Behind the White Tower (2007)

Story

Synopsis

A concise overview of the premise, tone, and dramatic setup.

Based on the acclaimed novel "Shiroi Kyotō" by Yamazaki Toyoko, "Behind the White Tower" delves into the intricate political dynamics of a university hospital. This medical drama offers a satirical perspective on malpractice and the power struggles within the medical field, highlighting the contrasting paths of two doctors.

The story centers on Professor Jang Joon-hyuk, a brilliant but ambitious surgeon whose rise to power is marked by ethical conflicts and personal struggles. As he navigates a web of competition with his friend Professor Choi Do-young and rival Professor Noh Min-guk, the drama explores themes of ambition, responsibility, and the darker sides of human nature within the medical profession. Ultimately, Jang's relentless pursuit of power leads to his tragic downfall, challenging viewers to reflect on the emptiness of power and prestige.

Filming locations

Places connected to scenes, checked against source links before they appear publicly.

01
Chung-Ang University
중앙대학교
84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, South Korea서울 동작구 흑석로 84
The drama was filmed at the university, which serves as a familiar backdrop for many scenes.
After 'General Hospital,' I watched a medical drama for the first time in a while, and it felt like a familiar place, and sure enough, it was filmed at my alma mater.
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02
MBC Broadcasting Station
MBC 방송국
267 Seongam-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
The drama was produced by MBC, which has a history of filming at this location.
Since it's the same MBC broadcasting station, it seems they chose a filming location similar to that of 'General Hospital' from over ten years ago.
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03
Coffee Prince Filming Location
커피프린스 촬영지
153 Baekseokdong-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
The filming location of the popular drama 'Coffee Prince' where the main characters interacted. The author recalls visiting the site with a friend.
Actually, I haven't watched Coffee Prince, but it was a popular drama at the time, so I went to the filming location near Hongdae with a friend I was close with back then to check out the set.
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04
Ajou University Hospital
아주대학교병원
164 World Cup Road, Yeongtong District, Suwon City, Gyeonggi Province경기 수원시 영통구 월드컵로 164
The hospital serves as a significant backdrop for the drama, showcasing its impressive architecture and design. It was also a filming location for another drama, 'General Hospital'.
The background, Ajou University Hospital, was designed by Seoul Architecture in 1994 and is also famous as the filming location for the drama 'General Hospital.'
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Discovery

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Details

Production

Broadcast details, runtime, language, and key production credits.

Country

South Korea

Original language

Korean

Episode runtime

60 min

Spoken languages

Korean

Production companies

KIMJONGHAK PRODUCTION

Directors: Ahn Pan-seok안판석

Source: TMDB

Characters

Cast & characters

Key roles, performers, and character context for quick scanning.

Jang Jun-hyeok
Kim Myung-min김명민
Choi Do-young
Lee Sun-kyun이선균
No Min-guk
Cha In-pyo차인표
Lee Yoon-jin
Song Seon-mi송선미
Kang Hee-jae
Kim Bo-kyung김보경
Lee Ju-wan
Lee Jeong-kil이정길
Woo Yong-gil
Kim Chang-wan김창완
Oh Gyeong-hwan
Byun Hee-bong변희봉
Min Su-jung
Lim Seong-eon임성언
Min Chung-sik
Jung Han-yong정한용
Jang Jun-hyeok's mother
Jung Young-sook정영숙
Yeom Dong-il
Ki Tae-young기태영
Ha Eun-hye
Kim Min-joo김민주
Yu Pil-sang
Lee Hee-do이희도
Yoo Mi-ra
Jang So-yeon장소연
Park Geon-ha
Han Sang-jin한상진

Source: TMDB

Actors

Lead actors

Lead performer biographies and notable credits.

Kim Myung-minas Jang Jun-hyeok

김명민

1972-10-08 · Seoul, South Korea

Kim Myung-min is a prominent South Korean actor, born on October 8, 1972. He debuted in the entertainment industry as part of SBS's talent program in 1996 and gained early recognition with a cameo in the popular sitcom "Soonpoong Clinic" in 1998. Over the years, he has established himself as a leading figure in Korean television and film. He is best known for his compelling performances in critically acclaimed series such as "Immortal Admiral Yi Sun-sin" (2004), "White Tower" (2007), "Beethoven Virus" (2008), and "Six Flying Dragons" (2015–2016). His versatility and depth as an actor have earned him the nickname "The Acting Expert." In addition to his television work, Kim has also starred in notable films, including "Closer to Heaven" (2009) and the popular "Detective K" series. More recently, he has taken on significant roles in "Law School" (2021) and is set to appear in the upcoming drama "Your Honor" (2024).

Lee Sun-kyunas Choi Do-young

이선균

1975-03-02 · 韩国,首尔

Lee Sun-kyun was a prominent South Korean actor, celebrated for his versatile performances across film and television. Born on March 2, 1975, he began his career in musical theatre before transitioning to screen acting in 2000. Initially confined to minor and supporting roles, he gained mainstream recognition through notable dramas such as "Coffee Prince" and "Behind the White Tower" in 2007. His popularity continued to rise with successful series like "Pasta" (2010), "Golden Time" (2012), and "My Mister" (2018). On the film front, Lee gained acclaim for his performances in various genres, notably in the mystery thriller "Helpless" (2012), romantic comedy "All About My Wife" (2012), and the action-packed "A Hard Day" (2014), for which he received a Baeksang Arts Award for Best Actor. His collaboration with renowned director Bong Joon-ho in the Oscar-winning film "Parasite" (2019) marked a significant milestone in his career, earning him a Screen Actors Guild Award alongside his castmates. Lee also frequently worked with auteur Hong Sang-soo, contributing to several arthouse films. Lee's talent and dedication to his craft earned him numerous accolades, including a nomination for an International Emmy Award. Tragically, he passed away on December 27, 2023, at the age of 48. At the time of his death, he was under investigation for alleged drug consumption, casting a shadow on his legacy. Despite the circumstances surrounding his passing, Lee Sun-kyun remains remembered for his significant contributions to the South Korean entertainment industry.

Cha In-pyoas No Min-guk

차인표

1967-10-14 · Seoul, South Korea

Cha In-pyo is a prominent South Korean actor and director, born on October 14, 1967. He has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry with his versatile performances across various genres in both television and film. Throughout his career, Cha In-pyo has garnered acclaim for his work, showcasing his talent in diverse roles that resonate with audiences. His contributions to the arts extend beyond acting, as he has also taken on the role of director, further solidifying his place in the industry. With a career spanning several decades, Cha continues to be a respected figure in South Korean cinema and television.

Song Seon-mias Lee Yoon-jin

송선미

1974-09-13 · Taean, South Chungcheong, South Korea

Song Seon-mi is a South Korean actress known for her contributions to the film and television industry. Born on September 13, 1974, she has established herself as a versatile performer, captivating audiences with her talent and charisma. Throughout her career, Song Seon-mi has taken on a variety of roles that showcase her range and depth as an actress. Her work has earned her recognition in the competitive landscape of South Korean entertainment, making her a prominent figure in the industry. With a passion for acting that continues to resonate, Song Seon-mi remains a significant presence in contemporary Korean cinema and television.

Notable credits on this site

Start-Up
2020

Kim Bo-kyungas Kang Hee-jae

김보경

1976-04-03 · Busan, South Korea

Kim Bo-kyung is a seasoned South Korean actress known for her compelling performances in both film and television. She made her acting debut in 1995 and has since built a diverse portfolio that showcases her talent across various genres. Among her notable works are films such as "Friend," "R. U. Ready?," "Epitaph," and "The Day He Arrives," where she has received acclaim for her engaging portrayals. Throughout her career, Kim has demonstrated a remarkable ability to embody different characters, earning her a respected place in the South Korean entertainment industry. Her contributions to cinema and television continue to resonate with audiences, marking her as a prominent figure in contemporary Korean drama and film.

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