MyDramalist has been around since 2011, but a classic Sageuk drama has less than 10,000 watchers on the website. Something is wrong. Other K-C-J-dramas reach 30,000 watchers, but those dramas cannot compare to the quality Jewel in the Palace brings. Do not be scared to watch this ageless drama because it is 54 episodes. No review can put into words the central lead actress character perseverance.

When you behold the majestic cinematography, the mountains provided the perfect backdrop showing Korea in all its beauty. The director, Lee Byung Hoon, and screenwriter Kim Young Hyun did an incredible job of fashioning a realistic portrait of cuisines and medicines used for that particular time. The viewer struck by the heavy use of pathos, which some people might find off-putting yet handled pretty well, though.

The story unfolds like a novel-like narrative in a documentary format. It takes you on a journey of a woman's experiences that led her to be a successful woman—loosely based on a woman, Jang Geum, during the Chosun dynasty who became Royal Physician. It is a cultural treat as the acting is first-rate. Lee Young Ae's versatile acting skills won her numerous awards. An actress who is adept at taking on numerous characters in a different light. It was a different role from Lady Vengeance (2005), One Fine Spring (2001), Joint Security Area (2000), etc. I fell in love with the main Korean Traditional Song played throughout the drama emphasizing the period. I have said it before, but I was fascinated by the story, I am a guy, but women should see this beautiful work of art because of the strong female lead actress. What a True Heroine should be?

My Final Rating: 8.99
Rewatch value is low because I have seen this three times and every time I enjoy the beautiful images.