Ep 1. Episode 1
Live Up To Your Name is a South Korean television series that comprises of 16 episodes. This medical drama has been directed by Hong Jong Chan and written by Kim Eun Hee. The show debuted on August 12, 2017, on tvN.
Episode 1 of Live Up To Your Name introduces the two main characters of the show - Heo Im (Kim Nam Gil) and Choi Yeon Kyung (Kim Ah Joong). Heo Im, a traditional doctor from the Joseon dynasty, is transported 400 years forward in time to present-day Seoul. Meanwhile, Choi Yeon Kyung, a skilled surgeon with an arrogant personality, finds herself struggling in her personal and professional life.
The episode opens up with Choi Yeon Kyung performing a liver transplant surgery on her patient. After the operation, she finds out that the hospital management has promoted someone else to the position of the chief surgeon, which frustrates her. She gets into an argument with her colleague telling him that it is unfair. Meanwhile, Heo Im from Joseon Dynasty is busy treating patients in a makeshift clinic.
His reputation precedes him, and many people flock to him for traditional treatments. However, running his clinic is becoming increasingly difficult as the invading Japanese soldiers are on the lookout for him. During one of their raids, Heo Im ends up getting sent through a wormhole and teleported 400 years ahead to Seoul in present times.
In present-day Seoul, Heo Im is confused and startled by the new and unfamiliar surroundings. He quickly realizes that he is no longer in Joseon era and is now in a vastly different time. He is bewildered by new things he encounters, such as escalators, skyscrapers, and cars.
On the other hand, Choi Yeon Kyung is struggling to save her career after she got demoted from her position as a chief surgeon. She happens to stumble upon Heo Im in a busy street in Seoul and is shocked at his appearance. She initially assumes that he is a street performer playing a role, but soon realizes that he is the real deal. She feels apprehensive on seeing his attire but is amused by his inquisitive nature about modern technology.
Choi Yeon Kyung takes him to the hospital where she works, and Heo Im offers to help a patient who requires emergency treatment but is denied. Unrelenting, he manages to find the patient's address and runs though the streets, with Choi Yeon Kyung struggling to keep up with him. Following a car accident on his journey to save the patient, Heo Im is rushed to the hospital, and Choi Yeon Kyung happens to save his life.
While being treated, Heo Im reminisces about his life and family back in the Joseon era. Choi Yeon Kyung is intrigued by his traditional healing practices and soon realizes that he has a unique approach to his treatment methods. Heo Im is fascinated by the technology of modern medicine and has observed miracles happening right in front of him. This revelation intrigues him to the point where he wants to learn more about modern medicine.
The premiere episode of Live Up To Your Name introduces two strong-willed characters with very different backgrounds who have come together in unusual circumstances. The two characters share a fiery relationship, and their personalities clash, but they seem to be intrigued by each other's unique abilities. The show is a fascinating blend of medical drama and time-travel, and fans are sure to be on the edge of their seats while watching the rest of the series.
