A comparative study of Korean and Thai popular television serials : the structure and characteristic of the narrative

Abstract

This study is to compare the Characteristic of the Narrative in Korean and Thai popular television Serial. This qualitative research is to study differences and similarities between popular Korean and Thai television Serial by analyzing the narratives in the Korean television Serial, ‘Jewel in the Palace’, and the Thai television Serial, ‘Four Reigns’. It comprises of in-depth interviews with 7 people; the scriptwriters, producers, and academics under the frame of Narrative theory. The study found that the two dramas had different characteristics of narrative due to different basis and purposes of creation. ‘Jewel in the Palace’ was created in order to promote Korean culture while ‘Four Reigns’ was created from the literary form for purpose of recalling history. 'Four Reigns' had scenes of adapted script, innovation and different script. The distinctive characteristics of Jewel in the Palace: The creation of the story and the formation of its components: The characteristic of the narrative are all tied up perfectly. The overall plot and its narrative is told in accordance with the theory which adds a universal quality to it. The scenes are elaborate and beautiful, it is quite important to have interesting details in the scenes. Both design of scene and clothes match smoothly in color shades. Moreover, it reflects the current society. While, The distinctive characteristics of ‘Four Reign’: The presentation of Realism. Plot, conflicts, narration, characters, their viewpoints and production design are formed so naturally and realistically which can reflect the society in past time. Moreover, the purpose of production should to be clear purposes and goals. The story should relate with purpose and target group of audiences.