In which Korean drama series make her whimper

(In a good way, as far as I'm concerned: I like it when fiction makes me feel like I've been punched in the gut.)

Spoilers follow for Dae Jang Geum, Damo, and Iljimae

The main thing these three series have in common -- aside from the reason I selected them, which is that they're all set sometime in the Chosun dynasty -- is that they all involve plot arising from Corrupt Government Officials messing with the hero(ine)(s)' parents; and people going into hiding; and the resultant identity tangles. Also, apparently, a firm belief in the "What's the worst thing that could happen to my protagonist right now?" method of plotting.

( Spoilers for Dae Jang Geum )

Damo and Iljimae begin with a flash-forward, then go back to the noble parent being killed by Corrupt Government Officials, then slowly work their way forward through the tangle of long-lost siblings. So much potential for comedy, so much potential for tragedy.

( Spoilers for Damo )

( Spoilers for Iljimae )

In which she is inspired

The only thing saving me from being forced to write a story using this conceit is the cartoonist's revelation below today's cartoon that someone else has already done it.

...It's still kind of tempting.