In the annals of history, the idiom “Sam go cho ryeo (三顧草廬),” which translates to “visit thatched house three times,” finds its roots in the legendary tale of Liu Bei and his best advisor, Zhuge Liang, from the classic novel “The Three Kingdoms.”

When Liu Bei was ready to become an independent lord, he didn’t have an advisor to lead the battlefield and make him win. So he needed an advisor to control the battlefield and suggest clever statics.

So, he decided to visit Zhuge Liang, who was previously recommended by his past teacher, Sima Hui.

But Zhuge Liang initially showed reluctance.

Liu Bei persisted, he visited Zhuge Liang three times to persuade him.

His passion touched Zhuge Liang’s mind the third time Liu Bei visited his house and showed very polite manners and Zhuge Liang finally became Liu Bei’s advisor.

Zhuge Liang became the brains behind Liu Bei’s force, and their collaboration led to Liu Bei’s Shu dynasty becoming one of the top three dynasties.

Also, Zhuge Liang became one of the most famous advisors in history because of Liu Bei’s passion.

The idiom symbolizes persistence, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of a goal.

This story teaches modern people the importance of putting in enough effort to achieve something significant.

Had Liu Bei given up after the first visit, he wouldn’t have earned Zhuge Liang’s support, and his dynasty might not have left a mark in history.

Centuries later, the spirit of “Sam go cho ryeo” continues to resonate in modern times.

The Netflix drama “Narco-Saints,” known as “Suriname” in Korean, depicts an ordinary businessman who joins the government’s secret mission to arrest a Korean drug dealer in South America.

This story, based on a real operation by the National Intelligence Service of the Republic of Korea, became the top-viewed non-English show globally.

This enduring theme of persistence is exemplified in the experiences of contemporary individuals, such as director Jong Bin Yoon.

Recently, in an interview, Yoon shared his journey to cast Taiwan’s famous actor Zhang Zhen in the role of a Chinese gangster in “Narco-Saints.”

Director Yoon thought Zhang Zhen was a perfect actor for his drama’s character, so he contacted him several times.

Yoon eventually went to Taiwan to persuade him, mirroring Lui Bei’s determination.

Finally, Zhang Zhen accepted his role, contributing to the global hit “Narco-Saints”.

His contribution not only enriched the character but also played a vital role in the global success of the show.

In essence, the idiom “Sam go cho ryeo” from the pages of “Three Kingdoms” reverberates through time, finding expression in the resolute endeavors of individuals like Director Jong Bin Yoon.

Yoon’s pursuit of artistic excellence becomes a living testament to the enduring power of ancient wisdom in shaping contemporary narratives.

Allen Kim

Grade 9

St. Johnsbury Academy