The story flips back and forth between modern day and the past which was new to me. Perhaps it would have appealed more to me if there was a stronger connection or similarity between the actors who played dual roles in both time periods.

I loved Lee Young Ae in Jewel of the Palace and as Saimdang, she excelled as well. Her expressions filled the whole screen and I was constantly wishing this drama didn’t have the modern day element.

Do not watch this thinking that it is a romanticised version of Saimdang as there are many elements introduced and changed here that does not match what I’ve read about this famous person. This only part which is correct was that Saimdang was a great artist.

I loved the story about the paper production in itself as it was eye opening for me. Saimdang was portrayed as the perfect mother who gave sound advice and allowed her children to choose their own path - mostly inspirational but came close to being too saintly at times.

Too much mystery left unanswered for the 2 main leads in modern day left me hanging.

Some might be satisfied with this different type of happy ending but it wasn’t my cup of tea.