against a corrupt bureaucracy, Bong Sam achieves great success and becomes a powerful merchant. Can he help shape the way that industry and business should be done in the emerging modern era? It is based on the novel “Gaekju” by Kim Joo Young.

Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Director: Kim Jong-sunGenres: Historical, Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

Set in the Joseon Dynasty, this drama follows Cheon Bong-sam, a humble fishmonger's son who rises to become a wealthy merchant and leader of the Gaeju (merchant guild). He navigates treacherous business dealings, political intrigue, and personal rivalries while pursuing his aspirations and seeking justice.

Critical Reception

The drama received generally positive reviews for its compelling narrative, strong performances, and detailed depiction of Joseon-era trade and society. It was praised for its intricate plot and the lead actor's portrayal of a complex character's journey.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its ambitious historical scope and intricate plot.

  • Applauded for the central performance of Jang Hyuk.

  • Noted for its detailed portrayal of the merchant world in the Joseon era.

Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available through common Google review aggregations for this specific title.

Awards & Accolades

Won Best Actor (Jang Hyuk) at the 2015 KBS Drama Awards.

Fun Fact

The drama is based on the 1979 novel 'Haeng Sang Joung Gi' (The Merchant's Chronicle) by Kim Joo-young.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
ParkMin

ParkMin

It started off on a decent note but hit a major roadblock somewhere shortly after, a big nosedive out of nowhere! Disrespectful atrocious writing, to say the least. You may witness one of the worst written plot devices and tension managemen...