The King's Affection

Yi Hwi is astonished when he encounters a court maid who bears an uncanny resemblance to himself, a discovery that unsettles his mother and reignites tensions surrounding the princess's past secret.

Dam-i struggles with the emotional burden of impersonating her brother as ruler, while Jung Ji-un works urgently to prepare a remedy for an impatient and irritable patient.

Hwi lets Ji-un go, believing they will never meet again, but is shocked when she later encounters him inside the palace.

Hwi faces a strong challenge from Ji-un, as he attempts to force her to resign from her role as royal tutor. Meanwhile, Yi Hyun takes Hwi out for a night in the city.

Ji-un tries to help his student become more sociable within the palace, but his efforts lead to unexpected complications. Prince Changun surprises Hwi with a test involving intoxicating circumstances.

Ji-un discovers a familiar book on the crown prince's desk, sparking confusion and concern. As he struggles to find a way to save his friends, he turns to Hwi for assistance.

Hwi seizes an opportunity to prove herself to the king during the visit of Ming envoys, but her composure is challenged by a difficult and irritable guest.

Ji-un offers comfort to the emotional Hwi, holding him as he cries. Meanwhile, Ji-un and Hyun collaborate to uncover the envoy's hidden secrets after a mysterious man is seen visiting his quarters.

The queen dowager urges the crown prince to take a wife, setting new political and personal dynamics in motion. Ji-un reflects on the previous night, beginning to understand the emotional turmoil he has experienced.

Hwi provides Ji-un with her response following a happy day spent together, while Shin So-eun and No Ha-gyeong arrive at the palace as potential candidates for the position of crown princess.

Hyun goes to see Ji-un at his new medical practice. Hwi confronts Prince Changun about a personal transgression, leading to severe consequences.

The king faces mounting pressure to address demands for the crown prince's removal. Returning to the palace, Ji-un vows to protect Hwi at all costs.

Hwi confides in Ji-un about a personal secret, deepening their connection. Meanwhile, Lord Sangheon advances his political goals, positioning himself as a key figure in the succession for the throne.

Hwi and Ha-gyeong share their first night together, navigating the emotional complexities of their relationship. Meanwhile, Ji-un, now reinstated in the palace under Lord Sangheon's influence, remains discreet as she tends to the injured king.

Hwi carefully plans her next move to take revenge on her grandfather. Meanwhile, Kim Ga-on unexpectedly returns before the king and makes a shocking revelation.

Yoon Hyeong-seol searches for a critical ledger to fulfill his pledge to the king, while Prince Wonsan begins to uncover clues about Hwi's true identity.

Rumors spread among palace staff about a close relationship between Hwi and Ji-un, prompting Jung Seok-jo to intervene to protect his son.

Hyun and Lord Sangheon discover Prince Wonsan's covert plan to overthrow the king, while Hwi resolves to confront her grandfather on her own.

Prince Wonsan demonstrates his determination and capability for leadership through decisive actions that impress Lord Sangheon. Meanwhile, Hwi contemplates stepping down from the throne.

Lord Sangheon and Prince Wonsan return to the palace with an army, determined to claim the throne through force and bloodshed, showing no mercy to those who stand in their way.