Live Up to Your Name (2017)
“Live Up To Your Name” follows a Joseon-era acupuncturist who time-travels to modern Seoul, meeting a surgeon and blending traditional and modern medicine.
MyDramaList Rating
Info
| Original Title | 명불허전 |
|---|---|
| Formats | Streaming |
| Seasons | 1 |
| Episodes | 16 |
| Duration | 70 mins |
| Status | Ended |
| Year | 2017 |
| First Air Date | August 12, 2017 |
| Last Air Date | October 1, 2017 |
| Broadcast Day | saturday, sunday |
| Network | tvN |
Trailer
Synopsis
Heo Im is an oriental doctor, acknowledged as the best in acupuncture and moxibustion in Joseon. His success is blocked due to his low status.
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Editor's Review
“Live Up To Your Name” is a captivating South Korean drama that aired from August 12 to October 1, 2017. This 16-episode series, starring Kim Nam Gil and Kim Ah Joong, masterfully blends historical and medical drama with a touch of fantasy and romance, creating a unique and engaging viewing experience.
Plot Summary
The story revolves around Heo Im (Kim Nam Gil), a renowned acupuncturist from the Joseon era, who unexpectedly finds himself transported to modern-day Seoul. Struggling to adapt to the fast-paced, technologically advanced world, Heo Im encounters Choi Yeon Kyung (Kim Ah Joong), a skilled cardiothoracic surgeon. Their contrasting approaches to medicine—traditional versus modern—set the stage for both conflict and collaboration as they navigate their intertwined destinies.
Character Development
Kim Nam Gil’s portrayal of Heo Im is nothing short of exceptional. He brings depth to the character, capturing Heo Im’s initial bewilderment and eventual growth as he learns to balance his traditional skills with modern medical practices. His journey is both humorous and poignant, making him a relatable and endearing protagonist.
Kim Ah Joong’s Choi Yeon Kyung is equally compelling. As a dedicated surgeon, she initially dismisses Heo Im’s traditional methods but gradually comes to appreciate their value. Her character’s evolution from skepticism to acceptance is portrayed with nuance and grace, adding layers to the narrative.
Themes and Messages
“Live Up To Your Name” explores several profound themes, including the clash between tradition and modernity, the importance of empathy in medicine, and the timeless nature of healing. The drama emphasizes that while technology and advancements are crucial, the human touch and compassion remain irreplaceable in the field of medicine.
Cinematography and Direction
The series is visually stunning, with meticulous attention to detail in both the historical and contemporary settings. The seamless transitions between the Joseon era and modern Seoul are a testament to the show’s excellent production values. The direction by Hong Jong Chan ensures a smooth narrative flow, balancing the drama’s various elements effectively.
Strengths and Weaknesses
One of the drama’s strengths is its ability to blend humor with serious themes. Heo Im’s fish-out-of-water experiences in modern Seoul provide comic relief, while the medical cases and personal struggles of the characters add emotional depth. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, making their interactions engaging and believable.
However, the drama is not without its flaws. Some viewers might find the pacing uneven, particularly in the middle episodes where the story occasionally drags. Additionally, the time-travel aspect, while intriguing, raises questions that are not fully addressed, leaving some plot points unresolved.
Conclusion
“Live Up To Your Name” is a delightful and thought-provoking drama that offers a fresh take on the medical genre. Its blend of historical and contemporary elements, coupled with strong performances from the lead actors, makes it a must-watch for fans of Korean dramas. Despite minor pacing issues, the series succeeds in delivering a heartfelt message about the enduring power of compassion and the timeless nature of healing.
Whether you’re a fan of historical dramas, medical stories, or time-travel tales, “Live Up To Your Name” has something to offer. It’s a journey through time and medicine that will leave you both entertained and moved.