Mr. Sunshine
Promotional poster
Hangul
미스터 션샤인
Revised RomanizationMiseuteo Syeonsyain
Genre
Created by
Developed by
Written byKim Eun-sook
Directed byLee Eung-bok
Starring
ComposerNam Hye-seung
Country of originSouth Korea
Original languages
  • Korean
  • English
  • Japanese
No. of seasons1
No. of episodes24[1] (list of episodes)
Production
Executive producers
  • Kim Young-kyu
  • Yoon Ha-rim
Camera setupSingle camera
Production companies
Budget₩40 billion[2]
Original release
NetworktvN
ReleaseJuly 7 (2018-07-07) –
September 30, 2018 (2018-09-30)[3]

Mr. Sunshine (Korean: 미스터 션샤인) is a 2018 South Korean television series written by Kim Eun-sook and directed by Lee Eung-bok, starring Lee Byung-hun, Kim Tae-ri, Yoo Yeon-seok, Kim Min-jung, and Byun Yo-han.[4][5] The series is set in Hanseong (present-day Seoul) in the early 1900s, and focuses on activists fighting for Korea's independence.[6][7] The series aired every Saturday and Sunday on tvN starting from July 7, 2018, and ended on September 30, 2018. It premiered internationally on Netflix.[8]

Upon its final broadcast, Mr. Sunshine was the third highest-rated drama in Korean cable television history, with the last episode reaching 18.129% and netting an average rating of 12.955%, the highest average rating ever recorded for cable television at the time.[9] While it received critical acclaim for cinematography and storytelling, as well as its strong female characters and portrayal of the lower classes, the series also received a certain amount of criticism for what was perceived as inaccurate representation of historical facts, with some accusing it of being "pro-Japanese", while others argued that it actually enforced stereotypes of the Japanese as villains and the Americans as heroes.[10][11]

Synopsis

Mr. Sunshine centres around Eugene Choi (Lee Byung-hun), who was born into slavery in Joseon. After escaping to the United States at the time of the 1871 Shinmiyangyo, he becomes a Marine Corps officer.

When he returns to Joseon for a mission, Eugene meets and falls in love with an aristocrat's granddaughter, Go Ae-shin (Kim Tae-ri), who is part of the Righteous Army. However, their love is challenged by their different classes and the presence of Kim Hui-seong (Byun Yo-han), a nobleman who has been Ae-shin's betrothed since childhood. Eugene also encounters Gu Dong-mae (Yoo Yeon-seok), a ruthless samurai, and Kudo Hina (Kim Min-jung), owner of the popular "Glory Hotel". At the same time, he discovers a plot by the Empire of Japan to colonize Korea and soon becomes embroiled in the fight for his birth country's sovereignty.

Historical background

Unlike most sageuk dramas dealing with the Japanese occupation of Korea, Mr. Sunshine takes place before the Japanese annexation, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It has a heavy focus on the Righteous Army and depicts the lives of people who fought for Joseon's freedom. Real-life historical events such as Shinmiyangyo, the Spanish-American War,[12] the assassination of Empress Myeongseong, the Russo-Japanese War,[13] Gojong's forced abdication, and the Battle of Namdaemun are portrayed or mentioned.[14]

Historical figures such as Emperor Gojong, Itō Hirobumi, Hayashi Gonsuke, Hasegawa Yoshimichi, Horace Newton Allen and the Five Eulsa Traitors[13] appear as recurring characters, with others, such as Theodore Roosevelt,[11] Ahn Chang-ho,[15] Imperial Noble Consort Sunheon,[16] Park Seung-hwan,[14] and Frederick Arthur MacKenzie, also making cameo appearances.

Main historical events described in Mr. Sunshine

  • Battle of Ganghwa (1871): A major battle that occurred on June 10, 1871 between the United States and Joseon. On June 1, American ships came under fire when they entered the Ganghwa Straits to establish trade and ensure the safety of the shipwrecked sailors of the SS Sherman, which was destroyed by the Korean army. As a result of Joseon's refusal to apologize, on June 10, USS Palos and USS Monocacy fired their weapons against the Choji Garrison on Ganghwa Island.[17] The incident is thoroughly portrayed in Mr. Sunshine, as one of its character, Jang Seung-gu, fought in the battle as a teen and lost his father.
  • Japan–Korea Treaty of 1905: Signed on November 17, 1905, this treaty effectively gave the Empire of Japan diplomatic control over Korea. While Mr. Sunshine does not depict the treaty and its effects in detail, it contains a scene in which Kim Hui-seong takes pictures of the pro-Japanese Korean officials.
  • Battle of Namdaemun: Fought between the Korean and Japanese armies on August 1, 1907, the battle took place at the Namdaemun Gate, in Hanseong. It was caused by a revolt of the Korean army after an order of disbandment was issued through the Japan–Korea Treaty of 1907.[18] In Mr. Sunshine, the battle scenes are extensively illustrated.

Cast

Main

Captain of the United States Marine Corps and former Joseon slave. After witnessing his parents' death at the hands of their owner, Eugene manages to escape to the United States where he becomes an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps in order to overcome racial discrimination, and fights in the Spanish–American War. He later returns to Joseon on a diplomatic mission and falls in love with Go Ae-shin. Eugene has to choose between helping Ae-shin in her fight for independence or maintaining his neutral position as a US military officer.
An orphaned Joseon noblewoman and member of the Righteous Army. Her parents were independence fighters who died in Japan due to their colleague's betrayal. Ae-shin is raised by her paternal grandfather, Go Sa-hong, who helps her train as a sniper under Jang Seung-gu.
The son of a butcher who flees to Japan upon his parents' death and becomes a samurai and member of the Musin Society, which is part of Yakuza. Dong-mae believes that it is the unjust Korean social hierarchy that killed his parents and returns to Joseon with a mission of helping the Japanese overtake the country.
An influential widow who runs a hotel in Joseon. Her father, Yi Wan-ik, forced her to marry an old, rich Japanese man. Upon her husband's mysterious death, she inherited the "Glory Hotel" and successfully operates it on her own. In order to atone for her father's shameful misdeeds and to also find her mother, Hina helps Yi Jung-mun in the fight against the Japanese government and the pro-Japanese officials.
A Joseon nobleman who is considered to be the richest after the emperor in terms of land ownership. Hui-seong is emotionally tormented by his grandfather's past and lives for over a decade in Japan to avoid marrying the woman his family chose for him.

Recurring

Joseon royal court and government

The ruler of Korea who desperately fights for the country's sovereignty.
An anti-Japanese minister loyal to the emperor. He secretly commands the Righteous Army.
A selfish and cruel pro-Japanese official who killed Go Ae-shin's parents. The father of Kudo Hina, he soon becomes Joseon's Minister of Foreign Affairs.
  • Kim Joong-hee as Yi Deok-mun
A pro-Japanese nobleman. Yi Wan-ik's assistant and the abusive husband of Go Ae-sun.
The arrogant and corrupt Minister of Foreign Affairs whose actions indirectly led to the deaths of Eugene Choi's family.
  • Jung Hee-tae as Police Commissioner Jung
  • Shin Mun-sung as Postmaster Yoon
  • Kim Kang-il as Doctor Matsuyama
A Japanese doctor secretly working for Yi Wan-ik.
An infamous pro-Japanese minister and part of the Five Eulsa Traitors.

Righteous Army

A skilled potter who helped a young Choi Yu-jin flee to the United States. The leader of the Righteous Army.
  • Lee Si-hoon as Yoshino Kō[32]
A Japanese man working as an assistant for Hwang Eun-san.
A gunman who trains Go Ae-shin to become a sniper. Due to a misunderstanding he initially despises the emperor, but eventually becomes the head of the palace guards to protect him.
A skilled archer and rower. Jang Seung-gu's wife.
A young nobleman eager to fight for Korea's sovereignty.
A Korean-born geisha who is part of the Righteous Army.
A Righteous Army member and one of the close friends of Ae-shin's parents.
A cousin of Go Ae-shin's mother. Served as a minister at the time of the Shinmiyangyo incident and now lives in Japan supporting the Righteous Army.
  • Lee Dong-yong as Yi Sang-mok
A jige carrier and Righteous Army member who was briefly captured by Gu Dong-mae.
The bell keeper, who is secretly a member of the Righteous Army.
  • Lee Dong-hee as baker
A Righteous Army member and the owner of a French bakery/candy store.
  • Park Sung-hoon as blacksmith
A friend of Jang Seung-gu who is skilled in fixing machinery.

Japanese government and army

The first Resident-General of Korea for the Empire of Japan.
Minister and de facto leader of the Japanese legation.
A Japanese colonel of noble blood. Sadistic and cruel, he has a heavy dislike for Joseon. Eugene was his neighbour in New York.
  • Gong Dae-yu as Sasaki Soyu
An arrogant Japanese major serving under Mori.
The Japanese Governor-General of Korea under Itō Hirobumi.
  • Lee Jung-hyun as Second Sergeant Tsuda[40]
A fanatically loyal Japanese NCO officer who will lash out at anyone near him.
  • Choi Kwang-je as Second Sergeant Yamada
A Japanese NCO officer.
  • Song Jin-woo as Hyung-ki
A Korean man who works as a translator in the Japanese legation.
  • Jeong Tae-ya as Suzuki
A man working at the Japanese legation who develops an enmity with Gu Dong-mae.

Go family's household

Go Ae-shin's paternal grandfather. He was a great scholar and the emperor's teacher. A firm believer in the sovereignty of Joseon, he very reluctantly allows Ae-shin to join the Righteous Army.
Go Ae-shin's loyal maid.
Go Ae-Shin's man-servant.
Go Ae-shin's paternal aunt and maternal figure.
Go Ae-shin's cousin and the first wife of Yi Deok-mun. Unable to bear a son, she is regularly abused by her husband.

American legation

A major in the United States Marine Corps who is both the direct supervisor and friend of Eugene Choi.
An English interpreter working at the American legation in Joseon. He later becomes an English translator for the emperor.
A young boy who works at the American legation, where he teaches hangul to Eugene Choi. Su-mi's younger brother.
The corrupt American minister who considers Eugene Choi more Korean than American.

Kim Hui-seong's family

A cruel and extremely wealthy nobleman responsible for the deaths of Eugene Choi's parents. Hui-seong's grandfather.
Hui-seong's cowardly father.
Hui-seong's mother.
Jun-young's sister and Hui-seong's wife.

People around Gu Dong-mae

  • Yoon Joo-man as Yuzo
Gu Dong-mae's loyal subordinate in the Musin Society.
A mute Japanese fortune-teller living with Gu Dong-mae.
  • Hakuryu as leader of the Musin Society

Glory Hotel employees

Do-mi's older sister who secretly holds a valuable object.
  • Kim Si-eun as Gwi-dan
A maid at the Glory Hotel secretly working for Gu Dong-mae.

Others

  • Yoon Byung-hee as Kim Yong-ju
A former friend of Ae-shin's parents who betrayed them to Yi Wan-ik.
A slave hunter who diverted and became the co-owner of a shop that takes care of any need.
  • Bae Jung-nam as Chun-sik[51]
A slave hunter who diverted and became the co-owner of a shop that takes care of any need.
  • Jason Nelson as Joseph W. Stenson
An American missionary. He helps Eugene escape to America and is a paternal figure to him.
  • Ariane Desgagnés-Leclerc as Stella[52]
An American missionary working as an English teacher in Joseon.
  • Park Bo-mi as Yun Nam-jong
A student at Stella's English school who later becomes Hui-seong's assistant.

Special appearances

Emperor Gojong's father.
A gunner killed during the Shinmiyangyo incident.
Go Ae-sin's father. Killed while plotting to assassinate Yi Wan-ik.
Go Ae-shin's mother who is killed by Yi Wan-ik.
Emperor Gojong's concubine and a close friend of Hina.
A Korean independence activist living in America.

Production

  • Netflix invested ₩30 billion in the series.
  • The series is the third collaboration between writer Kim Eun-sook and director Lee Eung-bok, after Descendants of the Sun (2016) and Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (2016).[57]
  • The drama marks film actress Kim Tae-ri's small-screen debut.[58]
  • The drama was first pitched by Studio Dragon to SBS, but the latter passed on the project due to financial and advertising constraints.[59]
  • Kim Sa-rang was originally cast in the series,[60] but backed out in February 2018 due to scheduling conflicts.[61] She was replaced by Kim Min-jung.
  • Filming began in September 2017 and took place in various parts of Korea including Busan, Daegu, Gokseong County, Gyeongju and Hapcheon County. Several sets solely devoted to the early 1900s setting of Korea were built on a 20,000 m2 site in Nonsan, South Chungcheong Province, and another indoor set was built on a 6,600 m2 site in Daejeon. 1000 extras were hired for a battle scene.[2][6][62]
  • It was originally planned in 2009 to be a sports-themed period drama set in the 1920s and 1930s, also featuring an American lead character. Shin Woo-chul, Kim Eun-sook's collaborator for the "Lovers" trilogy, was attached to be the director at the time.[63]

Episodes

No.TitleOriginal release date
1"Episode 1"July 7, 2018 (2018-07-07)
Joseon stands firm against US incursion. Yu-jin survives in America—as Eugene. Ae-shin knows that great change is afoot with global ramifications.
2"Episode 2"July 8, 2018 (2018-07-08)
The empress has been murdered. For Ae-shin, words are useless against rapacious foreign powers so she'll take up arms instead. Eugene gets a new post.
3"Episode 3"July 14, 2018 (2018-07-14)
In an age of imported coffee and fashions, Ae-shin prefers her German gun, but wonders what the English word "love" means and whether Eugene is a friend.
4"Episode 4"July 15, 2018 (2018-07-15)
Suspicions run deep as US troops lose a gun on a train. Ae-shin shows Dong-mae compassion, Hui-seong returns to Joseon, and Eugene considers revenge.
5"Episode 5"July 21, 2018 (2018-07-21)
Ae-shin meets Hui-seong for coffee at the hotel. Eugene deals with Japanese troops at the US legation, and wants to know why Ae-shin defends Joseon.
6"Episode 6"July 22, 2018 (2018-07-22)
Ae-shin gets a new mission. Eugene, Dong-mae and Hui-seong have something in common. Eugene delves into his past, and finally gives Ae-shin his answer.
7"Episode 7"July 28, 2018 (2018-07-28)
Ae-shin learns love's real meaning and crushes a thug. Emperor Gojong asserts Joseon's authority. Eugene reveals his Korean name to Ae-shin.
8"Episode 8"July 29, 2018 (2018-07-29)
Despite being advised to lay low as a noble lady, Ae-shin undertakes a dangerous operation. Eugene makes a surprising move and Hui-seong probes his past.
9"Episode 9"August 4, 2018 (2018-08-04)
Eugene wants to know why Ae-shin can't pull back, but her path is with the Righteous Army. Hui-seong disagrees with Ae-shin and offers an alternative.
10"Episode 10"August 5, 2018 (2018-08-05)
The emperor seeks Eugene's aid. Ae-shin feels conflicted after hearing Eugene's story, but later sees him on a snowy night.
11"Episode 11"August 11, 2018 (2018-08-11)
Ae-shin apologizes to Eugene, but he hopes that she'll keep fighting for her Joseon. Hui-seong takes a streetcar ride with Ae-shin and proposes a plan.
12"Episode 12"August 12, 2018 (2018-08-12)
Re-affirming her commitment, Ae-shin stands by her decision and settles on an unforeseen pact over castella cake. Eugene investigates an old photograph.
13"Episode 13"August 18, 2018 (2018-08-18)
Ae-shin and Eugene take a ride out to the sea. A nefarious traitor shows great interest in Hui-seong and Eugene. Lord Go meets with Hui-seong.
14"Episode 14"August 19, 2018 (2018-08-19)
Eugene gets devastating news. Dong-mae is apprehended, Ae-shin asks Hina for help and Hui-seong comes to the rescue when Eugene finds himself cornered.
15"Episode 15"August 25, 2018 (2018-08-25)
A disquieting sight vexes Emperor Gojong. Ae-shin defies Lord Go, Eugene refuses to forgive, and Hui-seong visits the Go family's residence.
16"Episode 16"August 26, 2018 (2018-08-26)
Hui-seong starts a newspaper and makes a personal sacrifice. Lord Go marshals support, Ae-shin imagines a different life, and Eugene goes to the palace.
17"Episode 17"September 1, 2018 (2018-09-01)
After giving up that which means the most to him, Hui-seong gets a friend for a gift. Lord Go leads an urgent appeal, and Ae-shin faces Japanese troops.
18"Episode 18"September 2, 2018 (2018-09-02)
Eugene contends with a viperous imperialist. Seeing Lord Go's incarceration, Hui-seong publishes a special edition. Ae-shin snubs a Japanese official.
19"Episode 19"September 8, 2018 (2018-09-08)
Ae-shin loses a part of herself. Her grandfather counters mounting imperialist schemes, Hui-seong avenges Ae-shin and Emperor Gojong strikes down a snake.
20"Episode 20"September 9, 2018 (2018-09-09)
The Righteous Army retaliates against Japanese troops and Ae-shin seeks justice. War breaks out in Joseon and Eugene gets orders to return to the US.
21"Episode 21"September 15, 2018 (2018-09-15)
Called an American imperialist, Eugene later asks Ae-shin why she persists in a futile cause. Hui-seong helps Ae-shin out of a bind. An ally joins Ae-shin.
22"Episode 22"September 16, 2018 (2018-09-16)
Emperor Gojong tries to shield the nation but is thrust into an impasse. Finding herself behind the eight ball, Ae-shin concedes that words have power.
23"Episode 23"September 29, 2018 (2018-09-29)
Seeing the explosion, Hui-seong, Dong-mae and Eugene fear the worst. The world's indifference dismays Emperor Gojong, but Joseon's defiance gets bolder.
24"Episode 24"September 30, 2018 (2018-09-30)
Joseon remains steadfast. The Righteous Army perseveres on its course. Ae-shin keeps her flame ablaze, while Hui-seong, Dong-mae and Eugene try to help.

Original soundtrack

Mr. Sunshine
OST
Soundtrack album by
Various Artists
Released2018 (2018)
GenreSoundtrack
Language
LabelStone Music Entertainment
Hwa&Dam Pictures
Glove Entertainment

The music was composed by Nam Hye-seung, who is known for her work on many Korean dramas.[64] Mr. Sunshine's score was recorded at the newly opened Synchron Stage Vienna in Austria. Nam Hye-seung travelled to Vienna to attend the recording in person.[65]

Original soundtrack (Part 1–15)

Part 1

Released on July 8, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."The Day" (그 날)
  • Park Hyo-shin
  • Jeong Jae-il
Park Hyo-shin4:52
Total length:4:52

Part 2

Released on July 15, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."Sad March" (슬픈 행진)
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • JELLO ANN
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
Elaine5:25
Total length:5:25

Part 3

Released on July 22, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."Days Without Tears" (눈물 아닌 날들)
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Kim Hee-jin
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Kim Hee-jin
Kim Yoon-ah3:46
Total length:3:46

Part 4

Released on July 29, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."Sori" (소리)
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
Lee Su-hyun (Akdong Musician)5:02
Total length:5:02

Part 5

Released on August 5, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."Good Day" (좋은 날)
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
  • Jeong Dong-hwan
MeloMance5:31
Total length:5:31

Part 6

Released on August 6, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."My Home (Eugene's Song)"
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • JELLO ANN
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
Savina & Drones4:20
Total length:4:20

Part 7

Released on August 12, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."Becoming The Wind" (바람이 되어)
  • Athena
  • Athena
  • eNa
Ha Hyun-sang4:43
Total length:4:43

Part 8

Released on August 13, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."Stranger" (이방인)
  • Park Woo-sang
  • Park Woo-sang
Park Won3:53
Total length:3:53

Part 9

Released on August 19, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."Shine Your Star (Prod. by Zico)"
  • Safira.K
  • Zico
  • Zico
  • Poptime
o3ohn3:35
Total length:3:35

Part 10

Released on August 26, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."And I"
  • Tenzo
  • LOOGONE
NU'EST W3:55
Total length:3:55

Part 11

Released on September 2, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."See You Again (Feat. Richard Yongjae O'Neill)"Ha Melli
  • POPKID
  • Safira.K
Baek Ji-young3:48
Total length:3:48

Part 12

Released on September 9, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."Beautiful As Fireworks" (불꽃처럼 아름답게)
  • Nam Hye-seng
  • Park Jin-ho
  • Nam Hye-seng
  • Park Jin-ho
Shin Seung-hun4:30
Total length:4:30

Part 13

Released on September 16, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."Paramour" (정인 (情人))HenHenSejeong (Gugudan)3:54
Total length:3:54

Part 14

Released on September 23, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."If You Were Me"Son Go-eun (Monotree)Son Go-eun (Monotree), NOPARI (Monotree)Ben4:25
Total length:4:25

Part 15

Released on September 30, 2018
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."How Can I Forget You" (어찌 잊으오)Nam Hye-seung, Park Jin-hoNam Hye-seung, Park Jin-hoHwang Chi-yeul4:41
Total length:4:41
OST Special Album
Disc 2:
No.TitleArtistLength
1."Mr SunShine (Opening Title)"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee5:58
2."Wildflower"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee4:30
3."What is love?"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee2:36
4."Sad Waltz"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee3:20
5."With a flame"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee3:25
6."A side-by-side walk"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee3:07
7."The Era of Romance"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee4:53
8."Glory"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee5:07
9."Waiting"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee1:11
10."Greensleeves (MusicBox Drama ver.)"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee2:35
11."No Tears (Piano ver.)"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee2:38
12."One more Step"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee4:19
13."Sad End"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee4:53
14."A Lady and Haman house"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee2:37
15."Black Bird"Nam Hye Sung, Park Sang Hee3:07

Reception

Critics praised the drama[66] for its "deep storytelling" and its ability to raise viewers' awareness of history. The Korea Times applauded the drama for shedding light on those deemed peripheral in society, such as women and the lower classes, and for successfully laying out contradictions and hope in the fast-evolving late Joseon period; it also praised the show's strong female characters.[67] Time's Kat Moon chose the show as one of the 10 "Best Korean Dramas to Watch on Netflix" and argued, "Besides serving up stunning cinematography, the show introduces two of the most dynamic female leads from the K-drama world".[68] Collider's Devon Forward listed it as one of the 28 "Best Korean Dramas on Netflix Right Now".[66]

Criticism

Mr. Sunshine has been criticized by some for what was perceived as inaccurate portrayal of Joseon's culture.[66] In particular, the character Gu Dong-mae, who is portrayed as a member of the Black Dragon Society, a pro-Japanese organization,[69] was criticized, with many feeling that the series tried to justify his actions against Joseon. However, the series has also been criticized for the exact opposite: enforcing stereotypes of the Japanese as villains and the Americans as heroes.[11]

The production house responded to the criticisms by stating that the organizations and characters portrayed in the series are fictional and that they will modify the character description of Gu Dong-mae accordingly. The Black Dragon Society was changed to a fictional organization, the Musin Society.[70]

Viewership

At the time, Mr. Sunshine recorded the third highest ratings for cable television with its final episode reaching 18.129% and netting an average rating of 12.955%, which was the highest average rating ever recorded for cable television until the release of The World of the Married in 2020.[9]

An 8.9% viewership rating was recorded nationwide for the series' first episode. It became the highest premiere rating in the network's history and remained in this position for the next three years, when it was surpassed by Hospital Playlist 2.[71]

The drama aired on a cable channel/pay TV which normally has a relatively smaller audience compared to free-to-air TV/public broadcasters (KBS, SBS, MBC and EBS).

Mr. Sunshine : South Korea viewers per episode (millions)
SeasonEpisode numberAverage
123456789101112131415161718192021222324
12.2342.4262.5852.8982.8253.2572.9613.1472.9223.7463.3143.4423.4614.0403.3083.8321.8223.8333.5804.3053.6474.1444.1444.6313.354
Source: Audience measurement performed nationwide by Nielsen Media Research.[72]
Average TV viewership ratings
Ep. Original broadcast date Average audience share
AGB Nielsen[73]
Nationwide Seoul
1 July 7, 2018 8.852% (1st) 10.636% (1st)
2 July 8, 2018 9.691% (1st) 11.511% (1st)
3 July 14, 2018 10.082% (1st) 12.386% (1st)
4 July 15, 2018 10.567% (1st) 11.865% (1st)
5 July 21, 2018 10.835% (1st) 12.717% (1st)
6 July 22, 2018 11.713% (1st) 13.481% (1st)
7 July 28, 2018 11.114% (1st) 12.563% (1st)
8 July 29, 2018 12.330% (1st) 13.912% (1st)
9 August 4, 2018 11.695% (1st) 12.763% (1st)
10 August 5, 2018 13.534% (1st) 15.400% (1st)
11 August 11, 2018 12.792% (1st) 14.227% (1st)
12 August 12, 2018 13.399% (1st) 15.378% (1st)
13 August 18, 2018 13.327% (1st) 15.576% (1st)
14 August 19, 2018 15.626% (1st) 18.126% (1st)
15 August 25, 2018 12.893% (1st) 14.686% (1st)
16 August 26, 2018 15.023% (1st) 17.370% (1st)
17 September 1, 2018 7.694% (1st) 8.140% (1st)
18 September 2, 2018 14.722% (1st) 16.387% (1st)
19 September 8, 2018 14.114% (1st) 14.775% (1st)
20 September 9, 2018 16.500% (1st) 18.178% (1st)
21 September 15, 2018 14.280% (1st) 16.013% (1st)
22 September 16, 2018 16.588% (1st) 18.749% (1st)
23 September 29, 2018 15.419% (1st) 17.272% (1st)
24 September 30, 2018 18.129% (1st) 21.828% (1st)
Average 12.955% 14.747%
Special September 22, 2018 8.937% 9.404%
  • In the table above, the blue numbers represent the lowest ratings and the red numbers represent the highest ratings.

Awards and nominations

Year Award Category Recipient Result Ref.
2018 11th Korea Drama Awards Grand Prize (Daesang) Lee Byung-hun Nominated [74]
Best New Actress Kim Tae-ri Nominated
Best Original Soundtrack "Days Without Tears" (Kim Yoon-ah) Nominated
6th APAN Star Awards Grand Prize (Daesang) Lee Byung-hun Won [75][76]
K-Star Award, Actor Won
Drama of the Year Mr. Sunshine Won
Excellence Award, Actor in a Miniseries Yoo Yeon-seok Nominated
Best Supporting Actress Kim Min-jung Won
K-Star Award, Actress Nominated
Best New Actress Kim Tae-ri Won
K-Star Award, Actress Won
3rd Asia Artist Awards Grand Prize (Daesang) Lee Byung-hun Won [77]
Artist of the Year Won
Fabulous Award Won
Korean Tourism Appreciation Award Won
Artist of the Year Yoo Yeon-seok Won
Best Actor Award Won
Best New Actress Kim Tae-ri Nominated
2nd The Seoul Awards Best Actor Lee Byung-hun Won [78]
Best Supporting Actor Yoo Yeon-seok Won
Best New Actress Kim Tae-ri Nominated
2019 55th Baeksang Arts Awards Best Drama Mr. Sunshine Nominated [79]
Best Director Lee Eung-bok Nominated
Best Actor Lee Byung-hun Won
Best Actress Kim Tae-ri Nominated
Best Supporting Actor Yoo Yeon-seok Nominated
Best Supporting Actress Kim Min-jung Nominated
Best Screenplay Kim Eun-sook Nominated
Technical Award Kim So-yeon (Art) Nominated
Lee Yong-seob (Special effects) Nominated
1st Asia Contents Awards & Global OTT Awards Best Creative Mr. Sunshine Won [80]

References

  1. ↑ "Mr Sunshine on Netflix: How many episodes in the new series?". Daily Express. 2018-07-06. Mr Sunshine will have 24 episodes in total.
  2. 1 2 "Mr. Sunshine' features high-end cinematography". The Korea Times. July 10, 2018.
  3. ↑ ""Mr. Sunshine" Cast Say Their Farewells As Drama Comes To An End". 30 September 2018. Retrieved September 30, 2018.
  4. ↑ "'Mr. Sunshine' depicts lives of unsung heroes of national independence". Yonhap News Agency. June 26, 2018.
  5. ↑ "Will 'Mr. Sunshine' be next 'Descendants of Sun', 'Guardian?'". Kpop Herald. June 26, 2018.
  6. 1 2 "Big-budget drama has great ambitions : 'Mr. Sunshine' from Kim Eun-sook debuted with massive ratings". Korea JoongAng Daily. July 12, 2018.
  7. ↑ "'Mr. Sunshine' offers ray of hope with mesmerizing fantasy". Kpop Herald. August 23, 2018.
  8. ↑ Frater, Patrick (June 21, 2018). "Netflix Shines for Lee Byung-hun-Starrer 'Mr Sunshine'". Variety. Retrieved June 21, 2018.
  9. 1 2 "[TV풍향계] '미스터 선샤인' 김태리, 홀로 살아남아 의병 활동 계속...시청률 18% 돌파 '유종의 미'". Sports SQ (in Korean). October 1, 2018.
  10. ↑ "[FICTION VS. HISTORY] The fact and fiction in 'Mr. Sunshine' : Historical sweep is captured but some anachronisms and motivations irk viewers". Korea JoongAng Daily. October 15, 2018.
  11. 1 2 3 "Japs are bad, Yanks are good, kinda". The Korea Times. August 2, 2018.
  12. ↑ "'미스터 션샤인' 이병헌, 대역 없이 온몸 내던진 혼신의 투혼". www.chosun.com (in Korean). 19 July 2020. Retrieved 2020-09-26.
  13. 1 2 "#을사오적 #러일전쟁..'미스터 션샤인'이 알려준 의병의 역사". www.chosun.com (in Korean). 19 July 2020. Retrieved 2020-09-26.
  14. 1 2 "'미스터 션샤인' 지난 22회분에 담긴 1907년의 역사 기록". www.chosun.com (in Korean). 19 July 2020. Retrieved 2020-09-26.
  15. 1 2 '미스터 션샤인' 박정민, 오늘 모던남 특별출연..짧지만 강렬 임팩트. Osen (in Korean). September 16, 2018.
  16. ↑ "배우 김주령, tvN드라마 '미스터션샤인' 에서 '엄비' 역할로 출연 - 경상일보". www.ksilbo.co.kr (in Korean). 10 September 2018. Retrieved 2020-09-27.
  17. ↑ "TWE Remembers: The Korean Expedition of 1871 and the Battle of Ganghwa (Shinmiyangyo)". Council on Foreign Relations. Retrieved 2021-06-29.
  18. ↑ "남대문전투". Retrieved June 29, 2021.
  19. ↑ "Lee Byung-hun, Kim Tae-ri to Star in New TV Series". The Chosun Ilbo. July 11, 2017.
  20. ↑ "Lee Byung-hun stars in wartime romance". The Korea Times. June 27, 2018.
  21. ↑ '미스터 션샤인' 이병헌 아역 김강훈, 깜찍한 단발 "여자 아니예요". enews24 (in Korean). July 8, 2018. Archived from the original on August 25, 2018. Retrieved July 8, 2018.
  22. ↑ '미스터 션샤인' 전진서, 이병헌 아역 등장으로 화제...'알고 보니 강동원 닮은꼴?'. Top Star News (in Korean). July 10, 2018.
  23. ↑ "Kim Tae-ri cast in latest Kim Eun-sook drama". Korea JoongAng Daily. July 7, 2017.
  24. ↑ "Heo Jung-eun from "Oh My Geum-bi" to star in "Mr. Sunshine"". Hancinema. YTN News. September 18, 2017.
  25. ↑ "Yoo Yeon-seok cast in next drama penned by 'Guardian' writer". The Korea Herald. July 10, 2017.
  26. ↑ "Kim Min-jung Joins "Mr. Sunshine"". Hancinema. Seoul Economic Daily. February 13, 2018.
  27. ↑ "Byun Yo-han to star in Kim Eun-sook's "Mr. Sunshine"". Hancinema. Ilgan Sports. July 17, 2017.
  28. ↑ [공식입장] 이승준, '미스터선샤인' 합류..이병헌·김태리와 호흡. Osen (in Korean). January 18, 2018.
  29. 1 2 악역의 진수 김의성+우직한 남자 신정근, '미스터 션샤인' 합류. TV Report (in Korean). July 3, 2018. Archived from the original on July 8, 2018. Retrieved July 8, 2018.
  30. ↑ "Choi Jin-ho-I to star in "Mr. Sunshine" by Kim Eun-sook". Hancinema. MBN. October 24, 2017.
  31. ↑ '미스터 션샤인' 김갑수, 추노꾼에 쫓기는 이병헌 미국에 보냈다. Xports News (in Korean). July 7, 2018.
  32. ↑ "Lee Si-hoon Joins "Mr. Sunshine"". Hancinema. TV Daily. June 25, 2018.
  33. ↑ [단독] '택이아빠' 최무성, 김은숙 사단 합류...'미스터 선샤인' 출연. YTN (in Korean). August 9, 2017.
  34. ↑ "Seo Yoo-jung to join Kim Eun-sook's "Mister Sunshine"". Hancinema. Nate. February 19, 2018.
  35. ↑ 장동윤, '미스터 선샤인' 중간 합류..."16회부터 출연"(공식입장). MBN (in Korean). August 24, 2018.
  36. ↑ 신예 오아연, '미스터 션샤인' 출연 확정... 이병헌·김태리와 '호흡'. TenAsia (in Korean). December 1, 2017. Archived from the original on August 12, 2018. Retrieved June 7, 2018.
  37. ↑ 지승현, '미스터 션샤인' 출연확정...'태후' 이어 김은숙과 재회(공식) ["Judge Vs. Judge" Actor Ji Seung Hyun To Reunite With Writer Kim Eun Sook For Upcoming Drama]. Herald Corporation (in Korean). December 7, 2017.
  38. ↑ "1. , 의 정인겸 "나를 키운 건 팔 할이 고독이었다"". m.post.naver.com (in Korean). Retrieved 2020-08-26.
  39. ↑ 입력: 2018.10.01 09:37 (2018-10-01). "[인터뷰]무명 딛고 으로 '활짝 핀' 김남희 "일본어 전혀 못 해 대본 통째로 외웠다"". news.khan.co.kr (in Korean). Retrieved 2020-08-26.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  40. ↑ "[인터뷰①]일본 사람 아닙니다... '미스터션샤인' 이정현의 자기소개". entertain.naver.com (in Korean). Retrieved 2020-08-26.
  41. ↑ '미스터 션샤인'조우진→배정남, 명품 신스틸러 다 있다. TV Report (in Korean). July 2, 2018. Archived from the original on July 8, 2018. Retrieved July 8, 2018.
  42. ↑ "Park Ah-in signs on to tvN "Mr. Sunshine"". Hancinema. Herald Corporation. October 26, 2017.
  43. ↑ [공식입장] 데이비드 맥기니스, 사람엔터行...이제훈·조진웅과 한솥밥. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). March 19, 2018.
  44. 1 2 [단독]조우진·김병철, '도깨비' 이어 '미스터 션샤인' 출연. Ilgan Sports (in Korean). July 25, 2017.
  45. ↑ [단독] 김민재, '미스터 션샤인' 최종회 특별출연. JTBC (in Korean). September 18, 2018.
  46. ↑ '미스터 션샤인' 변요한, '모던 뇌섹남'으로 강렬 첫 등장. JoongAng Ilbo (in Korean). July 8, 2018.
  47. ↑ 김동균 '미스터 션샤인' 캐스팅, 변요한 아버지 역(공식). Newsen (in Korean). June 7, 2018.
  48. ↑ "Kim Hye-eun to star in "Mr. Sunshine"". Hancinema. Hankook Ilbo. October 16, 2017.
  49. ↑ '미션' 변요한과 새 러브라인? 아역배우 출신 정민아 눈길. YTN (in Korean). September 17, 2018.
  50. ↑ "Kim Yong-ji to star in tvN "Mr. Sunshine"". Hancinema. Star News. November 12, 2017.
  51. ↑ "Bae Jung-nam to star in "Mr. Sunshine"". Hancinema. Viva. October 12, 2017.
  52. ↑ "Ariane Desgagnés Leclerc dans une télésérie diffusée sur Netflix". Radio-canada.ca (in French). July 18, 2018.
  53. ↑ [공식입장] 이시아 측 "'미스터 션샤인' 이병헌母 역으로 특별출연". The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). January 16, 2018.
  54. ↑ '도깨비' 윤경호, 김은숙 차기작 '미스터 선샤인' 합류 [공식입장] [Yoon Kyung Ho Joins Upcoming Drama Produced By Director And Writer Of "Goblin"]. Sports Donga (in Korean). November 23, 2017.
  55. ↑ 임세미, 유연석母로 '미스터 션샤인' 특별 출연. Hankyung Ilbo (in Korean). July 5, 2018.
  56. 1 2 "Goo-Won couple to cameo in 'Mister Sunshine'". Kpop Herald. January 12, 2018.
  57. ↑ "'Guardian' writer's new project goes to tvN". The Korea Times. September 1, 2017.
  58. ↑ "Kim Tae-ri to star with Lee Byung-hun in period drama". The Korea Herald. July 6, 2017.
  59. ↑ "Kim Eun-sook's "Mr. Sunshine" changes stations from SBS to tvN". Hancinema. Herald Corporation. August 24, 2017.
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  61. ↑ 김사랑 측 "건강 아닌 스케줄 문제로 '미스터션샤인' 하차" [공식]. TV Report (in Korean). February 12, 2018.
  62. ↑ "Creators Talk About New Blockbuster Period Drama". The Chosun Ilbo. June 27, 2018.
  63. ↑ "MBC winds up for baseball drama Strike Love". Dramabeans. April 26, 2009.
  64. ↑ "Music Director Nam Hye Seung on creating soundtracks for K-dramas – Record of Youth, It's Okay To Not Be Okay, Crash Landing on You, and more". Music Director Nam Hye Seung on creating soundtracks for K-dramas – Record of Youth, It's Okay To Not Be Okay, Crash Landing on You, and more | Bandwagon | Music media championing and spotlighting music in Asia. 2020-11-11. Retrieved 2023-02-08.
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  66. 1 2 3 Forward, Devon (2021-06-12). "The Best Korean Dramas on Netflix Right Now". Collider. Retrieved 2021-08-06. "The series was very well-received, though some criticized Mr. Sunshine for historical inaccuracies, which continues to be a very sensitive area of dramas in the eye of Korean society."
  67. ↑ "'Mr. Sunshine' gives new life to independence fighters". The Korea Times. October 1, 2018.
  68. ↑ Moon, Kat (2020-05-12). "The 10 Best Korean Dramas to Watch on Netflix". Time. Retrieved 2021-08-06.
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  70. ↑ "'Mr. Sunshine' embroiled in history distortion dispute". The Korea Times. July 23, 2018.
  71. ↑ "June 17, 2021 Nationwide Cable Ratings". Nielsen Korea.
  72. ↑ "Nielsen Korea". AGB Nielsen Media Research (in Korean). Retrieved July 7, 2018.
  73. ↑ "AGB Daily Ratings: this links to current day-select the date from drop down menu". AGB Nielsen Media Research (in Korean). Archived from the original on June 1, 2016. Retrieved July 7, 2018.
  74. ↑ 2018코리아드라마어워즈 후보 공개. KDFO.org (in Korean). September 22, 2018. Archived from the original on October 6, 2021. Retrieved September 27, 2018.
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  76. ↑ Park, Pan-seok (October 13, 2018). 이병헌, '미스터 션샤인' 대상 수상..정해인 2관왕(종합)[2018 APAN] [Lee Byung-hun, 'Mr. Sunshine' Grand Prize .. Hae-in Jeong, 2nd Crown (General) [2018 APAN]]. Osen (in Korean) – via Naver.
  77. ↑ "WINNERS of Asia Artist Awards(AAA)". 2018.
  78. ↑ '제2회 더 서울어워즈' 10월27일 개최, 드라마-영화 각 부문별 후보공개. iMBC (in Korean). September 28, 2018.
  79. ↑ "55회 백상예술대상, TV부문 최종 후보 공개". Ilgan Sports (in Korean). April 4, 2019.
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