Watch The King's Affection

The King's Affection is a Korean drama that premiered on KBS2 in 2021. The show follows the story of King Yi Jin, who ascended the throne at a young age after the untimely death of his father. King Yi Jin is played by Kim Ro-woon, a member of the popular K-pop boy band SF9, making his acting debut as the lead character.

The show starts with the young king struggling to assert his authority amidst the political intrigues that surround the royal court. While he seeks to rule justly, he faces opposition from older courtiers who seek to manipulate and control him. The king's mother, Queen Dowager, played by Bae Yoon-kyung, is also a formidable presence who wields considerable influence over her son.

As the drama unfolds, the king becomes increasingly drawn to the eunuchs who serve him, especially Ja-dong and Ga-bi, played by Nam Yoon-su and Choi Byung-chan respectively. The eunuchs are loyal to the king and help him navigate the complex politics of the palace. There is a sense of mutual affection between the king and the eunuchs, which deepens over time.

However, the main love interest of the king is played by Park Eun-bin, who portrays the character of Sang-hae, a physician at the palace. Sang-hae is a strong, independent woman who is highly skilled in medicine. She is devoted to the well-being of the king and his subjects and is not afraid to speak her mind, even if it conflicts with the desires of those in power.

The king finds himself increasingly drawn to Sang-hae and begins to fall in love with her. However, their love is forbidden, as it is considered inappropriate for the king to be involved with a commoner, let alone a woman of lower social status. The tension between the two characters forms a central part of the storyline and deepens as the drama progresses.

Another character that plays a significant role in the drama is Queen Inhyeon, played by Jung Chae-yeon. Queen Inhyeon is the wife of the previous king and is highly respected by all in the palace. She is the aunt of the current king and is a source of guidance and support for him. Her presence is also important for understanding the complex relationships and alliances within the royal court.

The drama explores themes of power, love, duty, and loyalty. It highlights the challenges faced by a young king thrust into power and how he seeks to balance his inner desires with the expectations placed on him by society. The show also explores the lives of the eunuchs and how they navigate the intricate politics of the palace while remaining loyal to the king.

The King's Affection is visually stunning with elaborate sets and costumes that transport the audience back to the Joseon Era. The cinematography is exquisite and adds to the overall appeal of the show. The acting is also noteworthy, with all the actors delivering compelling performances that keep the audience engaged.

Overall, The King's Affection is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys historical dramas with intricate plots and compelling characters. The show has already garnered a dedicated following in Korea and internationally, making it one of the biggest hits of 2021.