Gu Family Book (구가의 서) is a South Korean fantasy historical drama that aired in 2013 on MBC. Starring Lee Seung-gi and Suzy, the series masterfully blends action, romance, and folklore. It tells the tale of a half-human, half-mythical being searching for his true identity while navigating love and destiny.
Plot Summary
The story follows Choi Kang-chi (Lee Seung-gi), a young man who is half-human and half-gumiho (a mythical nine-tailed fox). Raised by a noble family after being abandoned as a baby, he struggles to find his place in the world. However, when he learns about his origins, his life takes a dramatic turn. Determined to become fully human, he embarks on a dangerous journey filled with unexpected challenges.
Along the way, Kang-chi meets Dam Yeo-wool (Suzy), a talented martial artist and the daughter of a respected warrior. Their fates become intertwined as they uncover dark secrets, battle powerful enemies, and develop a deep bond. Meanwhile, the drama also explores the tragic love story of Kang-chi’s parents—Gu Wol-ryung (Choi Jin-hyuk), a gumiho guardian spirit, and Seo Hwa (Lee Yeon-hee), a noblewoman betrayed by fate.
Main Cast & Characters
- Lee Seung-gi as Choi Kang-chi – A brave warrior seeking his humanity.
- Suzy as Dam Yeo-wool – A fearless swordswoman who falls for Kang-chi.
- Choi Jin-hyuk as Gu Wol-ryung – A mystical guardian and Kang-chi’s father.
- Lee Yeon-hee as Seo Hwa – A noblewoman with a tragic past.
- Yoo Yeon-seok as Park Tae-seo – Kang-chi’s childhood friend turned adversary.
- Sung Joon as Gon – Yeo-wool’s fiercely loyal protector.
Why You Should Watch It
✅ A Unique Fantasy-Historical Blend – The drama combines Korean folklore with historical themes, making it a refreshing take on the sageuk (historical drama) genre.
✅ A Heartfelt Love Story – The chemistry between Lee Seung-gi and Suzy adds emotional depth, making their romance both touching and memorable.
✅ Action-Packed Sequences – With intense battles and skillfully choreographed sword fights, the drama keeps viewers engaged.
✅ Emotional Storytelling – More than just a love story, the series explores themes of self-discovery, destiny, and sacrifice.
Ratings & Reception
- The drama achieved high ratings, averaging 15-19% nationwide in South Korea.
- Viewers praised Lee Seung-gi’s compelling performance and the emotional depth of the narrative.
- While the CGI effects depicting gumiho transformations were decent for their time, some critics felt they could have been improved.
Final Thoughts
If you love fantasy, historical dramas, and romance, Gu Family Book is a must-watch. With a well-crafted storyline, strong performances, and an emotional rollercoaster of love, fate, and adventure, this drama remains a fan favorite even years after its release.
📌 Where to Watch: Available on Viki, Netflix (in some regions), and other streaming platforms.
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