The game prominently featured in the Korean drama Captivating the King is Baduk, widely known internationally as Go. This ancient board game serves as a significant element within the series, influencing character development and plot progression.
The Central Game: Baduk (Go)
Baduk is an abstract strategy board game for two players, originating in ancient China over 2,500 years ago. It is known for its deep strategic complexity despite its simple rules. The objective of the game is to surround more territory on the board than your opponent.
Significance in "Captivating the King"
In Captivating the King, Baduk is not just a pastime but a crucial aspect of the characters' identities and their interactions. It acts as a metaphor for power struggles, political maneuvering, and personal connections.
- Yi In (The Grand Prince/King): He is depicted as a highly skilled Baduk player. His mastery of the game was honed during his time in captivity in China, where he undoubtedly refined his strategic thinking and foresight, qualities essential for a ruler.
- Kang Mong Woo / Kang Hee Soo: Disguised as a man, Kang Mong Woo (later Kang Hee Soo) is also an exceptionally talented Baduk player. She possesses an unbroken record of wins, showcasing her sharp intellect and strategic prowess, which rivals even the Grand Prince.
The game often serves as a unique meeting ground and a silent battle of wits between these central figures, reflecting their complex relationship and underlying power dynamics.
Understanding Baduk (Go)
Baduk, Go, and Weiqi are all names for the same game, used in different regions. Each name reflects its cultural adoption:
| Game Name | Primary Culture/Region |
|---|---|
| Baduk | Korea |
| Go | Japan (most common international name) |
| Weiqi | China |
The game is played on a grid of lines, typically 19x19, where players take turns placing black or white stones on the intersections. The strategic depth of Go lies in its vast number of possible moves and the intricate patterns that emerge from simple placement rules, making it a game that rewards patience, foresight, and adaptability.
