Rookie Historian Goo Hae-Ryung (2019–…): Season 1, Episode 2 - Episode #1.2 - full transcript
EPISODE 2
What's your name?
I have a question.
How did you come up with
such a beautiful scene
where Master Kim confesses his love
beneath the cherry blossom tree?
Well, that's...
I visited Yudalsan last year,
and I was deeply moved there.
That's where I got my idea.
Yudalsan?
You're wrong.
If you don't tell me your name, I'll just
go ahead and give this back to you.
Maehwa.
Please write my name
as Maehwa.
The reason you don't enjoy
reading Maehwa's novels
is because you know nothing about beauty.
You?
Well, could you let go...
Gosh, let go of my hand.
Men and women mustn't hold hands.
You said Maehwa's book
is such a waste of paper.
You also said you're afraid
the delusion of Maehwa may spread
all around the city like an epidemic.
I have to say,
you have no principle yourself.
Are you a young noble lady
who is hoping Maehwa will quit writing
or just an imposter
who is using Maehwa's name?
Just stick to one thing.
No wonder you were so defensive.
You're Maehwa?
What a novel idea.
You visit every bookstore
and praise yourself.
How many copies
have you sold by doing that?
When did I do such a...
You're very confident for a fraud.
Don't jump to conclusions, please.
There's a reason I must do this.
So what? Are you asking me
to be understanding?
Well, that's not what I meant.
I was just...
Could you wait in that room over there?
I'll apologize to you properly in a bit.
Do you think I am the only person
you owe an apology to?
What's going on?
Regardless of how unworthy
you think my novel is,
all those people's love for Maehwa
is genuine.
You have no right to fool them
just to earn a little bit of money.
-Hence, if you wish to apologize--
-I should apologize to them.
-Maehwa!
-Maehwa!
-So that lady is Maehwa.
-My gosh.
Oh, my goodness!
-Oh, my goodness.
-Maehwa is really here!
There is something I must tell you all.
I'm...
not Maehwa.
-What?
-What?
Even though I'm not Maehwa,
I pretended that I was
and deceived all of you.
I apologize.
Has she lost her mind?
What? You're not Maehwa?
Then what is this signature here?
Did you con us?
-My gosh.
-I can't believe this.
-How dare she?
-How could she do such a thing?
However, the real Maehwa is here now.
-What's she saying?
-What?
-Does that mean...
-Is it that man?
-That man is Maehwa?
-Oh, my goodness.
-My gosh.
-Maehwa was a guy?
-Is he the one?
-Really?
-Gosh.
-Seriously?
-Maehwa is a man.
-Oh, my.
-My gosh.
-I can't believe this.
-My goodness.
-It's a man?
-My gosh.
-Seriously?
So it's not a woman?
The King's order!
Arrest Maehwa
and confiscate all the books!
Stop right there!
-Get her!
-Come here.
-What's happening?
-My gosh!
-Get them.
-Where's your book?
Get him!
-Get him!
-Catch him.
Let go! Let go of me, you jerks.
Hey! You!
Let go. I said, let go!
-Arrest him.
-Don't lose him!
-Let go!
-Get them.
-Get them!
-Seize the books!
-Don't you dare run away.
-Get them!
Where do you think you're going?
-Darn it.
-Get them!
-You!
-Get the books.
-What the heck?
-Stop right there!
What are you doing?
-Get them!
-Get all the books!
Get them!
-Get them!
-Seize all the books!
-Let us go!
-Come with us!
Let go!
-Come here.
-Let us go, please.
-Hey!
-Wait over there!
You little...
You rats.
Get them!
You, come here!
My gosh!
Do not forgive me, sir!
Hey. Hey, you!
Hey! Gosh, let go of me.
Hey!
-Eunuch Heo!
-Eunuch Heo!
-He's not at the library.
-Not in the garden either.
Did you search every nook and cranny?
-Yes, sir.
-Yes, sir.
Where could he be at this hour?
I have to do something.
I'll go find out what's going on.
Wait, where are you going?
It's the King's order, so he could be at
the Royal Investigation Bureau, right?
Please watch what you say.
You're a woman, you can't go in there.
-Then how about you go?
-My goodness.
Am I not even considered a woman
just because I'm a servant?
I told you it's not your fault
that the scholar got arrested.
I heard so many noble ladies
ran away to find the love of their life
after reading Maehwa's books.
That's why he's hated so much.
Still, how can they arrest him
just for that reason?
I can't stop thinking that it's odd.
Hey, excuse me.
Don't you find this person shameless?
If he has any shame,
he should quit writing.
However, the real Maehwa is here now.
Do not forgive me, sir!
Hey. Hey, you!
I'll get my revenge.
I will crush you!
Keep it down, will you?
Can't you see that I'm trying to sleep?
Are you blind or what?
I'm sorry.
I'll get my revenge.
I'll get back at you for this!
What's the matter, my lady?
Let's go.
MAEHWA
-Gosh, you scoundrels. How dare you!
-Move!
How could they be banned?
There were no problems with those books
even until yesterday.
How could they be banned overnight?
You thieves!
Park Dal-pae, you are guilty
of writing banned books. Show yourself
so that you can be arrested!
-Honey!
-Let go of me!
My husband hasn't even mastered
Chinese characters yet.
So how can you accuse him
of writing books?
What is this about?
What do you think you're doing?
-Stop right there!
-Darn it.
-Shit.
-You prick!
You scoundrels! What are you doing?
-My goodness!
-Gosh, madam!
You wenches!
MOONLIGHT LOVE AFFAIR
THE SORROWS OF YOUNG WERTHER
My gosh...
Why go through my books?
What?
You cannot tell me your name?
Well, it's not that I can't tell you.
You don't have to know my name.
That's what I'm trying to say.
Was he fed something spoiled
while in prison?
Look, Maehwa.
I need to know your name for my report
so I can hand it over to the higher-ups.
Do you need a beating first thing?
-Your name.
-I'm not Maehwa.
You little...
Show me your tag, then.
What? Are you going to say
you don't even have an identification tag?
Do you think I'm an idiot?
Everyone in the land of Joseon
must have...
You don't have an identification tag?
Must I have one?
What does your father do?
I mean... What does your father do, sir?
If you can't disclose any details,
just tell me his rank.
Sir, he's here to turn himself in.
What? Who?
The real Maehwa.
I'm Maehwa, you punks.
ROYAL INVESTIGATION BUREAU
-Your Highness!
-Your Highness!
"Your Highness"?
From the way he talks to how he looks,
he's got to be from a reputable family.
Tail him and find out where he lives.
Yes, sir.
Write it down.
I can't do this anymore.
Gosh, my back is killing me.
This is pissing me off.
"The heat inside the mill.
Where does Court Lady Kim go every night?"
They summoned officers
from the Royal Investigation Bureau
and the City Administration Office
as well as historians
just to confiscate these stupid books?
That's what I'm saying.
I didn't take the civil service exam
for this. I'm mortified.
THE HEAT INSIDE THE MILL
-Hey, what is this?
-Pardon me? Oh, that's...
How did it get in there? Goodness.
Are you lonely these days?
Officer Min!
Officer Min!
Jeez, move.
Officer Min!
You should've given me a heads-up
that you were coming by.
I dozed off in there for a few minutes,
not knowing you were here.
You punks, can't you see that Officer Min
is working? Go bring him a chair!
-What are you waiting for?
-It's okay.
It's not okay.
Officer Min, just have your subordinates
take care of this grunt work.
Let's go to my office and have some tea.
It's really okay.
Then let me just do the work for you.
I'd rather do it myself.
Did you just touch...
SACHAEK : BOOK OF HISTORICAL RECORDS
...this sachaek ?
Jeez, this is bringing tears to my eyes.
When did the deputy magistrate
of the junior fourth rank
become a servant
of a senior seventh rank official?
He'll even offer to wipe his butt.
He'll be good at that.
He's the Second State Councillor's son.
Who cares what his rank is?
Everyone calls him
the Crown Prince of the Min family.
He was born so lucky.
Can't he give up on at least one thing?
He's handsome, wealthy, and smart.
He has everything. Life is so unfair.
Life is unfair indeed.
Thank goodness
I got my good looks and wits.
Who?
-Oh, gosh.
-No...
-Oh, dear.
-My books!
-Gosh.
-Darn it.
No...
What a waste!
-How can they do this?
-What should we do?
-My goodness.
-What a waste.
-No...
-Gosh, my books...
DON QUIXOTE
I'd like to take a look
at the daily brief.
Today's brief from the palace.
I heard the people can read them too
if they pay.
Please allow me to have a look
at today's brief.
What is this woman uttering?
Only government employees like us
can read them
because we need them to do our jobs.
They're not meant for small fry like you!
Is that what you government officers
think of the people of this country?
What is the matter?
We can't show it to you,
but I can tell you what was on it.
What would you like to know?
-Officer Min.
-Then answer this question.
What was written about the banned books?
They didn't even put up a single notice.
They took my lifetime collection of books
without telling me anything.
Hence, I must know
why those books were banned
as well as why they arrested people
and ransacked their houses.
I at least need to know
what's written on the brief
to understand what's going on.
It was His Majesty's order
for he believes that
lowly literature and books
smuggled from Qing
are disturbing moral principles.
Yes, it was His Majesty's order.
Isn't that all you need to know?
Who cares whether or not you understand--
Even the King can't always make
the right decisions.
What did you say?
He believes that books are causing chaos?
Last spring,
a nobleman demolished ten houses
that belonged to commoners
to build a new house for his newlywed son.
Such things are what's really corrupting
moral principles and causing chaos.
Don't blame it on books.
So what?
Are you saying that His Majesty
made a bad decision?
According to The Great Learning ,
a king's likes and dislikes
must be in line
with those of his people.
However, our King
dislikes what his people like
and likes what his people dislike.
Thus, how could I be content
as one of his people?
Hae-ryung!
Lady Hae-ryung! My lady, gosh.
My gosh. She's not well.
She loses it from time to time.
I'm sorry, sir.
I sincerely apologize on her behalf.
My apologies, Officer Min.
That's okay.
My gosh!
Are you begging to get killed?
In front of government officials,
how could you...
How could you criticize the King?
Did Prince Yeonsan return to reign?
Why can't I make such a remark?
There are some things
that you must never say.
What would you have done if your remark
had reached the King's court?
I actually wish that happened.
The King's ministers need to know
what the people of this country
are seeing, feeling, and thinking.
Do you think they will listen to you
and change overnight?
Do you think a pebble can fill up a river?
No, it can't.
However, it can generate a ripple.
Why must it be you?
Why can't it be me?
-Why are you being--
-Don't you know why I'm being like this?
As for the books, I can get them again.
It'll take time and money,
but it can be done.
However, those who believe
that they can hold anybody accountable
and can take anything from anyone
if they can justify it.
I cannot tolerate such people.
Losing what is dear to us...
Haven't we experienced it plenty of times?
Don't follow me.
I'll go someplace else and inquire.
I found you a husband.
You'll receive his proposal letter soon.
I am trying to tell you
that you cannot live
under my roof and my protection forever.
I hope you understand my intentions.
Your Highness!
-Eunuch Heo is back!
-Sam-bo!
Sam-bo.
Your Highness, it's all sorted out now.
Don't worry...
Put your worries to rest.
Let's go inside. Be careful, okay?
Be careful.
Come on in.
Be careful.
Slowly.
-Good.
-A little closer.
Was it very painful?
Yes.
-You probably hate me now.
-Yes, I do.
If only I had never left the palace...
-Strip your pants off.
-Okay.
Come again? My gosh!
I got this from the Medical Office.
There's nothing like this
for flogging wounds.
It's okay, Your Highness.
I'll apply it myself when I'm alone.
The sooner it's applied,
the quicker the bleeding will stop. Hurry.
But... Your Highness.
Wait, hold on. I'll do it later...
-Hey, how dare you...
-Hurry.
-Sam-bo.
-Gosh! This is...
His buttocks look totally fine,
Your Highness.
Did you get flogged on the other side?
What? God, what are you doing?
Hey! Jeez, these wenches.
What happened was...
They said I could either write
a letter of apology and pay bail
or get flogged,
so I made a wise decision.
Then you should've just told me the truth.
Why did you have to worry me like that?
Well, I took the fall for you,
so I wanted you
to worry about me a little.
I was also hoping to take it easy
for a few days.
By the way, Your Highness,
you're in no position to be angry with me.
I clearly told you
not to go to the busy strip ever again.
How many times did I tell you...
Don't even talk to me
for the next three days.
Don't come near me.
At Dongungjeong at 4 p.m.,
the Crown Prince had a one-on-one
with Vice-Chancellor Jo Seung-gwang.
Regarding the damages caused by
the banned books, Jo Seung-gwang reported
that 6,829 books have been confiscated,
and 255 commoners are currently detained
at the local office.
He also said the total amount of bail
collected so far is 4,820 nyang.
Then the Crown Prince asked if
all of that happened in just three days,
and the Vice-Chancellor said
it doesn't include
other provinces
as he has yet to receive their reports.
After sitting silently for some time,
the Crown Prince dismissed
Jo Seung-gwang and the historian.
Even the King can't always make
the right decisions.
I will share my personal opinion.
The corruption in the royal court
is worsening by the day,
and the political tension is rising.
-No! My lord!
-This is unjust!
Meanwhile, the people are accused
of committing offences
even when they just reach out their hands
or take a step forward.
This is unjust!
Since the ancient times,
it has always been said that the skies
identify with the heart of the people
for it does not have its own.
Hence, what saddens the people
saddens the skies as well,
and what delights the people
delights the skies too.
-Please have mercy.
-Please have mercy.
Nevertheless, the ministers...
Please revoke your royal command!
...are not afraid of either
the skies or the people.
-Please revoke your command.
-Please revoke your command.
From my observation,
this crisis should be blamed
solely on them.
Identify yourself.
My lord. I'm Kim Cheok-jeom,
an officer from
the Royal Investigation Bureau.
There is something you should know.
Your Highness,
try your best to look chipper.
You haven't seen His Majesty
in a long time.
He'd never summon me for no reason.
You are his son.
I'm sure he misses you,
and his heart must ache
whenever he thinks about you.
You know that is not true.
How do I look? Should I fix anything?
No.
Father, how have you been?
I cannot be fond of you
no matter how hard I try.
You tell me. Have you lost your mind?
Or are you deliberately trying
to disgrace me?
I am not quite following
for my wisdom hasn't matured yet.
You even have the audacity
to lie to my face now.
MOONLIGHT LOVE AFFAIR
Must I read aloud each line
of this vulgar piece of writing?
So? You've been acting like a clown
behind my back,
and the foolish people praise you for it.
How does that feel?
Do you feel like you're the King?
I'd much rather see you
fool around with kisaengs or gamble!
How could a man write something
so preposterous?
I wrote those books
to relieve my feelings of boredom.
-I didn't mean to--
-Shut it!
You cannot hide your malicious mind
with such excuses.
Because I have a son like you,
I am too ashamed
to face the former kings after I die.
You are more wicked and malicious
than anyone
who has ever lived in this palace!
-Father.
-Listen!
Yes, Your Majesty.
Seize all the books at Nokseodang
immediately and burn them all!
Not just books.
Paper, brushes, and ink sticks too!
Seize anything related to writing
and burn them all to ashes.
From this day onward,
Prince Dowon shall be forbidden
from reading or writing any books!
Father, I sincerely apologize.
I'll... From now on,
I will never show anyone what I write.
Please revoke your order.
Writing and reading
are the only things I can do.
Without them...
Without them...
I have nothing.
Father.
Please...
Please...
Please.
Father.
Sam-bo...
Your Highness.
Your Highness.
Here.
Drink it.
Okay.
You'll be all right.
You should go.
You know that I cannot go back to sleep
after that happens.
I'll just sit here and look at the stars.
It's been a while
you last had your nightmare.
Did it leave you in so much distress?
This place sits at the corner
of the huge palace.
Nokseodang, where no one visits.
I could read or write 10,000 books
as I please...
without His Majesty knowing.
Then please do that.
I, too, will keep my mouth shut.
No. I don't plan on doing that.
Why not?
My father does not listen
to anything I say.
If I also refuse to listen to him,
we could hardly be a parent and a child.
Your Highness.
Maybe I should have asked him
to have me exiled.
If I'm sent to a river, I'll fish.
If I'm sent to a mountain,
I'll grow ginseng.
That way,
I'd have something to keep me occupied.
I found you a husband.
I hope this old man isn't bothering you
by calling you out so often.
Don't say that, my lord.
Please go ahead.
Am I only allowed to see you
when I have something to say?
But you aren't the type
who'd call me out to enjoy a chat.
Right.
There is no other partner better than you
when I wish to take some time
to discuss something.
The writer of The Story of Ho Dam .
Don't you think
there's something odd about him?
I have connections everywhere
in this land of Joseon,
and my influence reaches
every corner of this country.
But I cannot find a trace of that writer.
It's as if that person is behind my back.
The northwest is desolate and barren
with many places to hide.
-If you look a little longer--
-That's just a red herring.
The closer you are,
the harder it is to notice.
There is only one place that is close by,
yet out of my reach.
The palace.
Are you saying the writer
of The Story of Ho Dam is in the palace?
That is why
I plan on turning in a petition tomorrow.
My lord.
-The Crown Prince--
-He will have to accept this by tomorrow.
So do answer my question.
Do you think that is enough to catch
the writer of The Story of Ho Dam ?
You rogues! How dare you...
20 YEARS AGO
Where is His Majesty?
I asked you where His Majesty is.
Prince Hamyeong!
I've brought you the jeonwigyoseo ,
Your Majesty.
JEONWIGYOSEO :
ANNOUNCES THE SUCCESSION OF THE THRONE
THE STORY OF HO DAM
Second State Councillor.
You seem to have finally gone senile.
Your Royal Highness,
please watch the way you speak.
Historians are in your presence.
Yes, there are historians
in the assembly and the royal lectures.
They follow His Majesty and me
wherever we go
and write down everything we say and do.
I cannot speak or look
at anything as I please
in fear of what will be recorded.
Now you want to hire
female historians
to spy on me in my chambers?
Your Royal Highness.
I only suggested that
we keep female historians
to follow the ancient system.
Which book from which country mentions
of such absurd system
of having female historians?
It's in the law of Zhou Dynasty.
According to the law of Zhou Dynasty,
the Zhou Dynasty kept female historians
to record even the events
within the women's quarters.
Many future kings and sage men
gained wisdom from those records.
That country is gone.
It went into ruins over 1,000 years ago!
But they set an example
even after 1,000 years.
Joseon's judicial system is
built on the law of Zhou Dynasty.
I clearly remember
how Your Royal Highness last month
discussed the matters of rituals by using
ancient examples of the Zhou Dynasty.
Second State Councillor.
Unlike the women of Zhou,
the women of Joseon are illiterate.
Korean alphabets cannot be used
to keep record of events.
Vice-Chancellor is right.
A historian must have skills,
knowledge, as well as discernment.
Even the best scholars
who pass the state exam
fail to pass the historian exam.
Female historians are different.
A historian's duty is to write down
state affairs for the future generation.
But female historians can just write down
the everyday life in the palace.
We can pick out court ladies
who know the Korean alphabet.
That's what I'm trying to say.
All they can write down is
the everyday life of the palace.
There is no reason to pass that on
to the future generation.
The discipline of the Royal Family
will improve
in a female historian's presence.
Are you implying that
the current Royal Family
has no discipline?
Regarding that...
I cannot dare to speak of
what happens at Nokseodang.
Second State Councillor!
I already told you
it'll be hard to convince
the Crown Prince.
You can use this chance
to break his spirits
to teach him how to be a king.
So, do you think
it's going to take a long time?
The Crown Prince is a very clever man.
So I'm sure he'll come
to understand me soon.
You may leave.
I trusted you and gave you permission
to do something
that has never been done
in the history of Joseon.
If this ends up causing a problem,
you'll be dismissed from your position.
Your Majesty. Only three people
in this country know Ho Dam.
You, me, and...
I can't help but wonder
who gave you such a difficult task.
Your Majesty.
The hours are late.
Why are you not asleep yet?
I heard the lights in your palace
were still turned on.
This old lady couldn't fall asleep
because I was so worried
about my grandson.
I'm sorry.
I still have so much to learn.
I apologize for worrying you.
I'm not here to scold you.
I know it's not your fault.
I guess you heard
about what happened this morning.
So tell me.
Have you made up your mind?
It's not easy.
Of course not.
If you grant
the Second State Councillor's request,
the female historians will obviously
become his eyes and ears.
But if you refuse his request,
you'd feel uneasy thinking about
what he might do to your brother.
Your Majesty.
I do not want to be a Crown Prince
that gets swayed by the officials.
Nor do I want to be someone
who failed to protect his brother.
I really don't know
what I should do.
Your Royal Highness.
Why are you trying to enter
the Second State Councillor's territory?
Even an unwise decision
can lead to a wise one.
You should think about it a little harder.
Why does it sound so weird?
You are clearly
torturing our ears, Your Highness.
Please stop it.
-Please stop it.
-Please stop it.
Bear with it a little.
It'll get better soon.
You know I'm a quick learner.
You're definitely not a quick learner.
Where are you...
Hey, where are you going? Where...
You guys! Where are you going?
Hey.
Jin, did you see that?
This is how they treat me.
I heard you play just now,
and it was bad enough
to make me want to punch you.
Be grateful that no one hit you.
You're the Crown Prince.
How can you say that?
That's exactly why I can say that.
Hey, there's someplace
I want you to go with me.
-Where?
-You'll see.
I didn't know the sky looked so pretty
when it's close to sunset.
It's a very mysterious color.
Jin.
You've done more than enough
to console me.
You can scold me now.
You're the Crown Prince who barely
even has time to look at the sky.
I'm sure you're here
spending time with me for a reason.
I'm sure...
you heard about what I did.
That's upsetting to hear.
Did you think I'd scold you
for something like that?
It turns out
the renowned writer, Maehwa,
was actually a narrow-minded fool.
-Jin.
-I read your novel.
I was only going to read a little bit,
but I constantly found myself
flipping to the next page.
I started to regret not having read it
before it became a banned book.
-Stop making fun of me.
-I'm saying this because I'm proud.
If we were born
into a middle-class family,
I would've gone around the neighborhood
telling everyone
that my younger brother is Maehwa
and that he wrote this book.
But you and I have a lot to carry
on our shoulders.
Can you give me
an honest answer to this question?
I was your inspiration
for Master Kim, right?
-What?
-His handsome looks,
profound intelligence,
and gentle character.
That's obviously me.
Especially his looks.
His fair skin and deep eyes.
Don't get mistaken.
I only looked at myself in the mirror.
What?
If you say so.
Lady Hae-ryung!
Your brother chose a date.
It's the first day of next month!
-I see.
-According to the fortune-teller,
you guys will get along very well.
Once you marry him,
you'll apparently live a very happy life.
Your brother is very pleased.
-That's good to hear.
-Lady Hae-ryung.
Gosh, don't worry too much.
I actually went and took a peek
at your future husband.
And I was really startled.
He is very good-looking,
and he walks with a great posture.
I think he'll be a very kind husband.
I'm sure you both will get along.
I need to go somewhere for a bit.
Jang-su, don't forget to take this.
My goodness, be careful.
You might fall down again!
You finally gave him a name?
Yes.
At first I contemplated
between San-sam and In-sam.
But I realized that the best name for him
would be Jang-su
since he works at a medicine shop.
Jang-su is a great name.
You'll be greatly blessed
for your generosity.
You took in a boy who had nowhere to go.
My gosh, it wasn't just for him.
I'm always lonely and alone,
so I figured if I took in that little boy,
I could make him run errands
and have someone to talk to.
I did it for myself.
But what brings you here?
Did that break again?
No, it's not that.
I was thinking about selling it.
You want to sell the alarm clock?
Yes, I don't think I'll need it anymore.
So, how much
are you willing to pay for it?
His Royal Highness has arrived.
-Hand me the scroll.
-Yes, Your Royal Highness.
"The Second State Councillor
asked to hire female historians
15 days ago.
And I give him my consent."
Your Royal Highness, that is absurd.
Please withdraw your consent!
"However, female historians
cannot be recommended.
They must take the civil service exam.
There will only be one exam
throughout the day to determine
whether or not they've passed.
And I, the Crown Prince,
will decide the topic.
Anyone who passes the exam
will enter The Office of Royal Decrees
as an apprentice."
Your Royal Highness, how can you
let a woman take the civil service exam?
Men and women are different,
and we have strict cultural rules.
How can you let a woman
take the exam just like a man?
This is an outrageous decision,
Your Royal Highness.
This has never happened
in the history of Joseon.
Please withdraw your royal order,
Your Royal Highness.
-Please, Your Royal Highness.
-Please, Your Royal Highness.
Please allow me to say
a word of advice out of loyalty.
Please think about the Code of Law
of the royal palace.
The Code of Law of the royal palace?
The civil service exam
is a national exam that is connected
to our country's education.
Women lack education and knowledge,
and if you let them take the exam,
it'll be the same thing as going against
the basis of what the previous kings
have worked so hard to keep.
Second State Councillor.
Which previous king stated
that only men are allowed
to take the civil service exam?
Please answer me.
Where exactly in the Code of Law
does it say civil service exams
can only be taken by men?
As King Taejo built Joseon,
he announced that there should only be
one criteria when it comes to
hiring civil servants.
Education and moral conduct.
Being well-educated
and morally well-behaved.
If there's anyone who has those features,
I'm more than willing to hire them
even if they're women.
-However--
-Have you forgotten?
You're the ones who suggested
to hire female historians
and insisted on letting them
enter the royal palace
regardless of our strict cultural rules.
All I did was accept
your request.
Seriously?
Women will get to take exams?
What kind of nonsense is that?
This is more than just
writing things down.
It's not something
they can learn that quickly.
This is an insult not only to us
but to all the historians
from thousands of years back.
We should not stay still.
Gil-seung, didn't you say your cousin
is the head of Sungkyunkwan?
Tell them they should start
a mass demonstration.
I'll bring an axe.
We must put up a petition.
Yes, that's a good idea.
Who'd behead a historian
unless they've really lost it?
But
why aren't you saying anything,
Officer Min?
What can he say?
If the Second State Councillor
hadn't provoked His Royal Highness,
none of this would've happened.
Why must historians
be against the recruitment
of female historians?
What kind of absurd nonsense is that?
Why shouldn't we be against it?
Since our childhood we learned that
women should never
be interested in national affairs.
Even if we were taught that
through many books,
the Code of Law should always come first.
The... The Code of Law?
-In the Code of Law--
-There is no such article
that says women aren't allowed to take
civil service exams.
They're going to hire female historians?
My goodness, I've never heard of
anything more outrageous.
I guess the world is starting to change.
-My gosh.
-This is absurd.
You should take the exam.
You're a great writer.
That's utterly absurd.
The second child of Lord Jo
insisted on taking the civil service exam
and caused a huge fuss.
Really? Why would any woman
do something like that?
Exactly.
FEMALE HISTORIAN BOOKS FOR SALE
The study books that will prepare you
to become a female historian
are currently for sale!
The difficult terminologies
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in the simplest way possible
to aid your understanding!
It highlights the key points to note from
what can be a boring study experience!
Are these the only women in Hanyang
who know how to read and write?
We got less than ten applicants.
I'm sure it's not because
they don't know how to read and write.
They're probably worried about
what the Crown Prince
might do to their daughters.
If they take the civil service exam,
they might not even be able to
get married.
They're most likely preventing them
from applying.
It doesn't matter how many people
take the state exam.
We just need one person to pass the exam.
Yes, of course.
My lord, should we gather these women?
My lord.
Second State Councillor.
I have come to greet you.
I'm the eldest daughter
of Jeongrang Song Jae-cheon.
JEONGRANG : A SENIOR FIFTH RANK TITLE
-My name is Sa-hui.
-Sa-hui.
What are you doing here?
I'd like to take the civil service exam.
What?
But in order to do that, I need your help.
Please help me convince my father.
What... What in the world are you saying?
Why would you do that?
Sa-hui?
You have a very clever daughter,
Lord Song.
I packed everything I could find,
from blankets to garments,
just as you requested.
I think
this should be plenty for her to use
until she marries off her grandson.
You did a good job.
You'll be busy tomorrow,
so you should go and get some rest.
Yes, my lord.
Jae-gyeong.
I didn't know you'd be here.
What's this?
Open it. It's a gift.
This is...
Back when I was young,
I really liked seeing you wear
this deep green garment.
I figured I should remind myself
of back then
in order to stop myself
from hating you so much.
Hae-ryung.
I will...
I will always be here for you.
Really? This is great.
My goodness.
-Get back to work.
-This way.
My gosh.
-It's a great day.
-Yes.
Thank you for coming.
Please take a seat.
My gosh, doesn't she look gorgeous?
Look at how beautiful you are.
My gosh, you look like a fairy.
Just have no more than ten kids.
They'll all look so pretty and handsome.
Don't you agree?
Where's Seol-geum?
Don't even get me started.
She's in her room, still crying.
The groom is coming!
-Look at him!
-My gosh.
-My goodness.
-He's so good-looking.
-How incredible.
-My goodness.
I'm sorry. I cannot...
I cannot go ahead with this marriage!
Your garment!
-Hurry up and untie this for me.
-Wait.
My gosh, this is crazy.
Let's go.
Lady Hae-ryung, your cheeks.
Seung-hun, have you lost your mind?
I'm sorry.
-My goodness.
-What in the world?
Over here.
You're so mean.
You know what will happen to me
if anyone finds out
that I'm at the library.
That's why I made everyone
in this area leave.
Will you please help me?
There's something I need to find,
but I can't seem to find it.
And there's not a decent precedent either.
Haven't you come up
with the exam question yet?
Isn't the state exam today?
Which is why I'm grasping at straws.
Do you have an idea?
I don't.
But what I do know is that you shouldn't
be looking at books for your answer.
There are already tons of officials
who can answer what's in these books
by heart, just as they've learned.
It is the duty of female historians
to record the faults
of the royalty, is it not?
Therefore, most importantly...
they must be impertinent.
They should be impertinent?
Find someone who does not fear the king,
the Crown Prince, or the officials.
I'm talking about a strange woman
who is as stubborn as an ox
and is as courageous as a general.
Can we find such a woman in Joseon?
I am sure we can
find her somewhere.
I'm here to take
the female historian exam.
I'm on my way to check out the exam.
If you think about it, I'm the one
who came up with the question.
Wouldn't it be a waste not to make use
of a smart woman like me?
The name of that woman
is Hae-ryung, is it?
Where can I find that woman?
Why are they always picking on us
all the time?
They're doing what? A hazing ritual?
This is where the path was made?
Did anyone come here?
Was there anyone other than us?
I've never seen
such an arrogant answer before.
You have the audacity to write something
like this. Do you think I'm wrong?
I asked you if you think I'm wrong.
Yes, you're wrong.
Subtitle translation by Eun-sook Yoon
What's your name?
I have a question.
How did you come up with
such a beautiful scene
where Master Kim confesses his love
beneath the cherry blossom tree?
Well, that's...
I visited Yudalsan last year,
and I was deeply moved there.
That's where I got my idea.
Yudalsan?
You're wrong.
If you don't tell me your name, I'll just
go ahead and give this back to you.
Maehwa.
Please write my name
as Maehwa.
The reason you don't enjoy
reading Maehwa's novels
is because you know nothing about beauty.
You?
Well, could you let go...
Gosh, let go of my hand.
Men and women mustn't hold hands.
You said Maehwa's book
is such a waste of paper.
You also said you're afraid
the delusion of Maehwa may spread
all around the city like an epidemic.
I have to say,
you have no principle yourself.
Are you a young noble lady
who is hoping Maehwa will quit writing
or just an imposter
who is using Maehwa's name?
Just stick to one thing.
No wonder you were so defensive.
You're Maehwa?
What a novel idea.
You visit every bookstore
and praise yourself.
How many copies
have you sold by doing that?
When did I do such a...
You're very confident for a fraud.
Don't jump to conclusions, please.
There's a reason I must do this.
So what? Are you asking me
to be understanding?
Well, that's not what I meant.
I was just...
Could you wait in that room over there?
I'll apologize to you properly in a bit.
Do you think I am the only person
you owe an apology to?
What's going on?
Regardless of how unworthy
you think my novel is,
all those people's love for Maehwa
is genuine.
You have no right to fool them
just to earn a little bit of money.
-Hence, if you wish to apologize--
-I should apologize to them.
-Maehwa!
-Maehwa!
-So that lady is Maehwa.
-My gosh.
Oh, my goodness!
-Oh, my goodness.
-Maehwa is really here!
There is something I must tell you all.
I'm...
not Maehwa.
-What?
-What?
Even though I'm not Maehwa,
I pretended that I was
and deceived all of you.
I apologize.
Has she lost her mind?
What? You're not Maehwa?
Then what is this signature here?
Did you con us?
-My gosh.
-I can't believe this.
-How dare she?
-How could she do such a thing?
However, the real Maehwa is here now.
-What's she saying?
-What?
-Does that mean...
-Is it that man?
-That man is Maehwa?
-Oh, my goodness.
-My gosh.
-Maehwa was a guy?
-Is he the one?
-Really?
-Gosh.
-Seriously?
-Maehwa is a man.
-Oh, my.
-My gosh.
-I can't believe this.
-My goodness.
-It's a man?
-My gosh.
-Seriously?
So it's not a woman?
The King's order!
Arrest Maehwa
and confiscate all the books!
Stop right there!
-Get her!
-Come here.
-What's happening?
-My gosh!
-Get them.
-Where's your book?
Get him!
-Get him!
-Catch him.
Let go! Let go of me, you jerks.
Hey! You!
Let go. I said, let go!
-Arrest him.
-Don't lose him!
-Let go!
-Get them.
-Get them!
-Seize the books!
-Don't you dare run away.
-Get them!
Where do you think you're going?
-Darn it.
-Get them!
-You!
-Get the books.
-What the heck?
-Stop right there!
What are you doing?
-Get them!
-Get all the books!
Get them!
-Get them!
-Seize all the books!
-Let us go!
-Come with us!
Let go!
-Come here.
-Let us go, please.
-Hey!
-Wait over there!
You little...
You rats.
Get them!
You, come here!
My gosh!
Do not forgive me, sir!
Hey. Hey, you!
Hey! Gosh, let go of me.
Hey!
-Eunuch Heo!
-Eunuch Heo!
-He's not at the library.
-Not in the garden either.
Did you search every nook and cranny?
-Yes, sir.
-Yes, sir.
Where could he be at this hour?
I have to do something.
I'll go find out what's going on.
Wait, where are you going?
It's the King's order, so he could be at
the Royal Investigation Bureau, right?
Please watch what you say.
You're a woman, you can't go in there.
-Then how about you go?
-My goodness.
Am I not even considered a woman
just because I'm a servant?
I told you it's not your fault
that the scholar got arrested.
I heard so many noble ladies
ran away to find the love of their life
after reading Maehwa's books.
That's why he's hated so much.
Still, how can they arrest him
just for that reason?
I can't stop thinking that it's odd.
Hey, excuse me.
Don't you find this person shameless?
If he has any shame,
he should quit writing.
However, the real Maehwa is here now.
Do not forgive me, sir!
Hey. Hey, you!
I'll get my revenge.
I will crush you!
Keep it down, will you?
Can't you see that I'm trying to sleep?
Are you blind or what?
I'm sorry.
I'll get my revenge.
I'll get back at you for this!
What's the matter, my lady?
Let's go.
MAEHWA
-Gosh, you scoundrels. How dare you!
-Move!
How could they be banned?
There were no problems with those books
even until yesterday.
How could they be banned overnight?
You thieves!
Park Dal-pae, you are guilty
of writing banned books. Show yourself
so that you can be arrested!
-Honey!
-Let go of me!
My husband hasn't even mastered
Chinese characters yet.
So how can you accuse him
of writing books?
What is this about?
What do you think you're doing?
-Stop right there!
-Darn it.
-Shit.
-You prick!
You scoundrels! What are you doing?
-My goodness!
-Gosh, madam!
You wenches!
MOONLIGHT LOVE AFFAIR
THE SORROWS OF YOUNG WERTHER
My gosh...
Why go through my books?
What?
You cannot tell me your name?
Well, it's not that I can't tell you.
You don't have to know my name.
That's what I'm trying to say.
Was he fed something spoiled
while in prison?
Look, Maehwa.
I need to know your name for my report
so I can hand it over to the higher-ups.
Do you need a beating first thing?
-Your name.
-I'm not Maehwa.
You little...
Show me your tag, then.
What? Are you going to say
you don't even have an identification tag?
Do you think I'm an idiot?
Everyone in the land of Joseon
must have...
You don't have an identification tag?
Must I have one?
What does your father do?
I mean... What does your father do, sir?
If you can't disclose any details,
just tell me his rank.
Sir, he's here to turn himself in.
What? Who?
The real Maehwa.
I'm Maehwa, you punks.
ROYAL INVESTIGATION BUREAU
-Your Highness!
-Your Highness!
"Your Highness"?
From the way he talks to how he looks,
he's got to be from a reputable family.
Tail him and find out where he lives.
Yes, sir.
Write it down.
I can't do this anymore.
Gosh, my back is killing me.
This is pissing me off.
"The heat inside the mill.
Where does Court Lady Kim go every night?"
They summoned officers
from the Royal Investigation Bureau
and the City Administration Office
as well as historians
just to confiscate these stupid books?
That's what I'm saying.
I didn't take the civil service exam
for this. I'm mortified.
THE HEAT INSIDE THE MILL
-Hey, what is this?
-Pardon me? Oh, that's...
How did it get in there? Goodness.
Are you lonely these days?
Officer Min!
Officer Min!
Jeez, move.
Officer Min!
You should've given me a heads-up
that you were coming by.
I dozed off in there for a few minutes,
not knowing you were here.
You punks, can't you see that Officer Min
is working? Go bring him a chair!
-What are you waiting for?
-It's okay.
It's not okay.
Officer Min, just have your subordinates
take care of this grunt work.
Let's go to my office and have some tea.
It's really okay.
Then let me just do the work for you.
I'd rather do it myself.
Did you just touch...
SACHAEK : BOOK OF HISTORICAL RECORDS
...this sachaek ?
Jeez, this is bringing tears to my eyes.
When did the deputy magistrate
of the junior fourth rank
become a servant
of a senior seventh rank official?
He'll even offer to wipe his butt.
He'll be good at that.
He's the Second State Councillor's son.
Who cares what his rank is?
Everyone calls him
the Crown Prince of the Min family.
He was born so lucky.
Can't he give up on at least one thing?
He's handsome, wealthy, and smart.
He has everything. Life is so unfair.
Life is unfair indeed.
Thank goodness
I got my good looks and wits.
Who?
-Oh, gosh.
-No...
-Oh, dear.
-My books!
-Gosh.
-Darn it.
No...
What a waste!
-How can they do this?
-What should we do?
-My goodness.
-What a waste.
-No...
-Gosh, my books...
DON QUIXOTE
I'd like to take a look
at the daily brief.
Today's brief from the palace.
I heard the people can read them too
if they pay.
Please allow me to have a look
at today's brief.
What is this woman uttering?
Only government employees like us
can read them
because we need them to do our jobs.
They're not meant for small fry like you!
Is that what you government officers
think of the people of this country?
What is the matter?
We can't show it to you,
but I can tell you what was on it.
What would you like to know?
-Officer Min.
-Then answer this question.
What was written about the banned books?
They didn't even put up a single notice.
They took my lifetime collection of books
without telling me anything.
Hence, I must know
why those books were banned
as well as why they arrested people
and ransacked their houses.
I at least need to know
what's written on the brief
to understand what's going on.
It was His Majesty's order
for he believes that
lowly literature and books
smuggled from Qing
are disturbing moral principles.
Yes, it was His Majesty's order.
Isn't that all you need to know?
Who cares whether or not you understand--
Even the King can't always make
the right decisions.
What did you say?
He believes that books are causing chaos?
Last spring,
a nobleman demolished ten houses
that belonged to commoners
to build a new house for his newlywed son.
Such things are what's really corrupting
moral principles and causing chaos.
Don't blame it on books.
So what?
Are you saying that His Majesty
made a bad decision?
According to The Great Learning ,
a king's likes and dislikes
must be in line
with those of his people.
However, our King
dislikes what his people like
and likes what his people dislike.
Thus, how could I be content
as one of his people?
Hae-ryung!
Lady Hae-ryung! My lady, gosh.
My gosh. She's not well.
She loses it from time to time.
I'm sorry, sir.
I sincerely apologize on her behalf.
My apologies, Officer Min.
That's okay.
My gosh!
Are you begging to get killed?
In front of government officials,
how could you...
How could you criticize the King?
Did Prince Yeonsan return to reign?
Why can't I make such a remark?
There are some things
that you must never say.
What would you have done if your remark
had reached the King's court?
I actually wish that happened.
The King's ministers need to know
what the people of this country
are seeing, feeling, and thinking.
Do you think they will listen to you
and change overnight?
Do you think a pebble can fill up a river?
No, it can't.
However, it can generate a ripple.
Why must it be you?
Why can't it be me?
-Why are you being--
-Don't you know why I'm being like this?
As for the books, I can get them again.
It'll take time and money,
but it can be done.
However, those who believe
that they can hold anybody accountable
and can take anything from anyone
if they can justify it.
I cannot tolerate such people.
Losing what is dear to us...
Haven't we experienced it plenty of times?
Don't follow me.
I'll go someplace else and inquire.
I found you a husband.
You'll receive his proposal letter soon.
I am trying to tell you
that you cannot live
under my roof and my protection forever.
I hope you understand my intentions.
Your Highness!
-Eunuch Heo is back!
-Sam-bo!
Sam-bo.
Your Highness, it's all sorted out now.
Don't worry...
Put your worries to rest.
Let's go inside. Be careful, okay?
Be careful.
Come on in.
Be careful.
Slowly.
-Good.
-A little closer.
Was it very painful?
Yes.
-You probably hate me now.
-Yes, I do.
If only I had never left the palace...
-Strip your pants off.
-Okay.
Come again? My gosh!
I got this from the Medical Office.
There's nothing like this
for flogging wounds.
It's okay, Your Highness.
I'll apply it myself when I'm alone.
The sooner it's applied,
the quicker the bleeding will stop. Hurry.
But... Your Highness.
Wait, hold on. I'll do it later...
-Hey, how dare you...
-Hurry.
-Sam-bo.
-Gosh! This is...
His buttocks look totally fine,
Your Highness.
Did you get flogged on the other side?
What? God, what are you doing?
Hey! Jeez, these wenches.
What happened was...
They said I could either write
a letter of apology and pay bail
or get flogged,
so I made a wise decision.
Then you should've just told me the truth.
Why did you have to worry me like that?
Well, I took the fall for you,
so I wanted you
to worry about me a little.
I was also hoping to take it easy
for a few days.
By the way, Your Highness,
you're in no position to be angry with me.
I clearly told you
not to go to the busy strip ever again.
How many times did I tell you...
Don't even talk to me
for the next three days.
Don't come near me.
At Dongungjeong at 4 p.m.,
the Crown Prince had a one-on-one
with Vice-Chancellor Jo Seung-gwang.
Regarding the damages caused by
the banned books, Jo Seung-gwang reported
that 6,829 books have been confiscated,
and 255 commoners are currently detained
at the local office.
He also said the total amount of bail
collected so far is 4,820 nyang.
Then the Crown Prince asked if
all of that happened in just three days,
and the Vice-Chancellor said
it doesn't include
other provinces
as he has yet to receive their reports.
After sitting silently for some time,
the Crown Prince dismissed
Jo Seung-gwang and the historian.
Even the King can't always make
the right decisions.
I will share my personal opinion.
The corruption in the royal court
is worsening by the day,
and the political tension is rising.
-No! My lord!
-This is unjust!
Meanwhile, the people are accused
of committing offences
even when they just reach out their hands
or take a step forward.
This is unjust!
Since the ancient times,
it has always been said that the skies
identify with the heart of the people
for it does not have its own.
Hence, what saddens the people
saddens the skies as well,
and what delights the people
delights the skies too.
-Please have mercy.
-Please have mercy.
Nevertheless, the ministers...
Please revoke your royal command!
...are not afraid of either
the skies or the people.
-Please revoke your command.
-Please revoke your command.
From my observation,
this crisis should be blamed
solely on them.
Identify yourself.
My lord. I'm Kim Cheok-jeom,
an officer from
the Royal Investigation Bureau.
There is something you should know.
Your Highness,
try your best to look chipper.
You haven't seen His Majesty
in a long time.
He'd never summon me for no reason.
You are his son.
I'm sure he misses you,
and his heart must ache
whenever he thinks about you.
You know that is not true.
How do I look? Should I fix anything?
No.
Father, how have you been?
I cannot be fond of you
no matter how hard I try.
You tell me. Have you lost your mind?
Or are you deliberately trying
to disgrace me?
I am not quite following
for my wisdom hasn't matured yet.
You even have the audacity
to lie to my face now.
MOONLIGHT LOVE AFFAIR
Must I read aloud each line
of this vulgar piece of writing?
So? You've been acting like a clown
behind my back,
and the foolish people praise you for it.
How does that feel?
Do you feel like you're the King?
I'd much rather see you
fool around with kisaengs or gamble!
How could a man write something
so preposterous?
I wrote those books
to relieve my feelings of boredom.
-I didn't mean to--
-Shut it!
You cannot hide your malicious mind
with such excuses.
Because I have a son like you,
I am too ashamed
to face the former kings after I die.
You are more wicked and malicious
than anyone
who has ever lived in this palace!
-Father.
-Listen!
Yes, Your Majesty.
Seize all the books at Nokseodang
immediately and burn them all!
Not just books.
Paper, brushes, and ink sticks too!
Seize anything related to writing
and burn them all to ashes.
From this day onward,
Prince Dowon shall be forbidden
from reading or writing any books!
Father, I sincerely apologize.
I'll... From now on,
I will never show anyone what I write.
Please revoke your order.
Writing and reading
are the only things I can do.
Without them...
Without them...
I have nothing.
Father.
Please...
Please...
Please.
Father.
Sam-bo...
Your Highness.
Your Highness.
Here.
Drink it.
Okay.
You'll be all right.
You should go.
You know that I cannot go back to sleep
after that happens.
I'll just sit here and look at the stars.
It's been a while
you last had your nightmare.
Did it leave you in so much distress?
This place sits at the corner
of the huge palace.
Nokseodang, where no one visits.
I could read or write 10,000 books
as I please...
without His Majesty knowing.
Then please do that.
I, too, will keep my mouth shut.
No. I don't plan on doing that.
Why not?
My father does not listen
to anything I say.
If I also refuse to listen to him,
we could hardly be a parent and a child.
Your Highness.
Maybe I should have asked him
to have me exiled.
If I'm sent to a river, I'll fish.
If I'm sent to a mountain,
I'll grow ginseng.
That way,
I'd have something to keep me occupied.
I found you a husband.
I hope this old man isn't bothering you
by calling you out so often.
Don't say that, my lord.
Please go ahead.
Am I only allowed to see you
when I have something to say?
But you aren't the type
who'd call me out to enjoy a chat.
Right.
There is no other partner better than you
when I wish to take some time
to discuss something.
The writer of The Story of Ho Dam .
Don't you think
there's something odd about him?
I have connections everywhere
in this land of Joseon,
and my influence reaches
every corner of this country.
But I cannot find a trace of that writer.
It's as if that person is behind my back.
The northwest is desolate and barren
with many places to hide.
-If you look a little longer--
-That's just a red herring.
The closer you are,
the harder it is to notice.
There is only one place that is close by,
yet out of my reach.
The palace.
Are you saying the writer
of The Story of Ho Dam is in the palace?
That is why
I plan on turning in a petition tomorrow.
My lord.
-The Crown Prince--
-He will have to accept this by tomorrow.
So do answer my question.
Do you think that is enough to catch
the writer of The Story of Ho Dam ?
You rogues! How dare you...
20 YEARS AGO
Where is His Majesty?
I asked you where His Majesty is.
Prince Hamyeong!
I've brought you the jeonwigyoseo ,
Your Majesty.
JEONWIGYOSEO :
ANNOUNCES THE SUCCESSION OF THE THRONE
THE STORY OF HO DAM
Second State Councillor.
You seem to have finally gone senile.
Your Royal Highness,
please watch the way you speak.
Historians are in your presence.
Yes, there are historians
in the assembly and the royal lectures.
They follow His Majesty and me
wherever we go
and write down everything we say and do.
I cannot speak or look
at anything as I please
in fear of what will be recorded.
Now you want to hire
female historians
to spy on me in my chambers?
Your Royal Highness.
I only suggested that
we keep female historians
to follow the ancient system.
Which book from which country mentions
of such absurd system
of having female historians?
It's in the law of Zhou Dynasty.
According to the law of Zhou Dynasty,
the Zhou Dynasty kept female historians
to record even the events
within the women's quarters.
Many future kings and sage men
gained wisdom from those records.
That country is gone.
It went into ruins over 1,000 years ago!
But they set an example
even after 1,000 years.
Joseon's judicial system is
built on the law of Zhou Dynasty.
I clearly remember
how Your Royal Highness last month
discussed the matters of rituals by using
ancient examples of the Zhou Dynasty.
Second State Councillor.
Unlike the women of Zhou,
the women of Joseon are illiterate.
Korean alphabets cannot be used
to keep record of events.
Vice-Chancellor is right.
A historian must have skills,
knowledge, as well as discernment.
Even the best scholars
who pass the state exam
fail to pass the historian exam.
Female historians are different.
A historian's duty is to write down
state affairs for the future generation.
But female historians can just write down
the everyday life in the palace.
We can pick out court ladies
who know the Korean alphabet.
That's what I'm trying to say.
All they can write down is
the everyday life of the palace.
There is no reason to pass that on
to the future generation.
The discipline of the Royal Family
will improve
in a female historian's presence.
Are you implying that
the current Royal Family
has no discipline?
Regarding that...
I cannot dare to speak of
what happens at Nokseodang.
Second State Councillor!
I already told you
it'll be hard to convince
the Crown Prince.
You can use this chance
to break his spirits
to teach him how to be a king.
So, do you think
it's going to take a long time?
The Crown Prince is a very clever man.
So I'm sure he'll come
to understand me soon.
You may leave.
I trusted you and gave you permission
to do something
that has never been done
in the history of Joseon.
If this ends up causing a problem,
you'll be dismissed from your position.
Your Majesty. Only three people
in this country know Ho Dam.
You, me, and...
I can't help but wonder
who gave you such a difficult task.
Your Majesty.
The hours are late.
Why are you not asleep yet?
I heard the lights in your palace
were still turned on.
This old lady couldn't fall asleep
because I was so worried
about my grandson.
I'm sorry.
I still have so much to learn.
I apologize for worrying you.
I'm not here to scold you.
I know it's not your fault.
I guess you heard
about what happened this morning.
So tell me.
Have you made up your mind?
It's not easy.
Of course not.
If you grant
the Second State Councillor's request,
the female historians will obviously
become his eyes and ears.
But if you refuse his request,
you'd feel uneasy thinking about
what he might do to your brother.
Your Majesty.
I do not want to be a Crown Prince
that gets swayed by the officials.
Nor do I want to be someone
who failed to protect his brother.
I really don't know
what I should do.
Your Royal Highness.
Why are you trying to enter
the Second State Councillor's territory?
Even an unwise decision
can lead to a wise one.
You should think about it a little harder.
Why does it sound so weird?
You are clearly
torturing our ears, Your Highness.
Please stop it.
-Please stop it.
-Please stop it.
Bear with it a little.
It'll get better soon.
You know I'm a quick learner.
You're definitely not a quick learner.
Where are you...
Hey, where are you going? Where...
You guys! Where are you going?
Hey.
Jin, did you see that?
This is how they treat me.
I heard you play just now,
and it was bad enough
to make me want to punch you.
Be grateful that no one hit you.
You're the Crown Prince.
How can you say that?
That's exactly why I can say that.
Hey, there's someplace
I want you to go with me.
-Where?
-You'll see.
I didn't know the sky looked so pretty
when it's close to sunset.
It's a very mysterious color.
Jin.
You've done more than enough
to console me.
You can scold me now.
You're the Crown Prince who barely
even has time to look at the sky.
I'm sure you're here
spending time with me for a reason.
I'm sure...
you heard about what I did.
That's upsetting to hear.
Did you think I'd scold you
for something like that?
It turns out
the renowned writer, Maehwa,
was actually a narrow-minded fool.
-Jin.
-I read your novel.
I was only going to read a little bit,
but I constantly found myself
flipping to the next page.
I started to regret not having read it
before it became a banned book.
-Stop making fun of me.
-I'm saying this because I'm proud.
If we were born
into a middle-class family,
I would've gone around the neighborhood
telling everyone
that my younger brother is Maehwa
and that he wrote this book.
But you and I have a lot to carry
on our shoulders.
Can you give me
an honest answer to this question?
I was your inspiration
for Master Kim, right?
-What?
-His handsome looks,
profound intelligence,
and gentle character.
That's obviously me.
Especially his looks.
His fair skin and deep eyes.
Don't get mistaken.
I only looked at myself in the mirror.
What?
If you say so.
Lady Hae-ryung!
Your brother chose a date.
It's the first day of next month!
-I see.
-According to the fortune-teller,
you guys will get along very well.
Once you marry him,
you'll apparently live a very happy life.
Your brother is very pleased.
-That's good to hear.
-Lady Hae-ryung.
Gosh, don't worry too much.
I actually went and took a peek
at your future husband.
And I was really startled.
He is very good-looking,
and he walks with a great posture.
I think he'll be a very kind husband.
I'm sure you both will get along.
I need to go somewhere for a bit.
Jang-su, don't forget to take this.
My goodness, be careful.
You might fall down again!
You finally gave him a name?
Yes.
At first I contemplated
between San-sam and In-sam.
But I realized that the best name for him
would be Jang-su
since he works at a medicine shop.
Jang-su is a great name.
You'll be greatly blessed
for your generosity.
You took in a boy who had nowhere to go.
My gosh, it wasn't just for him.
I'm always lonely and alone,
so I figured if I took in that little boy,
I could make him run errands
and have someone to talk to.
I did it for myself.
But what brings you here?
Did that break again?
No, it's not that.
I was thinking about selling it.
You want to sell the alarm clock?
Yes, I don't think I'll need it anymore.
So, how much
are you willing to pay for it?
His Royal Highness has arrived.
-Hand me the scroll.
-Yes, Your Royal Highness.
"The Second State Councillor
asked to hire female historians
15 days ago.
And I give him my consent."
Your Royal Highness, that is absurd.
Please withdraw your consent!
"However, female historians
cannot be recommended.
They must take the civil service exam.
There will only be one exam
throughout the day to determine
whether or not they've passed.
And I, the Crown Prince,
will decide the topic.
Anyone who passes the exam
will enter The Office of Royal Decrees
as an apprentice."
Your Royal Highness, how can you
let a woman take the civil service exam?
Men and women are different,
and we have strict cultural rules.
How can you let a woman
take the exam just like a man?
This is an outrageous decision,
Your Royal Highness.
This has never happened
in the history of Joseon.
Please withdraw your royal order,
Your Royal Highness.
-Please, Your Royal Highness.
-Please, Your Royal Highness.
Please allow me to say
a word of advice out of loyalty.
Please think about the Code of Law
of the royal palace.
The Code of Law of the royal palace?
The civil service exam
is a national exam that is connected
to our country's education.
Women lack education and knowledge,
and if you let them take the exam,
it'll be the same thing as going against
the basis of what the previous kings
have worked so hard to keep.
Second State Councillor.
Which previous king stated
that only men are allowed
to take the civil service exam?
Please answer me.
Where exactly in the Code of Law
does it say civil service exams
can only be taken by men?
As King Taejo built Joseon,
he announced that there should only be
one criteria when it comes to
hiring civil servants.
Education and moral conduct.
Being well-educated
and morally well-behaved.
If there's anyone who has those features,
I'm more than willing to hire them
even if they're women.
-However--
-Have you forgotten?
You're the ones who suggested
to hire female historians
and insisted on letting them
enter the royal palace
regardless of our strict cultural rules.
All I did was accept
your request.
Seriously?
Women will get to take exams?
What kind of nonsense is that?
This is more than just
writing things down.
It's not something
they can learn that quickly.
This is an insult not only to us
but to all the historians
from thousands of years back.
We should not stay still.
Gil-seung, didn't you say your cousin
is the head of Sungkyunkwan?
Tell them they should start
a mass demonstration.
I'll bring an axe.
We must put up a petition.
Yes, that's a good idea.
Who'd behead a historian
unless they've really lost it?
But
why aren't you saying anything,
Officer Min?
What can he say?
If the Second State Councillor
hadn't provoked His Royal Highness,
none of this would've happened.
Why must historians
be against the recruitment
of female historians?
What kind of absurd nonsense is that?
Why shouldn't we be against it?
Since our childhood we learned that
women should never
be interested in national affairs.
Even if we were taught that
through many books,
the Code of Law should always come first.
The... The Code of Law?
-In the Code of Law--
-There is no such article
that says women aren't allowed to take
civil service exams.
They're going to hire female historians?
My goodness, I've never heard of
anything more outrageous.
I guess the world is starting to change.
-My gosh.
-This is absurd.
You should take the exam.
You're a great writer.
That's utterly absurd.
The second child of Lord Jo
insisted on taking the civil service exam
and caused a huge fuss.
Really? Why would any woman
do something like that?
Exactly.
FEMALE HISTORIAN BOOKS FOR SALE
The study books that will prepare you
to become a female historian
are currently for sale!
The difficult terminologies
are explained in Korean alphabets
in the simplest way possible
to aid your understanding!
It highlights the key points to note from
what can be a boring study experience!
Are these the only women in Hanyang
who know how to read and write?
We got less than ten applicants.
I'm sure it's not because
they don't know how to read and write.
They're probably worried about
what the Crown Prince
might do to their daughters.
If they take the civil service exam,
they might not even be able to
get married.
They're most likely preventing them
from applying.
It doesn't matter how many people
take the state exam.
We just need one person to pass the exam.
Yes, of course.
My lord, should we gather these women?
My lord.
Second State Councillor.
I have come to greet you.
I'm the eldest daughter
of Jeongrang Song Jae-cheon.
JEONGRANG : A SENIOR FIFTH RANK TITLE
-My name is Sa-hui.
-Sa-hui.
What are you doing here?
I'd like to take the civil service exam.
What?
But in order to do that, I need your help.
Please help me convince my father.
What... What in the world are you saying?
Why would you do that?
Sa-hui?
You have a very clever daughter,
Lord Song.
I packed everything I could find,
from blankets to garments,
just as you requested.
I think
this should be plenty for her to use
until she marries off her grandson.
You did a good job.
You'll be busy tomorrow,
so you should go and get some rest.
Yes, my lord.
Jae-gyeong.
I didn't know you'd be here.
What's this?
Open it. It's a gift.
This is...
Back when I was young,
I really liked seeing you wear
this deep green garment.
I figured I should remind myself
of back then
in order to stop myself
from hating you so much.
Hae-ryung.
I will...
I will always be here for you.
Really? This is great.
My goodness.
-Get back to work.
-This way.
My gosh.
-It's a great day.
-Yes.
Thank you for coming.
Please take a seat.
My gosh, doesn't she look gorgeous?
Look at how beautiful you are.
My gosh, you look like a fairy.
Just have no more than ten kids.
They'll all look so pretty and handsome.
Don't you agree?
Where's Seol-geum?
Don't even get me started.
She's in her room, still crying.
The groom is coming!
-Look at him!
-My gosh.
-My goodness.
-He's so good-looking.
-How incredible.
-My goodness.
I'm sorry. I cannot...
I cannot go ahead with this marriage!
Your garment!
-Hurry up and untie this for me.
-Wait.
My gosh, this is crazy.
Let's go.
Lady Hae-ryung, your cheeks.
Seung-hun, have you lost your mind?
I'm sorry.
-My goodness.
-What in the world?
Over here.
You're so mean.
You know what will happen to me
if anyone finds out
that I'm at the library.
That's why I made everyone
in this area leave.
Will you please help me?
There's something I need to find,
but I can't seem to find it.
And there's not a decent precedent either.
Haven't you come up
with the exam question yet?
Isn't the state exam today?
Which is why I'm grasping at straws.
Do you have an idea?
I don't.
But what I do know is that you shouldn't
be looking at books for your answer.
There are already tons of officials
who can answer what's in these books
by heart, just as they've learned.
It is the duty of female historians
to record the faults
of the royalty, is it not?
Therefore, most importantly...
they must be impertinent.
They should be impertinent?
Find someone who does not fear the king,
the Crown Prince, or the officials.
I'm talking about a strange woman
who is as stubborn as an ox
and is as courageous as a general.
Can we find such a woman in Joseon?
I am sure we can
find her somewhere.
I'm here to take
the female historian exam.
I'm on my way to check out the exam.
If you think about it, I'm the one
who came up with the question.
Wouldn't it be a waste not to make use
of a smart woman like me?
The name of that woman
is Hae-ryung, is it?
Where can I find that woman?
Why are they always picking on us
all the time?
They're doing what? A hazing ritual?
This is where the path was made?
Did anyone come here?
Was there anyone other than us?
I've never seen
such an arrogant answer before.
You have the audacity to write something
like this. Do you think I'm wrong?
I asked you if you think I'm wrong.
Yes, you're wrong.
Subtitle translation by Eun-sook Yoon