Six dramas that revive colonial-era Gyeongseong

The 1930s city of Gyeongseong, known today as Seoul, has become a compelling backdrop for a series of Korean dramas that delve into the era of Japanese colonial rule (1910-1945). These productions recreate a city caught between tradition and modernity, where Korean and Japanese influences coexisted amid political turmoil and social conflict.

One of the latest entries, tvN’s "100 Days of Deception," premiered in October 2023. Set in 1932, the show follows Lee Ga-kyung, a talented pickpocket whose initial goal to escape Joseon evolves when she is drawn into an independence movement. Through her infiltration of the Japanese colonial administration, the narrative weaves espionage and complex identities, highlighted by the ambiguous loyalties of Kim Tae-woong, a bilingual interpreter. This series showcases the multilingual environment of Gyeongseong, incorporating Korean, Japanese, and English to emphasize espionage themes.

Netflix’s "Gyeongseong Creature" offers a distinct blend of horror and historical drama, set against the waning days of Japanese rule in 1945. The plot centers on Jang Tae-sang, a pawnshop owner, and Yoon Chae-ok, a specialist in locating the missing, as they uncover horrific experiments at a military hospital. The series uses supernatural elements to symbolize the monstrous nature of colonial oppression, with a second season extending the story into contemporary Seoul, reflecting on the lingering scars of the past.

Another notable portrayal is found in tvN’s "Mr. Sunshine," which transports viewers to pre-colonial Hanseong, the Korean Empire’s capital just before annexation. The story focuses on Eugene Choi, a Korean-born American Marine returning to his homeland, and Go Ae-sin, an aristocrat secretly involved in the independence movement. This drama captures the cosmopolitan aspects of the era, illustrating the coexistence of Western influences, traditional Korean culture, and foreign political interests.

KBS’s "Gaksital" features the story of Lee Kang-to, a Korean police officer working under the Japanese colonial government who transforms into a masked vigilante fighting against colonial oppression. Drawing from a comic book source, the series is remembered for its dramatic action sequences and its portrayal of resistance, including vivid depictions of Japanese police brutality. The masked hero’s exploits symbolize the resilience and defiance of Koreans during this period.

In a blend of fantasy and romance, tvN’s "Beyond Evil" (title inferred from context, original title not fully specified) explores the connections between past lives in 1930s Gyeongseong and present-day Seoul. The narrative follows a bestselling author, an obsessive fan, and a ghostwriter as they unravel mysteries linked to their previous incarnations as resistance fighters. This drama highlights the Westernized district of Gyeongseong, emphasizing its fashionable nightlife alongside political undercurrents.

Offering a lighter tone amidst the era’s darkness, KBS’s "Capital Scandal" interweaves comedy, romance, and political intrigue. Set in the same turbulent decade, it follows a charismatic playboy, Seon Woo-wan, whose pursuit of a principled bookstore owner evolves into involvement with the independence movement. The series balances the gravity of colonial resistance with moments of levity and personal drama.

Recreating Gyeongseong for television presents significant challenges. Because few original buildings remain, production teams rely heavily on detailed set design and historical research to authentically depict the city’s architecture and street life. The visual contrasts between Western attire and traditional Korean dress, alongside a mix of European-style buildings and hanok, underscore the cultural tensions of the period.

Importantly, the colonial era remains a relatively unifying historical subject for Korean audiences. Unlike portrayals of more recent Korean history—which can provoke controversy due to conflicting political perspectives—the depiction of Japanese imperialism offers a clear antagonist. This clarity provides fertile ground for stories of resistance and survival, unified by a shared historical experience.

These six dramas collectively offer a nuanced portrayal of Gyeongseong’s complex history. They combine genres ranging from romantic espionage and superhero adventure to supernatural thriller and historical comedy. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous production, they invite contemporary viewers to engage with a pivotal chapter in Korea’s past, reflecting on the resilience of its people amid oppression and change.