Iljimae 2008
“Peasant by day, Hero by night, Iljimae.”
- Status
- Ended
- First Aired
- May 21, 2008
- Last Aired
- July 24, 2008
- Format
- 1 season · 20 eps
- Total Runtime
- ~21.7 hours (65 min/ep)
- Network
- SBS
- Where to Stream
- Rakuten Viki, OnDemandKorea, Kocowa Amazon Channel
What is Iljimae?
Iljimae is a television series set during the Joseon Dynasty. The story revolves around Ryung, a character who leads a double life.
- Type
- TV series
- Year
- 2008
- Status
- Ended
- Episodes
- 20
- Runtime
- 65 minutes
- First aired
- May 21, 2008
- Last aired
- Jul 24, 2008
- Original language
- KO
- Origin
- KR
- Networks
- SBS
- Genres
- Action & Adventure, Drama
- Updated
At a glance
- Rating
- ★ TMDB users: 6.9/10 from 27 votes
- Format
- 1 season · 20 episodes
- Episode runtime
- ~65 minutes
- Status
- Ended
- Network
- SBS
Where to watch in United States
Stream
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video with Ads
FODFree
Amazon Prime VideoStream
Rakuten Viki
OnDemandKorea
Kocowa Amazon ChannelWith ads
Rakuten VikiStreaming availability data provided by JustWatch via TMDB. Availability changes by country and date; verify on the provider before subscribing or purchasing.
How long to binge?
Estimate the schedule using 20 episodes and an average 65-minute runtime.
Trailer
Overview
Iljimae is a television series set during the Joseon Dynasty. The story revolves around Ryung, a character who leads a double life. By day, he appears to be a gangster in the marketplace, while at night, he engages in a series of robberies targeting corrupt government officials. After each robbery, he leaves behind a wooden branch from a plum tree as a symbol of responsibility. The poor citizens refer to him as Iljimae. The series also features Bong Soon, a character with good martial art skills and a swindling background, who harbors strong feelings for Ryung. Additionally, Eun Chae is introduced as the daughter of a government official, known for her kind nature and willingness to help others. The series explores the lives and actions of these characters within the context of the Joseon Dynasty.
Should you watch it?
“A streetwise thief robs corrupt officials by night, leaving plum branches as his signature.”
- Dynamic action sequences with moral stakes
- Dual identity adds intrigue
- Humorous side characters with martial arts
- The blend of comedy and serious drama can feel uneven
Watch it if you enjoy heroic rogues who fight injustice in a historic Korean setting.
The series contains action violence and mature themes, making it best for older viewers.
Ask the Vault
Ask anything about Iljimae — answers are spoiler-safe.
Your verdict
Is Iljimae worth watching?
Cast
Episode guide
Spoiler-Safe Browsing Progress
Season 1 · 20 episodes
Open the complete Season 1 guide & lore primer →- E1 Episode 1 Mytharc May 21, 2008
- E2 Episode 2 Core May 22, 2008
- E3 Episode 3 Core May 28, 2008
- E4 Episode 4 Core May 29, 2008
- E5 Episode 5 Core Jun 4, 2008
- E6 Episode 6 Core Jun 5, 2008
- E7 Episode 7 Core Jun 11, 2008
- E8 Episode 8 Core Jun 12, 2008
- E9 Episode 9 Core Jun 18, 2008
- E10 Episode 10 Core Jun 19, 2008
- E11 Episode 11 Core Jun 25, 2008
- E12 Episode 12 Core Jun 26, 2008
- E13 Episode 13 Core Jul 2, 2008
- E14 Episode 14 Core Jul 3, 2008
- E15 Episode 15 Core Jul 9, 2008
- E16 Episode 16 Core Jul 10, 2008
- E17 Episode 17 Mytharc Jul 16, 2008
- E18 Episode 18 Core Jul 17, 2008
- E19 Episode 19 Mytharc Jul 23, 2008
- E20 Episode 20 Mytharc Jul 24, 2008
Frequently asked questions
What time period does Iljimae take place in?
It is set during Korea's Joseon Dynasty.
Who is the main character and what are his two roles?
The protagonist is Ryung, who pretends to be a useless gangster by day and becomes the chivalrous robber Iljimae by night.
How does Iljimae identify his robberies?
He leaves a wooden branch from a plum tree at each robbery site as his signature.
Who are the prominent female characters?
Bong Soon, a comedic swindler skilled in martial arts who loves Ryung, and Eun Chae, a kind‑hearted daughter of a government official.
What genres does the series combine?
It blends action, adventure, drama, and historical elements.
■ Ended / Final Season Complete Renewal tracker
Explore Iljimae
Where to watch Episode ratings heatmap How long to watch Facts & FAQ Similar shows Take the quiz More from SBS
What viewers say
No comments yet. Be the first to share your take on Iljimae.