Historical drama 'Jang Yeong-sil' exported to 12 countries

A historical television drama on a great scientist in the Joseon Dynasty has been exported to 12 countries, including Japan and China, its producer said Thursday.

"Jang Yeong-sil: The Greatest Scientist of Joseon," which is now being aired by the terrestrial channel KBS-1, has attracted a wide range of viewers at home and abroad.

As the first historic science drama that has been produced in Korea, it depicts the successful life story of the scientist Jang Yeong-sil that contributed to the development of Joseon's science during the 15th century. 

The public broadcaster KBS said the historical drama has generated a diverse fan base as it deals with science, a topic rarely covered by past TV series.

A KBS official said the historical drama drew enthusiastic responses from Japanese buyers as it depicts the success story of an important scientist.

In particular, the drama emphasizes Jang's accomplishments by showing the restrictions and difficulties he experienced due to his low social class. 

Under the leadership of King Sejong, Jang invented many time pieces, as well as several astronomical instruments. He also invented "Cheukwugi," a tool that measures the amount of rainfall.

Moreover, the drama aims to depict Jang as a role model for "Korea's youth of the 21st century" through displaying his scientific accomplishments, according to KBS. 

"The drama aims to stimulate scientific curiosity among audiences and help them easily understand the fundamental principles of science by utilizing various data," according to the official.

Besides Northeast Asian, the drama has also been shown in Thailand, Hong Kong, Australia and New Zealand. (Yonhap)