Abstract

Characters, historical settings, major incidents, culture - this book unpacks all the essentials of Korean historical dramas (sageuk) through quick and engaging 1-minute manga episodes based on real historical events. With plentiful illustrations and visual explanations, even readers who struggle with history will find it easy to understand and enjoyable.
From beloved titles like Jewel in the Palace, The Red Sleeve, The Secret Woman, to Dong Yi, this guidebook covers popular dramas, famous actors, and must-know historical basics. Perfect for beginners and devoted fans alike, this book will transform the way you watch your favorite sageuk. A rich general introduction to Korean history that goes down smooth - and might just spark your next obsession!

[Contents]
Chapter 1　The Characters Who Bring Historical Dramas to Life
Chapter 2　Understanding Through Manga: Major Events Depicted in Historical Dramas
Chapter 3　Understanding Through Manga: Women Who Shaped History
Chapter 4　Understanding Through Manga: Actors Who Starred in Historical Dramas
Chapter 5　An Introduction to Costumes, Headgear, and Hairstyles in Korean Historical Dramas
Chapter 6　The Structure and Culture of the Joseon Dynasty
Chapter 7　Recommended Korean Historical Dramas: 35 Selections

Author’s Information

Kang Hibong
Born in Tokyo in 1954. A second-generation Korean resident in Japan, he is the author of numerous works on Korean history, culture, the Korean Wave, and Japan–Korea relations. His bestselling history series, including "The More You Know, the More Fascinating — The Fates of the Queens of the Joseon Royal Court" (published by Jitsugyo no Nihon Sha), has won wide readership.

hassaku
Manga artist. Formerly a web director and researcher, he became captivated by Korean dramas in 2020. In 2024, he created manga for TV Tokyo’s web media Teleto Plus introducing the plots of Korean historical dramas.