That’s what came in mind after watched the first 6 episodes of Deep Rooted Tree.
We simply can’t imagine other actors play the role of Kang Chae Yun which amazingly played by Jang Hyuk.
Although this time, the quality is not as great as Dae Gil’s role in Chuno, but we think it’s only a matter of the type of character created by the writer. Dae Gil was far more complex character than one dimensional Kang Chae Yun which gave Jang Hyuk more spaces to expand his character.
Interestingly, both characters shared the same larger than life obsession, Dae Gil obsessed to find his lover and Kang Chae Yun only lived for revenge.
So, what make Jang Hyuk shine in saeguk ?
Jang Hyuk somehow has a sharp face with knife-edged eyes which fitted with his characters, men who lead tough saeguk life.
In perspective, it’s so hard to imagine pretty face actors play Dae Gil or Kang Chae Yun’s role.
That’s a nature advantage for Jang Hyuk and combine with his bold acting ability, it becomes a perfection.
Jang Hyuk great performance in Deep Rooted Tree also supported by the smartly written storyline, exotic mystery and superb drama pace which made us a fan although this drama still leaves flaw in directing side.
Han Suk Kyu in his comeback drama provides above average performance, successfully creating King Sejong of his own. We also mesmerized with Song Joong Ki who plays young King Sejong, he demonstrated various depressed faces which made us immersed in his role.
While it’s still early to judge Shin Se Kyung who just appeared in the last 2 episodes, we impressed with writer and PD who picked decent sidekick casts and smartly did not show them excessively with unnecessary scenes just like other saeguk.
So, bottom line, we loved Deep Rooted Tree so far and excited to see how writer will surprise us with the heated mystery.