Hospital Ship (TV series)

Hospital Ship poster

Hospital Ship (TV series) is a South Korean television drama series that aired from August 30 to November 2, 2017, on MBC (Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation). The series is a unique blend of the medical and romance genres, set against the backdrop of a hospital ship that provides free medical care to the inhabitants of small islands.

Plot

The story revolves around a young and dedicated surgeon, Song Eun-Jae, played by Ha Ji-won, who ends up working on a hospital ship after a series of personal and professional setbacks. The ship travels to remote islands where medical facilities are scarce, providing the residents with much-needed medical care. Onboard, Eun-Jae meets Kwak Hyun, portrayed by Kang Min-hyuk, a warm-hearted doctor who comes from a wealthy family and volunteers on the ship to escape his controlled life. As they work together, they face various medical cases and challenges that test their skills, resilience, and morals. Through their experiences, they grow personally and professionally, and a romance gradually blossoms between them.

Cast and Characters

• Ha Ji-won as Song Eun-Jae: A skilled surgeon who joins the hospital ship to escape her troubled past.
• Kang Min-hyuk as Kwak Hyun: A kind-hearted doctor who seeks freedom and purpose on the hospital ship.
• Lee Seo-won as Kim Jae-geol: A traditional Korean medicine doctor on the ship, struggling with his own personal issues.
• Kim In-sik and Min A play supporting roles as fellow medical staff on the ship, each with their own stories and challenges.

Production

The series was directed by Park Jae-bum and written by Yoon Sun-joo, known for their ability to weave complex narratives with emotional depth. Filming took place in various locations, including Geoje Island, to capture the essence of the remote areas the hospital ship serves. The production also involved actual medical professionals to ensure the accuracy of the medical scenes and terminology.

Reception

Hospital Ship received positive reviews for its unique setting, compelling storytelling, and strong performances, particularly by Ha Ji-won and Kang Min-hyuk. The series was praised for highlighting the importance of healthcare access in remote areas and for its portrayal of the challenges faced by medical professionals. It enjoyed solid ratings throughout its run, reflecting its popularity among viewers.

Themes and Impact

The series explores themes such as the dedication of medical professionals, the right to healthcare, and the personal growth that comes from serving others. It also delves into personal redemption, love, and the importance of community. Hospital Ship has been credited with bringing attention to the critical issue of healthcare accessibility in rural areas, sparking discussions on the subject.

See Also

• Medical drama
• South Korean television drama
• Ha Ji-won
• Kang Min-hyuk