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2010 MISO, or Beautiful Smile, is based on The Tale of Chunhyang, the classical Korean story of the two lovers, Chunhyang and Mongryong.
In Korea, since ancient times, Dano Day, which falls on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, has been observed to pray to the Village Deity for a good harvest, accompanied by a traditional spring festival that features an an exorcism rite and various folk games including swinging and wrestling.
Chunhyang and her servant Hyangdan, and Mongryong and his servant Bangja attend the festivities. Chunhyang feels her heart stir after seeing Mongryong compete in a wrestling match, his looks strong and dignified. Mongryong is taken by Chunhyang when he sees her on the swing, beautiful as a flower. The newly appointed magistrate, Byeon Hakdo, is enchanted by Chunhyang as well and feels love and longing for her. The three character's fateful encounter hints at the drama and conflict that await them.
On the eve of Dano Day, on their way back from water festivities with the other women from the village, Chunhyang and Hyangdan run into Mongryong. The two feel their love blossom.
Their happiness does not last, however and Mongryong sets out to Seoul to take the state exam. Chunhyang hands him her ribbon as a token of love. Chunhyang prays for Mongryong's success and Mongryong is filled with painful longing as he sets out: What await the two lovers are the cruel repercussions of Byeon Hakdo's tyranny.
Magistrate Byeon has his eyes on Chunhyang and does everything in his power to make her serve him as his mistress. Chunhyang, however, vows to maintain her fidelity. When Chunhyang refuses to serve him, the Magistrate imprisons her.
In Seoul, Mongryong is appointed as the Secret Royal Inspector after passing the state exam and heads back, in disguise, to Namwon where a feast is being held in celebration of the Magistrate's birthday. Mongryong witnesses the people suffering from abuse by corrupt officials and as he arrives, sees Chunhyang facing death at the sword of an executioner. Mongryong and his mean announce the arrival of the Secret Royal Inspector and arrest Magistrate Byeon and the other officials.
Chunhyang is brought out of her cell, whereupon Mongryong shows her the ribbon. Chunhyang realizes that the Inspector is her dear Mongryong and the two lovers are finally united. A wedding is held for Chunhyang and Mongryong, wearing happy smiles as they pledge eternal love, finally achieved in the face of obstacles and hardship. |
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