Korean people take great pride in their alphabet, Hangeul, which is recognized for its excellent scientific system that enables learners to master it easily. But few people can imagine how challenging and even revolutionary it was to create the nation’s own alphabet in the 15th century, when the use of Chinese characters was considered a privilege among the upper class in Korea. In fact, there is still much speculation about the truth behind the invention of Hangeul. While King Sejong the Great is known as the monarch credited with creating the writing system, there are diverse views on how many of the king’s subjects were implacably opposed to the plan. Against this backdrop, the recent TV series entitled “The Deep-Rooted Tree” tells a gripping story of imaginary events that resulted in the introduction of Hangeul by King Sejong. While faced with vehement opposition from the conservatives, there still was hard work and dedication by the people involved in the work.

The story revolves around a series of murders targeting scholars who were working on creating a new written language. Kang Chae-yoon, a young royal guard, is ordered to investigate the murder cases. The slave-turned-detective uses his position for a darker purpose, however. Kang has a grudge against the king because of his father’s death. He wants to avenge his father’s death and kill him, although the king was the one who saved Kang’s life when he was young. As Kang gets closer to the truth of the murders, he finds himself entangled in an intricate web of conspiracy involving secret powers opposing the king and his alphabet project. Kang’s childhood sweetheart, So-yi, is saved by the king’s wife and becomes a court lady. The girl is a genius and helps out with the king’s Hangeul project, even risking her own life. King Sejong eventually succeeds in promulgating the new letters despite dire threats from opponents, only at the sacrifice of those who were loyal to the king.

The 24-episode TV series enjoyed huge popularity with its intriguing plot, dazzling action scenes, a renewed interest in the process of inventing the national alphabet and its profound philosophy of politics. The drama begins with the depressing death of Kang’s father, who is killed on a false charge simply because he is illiterate. In the end, a new alphabet is created at the cost of many people’s lives. In a stark contrast to the convenient use of Hangeul Korean people enjoy today, the tragic incidents described in the drama remind the audiences to appreciate a language that is taken for granted in everyday life. The historical drama shows that a progress in history requires great sacrifices.

Producer Jang Tae-yu says he hoped to convey the scientific principle and excellence of Hangeul through this drama. He also says King Sejong was so brave and innovative that he ventured to create Korea’s own alphabet in the early years of Joseon, which was under the strong influence of the Ming Dynasty of China.

“The Deep-Rooted Tree” takes its title from an old poem from Yongbieocheonga, the first work written in Hangeul. The poem reads, “A deep-rooted tree is not easily swayed in strong winds.”