Third Place Ratings But High Praise For "Golden Cross"

"Golden Cross," the revenge melodrama that replaced "Inspiring Generation," is off to a slow but hopeful start. The drama rated 5.7 percent in its first week, which is 6.6 percent lower than the final episode of "Inspiring Generation."

The new drama did have to compete with two other dramas that were well underway, "Three Days," which rated 11.3 percent of the viewers and "Cunning Single Lady," which earned 8.2 percent.

"Golden Cross" is a drama about what people will do to realize their life's desires and how they ultimately pay for the choices they make. One of the choices that the drama's producers made was not to cast an idol in a leading role. These days having an idol in a leading role is a sure way to generate ratings from loyal fans. And even casting an idol in a supporting role can help boost drama appeal.

However, the producers of "Golden Cross" opted not to. Not only did they think it was not necessary, but they decided that including an idol might have a negative effect. At a recent press conference for the KBS drama, director Hong Suk Goo said he does not have any negative feelings toward idol actors. He just thought that viewers would be better able to immerse themselves in the story without the presence of a recognizable idol. He chose instead to cast actors that he really respects, offering lead roles to Lee Si Young, Kim Kang Woo, Han Eun Jung and Uhm Ki Joon.

"The quality of the drama depends on the ability of the actors," said Hong. "And from what I've seen they are doing a great job."

While it may take a while to boost its ratings, the drama has already earned praise for its acting and writing. The script was written by Yoo Hyun Mi, who wrote "bridal Mask."

"Golden Cross" refers to a secret organization that dominates the Korean economy. Prosecutor Kang Do Yoon, played by Kim Kang Woo, becomes involved with the organization when his sister is murdered and he gets framed for the crime. He vows revenge on Seo Dong Ha, the man behind the organization. To complicate things, Seo Dong Ha is the father of Seo Yi Ri, the woman Kang Do Yoon loves.

Seo Yi Ri, played by Lee Si Young, respects her dad until she learns about his dark side. Then her life falls apart.

Seo Dong Ha, also has a protege, Michael Jang, who is an ambitious and unethical man. The role was originally offered to actor Park Shi Hoo.

To take his revenge, Prosecutor Kang Do Yoon will have to take on the nation's powerful one percent.