wishfultoki

"Nokdu Flower" is about the Donghak Peasant Revolution (1884-1895), which is mentioned in "Song of the Bandits". Chronologically you should watch Nokdu Flower first to understand the Japanese invasion of Korea.

- Also set during a time of foreign invasion of Joseon (by the Manchu/Qing)
- Great action scenes
- Beautifully shot

Both are fantasy historical dramas where the female lead gets to be an official at the palace, and they both fall in love with a high-ranking guy.

Both are serious dramas with a touch of humor. Both have very strong female leads with supportive male characters of a different status (no spoilers). Both dramas explore the difficult situation of widows.

It also features runaway slaves, and has romance between people of different status. Chuno has more action scenes, with some amazing fights.

Similar
- Male lead is a competent and ruggedly handsome general in his 30s-40s
- He is not a noble (if I recall correctly).
- He is falsely accused of being a rebel.
- Female lead is resourceful.
- Female lead forced to accept an arranged marriage.

Differences
- Male lead in The Rebel Princess treats the female lead with more respect, which I really appreciated.
- Obviously, the female lead in the The Rebel Princess is a princess. She's not a lowly illegitimate child like Moxi in Gone with the Rain.
- Higher production values and gorgeous costumes in The Rebel Princess.
- Longer drama, more focus on palace politics.