In "Rookie historian," we meet Goo Hae Ryung (Shin Sae Kyeong), a young noblewoman who stood by her principles. This is my first drama series with Shin Sae Kyeong. I have to say I was pleased with her acting. Maybe because out of 64 dramas, historical dramas are only 17% of my viewing genre. (so far) Turns out, most of her appearances are in that genre.

It's not that I don't like historicals, I've seen several entertaining ones. I watch stuff based on my mood. Well, it was that time again and I chose "Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung" from 2019 while I'm playing catch up.

In terms of Goo Hae Ryung's character, I liked that she is intelligent, ambitious, and fundamentally and respectfully unwavering on her beliefs. Even when her life was at risk. She gained my respect when she stood her ground while speaking to Crown Prince Yi Jin. Ultimately, she becomes a historian as a result of her principles and a little luck. Despite facing numerous challenges, she remains determined and resilient throughout the series.

Goo Hae Ryung faces various challenges while navigating her new identity. After pleading and gaining freedom from an arranged marriage, she becomes entangled in political conflicts and a web of love, friendship, and loyalty. The series also explores themes of gender equality and education pursuit during a time when women's educational opportunities were limited. She wasn't totally alone on her journey. Officer Min Won was a fellow male historian. He gradually develops respect for her and becomes a supportive ally despite his initial mistrust. A total of 3 other female historians have been selected as well. Together, they initially faced trials. Finally, there was...

Prince Dowon. For at least 20 years, the handsome prince lived in seclusion on palace grounds. As events unfold, we learn this wasn't exactly a choice. The guy is mild mannered, charismatic, and respectful despite being sheltered. In reality, he's mentored/raised by Enuch Sam Bo, who's a comic relief when the drama gets tense. Entering Goo Ryung's life seemed the right thing for them both.

The slow burns between the main leads are what I love most. Characters are grounded in the story's context. Your heart goes out to them. You know if they just get together based on the story, the characters you care about will be happier AND the story will evolve. Having the courage to do what's right and stand up for yourself, the courage to love and document things as an historian to help not just yourself but your country. It's a slow burn of love, nothing forced. I don't think the first kiss happened until episode 10. ** (It says 40 episodes but on Netflix its 20. In Korea I believe it was 40 -1/2 hour episodes. )**

In "Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung," we learn about the challenges faced by women during the Joseon Dynasty, as well as the power of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of knowledge. How foreigners were viewed, how the government viewed them, and Catholicism. My interest in the series grew even more in that time period as I watched it with its compelling plot, well-developed supporting cast, and thought-provoking themes.

**As always, watching any historical show for entertainment, not as an educational documentary is my rule. Honestly, if I want to know more accurate facts, I'll just research.

I wasn't a fan of the "King" and the second state councillor. I also had a small issue with the way the series wrapped up quickly by time jumping without a clear explanation of events. Not a deal-breaker. I enjoyed the series overall and will watch Shin Sae Kyeong's work in the future.