Narrating bittersweet stories, River Where The Moon Rises shows what it means to wield swords to protect loved ones while defying fate.
River Where The Moon Rises gives life to the Korean folk tale of how On Dal and Princess Pyeonggang conquers their fateful past and path. Despite controversies, the series pushes through taking us into a tear-jerking yet thrilling “war.”
- Main Cast: Kim So Hyun | Na In Woo |
- Supporting Cast: Lee Ji Hoon | Choi Yoo Hwa | Kim Bup Rae | Lee Hae Young | Hwang Young Hee | Wang Bit Na |
- Streaming Site: Viu
- Thrill/Addictive Meter:
- Overall Rating:
- Rewatch Value:
- K-Dramas of Similar Vibe: Mr. Sunshine | My Only Love Song | The Tale Of Nokdu | Jumong |
sun_drae watches River Where The Moon Rises on Viu
River Where The Moon Rises Quick Plot Recap
Fated to meet, On Dal (Na In Woo) and Princess Pyeonggang (Kim So Hyun) fought together to continue the path their parents left. Born as the princess of Goguryeo, Pyeonggang forgot her identity after Go Won Pyo (Lee Hae Young) executed Queen Yeon to fulfill his plans to take over Goguryeo.
Pyeonggang was then raised to be an assassin and was named Yeom Ga Jin. As she planned to take on a new path, she met On Dal, who helped her regain her memories and start a new life.
On the other hand, On Dal is the son of one of the greatest swordsmen in Goguryeo, On Hyup, who also died in the hands of Go Won Pyo. He also became the “sword” for Princess Pyeonggang since the first time they met at their tribe.
The two helped each other to follow their path and avenge their parents. As the two fought to protect Goguryeo, they became each other “swords” to defend their people and their love.
River Where The Moon Rises Series Peak Points + Musings
Heartfelt Soundtracks And Music Treatment
Korean dramas are known for having emotional soundtracks that will make the audience feel in love and captivated. Though River Where The Moon Rises is a warfare and political drama, the series did not disappoint me with its choices of soundtracks.
The drama’s choices of music are diverse and fit perfectly with the mood they want to show. Considering that the drama is from a folk tale story, it lets the audiences feel they are in the story.
On the other hand, the music treatment in the action scenes portrays a different mood as if it was from a story in a role-playing action game. Also, making it more realistic, the production designs of River Where The Moon Rises are well thought out and speak more about the story and characters.
A Powerful Message About Love And Trust
After watching the series – for the second time – I’m more convinced with why the story of On Dal and Princess Pyeonggang is one of Korea’s beloved folk tales. Though the series delivers heavier emotions than most drama because of its genre, it diverts from common ideas about the love shown in films and series.
What I also appreciate from the series is that it didn’t mainly focus on romantic love. I got jaded with cliches and feel-good romance in usual narratives but On Dal and Pyeonggang’s battle for their love is another refreshing taste to my palate.
With many views about love and trust on River Where The Moon Rises, I specifically want to highlight the unique love between Pyeonggang, King Pyeongwon (Kim Bup Rae), and King Yeongyang (Kwon Hwa Woon).
Pyeonggang and her father’s relationship breaks norms about a children-parent relationship in terms of respect and trust. Unlike other parents, King Pyeongwon proved that parents should also listen and respect their children’s opinions.
One should be open about criticism to correct their actions and views about life. King Pyeongwon, on the other hand, became a braver King and brother that their father was scared to do.
He has his own way of showing respect and love towards his older sister. King Pyeongwon trusts and believes the fate that links between Pyeonggang and On Dal.
With that, sacrifices and loyalty are needed when bravely following our path and destiny.
Giving Life To Folk Tale Characters Portrayed By Top-Notch Actors
The performances of each character are still portrayed perfectly even though I watched the series after the drama alterations. I still feel the raw emotions I first felt when I watched the scenes.
Furthermore, albeit the characters are fictional, the actors gave life and personality to them. Despite having many characters in the series, they were clearly introduced and have their own personality that makes them unique.
I will surely remember and take into heart the performances and unparalleled lineup of characters River Where The Moon Rises. Albeit all of them have to experience ill-fated stories, their tale and bravery settles deeply rooted in any viewer’s heart.
For those who are also jaded with a common romantic narrative, this series will unfold deep and emotional shifts that courageously follow our path.
Don’t miss out on the bittersweet tale of On Dal and Princess Pyeonggang on River Where The Moon Rises only on Viu!
Photos: KBS Drama
