Director Kim Yeong Jo has shared new details about Sword & Silence, the upcoming epic historical drama on KBS 2TV, and praised the work of its lead cast, including Lee Hyun Wook and Jang Hyuk, ahead of the series premiere.
Directed by Kim Yeong Jo, who was also responsible for Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth, Sword & Silence chronicles how the small kingdom of Silla managed to overcome the more powerful kingdoms of Goguryeo and Baekje, as well as China's Tang Dynasty, to unify the Three Kingdoms.
Ahead of the premiere, the director explained the intentions behind the project and the aspects of the production that stand out the most.
The message behind Sword & Silence
Kim Yeong Jo focused his explanation on how the figures of the Three Kingdoms and the Tang Dynasty influenced each other and transformed the international political landscape of the era.
When justifying why he decided to direct this drama, he noted: I felt that the process by which one person's decisions can determine the survival or collapse of a nation had a significant message for Koreans today.
The director especially highlighted the devotion of Kim Chun Chu's family to their country, as well as King Munmu's decision to launch a preemptive strike against the Tang Dynasty, as key elements of the plot.
How 40 years of history were condensed into 28 episodes
To portray approximately 40 years of history over 28 episodes, Kim Yeong Jo focused on condensing characters and themes. I focused on the process of building a nation and the key figures involved, the director explained.
According to him, the series also explores the differences between Silla, Goguryeo, and Baekje, as well as what it took for people from different backgrounds to come together to form a single community.
The director’s praise for Lee Hyun Wook, Jang Hyuk, and the rest of the cast
The director took special care in choosing the lead actors. Regarding Lee Hyun Wook, who plays Kim Pom Min, the future King Munmu, Kim Yeong Jo commented: With his expressive eyes, he can portray the journey of Kim Pom Min, an unfinished figure who grows into a fully realized king.
Regarding Jang Hyuk, who brings Yeon Gaesomun to life, the director stated: I thought he was perfect for the role because he possesses both intense charisma and an almost childlike innocence.
Kim Yeong Jo also praised Kim Kang Woo, who plays Kim Chun Chu, for beautifully portraying the internal struggles of a character who endures enormous hardships and sacrifices. Likewise, he highlighted Park Sung Woong, who plays Kim Yu Shin, for delivering outstanding performances with tremendous charisma every time he appears on screen.
Battles as a narrative axis
Battle scenes are among the sequences to which the director dedicated the most effort. Kim Yeong Jo explained that he sought to portray both the crises Silla faced at the time and the psychological state of the characters through the clashes that unfold as Kim Pom Min grows.
The director especially emphasized that, through these battles, viewers will be able to see the trials that forged the king who finally managed to unify the Three Kingdoms.
A story that also looks at Goguryeo, Baekje, and Tang
However, the plot will not focus solely on Silla's victory. The perspectives and decisions of key figures from Goguryeo, Baekje, and the Tang Dynasty will also receive considerable attention.
According to Kim Yeong Jo, the audience will also be able to empathize with the characters on the opposing side, which adds nuance to the series' historical narrative.
Heroes, blood, and unification: the three keywords
The director identified heroes, blood, and unification as the three keywords that run throughout the drama. Sword & Silence is a story about the blood shed by heroes as Silla welcomed the people of Goguryeo and Baekje, fought alongside them against the Tang Dynasty, and strove to become a single nation, explained Kim Yeong Jo.
The director added: I hope this drama will be remembered as a work that expands the scope of epic historical dramas.
Sword & Silence premiere date
Sword & Silence is scheduled to premiere on November 14 at 9:20 p.m. Korean time on KBS 2TV.
Frequently asked questions about Sword & Silence
When does Sword & Silence premiere?
Sword & Silence is scheduled to premiere on November 14 at 9:20 p.m. Korean time on KBS 2TV.
Who directs Sword & Silence?
The drama is directed by Kim Yeong Jo, previously known for directing Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth.
Who are the stars of Sword & Silence?
The main cast includes Lee Hyun Wook in the role of Kim Pom Min, the future King Munmu; Jang Hyuk as Yeon Gaesomun; Kim Kang Woo as Kim Chun Chu; and Park Sung Woong as Kim Yu Shin.
What is Sword & Silence about?
The series chronicles how the kingdom of Silla managed to unify the Three Kingdoms of Korea by overcoming Goguryeo, Baekje, and the Chinese Tang Dynasty, covering approximately 40 years of history over 28 episodes.
How many episodes will Sword & Silence have?
According to director Kim Yeong Jo, Sword & Silence will consist of 28 episodes.
