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Jang Hyuk is set to return to the historical genre with a particularly formidable character in « King Munmu the Great ». The upcoming historical drama will tell the story of how the small kingdom of Silla managed to overcome powers such as Goguryeo, Baekje, and the Tang Dynasty to move toward the unification of the Three Kingdoms.
The actor will play Yeon Gaesomun, a powerful military leader of Goguryeo whose ambitions will come into direct conflict with those of Silla. New images released today offer a first glimpse of Jang Hyuk on the battlefield, his face sometimes covered in blood but never losing his composure.
From War Hero to Strongman of Goguryeo
Born into a family that had held military power for three generations, Yeon Gaesomun first made a name for himself through his exceptional combat skills. His exploits made him a war hero, but his rise to power was gradually accompanied by a particularly brutal political reign.
When nobles began to worry about his influence and sought to eliminate him, Yeon Gaesomun decided to strike back. He eliminated those who threatened him and eventually seized power in Goguryeo.
His ambition, however, did not stop at the kingdom's borders. As he went on to extend his influence toward Silla, he found himself directly involved in the conflict that would reshape the balance of power among the various kingdoms.
The new images specifically emphasize this war-like aspect. In particular, Jang Hyuk appears on the battlefield with a gaze intense enough to convey the threat posed by his character.
Jang Hyuk, his face covered in blood, in new photos
Another photo shows him with blood splattered across his face. Despite the violence that seems to have just unfolded around him, his expression remains completely impassive.
These images thus portray Yeon Gaesomun as a man willing to use any means necessary to achieve victory, both on the battlefield and in his quest for power.
The role should allow Jang Hyuk to return to a genre in which he has already excelled on several occasions, particularly thanks to his skills in action scenes and his experience with historical dramas.
The production team also highlights his presence on set: «Jang Hyuk fills the set with his commanding presence, demonstrating the qualities of a true “master of historical dramas.”»
His character is expected to play a central role in the story, from his rise to the top of Goguryeo to his confrontation with Silla. In particular, the production promises to show how Yeon Gaesomun will disrupt Silla’s quest for unification.
Directed by Kim Yeong-jo, who previously worked on «Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth,», «The Great King Munmu» is expected to be released in November on KBS2 (no OTT service has been announced yet).
