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K-Drama Flashback: ‘Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo’ and Five of Its Iconic Songs

Revisiting the top five tracks from the classic K-drama, reliving iconic scenes and reflecting wistfully on the poignant narrative

Mar 18, 2023

'Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo' Poster. Photo courtesy of SBS

Moon Lovers (2016) is tailor-made for you if you enjoy romantic time-slip K-dramas. The Korean rendition of the Chinese novel Bu Bu Jing Xin details the stirring journey of a young woman who accidentally lands up in the Goryo dynasty when royal siblings are set on vying for supremacy. Despite the relatively bleak tone of the plot, there are numerous poignant, heart-fluttering moments, notably when Lee Joon-gi and Lee Ji-eun’s (aka IU’s) characters display their chemistry.

I specifically loved how expertly director Kim Kyu-tae produced the cliffhangers within every episode, gradually disclosing details up until the epilogue. Not to forget the impressive videography, gorgeous backdrops and costumes, and endearing characters (boasting a stellar ensemble cast) with their witty banter. All these elements come together to generate an exquisite visual experience that brings the epic saga to life. We see that, following a total solar eclipse, Go Ha-jin (IU), a woman from the 21st century, is transported to the Goryeo Dynasty. In the body of a young girl named Hae Soo, she awakens in the year 941, during King Taejo’s reign. Hae Soo initially develops feelings for the kind eighth Prince Wang Wook (Kang Ha-neul), but later falls for the vicious fourth Prince Wang So (Lee Joon-gi). As the plot unfolds, Hae Soo finds herself inadvertently entangled in romance, jealousy, intrigues, and alliances between the princes while contending for the crown.

In my mind, Wang So and Hae Soo will remain unfeigned forever. His fragile past, the ascent from affliction to power, progressive character development, and eventual decision to follow his heart all contribute to making him a fascinating individual, and Lee Joong-gi perfectly nailed Wang So’s essence. Hae Soo sticks out as a strong woman of character and consciousness, and the two together create the best romantic moments on screen.

It is odd that Moon Lovers did not gain much momentum during its run and only attracted an average viewership. It may have been because the series’ overarching plotline is one of tragedy. So, a lot of viewers [I assume] were dissatisfied with it for veering away from predictability and lacking the happy ending that we typically expect in romantic dramas. That’s fine, though. Not every story is supposed to end happily. For all the other reasons that make Moon Lovers such a great viewing experience, I would urge everyone to watch it. Its underlying mysteries and evolving emotional arcs will keep you engaged until the very end.

The series’ insanely beautiful OST, which works in perfect sync with its tone, is notably another major feature of the masterpiece. Let’s go over the top five tracks from the album, reliving iconic scenes and reflecting wistfully on the narrative, the imagery, and some of the drama’s most touching moments.

“For You” by Chen, Baekhyun, Xiumin

I keep coming back to this classic heartwarming ballad by the top vocal superstars Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin (EXO-CBX). It is a delicate and sensitive expression of romantic feelings. Their vocals flawlessly blend while also standing out throughout the tune. Together with providing his voice for it, Baekhyun also plays the 10th Prince Wang Eun in the drama—a cheeky and jovial guy with a vivacious yet childish disposition—who becomes Hae Soo’s first companion in Goryeo.

“Say Yes” by Loco and Punch

Punch’s supple vocals have a genuinely seductive quality. In “Say Yes,” she sings in a smooth, stream-like flow that drifts through profoundly sentimental passages. Loco’s rap rhymes feature his distinctive voice quality, adding a fresh flair to the song that is replete with emotional scenes between the drama’s characters.

“All with You” by Taeyeon

You’ll feel intensely moved by Taeyeon’s “All with You,” which is a lyrical exploration of emotions. The song’s arrangement and piano melody make it an entrancing ballad. The music video is primarily devoted to Hae Soo and Wang Wook, who have a seemingly beautiful relationship that becomes more convoluted as the plot progresses. The bluesy melody and tone are complemented by Taeyeon’s ethereal singing style. It is serene and pleasant, but also melancholy, with moving words and warm melodies.

“Can You Hear My Heart” by Epik High and Lee Hi

In “Can You Hear My Heart,” Hae Soo and Wang So communicate feelings that are ingrained deep within their hearts. The song is a classy duet, attributable to the harmony of the fantastic beat, vocals, and rap movement. Between Lee Hi’s beautiful voice and Epik High’s unparalleled rapping, the song builds a distinctive auditory atmosphere, much like a poem heightening the song’s immersion and contributing to its musicality.

“Forgetting You” by Davichi

There is a song in every drama that really speaks to you. That is how “Forgetting You” occurs to me. And the fact that it comes from Davichi lends it complete justice. “Like the passing wind/Even if you don’t see me/My heart goes toward you/Loving you/Is such a painful thing/Feelings that can’t be emptied/Is such a sad thing…” These are the lyrics that evocatively emphasize the song’s intensity, performed by the incredibly talented pop duo.

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