A poster for Swords into Plowshares. [Photo/Huace Group]

Zhejiang-produced historical drama Swords into Plowshares will premiere on Jan 23 and be released in 15 languages on more than 100 platforms worldwide. The series tells the story of the Wuyue Kingdom and its role during a time of division and reunification.

Founded in 907 with Hangzhou as its capital, Wuyue Kingdom emerged amid regional fragmentation. At its height, Wuyue covered present-day Zhejiang and Shanghai, as well as parts of southern Jiangsu and northern Fujian. The kingdom lasted for more than seven decades before ending in 978, when its last ruler, Qian Hongchu (929-988), peacefully submitted the territory to the Song Dynasty (960-1279).

A scene from Swords into Plowshares. [Photo/Huace Group]

The narrative traces Qian's political transformation after he witnesses the collapse of northern regimes during a diplomatic mission. Upon returning to Wuyue, he moves to curb corruption and confront entrenched local clans amid growing regional instability.

Running in parallel is the rise of Zhao Kuangyin (927-976), founder of the Song Dynasty, whose consolidation of power through military campaigns and strategic maneuvering drives the broader push toward reunification from the north.

Props and themed merchandise from Swords into Plowshares are displayed at the Memorial Temple of King Qian Liu in Hangzhou on Jan 2. [Photo/IC]

The production was completed to exacting technical standards. Filmed in 8K ultra-high definition, the series features more than 550 sets and over 8,000 costumes, with props manufactured to a precision tolerance of just 0.1 millimeter.

Filming took place across multiple locations in Zhejiang, including Hangzhou, Jinhua, Shaoxing, Taizhou, Wenzhou, and Quzhou.

A statue of Qian Liu in Lin'an district, Hangzhou. [Photo provided by the publicity department of Lin'an district]

Lin'an district in Hangzhou, the birthplace and final resting place of Qian Liu (852-932) — the founder of the Wuyue Kingdom and grandfather of Qian Hongchu — is regarded as an important historical reference for the drama.

Actor Bai Yu, who plays Qian Hongchu, visited several historical sites in Lin'an to prepare for the role. He said the historical figure's choices reflected wisdom and responsibility, and that portraying Qian was both an honor and a challenge.

A special exhibition for Swords into Plowshares is held at the Memorial Temple of King Qian in Hangzhou on Jan 2. [Photo/IC]