The Red Sleeve (2021)
The Red Sleeve (2021) — Overview
Title: The Red Sleeve (Korean: 붉은 단심)
Genre: Historical, Romance, Drama
Episodes: 16
Original Network: MBC
Air Dates: November 2021 – December 2021
---
Main Cast
Lee Se-young as Seong Deok-im
Lee Junho (from 2PM) as King Jeongjo (Yi San)
Kang Hoon as Seong Ji-sun (Deok-im’s brother)
Lim Seong-eon as Eom Seok-ung
---
Plot Summary
Set in the Joseon Dynasty, The Red Sleeve tells the story of a court lady named Seong Deok-im, who serves in the royal palace. She is intelligent, strong-willed, and values her independence. Deok-im crosses paths with King Jeongjo, a young monarch who is known for his dedication to reform and his complex political environment.
As their relationship grows, they struggle to balance their feelings with the strict rules of court life. Deok-im faces the difficult choice between love and her freedom, while King Jeongjo grapples with royal duties and his desire for happiness.
---
Why It’s Popular
The Red Sleeve is praised for its beautiful cinematography and authentic portrayal of palace life.
The lead characters’ chemistry and emotional depth have been highly appreciated.
The drama balances romance with historical political intrigue.
It is based on a real historical figure, Royal Consort Ui-bin Seon
g, adding a layer of realism to the story.