Jewel in the Palace

Featuring Lee Young Ae, this film narrates the journey of an orphaned kitchen cook who rises to become the first female doctor to the king. Set in an era when women had limited power, the young trainee cook, Jang Geum, is determined to master the art of Korean cuisine and medicine to heal the King’s numerous health issues. The story is inspired by the real-life Jang-geum, the pioneering female royal physician of the Joseon Dynasty. Central themes include her relentless determination and the depiction of traditional Korean culture, highlighting royal court cuisine and ancient medical practices.