In the past, one’s social rank was determined by social status at birth. But today, money often determines the social hierarchy. Some are forced to give up on their dreams because they don’t have the cash to pursue them. Others use their money to take advantage of others, forcing them to serve. Does money really make one happy? This simple and age-old question is tough to answer without hesitation.

Here’s a rich woman who lives in a magnificent mansion. And here’s a poor man who ends up as her butler. The two stand in the relationship of master and servant, solely due to money. Through their quarrels, hatred and love, the answer to our question is explored. Where can people find genuine value and happiness in life? Money? Pride? Love? Or something else?

The 2009 KBS drama “My Fair Lady” asks this question of the audiences by capitalizing on clichéd yet sweet romance between a punk princess and a lowly servant. Three main characters appear in the soap opera. Kang Hye-na is a 24-year-old girl and the only heiress of one of the leading conglomerates. The spoiled modern-day princess lives a luxurious life in her mansion dubbed the “Lady Castle,” but she has no close friends, much less a boyfriend, due to her strong and bratty personality. But she is eventually humbled by a handsome butler named Seo Dong-chan who first became a gigolo to support his sick mother. But his Casanova role didn’t end well, leaving him deep in debt. To make the cash he needs, he moves into Lady Castle as a servant of Hye-na, one of the richest and the most fastidious girls in town. The playboy-turned-house steward initially intends to seduce the heiress and win her money, but he falls victim to love himself. His scheme to win both her money and heart takes a twist when a rich yet modest lawyer steps between them. The civil rights attorney runs a small law firm to help the poor and underprivileged. At first, this gentle guy is rather indifferent to the picky heiress, but he is gradually attracted to her as he learns more about her painful past.

For the most part, the romantic comedy is hilarious, with the endless wrangling between the bossy heiress and her butler contributing to the humor. Actress Yoon Eun-hye drew attention with her bright red hair and splendid fashion, a distinct feature that fits her stylish character as a young wealthy girl. For women audiences of her age, there is a lot to look at, including the fabulous outfits. The 16-episode soap unfolds the story speedily, without any worn-out plot devices like secrets surrounding birth or an incurable disease, maintaining a bright atmosphere throughout the drama. Based on a Japanese comic series, “My Fair Lady” became the first Korean drama to be exported to Mexico in 2010.