Seok-Jo Knows
In Episode 14 of The King’s Affection, Ji-Un concedes and asks his father for help. He wants a way back into the palace in order to protect Hwi. Well, his father approaches the Left State Councilor and bargains with him, pointing out that he’s been loyal and now it’s his turn. ..
Ji-Un is appointed to a position in the government and proceeds with little fanfare, refusing to speak up despite numerous unfavorable reports from Sangjeonwon about Ki-Tae’s poor political skills. All of them are ignored of course, as Ji-Un takes these documents to the King’s chambers. This also provides cover for him helping to patch up Hwi’s wound. ..
Ha-Kyung bounces into the room, excited to see Ji-Un. She forgets her etiquette and knocks Ji-Un down. It’s an awkward encounter, and one that she’s quickly reprimanded for by the court maids.
Ha-Kyung is elated to hear from the King that a date has been set for them to meet. Court Lady Kim is obviously concerned, but thanks to the Left State Councilor demanding Hwi focus on producing an heir and getting married, Hwi has little choice in the matter.
Ha-Kyung and Hwi meet up that night, but Hwi encourages the naive woman to lie and pretend that they’ve slept together, giving the false pretense of being a normal couple to the rest of the world. Of course, we know why Hwi is doing this but for Ha-Kyung, it’s a heartbreaking moment that makes her feel like she’s not wanted.
Ha-Kyung and the Grand Queen Dowager watch as Hwi works on something much bigger with Commander Yoon. They are both curious to see what it is, but remain ignorant of what is happening.
Ji-Un is outside the Minister of Taxation’s office, listening in as he leaves for his private army. She has a sneaking suspicion that the Minister is staging a coup and decides to investigate.
Ji-Un heads back to the palace after the guards leave and helps tend to Hwi’s wounds. He implores her to keep applying ointment, but the most important thing is that she’s almost on the mend. ..
Hyun leaves the King’s chambers and tells Ji-Un that he knows she is a woman and he has affection for her too. He points out that this sort of forbidden love can turn really ugly if pursued.
Ji-Un is awoken by the Minister of Taxation discussing cargo ships and immediately thinks back to the conversation Hwi was having the previous night. For now, this continues to simmer in the background.
Ji-Un and Hwi kiss in secret out in the palace courtyard. As they do, unbeknownst to them, they’re being watched by Seok-Jo. Suddenly, a figure jumps out from behind a tree and tackles Ji-Un to the ground. It’s Seok-Jo!
The Episode Review
This episode takes a slightly different stance, leaning much more heavily into comedy territory. I understand this has been done to alleviate some of the heavy tension and big drama that’s been gripping this show recently but for me, it doesn’t work quite as well. ..
Ha-Kyung is left feeling betrayed and abandoned after the King’s confession. She is not sure if she will find out the truth about her long-lost love Hwi, but it seems that way.
The shocking ending with Seok-Jo left many viewers on the edge of their seats, and it is sure to have a big impact on the next few episodes of the show.
