Similar story with war as the background and comfort women servicing the Japanese soldiers. This one was considered brutally honest portraying the callousness of the Japanese and the hardship of the brothel women.
Similar in concept of a war and women are used to "comfort" the sexual desires of the soldiers. The difference is Flowers of War is more action packed and stars a white male in the lead. This is an award winning film in Asia and was nominated in the Best Foreign Film category at the 2012 Golden Globe Awards.
Both dramas center around brilliant strategists who use their tactical skills to navigate the political game. The poster image of Si Ma Yi walking the tightrope above the upturned swords is a testament for both dramas. Both have excellent cast members including actress Liu Tao (Ode to Joy's Andy) who actually has main parts in both dramas!
Both show the gritty side of The Republic of South Korea as it developed. Though, The King takes place 20 years later when transitioning from a dictatorship to a democracy took place. Corruption plagued both eras.
It centers around a strong father figure and his adult children as they face internal family issues plus external struggles with their significant others. The supporting characters are diverse and in depth. A very good blend of comedy and tearful scenes. It is never boring even being over 50 episodes.