The Story of Hong Gildong

I'd never heard of Hong Gildong but he is a huge, pervasive part of Korean culture as immediately familiar as Davy Crockett or, more closely, Robin Hood. On top of that his name is the de facto placeholder - he is Korea's John Doe.

Cast out of his home, the illegitimate son of a concubine in the household of a high ranking government minister, Hong Gildong only wants to refer to his Father as Father and his Brother as Brother instead of by their government titles. Despite his incredible intellect and mastery of the ancient texts he, by caste rules, can never hold a high ranking government position and serve his country.

So naturally he becomes a bandit robbing from corrupt government officials, founds his own kingdom while avoiding assassination attempts, casting magical spells, confusing minds, riding clouds - you know, the usual.

A hella fun little romp that was a nice change from the grim Korean stuff getting translated lately.