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A brutal life with complexly charming characters.
- Jhanya&Ria's Corner
- Jan 8, 2022
- 14 min read
Updated: Jan 24, 2022
"A king should be strong and virtuous, just as the lotus flower is able to thrive despite blooming in the mud." - Jung Ji-woon
The King's Affection
16+
October 11, 2021 - December 14, 2021
20 episodes (approx 1h 4mins / ep)
Network: KBS2 and Netflix
Available on Netflix
Directed by Hyun Wook Song
Written by Han Hee-Jung & Lee So-Young
Starring Park Eun-bin, Ro Woon, Nam Yoon-su, Choi Byung-chan, Bae Yoon-kyung, & Jung Chae-yeon
Synopsis:
The Crown Prince's wife gave birth to twins, but twins were considered an ominous sign. The twin daughter was supposed to be killed, but her mother begged to save her life. Secretly, the twin daughter is sent out of the palace. A few years later, the twin son Lee Hwi is killed. The Crown Prince's wife hides her twin son's death and brings her twin daughter back to the palace and raises her as Prince Lee Hwi (Park Eun-Bin). Lee Hwi eventually becomes a crown prince, but she is afraid her real identity will be revealed. Because of her secret, Lee Hwi is unable to have anyone close to her. She hides her emotions from others and she makes biting remarks.
Jung Ji-Un (Ro Woon) is Lee Hwi’s teacher. Jung Ji-Un comes from a noble family. He is handsome, smart, and an optimist who enjoys life. Crown Prince Lee Hwi develops feeling for Jung Ji-Un. (sourced from AsianWiki by AsianWiki Staff ©)
May contain death, murder, blood, suicide
Happy New Year everyone! We are back with something special一our very first Kdrama review! With this being the first-ever review of 2022, we wanted to start with a BANG so we decided on reviewing one of the latest Kdramas on Netflix, The King’s Affection. We hope you enjoy this treat :>
Table of Contents:
First Impressions
Ria: So this Kdrama is the first I’ve watched after several months. It’s actually the first thing I watched when Christmas break started hehehe. So I’m a bit rusty on how I view Kdramas and I don’t really know much of what’s released currently. Anyway, I will be as objective as possible.
Jhanya: I’ve been waiting for this KDrama ever since I saw the synopsis last July 2021. The premise of the story had me from the get-go and it was a challenge for me not to watch this weekly. Unlike Ria, I’ve been on an Asian Drama spree ever since July, so the delay wasn’t because of a slump, but rather because I had so many KDramas in-line that I had to push this back a bit. I’ve also been reviewing quite the amount of KDramas in the past year (check them out on my IG @imthejhan_sauco) so finally being able to do a full KDrama review here in the blog is exciting xD
Story + Pacing
Ria: The story started on a really really dark theme. So I already expected a really serious drama and the series definitely delivered that. However, aside from that, the whole story itself is very interesting and unique. I haven’t watched many gender-swapping/ cross-dressing Kdramas (except Love In The Moonlight, which is my absolute fave btw) so it was really interesting how they executed this.
I’d also like to add that the story was consistent with the flashbacks. These were used very well and wisely. It wasn’t overdone and I’m actually very happy with its employment. It actually contributed to the whole storyline and didn’t really just drag the whole plot. And these back and forths also help in balancing out the romance and political aspect of the story.
My complaint would probably be some loopholes that I had near the end. I’m not going to state anymore my questions since it would become a spoiler, but I hope that they really just cleared these up better.
Jhanya: This drama started so strong. My sister and I were hooked right from episode 1 and we couldn’t resist watching the next 3 episodes immediately after. The stakes were high from the start and had me intrigued about what will happen next. Unfortunately, the story had a dip during the middle (around episodes 9-13) when they shifted the plot into something more political, in a not-so-much-related-to-the-main-problem kind of way, before going up again around episode 13-14 and ending with a bang.
I like how they were able to incorporate the unique and interesting situation of Dam-Yi to the different political and palace matters that she faced throughout the drama. Many of the intense scenes had me at the edge of my seat and constantly anticipating what would happen next. If there was one thing I wasn’t a fan of in terms of the plot, it would have to be the multiple side plots and problems they had to face throughout the series. For a 20 episode KDrama, there were too many side stories and choices that Dam-Yi and Ji-Woon encountered that they weren’t able to dive deeper into these problems and focus on their character development instead. Just when I was getting used to an issue or new character, they suddenly reverted back to the original story before moving on to another side story. If one thing, I would’ve preferred that they went for a full 50 episode Sageuk (historical KDrama) if they wanted our characters to have multiple problems to face.
Overall, despite the very exciting beginning, the plot can get pretty boring as they had to jump from one to the other given that everything had to fit into 20 episodes. They didn’t have enough time to dwell on one problem because there are many other more and only limited episodes. But Eun-bin and Rowoon’s chemistry is really through the roof. Other than this, the cast themselves will keep you watching through the end.
Direction + Cinematography
Ria: I think the drama pretty much delivered well on this part. The visuals were done beautifully and scenes were shot really well. I’m not super sure which parts were CGI which I guess is a success on their part because I’m sure that they’d want it to be as realistic as possible.
Jhanya: Definitely one of the best cinematographies in the list of Sageuk dramas. Almost every scene was beautiful and very satisfying to see. Currently, I think it’s on par with Kingdom when it comes to cinematography being an important factor in immersing the audience into the drama. The camera angles/movement/composition, lighting, and color fit the story very well and enhanced the viewer experience. It really added to the overall composition of the whole thing. How the drama also isn’t afraid to show blood and violent scenes was an added factor in making it all the more exciting to watch.
Themes
Ria: So like I said earlier, the series is a good balance of romance and politics. The amount of comedy that was woven into the romance is astounding. I honestly kept laughing at several scenes, especially with Jung Ji-Woon. The romance also helped in alleviating the darker themes throughout the story. It didn’t leave me in the deepest emotional hole for long periods of time which I really liked because it didn’t make me super depressed with what’s happening in the story. And, the chemistry of the two main leads is really good. I’d say it’s through the roof. More on that later!!
The political side of the story is quite dark and it is very complex, however, they were able to build it well and tell it well. Throughout the drama, the political side wasn’t forgotten and was consistent with characters making realistic decisions. So I didn’t really have much facepalming or “what the heck??!!” moments. How they wrapped up the politics in the story is also satisfying.
Jhanya:The King’s Affection has to be my favorite gender-bend/swap series. This drama is breaking gender roles and I love it so much! As Ria mentioned, there was a good balance between the romance and political aspects of the story. But what really made The King’s Affection stand out above the rest is how it broke gender roles all throughout the drama. The reversal of the most obvious gender stereotypes, especially in the character of Ji-Woon who was more emotional, and Dam-Yi who was more level-headed and rational, was unique and very fun.
It was also satisfying to see how the story stuck to its original purpose despite the multiple side stories and challenges. The King’s Affection is about Dam-Yi / Lee-Hwi’s journey to becoming free. We saw how she grew to be a strong ruler and good person despite the harsh circumstances she has faced since birth. Sadly, we also saw the brutal side of history where women are not allowed to be the King (or Queen) that rules over a whole nation solely because of their gender. Dam-Yi was put in the situation she was in, simply because the officials believed that being a twin, and being female to add to it, is unlucky and could lead the kingdom to its demise. Additionally, how the drama ended (I won’t expound because it’s a spoiler), and how Lee-Hwi / Dam-Yi became free can also be seen as discrimination to her own gender. And to be honest, I’m okay with that. Because that’s the reality of the situation, and I applaud the writers and director for showing the dark side of a seemingly happy ending.Characters
Characters
Ria: All characters in this drama were exceptionally complex and had emotional depth. They all felt real. The characters also showed a wide range of personalities of different people. My favorite in this series is probably this. The differences and contrasting characters which are shown within a family and between different families were done really well. Alongside this was the exceptional acting of the cast. I’m very impressed with all of them because I believe they were able to portray their character well. (until the utmost crazy stuff their character did)
Jhanya: The casting and character writing for this Kdrama were stellar. They all had great chemistry despite their different and unique personalities. The actors were also able to portray their characters very well and had me loving most of them.
Main Characters
Park Eun-bin as Dam-Yi/Lee-Hwi/Yeon-Seon
Ria: The amount of respect that I have for this girl is through the roof. Also, her bravery and courage to continuously do this for almost a decade already!! I have no idea how she’s doing but I swear I can never live her life. I probably wouldn’t last half a day. I feel so bad for her also! I mean, she was placed in this situation against her will and she just really really doesn’t deserve what she’s going through. Another personality trait that I was able to relate to was the lack of trust that she has in the people around her. This made me sympathize with her more because this trait made her alone and lonely, which I experienced a lot during this pandemic. I’m very impressed with Park Eun-bin’s acting. She was able to execute the character well and she acted like a prince (lowered voice, walking, etc.). It was also actually believable that she was a guy and not a woman.
Jhanya: Lee-Hwi is a QUEEN. Literally. She immediately became one of my favorite female leads in KDrama to date after watching. Lee-Hwi/Dam-Yi is the live-action Mulan I wanted to see (sorry Disney, but no.). She was such a strong and rational person that was able to wave through all the mud in her way. Park Eun-bin slayed this role and she’s just as cool and amazing as her character. Side note, I also kept seeing Shin Hyun-been whenever she has her hair down xD.
Rowoon as Jung Ji-Woon
Ria: The first thing that comes to mind with this character is candy. He’s so sweet and in love and affectionate and romantic and nearly perfect I felt a bit sad for him at one point, but mostly me screaming “WAHHH ANG TAMIS BAKIT KA GANYAN!!!” Throughout the story, he’s just consistently in love and I love that he doesn't even care that the prince is a guy, he just loves him. There was this one decision he did make that I don’t particularly agree with, but I do see his reasons and it makes him flawed and realistic. People do stupid things when in love.
Jhanya: Softest Male KDrama lead ever? YES (along with An Min-Hyun in Strong Woman of course). He was consistently affectionate and romantic throughout the whole drama and it’s so refreshing to see. He loved Lee-Hwi / Dam-Yi and he committed to it, no matter what gender. Jung Ji-Woon’s personality is often seen in female characters so having Rowoon pull of the role and made Ji-Woon as lovable as he is, is very impressive and shows Rowoon’s ability as an actor.
Nam Yoon-Soo as Prince Jaeun / Hyun
Ria: He’s honestly almost as perfect as Ji-woon. If you’ve watched Love in the Moonlight (if not, you should!!), I see so many similarities between him and Yoonsong. They’re both in love with the main girl and both would go to great lengths to protect her. There is a huge difference though, which I won’t say because spoiler!! And that difference made me respect Hyun so much more.
Jhanya: I would’ve had serious Second Lead Syndrome with Hyun if Ji-Woon wasn’t as precious as he is. Hyun is one of my favorite characters in this drama and it’s mainly because of his willingness to protect Lee-Hwi no matter what. He’s always been there for her since the beginning and is really just a great person throughout. The amount of times my sis and I fangirled over him (and Ji-Woon) while watching was too many xD
Choi Byung Chan as Bodyguard Kim Ga-On
Ria: I swear I thought he was the great, big, bad guy in this series, whoops!! What stood out with this character is the mystery that he exudes. You always keep wanting to know what he is up to, if he’s good or bad, and what his real intentions are. Also, *insert my mom screaming “AHHHHH HE’S SO HANDSOME!!!”
Jhanya: As much as I liked how mysterious and skillful Kim Ga-On is, he has to be the character with the least development and personality in the story. Most of the time he was just standing and barely said any words throughout the whole drama. I also loved how historically accurate his job is, it was very intriguing. I’d also have to agree with Ria’s mom here and say that he is so handsome indeed ahahahaha
Bae Yoon-Kyoung as Shin So-Eun
Ria: Oh, I Love her. This character is so down to earth despite being born into a pretty noble family. I love this character because I think (?) our personalities sort of match. I observe several decisions that I would have also done and most I understand. I really respect also the fact that she didn’t super-duper push for her love even though, I admit, she was led on several times. I also love that this character shows love to her servants. It’s quite rare to see that in this drama and it greatly contrasts her from other characters.
Jhanya: I have so much respect for this character. How she stuck to her morals and beliefs always prioritized her own happiness no matter what was so admirable. She was also very wise despite having a pretty rough start. Ji-Woon was a key part of her growth as a person and you can really see how grateful she is for it. It’s very rare to see such a respectable 2nd female lead so I commend the writers for creating such a character.
Jung Chae-Yeon as No Ha-Kyung
Ria: Annoying. That became my main thought (not the first) of the character. I just had little sympathy for her (I’m not that sorry). I mean, I know she was pushed into this situation, but the King has reiterated time and time again that he doesn’t want her so I’m like “get a grip of yourself and have some dignity”.
Jhanya: If I loved Shin So-Eun, I was so annoyed with No Ha-Kyung. I know she’s carefree and an optimist, but if you want to be a queen, you should at least learn basic ethics girl. Like come on, at least have some proper respect for people’s privacies and learn to knock ;-; I like that she has a sense of responsibility, especially for the nation, but sometimes it’s just too much and her short yet sudden bouts of rationality in the drama just made her character less likable.
Supporting Characters
Jhanya: Only Ria wrote comments on the characters because I couldn't think of anything else to add. We have the same thoughts ahahaha
Bae Soo-Bin as Inspector Jung Seok-Jo
I actually hated him at several points in the series but one thing I was sure of was that he was never going to go against his son, so I was sort of hoping for a redemption arc, until I lost all hope and then 🤩🤩. I love how complex his character is and how opposite it is from his son’s. The opposing views that they have really shown how different people can be despite being family.
Yoon Je-Moon as Prime Minister Han Ki-Jae
I hate this dude but I have respect for the character as a villain because of how manipulative and cunning he is. (That was so messed up???) Anyways, I am in awe of how smart and manipulative the character is. I can promise that this is definitely not a dumb villain. This character is a messed up, yet smart villain that you would love to hate.
Kim Jae-Chul as Inspector Yoon Hyeong-Seol
I would just like to say that this character is the hero of the story. Actually, Kim Ga-on, Court Lady Kim (Baek Hyun-Joo), and Eunuch Hong (Ko Kyu-Pil) were all heroes, but this character, for me, stood out as the best hero. There was this one scene where I’m just cheering for him, because he just put so much into protecting the King, despite whatever circumstance there may be. I think that this character deserved better, but what can we do 😭. This character is one that I compare a lot with Inspector Jung. Like I said earlier, this series is all about the contrasting characters and their personalities. Jung and Yoon became different because of the choices that they made. These two characters really show how a person’s choice can change one’s life.
Lee Pil-Mo as King Hyejong
I am deeply disappointed with this character. I feel like what he did for his children is very lacking. Even with the explanation when everything was said, I’m still very very disappointed with the character. This character contrasted greatly with the Queen (mom). While the mom did everything to save her children, he did nothing. And I’m just (again) disappointed and sad.
Han Chae-Ah as Lee-Hwi's Mother
This character has to be one of the most pitiful characters ever. My heart goes out for her and my respect for her is through the roof. The lengths she did to protect both her children is astounding and I just really love her so much. She doesn’t deserve anything that she went through.
Lee Il-Hwa as Grand Queen Dowager
I’m quite indifferent to this character. I see her importance, but I don’t think she made much of an imprint on me.
Kim Seo-Ha as Prince Changun
Guys, I actually hate this character more than grandpa. Okay… debatable?? BUT YES I HATE HIS GUTS SO MUCH. The acting was superior though because I respect any actor/actress that is able to make me feel this amount of hatred towards a fictional character. *insert Dolores Umbridge, as well*
Kim Taek as Prince Wonsan
This character contrasts his brother and Prince Changun. The difference of principles that Jaeun and Wonwoo have was obviously shown in the story and I love how that was laid out. The greed that Wonwoo prioritizes made him not care about what gets in his way, not even his own brother. The difference between the Uncle and Wonwoo, on the other hand, is more on their temperament. Wonwoo’s character is very calm and precise (a lot like the Grandpa, actually) and it’s so obvious with Changun screaming at every single person around him.
Favorite Moments
Jhanya: My favorite moments are mainly the fight and chase scenes, and the trial scene in the end. But if I were to name not-so-spoilery scenes, it would have to be when the original Lee-Hwi died and when Ji-Woon and Dam-Yi met again in the forest. The former because I was so shocked (pic below was my reaction). I wasn’t informed that the original crown prince was killed, and didn’t die because of an illness. It just raised so many questions in my head, like it’s only the first episode and there’s already unintentional treason. I LOVE IT. I also liked how Ji-Woon and Dam-Yi met in the forest. It was pretty cliche but also very beautiful. Seriously, it was so dreamy and gave fantasy vibes in terms of cinematography and editing.
Ria: One of the scenes that sticks out to me the most was when SPOILER: Inspector Jung kills Prince Changun. I literally shouted “YES LET’s GOOOOOO”. I honestly feel that this is the only kill that Inspector Jung did that was worthy HASHAHAHAHA
Many scenes that also stick out was when Ji-woon was being very lovey-dovey (or jealous). Now in these scenes, I’m screaming “ANG SWEEEET 😋”
Final Thoughts
Ria: Overall, I’d say that this was a great drama to watch over the break. I had a lot of fun getting to know the characters, and analyzing and breaking them down. I also enjoyed how the plot unfolds and the many many cutie scenes between Lee-Hwi and Ji-Woon. I’d say that this is a worthy watch, but not something I would rewatch (only because of the really serious themes). Despite some lingering questions, I’d recommend this and I do think that you’d enjoy it.
Jhanya: This was a great KDrama to end 2021. It wasn’t the best, but it also wasn’t bad. If I was to describe this drama, it would be charmingly balanced. As I was watching the drama and writing this review I’m regularly smiling. It was such a fun drama that had my emotions all over the place. Don’t get me wrong, I was stressed at some point because of how evil the grandpa is, but I knew deep inside myself that I was still enjoying it. Eun-bin and Rowoon’s chemistry was also through the roof, and their characters were so refreshing to watch. I definitely recommend this KDrama if you’re in need of a romantic Sageuk with a more serious plot.
Also, I can't wait to write more KDrama reviews on this website in the future. It's SO FUN XD
Rating
Criteria | Jhanya | Ria |
|---|---|---|
Screenwrite/Plot/Flow (1.5) | 1 | 1.25 |
Cinematography (1.5) | 1.5 | 1.5 |
Visual Effects/Realism (1.5) | 1.25 | 1.3 |
Casting/Acting (1.5) | 1.5 | 1.5 |
Soundtrack (1) | 0.5 | 0.5 |
Morale (1) | 1 | 1 |
Originality (1) | 1 | 1 |
Rewatch Value (1) | 0.25 | 0.5 |
TOTAL | 8 | 8.55 |
Final Score | 82.75 | |
FINAL RATING:
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