The upcoming historical series The Great King Munmu has revealed new images of Kim Kang Woo in the role of Kim Chun Chu, the central character who will drive the plot of this period drama set in the ancient kingdom of Silla.
Directed by Kim Yeong Jo, known for Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth, The Great King Munmu tells the story of how the small kingdom of Silla managed to overcome much stronger powers like Goguryeo, Baekje, and the Tang dynasty of China to finally unify the Three Kingdoms of the peninsula.
The series premiere is confirmed for November 14 at 21:20 (Korean time).
Who is Kim Chun Chu, Kim Kang Woo’s character?
In the fiction, Kim Kang Woo plays Kim Chun Chu, a cunning strategist gifted with extraordinary diplomatic skills and great political acumen. As the grandson of the deposed King Jinji, Kim Chun Chu has faced opposition from the sacred-bone aristocracy for years, which has defined his position within the Silla hierarchy.
According to the drama's synopsis, when Silla falls into a desperate crisis following the capture of Daeya Fortress by Baekje, Kim Chun Chu decides to enter the political arena fully to try to save his kingdom.
His personal philosophy is summarized in a phrase that guides all his decisions: surviving in the present is the victory of the future. Far from just weathering the immediate crisis, Kim Chun Chu seeks to ensure Silla's survival on his own terms, gradually expanding his influence thanks to keen judgment and a bold nature, willing to take risks.
From political strategist to King of Silla
Over time, Kim Chun Chu becomes the first person from the true-bone class to ascend to the throne, becoming King Taejong Muyeol, the twenty-ninth monarch of Silla. His evolution, from a politician fighting to keep his country alive to a leader with a much greater ambition—the unification of the Three Kingdoms—will be one of the central pillars of The Great King Munmu.
The newly released images show the fierce gaze and imposing presence of Kim Chun Chu, a reflection of his unwavering determination to overcome the turbulence of his era. From chaotic battlefields to tense diplomatic encounters where his life hangs by a thread, the character remains serene even in the most dangerous situations.
More than just a politician seeking power, Kim Chun Chu is presented as a shrewd strategist who stands on the front lines of diplomacy with the fate of Silla on his shoulders. His keen judgment, firmness, and remarkable communication skills allow him to navigate a turbulent political landscape and progressively expand his influence, which fuels expectations about the decisive role he will play in Silla's fight for survival.
Frequently asked questions about The Great King Munmu
When does The Great King Munmu premiere?
The Great King Munmu is scheduled to premiere on November 14 at 21:20, Korean time.
Who does Kim Kang Woo play in The Great King Munmu?
Kim Kang Woo plays Kim Chun Chu, a political strategist who eventually becomes King Taejong Muyeol, the twenty-ninth ruler of Silla.
What is The Great King Munmu about?
The series tells the story of how the kingdom of Silla managed to overcome Goguryeo, Baekje, and the Tang dynasty of China to unify the Three Kingdoms, with the political rise of Kim Chun Chu as a central part of the story.
Who directs The Great King Munmu?
The drama is directed by Kim Yeong Jo, known for his work on Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth.
