KJCKorea
Journal Central

This study analyzes the representation of characters in modern adaptations of the classical Korean novel <Chunhyangjeon> and examines how these adaptations reconstruct the original narrative and its thematic consciousness. Focusing on the film <The Servant> and the webtoon <Hyangdandion>, the study compares them with the original text to explore the narrative roles of central and peripheral characters, hierarchical structures, agency, and the reflection of contemporary values. Both adaptations reposition characters who were originally peripheral in <Chunhyangjeon> as central figures, thereby reorganizing the narrative hierarchy and creating new storytelling possibilities. In <The Servant>, Bangja is foregrounded, subverting the original character hierarchy and transforming the traditional moral- and Confucian-centered narrative of Chunhyang and Mongryong into a modern narrative driven by desire. <Hyangdandion> brings Hyangdan and Byeonhakdo to the forefront, presenting autonomous life, solidarity, and coexistence as the central themes of the story. Overall, modern adaptations do more than merely reproduce the classical narrative; they reinterpret its structure and meaning while incorporating contemporary social values. This demonstrates that <Chunhyangjeon> and other classical texts can function as dynamic cultural resources, capable of continuous reinterpretation and meaningful expansion in contemporary society.

Chunhyangjeon, The Servant, Hyangdandyeon, modern adaptation, peripheral characters as central figures, desire, self-directed life