Asian dramas like
The Crowned Clown

The narrative centers around a crown prince named Lee Sun, who battles the Pyeonsuhwe organization that wields total control over the kingdom and monopolizes the water supply through privatization. This drama weaves together elements of romance, action, and courtly intrigue as Crown Prince Lee Sun valiantly fights for the welfare of his people, while Han Ga Eun unexpectedly finds herself falling for him instead of seeking revenge for her father's execution at his hands. In “The Emperor: Owner of the Mask,” there are palace conspiracies related to the true authority behind the throne, along with a surprising twist when the prince swaps identities with a commoner. Ultimately, the central theme of the series is love, which permeates the romance between the prince and his beloved, as well as their shared compassion for the nation and its citizens. (MBC)

Prince Yi In, who was taken captive by the Qing Dynasty, faces betrayal from his own brother, King Yi Seon, whom he once trusted. Despite his emotional turmoil, Yi In finds solace in a mysterious baduk player who captures his interest. As he rises to power, Yi In struggles with his emotional vulnerability. Kang Hui Su, a talented baduk player, falls in love with him but later becomes a spy with a mission to seek vengeance against the king.

Feng Zhi Wei, the disfavored daughter of the Qiu Family, is forced to escape under unfortunate circumstances. In debt to the 6th prince Ning Yi, Zhi Wei disguises herself as a man to enroll in the prestigious Qingming Academy and becomes the top scholar to the Emperor. She remains loyal and truthful to the ruling Emperor amidst the power struggle among the princes, all while developing feelings for Ning Yi as he delves into his past and seeks vengeance for his loved ones. Despite their genuine love, can they navigate through the deceitful plots and numerous obstacles in their path? Based on the book "Huang Quan" by Tianxia Guiyuan.

Wang Xuan and Xiao Qi enter into a marriage of convenience to gain influence, but their feelings for each other deepen as they unite to defend their land. Facing a corrupted imperial family and indifferent nobles, Wang Xuan, a strong-willed woman, and Xiao Qi, a man from humble beginnings, find themselves entwined in a prophecy that ties their destinies to the empire's future. Despite being wed to Xiao Qi by her father, Wang Xuan experiences betrayal when he is unexpectedly called away on their wedding night. Kidnapped by the Helan Prince as an act of revenge, Wang Xuan comes to appreciate Xiao Qi's dedication to peace, bringing them closer together. Amid power struggles between the Wang and Xie clans, as well as threats of treachery and rebellion, Wang Xuan risks everything to protect the third prince and secure their future, placing her hope in Xiao Qi to bring about salvation. This story is adapted from the novel "Emperor's Conquest" by Mei Yu Zhe.

Kang Han Su, a shrewd attorney who manipulates clients for his own benefit, becomes celebrated as a hero by the general population

This drama explores the life of King Jeong Jo, the 22nd ruler of Joseon, who is celebrated in Korean history as one of the nation's finest kings, known for his compassion for the people and his governance aimed at benefiting the common folk.

Set during the Enlightenment period of 19th-century Joseon, this story features a protagonist who is the offspring of the kingdom's most renowned swordsman. Following the loss of his father and the sale of his younger sister into slavery, he exchanges his sword for a firearm as he sets out on a quest for vengeance. Throughout this journey, the drama aims to illustrate the struggles and bravery of the youth from that time.

This drama revolves around the romantic relationship between King Jung Jong and Queen Dan Kyung, who was both crowned and ousted within a single week due to opposing political factions that influenced the king’s governance. As per historical accounts, following the queen's removal from the palace, the king would visit the outer royal pavilion daily, letting out a sigh as he looked towards a mountain in her direction. In response to this, she placed a red skirt, her favorite attire from her time in the palace, on a rock on the mountainside as a way to reassure him of her well-being and her enduring feelings for him.

Genghis Khan established a vast empire that extended across significant areas in East Asia and Eastern Europe. Within the Yuan Dynasty, which he founded, there was a remarkable woman who wielded substantial influence for 37 years. She was not of Mongolian heritage nor Han Chinese; instead, she hailed from Goryeo, a minor kingdom in the Far East. Initially taken to Mongolia against her will as a Gungnyeo (court lady), she managed to rise above her humble beginnings to become the final empress in a foreign land. Her name was Empress Ki. (MBC)

Ta Gon has risen to become the most influential figure in Arthdal

The Northern Wei Dynasty was destroyed overnight, leaving Princess Feng Xin Er as an orphan. Despite narrowly escaping death, she finds herself in enemy territory where she takes on the identity of Li Wei Young, the Prime Minister's daughter. Enduring numerous challenges, she ultimately uses her intelligence and commitment to justice to rise as a formidable figure and find love.

Princess Se Ryung, the determined and progressive daughter of Grand Prince Su Yang, who aspires to the throne, finds herself in love with the son of her father's fiercest rival. Their relationship becomes entangled in the turmoil of her father's ambitions for kingship.

Kang Eun Bo is resolute in her quest to seek justice for her twin sister’s murder during the deeply traditional Joseon Dynasty. To achieve her goal, she must secure the royal title of Queen, which entails winning the affection of King Lee Kyung, who prioritizes political stability over romantic pursuits. As Kang Eun Bo vies with other women for the king's attention, she discovers that he remembers her from a dream, leading to an unforeseen connection. Will she be able to uncover her sister's murderer while navigating the intricate dynamics of love and power?

Jang Il, the brightest student in his school, and Seon Wu, the most physically powerful boy in Yeosu, share a close friendship. Inspired by Jang Il, Seon Wu begins to dedicate himself to studying and pursuing his ambitions. Suddenly, tragedy strikes when Seon Wu's guardian, Kyung Pil, dies under mysterious circumstances, leading to Seon Wu losing his sight while probing into the incident. Su Mi observes Jang Il assaulting Seon Wu but chooses to remain silent, biding her time for the opportune moment. Ji Won, who volunteers as a reader for those with visual impairments, encounters Seon Wu by chance, and they develop a romantic relationship. Despite his deep affection for Ji Won, Seon Wu decides to end their relationship, believing it would be best for her future. Thirteen years later, Jang Il has become a special prosecutor, while Seon Wu has risen to the position of a young CEO at Royal Tree, an investment trust firm. Ji Won has taken on the role of a VIP party planner at a luxury hotel, and Su Mi has established herself as a hyper-realism artist. Though their paths have diverged, destiny conspires to bring them back together.

Commander Zhang Xiao Mei of the Beiyi division, sibling of the pregnant Noble Consort, harbors a deep-seated grudge against Crown Prince Li Ye for framing and killing their father. When he captures Zhu Qing Zhu, a top spy for Li Ye, Zhang Xiao Mei seizes the chance to expose the prince's misdeeds. However, Li Ye pins the blame on Qing Zhu to evade punishment. Zhang Xiao Mei intervenes to save Qing Zhu from imminent death, feeling compassion for her despite being manipulated by Li Ye. As they grow closer, Zhang Xiao Mei and Qing Zhu discover their intertwined destinies and develop feelings for each other. But the crown prince resurfaces, unwilling to relinquish his power or let Qing Zhu find happiness with another man.

A clandestine group referred to as "Golden Cross" exerts significant influence over the Korean economy and market through its extensive connections and wealth. Prosecutor Kang Do-yoon becomes embroiled in their activities when one of their schemes leads to the murder of his cherished sister, for which his father is subsequently wrongfully accused. Determined to avenge his sister, Do-yoon sets his sights on Seo Dong-ha, the influential figure behind the organization. However, his mission becomes complicated when he discovers that Seo is the father of the woman he loves, his colleague Seo Yi-re. Yi-re is an honorable prosecutor dedicated to justice; she has always held her father in high regard, and her world is upended when she uncovers his sinister side. At the same time, Seo mentors businessman Michael Jang, whose insatiable ambition soon drives him to compete with Seo for supremacy. This sets the stage for a confrontation involving power, wealth, and personal conflicts.

Princess Jung Myung was the last living direct descendant of King Seon Jo, and her arrival was joyously celebrated throughout the palace. She possessed the most charming smile imaginable for an infant. Queen In Mok felt a sense of relief upon giving birth to a girl rather than a boy. The seer Nam Sa Go had foretold that the child she bore would emerge as the true sovereign of the Joseon Dynasty, a king of kings; however, the existence of a princess contradicted that prophecy. Unfortunately, the chaotic period that followed took a severe toll on Princess Jung Myung. After King Seon Jo's passing, Gwang Hae took the throne, and his first actions were to eliminate Prince Yeong Chang and expel Queen In Mok from the palace. Princess Jung Myung soon became his next target. Realizing the threat to her daughter's safety, In Mok arranged for her to go into hiding. Nevertheless, assassins managed to find Jung Myung. Thanks to the brave sacrifice of her bodyguard, she escaped on a boat that drifted aimlessly in the ocean. Meanwhile, her bodyguard and nanny set their own boat on fire, sacrificing themselves to deceive the assassins. Jung Myung witnessed the flames engulfing her nanny and protector. Adrift at sea, she lost consciousness and was rescued by a merchant vessel bound for Dejima in Japan, where she was sold into slavery. To endure the harsh conditions, she concealed her royal identity and buried her memories of being a princess, focusing solely on her desire for vengeance. Disguised as a boy, Jung Myung labored in a sulfur mine but found a glimmer of hope in the form of a friendship with Ja Gyung, which helped her to endure. However, her ultimate goal remained clear: to return to Joseon and wreak havoc on Gwang Hae, the man who had taken everything from her. Eventually, an opportunity presented itself. She began trading information and secrets within the sulfur mines. Utilizing her strategic position, she followed the Joseon delegation back to her homeland. At last, her long-held dream of returning to Joseon had been realized… (MBC)

A distinguished academic unexpectedly finds himself as the guardian of a playful princess. Gyeon Woo enjoys the reputation of being “Joseon’s National Treasure,” celebrated as one of the leading scholars of his era. When the king requests that he properly instruct his spirited daughter, Princess Hye Myung, Gyeon Woo realizes he faces a significant challenge. However, as rebels threaten Hye Myung and jeopardize her future rule, Gyeon Woo unwittingly steps into the role of her protector. What starts as a job he never anticipated transforms into a mission to save Hye Myung from a dire fate and secure her throne. (Viki)

Taking place during the Warring States Period, the narrative centers on a remarkable prodigy with a mysterious background. Similar to a chess grandmaster, Wang Chan orchestrates events during turbulent times to suppress rebellion and bolster his nation's power, eventually earning the revered title of Gui Gu Zi. In 390 BC, Wang Cuo aids the Crown Prince of Wei in thwarting a coup, leading to the exile of Wei Huan and the escape of Wu Qi to Chu. Following a momentous victory, Wang Cuo faces retaliation from Wu Qi, who seeks to claim Sun Tzu's The Art of War for himself. Surrounding the manor with five hundred soldiers, Wu Qi massacres all within. Despite the tragedy, Madame Wang gives birth to Wang Chan, who grows up to become a skilled political strategist.

A young lady from the Eight Banners' lineage weds the Emperor and rises to become the Empress Dowager, overcoming numerous plots and deceptions. Throughout her journey, she evolves from a compassionate and intelligent girl to a ruthless and scheming woman.

The young Crown Prince Xiao Ding Quan faced early losses with the passing of his mother and sister. His relationship with his distant Emperor father is strained due to the influence of his maternal uncle General Gu and the army under his command. Living in constant fear of losing his loved ones, Ding Quan both admires and fears his formidable father, whom he desperately seeks approval from. However, he also dreads the disappointment that may come if he fails to meet his father's expectations. Meanwhile, his scheming elder brother Prince Qi, supported by Chancellor Li Bai Zhou, plots against him, causing harm to those close to Ding Quan and worsening the divide between him and the Emperor. Teacher Lu Shi Yu, a fatherly figure influenced by Confucian values, plays a crucial role in Ding Quan's life. He plans to recommend his daughter Wen Xi as the Crown Princess to help Ding Quan gain a trustworthy ally in court. Ding Quan and Wen Xi cross paths when she assists her troubled brother, leading to a mutual admiration between them. Despite never seeing her face, Ding Quan is drawn to Wen Xi, who later disguises herself as a maid in the Crown Prince's residence to aid her imprisoned father and brother. Together, they work to solve two cases and bring justice to the villains, supporting each other through dangers and sacrifices to bring peace to the nation.

"Dong Yi" is a historical series that tells the story of Dong Yi, who later became known as Choi Suk Bin. Initially, she served as a humble water maid in the royal palace. King Sok Jong chose Choi to be his concubine, and she later gave birth to Yeong Jo, his second son, who would go on to become the future king of Joseon. Following Yeong Jo's birth, Dong Yi would be elevated to the status of Suk Bin.

Chuno narrates the tale of Lee Dae Gil, a nobleman whose life takes a tragic turn when Won Ki Yoon, a slave, sets fire to his home and flees with his sister, Un Nyun, who harbors feelings for Dae Gil. Fueled by a thirst for vengeance, he endures the brutal realities of life on the streets and establishes himself as a slave hunter, determined to locate Un Nyun, his first and only love. Meanwhile, Song Tae Ha, a General of the Army, becomes a slave after being wrongfully convicted of a crime he didn’t commit and finds himself evading Dae Gil's relentless chase. The two men become enmeshed in a love triangle involving Un Nyun, who has transitioned from being a runaway slave to Kim Hye Won, the daughter of a nobleman.

"The King's Face" narrates the tale of Prince Gwang Hae, an illegitimate offspring of King Seon Jo, who grapples with his father's indifference and a persistent sense of not belonging within the royal palace from a young age

Set in the early 19th century, the narrative follows Goo Hae Ryung, an apprentice aiming to become a palace historian. During this period, societal norms did not permit women to document history. Determined to carve out her own path in a Joseon society steeped in Confucian values, she is resolute in her mission to serve as a historian and demonstrate that equality exists for all. The drama intertwines her struggle alongside other female palace historians with her romantic involvement with Prince Yi Rim, who harbors his own secrets. (Koreandrama.org) Available formats include: 40 episodes of 35 minutes each (TV) or 20 episodes of 70 minutes each (Online).

In the 1600s, during the Qing invasion, a romantic tale unfolds between a noblewoman and a mysterious man who arrives in her hometown. Yu Gil Chae, known as the 99 tailed fox of Neunggun-ri, is a charming yet somewhat spoiled young woman who is not well-liked by her peers due to their jealousy of her straightforward nature. Despite her ability to attract suitors, she struggles to win over the one she desires. Lee Jang Hyun, an enigmatic newcomer to Neunggun-ri, garners mixed opinions from the young nobles but gains favor with the elderly. His interest is piqued by the 99 tailed fox, and their paths collide unexpectedly. As war looms on the horizon, the pair is torn apart before they can explore their burgeoning emotions.

Ba U, a disreputable individual engaged in gambling, theft, and brawling, conceals his real self while profiting from Bossam, a traditional remarriage practice in Joseon involving the abduction of widows for marriage. In a misguided attempt, Ba U unknowingly abducts Princess Hwa In, the daughter of King Gwang Hae and the daughter-in-law of his rival Lee I Cheom. Princess Hwa In is coerced into a political marriage with her deceased husband's sibling, resulting in her becoming a widow on her wedding day.

Pyeong Gang, a princess by birth and a soldier by upbringing, harbors ambitions of becoming the first Empress of Goguryeo. Despite facing numerous challenges, she remains resolute and determined. Her life takes a turn when she encounters On Dal, a gentle man who values peace. Despite their differences, Pyeong Gang falls in love with On Dal, who reciprocates her feelings. In the midst of power struggles for the throne, On Dal risks everything to protect her. Pyeong Gang must now navigate the complexities of power and love as she pursues her goal of becoming Empress, even if it means sacrificing everything.

In the story, Jang Hyun, a stoic individual, discovers a new sense of purpose in life when he crosses paths with the delightful Gil Chae

Thirteen-year-old Heo Yeon U, the daughter of a high-ranking official, encounters Crown Prince Yi Hwon during a celebration for her brother’s civil service exam, and they fall in love

Set against the backdrop of the Joseon Dynasty (during a tumultuous era marked by justification conflicts and espionage as the Ming transitioned to the Qing), the story unfolds during a time of heightened public demand for social change. This historical action-romance drama, structured in three arcs, depicts the lives of warriors and spies navigating the complexities of borders. It centers on Crown Prince So Hyeon, his loyal bodyguards Heo Seung Po and An Min Seo, and Park Dal Hyang, a yangban warrior who, despite his humble beginnings, possesses charm and good looks. Dal Hyang finds himself entangled in a love triangle involving Yoon Seo, the Crown Princess, and Crown Prince So Hyeon. Additionally, Jo Mi Ryeong, who was once the prince’s first love, transforms into his adversary, seeking vengeance against him. Loosely inspired by Alexandre Dumas's novel "The Three Musketeers."

The narrative revolves around a young man who embarks on a journey to discover himself and his affection for a forgotten princess. Heo Jun, facing prejudice as a child born out of wedlock, abandons his innate abilities, intellect, and love for learning. Constrained by his social standing, he opts to earn a living by leveraging his attractive appearance and charming personality. In a parallel storyline, Queen Sim struggles with infertility and turns to a shaman whose dark magic grants her twins—a son and a daughter. Tragically, the girl, Seo Ri, is cursed and left in the remote mountains, where she eventually encounters Heo Jun. The curse afflicting the forsaken princess dictates that anyone who loves her will meet a tragic end. In her quest to break the curse, Seo Ri develops magical remedies that successfully heal the sick. Unfortunately, Heo Jun unintentionally ignites the Book of Magic, prompting him to remain in the mountains alongside Seo Ri to assist in healing the ill within a nearby village. As Heo Jun's enthusiasm for medicine flourishes, he resolves to pursue a career as a doctor. Witnessing Seo Ri's struggle against her fate deepens his feelings for her, leading him to also believe that he can alter his own destiny. (JTBC)

As the King of Joseon falls victim to smallpox, whispers of his demise start to circulate

Located in the ancient realm of Arthdal, Eun Seom, marked by a destiny that foretells calamity, and his mother face numerous challenges before escaping to a different territory. Although Eun Seom is raised in this new environment, he remains an outsider. Ta Gon, a celebrated warrior of Arthdal, aspires to become its inaugural king. Meanwhile, Tan Ya, who is fated to be the revered mother of the Wahan Tribe, grapples with her responsibilities, and Taealha, the daughter of the Haetribe chief, has even larger ambitions.

Ta Gon enjoys his position of power from his throne, but his reign is now at risk as Eun Seom rallies the slaves and peasants of Arth to resist the ruling class. While Ta Gon has successfully concealed his half-Neanderthal lineage from everyone, his purple eyes reveal his readiness to confront Eun Seom fiercely. At the same time, Taealha is in danger of being assassinated by an unidentified foe, and Tanya is finding it difficult to adapt to her recently acquired abilities in Arthdal.

Kim Tae Hyeon is a skilled surgeon facing financial struggles to cover his sister's hospital expenses. In his quest for money, he takes on the alias Yong Pal and provides his medical expertise to individuals in urgent need of care who cannot seek help openly, often interacting with criminals and corrupt elites. During one of these clandestine visits, Tae Hyeon revives "sleeping beauty" Han Yeo Jin, an heiress from a wealthy family, who has been placed in a medically induced coma, resulting in unexpected repercussions.

During the 18th century in Korea, Prince Yi San is haunted by his father's murder and aims to become a compassionate ruler who reforms the kingdom's laws. He is next in line to the throne after his harsh grandfather, the current king, passes away. At court, he meets Sung Deok Im, a spirited and intelligent young woman. While Yi San falls in love with her and proposes she become his concubine, Sung Deok Im struggles with the limitations and duties of royal life. As their love grows, she sees the potential for positive change in the kingdom through their relationship.

During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), Choi Cheon Joong was renowned as the foremost fortuneteller and physiognomist in Korea, as well as an adept gambler and martial artist. He is cherished by the citizens of the nation and is a staunch patriot. However, he now confronts his greatest challenge as he resolves to dismantle the corrupt regime governing the country, aspiring to install a virtuous young prince from a lesser royal lineage in their stead. Choi believes this prince is the perfect candidate to ascend the Joseon throne. Additionally, he identifies the ideal royal consort for the new ruler—a modest girl from the streets. Choi Cheon Joong must harness all his talents to assist the couple in seizing power, with support from Princess Hwang Bong Ryun, a woman who also possesses remarkable fortune-telling abilities. As they embark on this bold endeavor, they begin to develop romantic feelings for each other... (Viki)

Following a series of unexpected events, Cheng Shao Shang and Ling Bu Yi are set to wed with the approval of the Emperor. However, they still face numerous challenges ahead. Cheng Shao Shang, who was neglected and abandoned in her youth, must now refine herself into a lady befitting Ling Bu Yi's status under the guidance of the Empress. Despite valuing her independence, she finds herself constrained by her engagement to Ling Bu Yi. Ling Bu Yi, on the other hand, is on a mission to uncover the truth behind his clan's massacre and seek revenge, all while harboring his own secrets. Will they be able to overcome these obstacles and create a bond that outshines the stars in the sky?

A drama unfolds the tale of romance and matrimony in the midst of a deceitful game played by a manipulative woman and another woman striving to reveal and penalize falsehoods

Fifteen years following the coronation of Emperor Ka Hing during the Qing dynasty, the kingdom seems to be peaceful. However, tensions rise among the imperial concubines as they vie for the emperor's affection. As the triennial imperial concubine selection approaches, all the concubines, including the emperor's favorite Yu Fei, feel anxious. Yu Fei faces competition from imperial descendant Yuk Ying, powerful eunuch's adopted daughter Yi Sun, and experienced imperial servantmaid On Sin. These women are both allies and rivals in the battle for the emperor's love. Yi Sun eventually falls for imperial physician Bak Yeung, who also captures the hearts of courtesan Heung Fou Lady Fuk and his neglected wife. However, Bak Yeung only has eyes for Yuk Ying, the one who least reciprocates his feelings. Meanwhile, as a palace maid, On Sin falls for imperial guard Hung Mou, but he distances himself from her once she becomes a Lady, the emperor's concubine.

A young woman discovers from her whistleblower father that being truthful isn't always the best approach. Shortly after tying the knot, she finds herself overwhelmed by insurmountable debt that she cannot manage. However, through a series of events, she begins her journey towards joining the top 1% of wealth holders and intentionally seeks to expose their wrongdoing and hypocrisy. Her quest unveils an insatiable greed and thirst for power driven by the chase for wealth and profit. Meanwhile, two friends aspire to attain the same financial success, which unintentionally turns them into rivals, leading to heartache, strained relationships, betrayal, and a love triangle. Amidst this chaos, a resolution emerges, bringing forgiveness and a renewed connection with family. (MBC)

A tale of healing old wounds and resentment that have strained the relationship between Xiao Dingquan and his father, the King. Despite being the crown prince, Xiao Dingquan (played by Luo Jin) was not favored by his father (portrayed by Huang Zhizhong). Through various experiences, he has evolved into a wise and brave man. When Qi Wang (portrayed by Jin Han) was banished, Xiao Dingquan planned to depart peacefully with Lu Wenxi (played by Li Yitong) but soon realized she was in danger from unknown enemies. Tired of the constant conflict and chaos, Xiao Dingquan seeks to resolve the situation through Zhao Wang's marriage. Teaming up with Lu Wenxi and Xu Changping (portrayed by Wang Yu), Xiao Dingquan aims to uncover the mastermind and shift the odds in their favor. As news of Gu Silin's demise spreads and Xiao Dingquan heads to Changzhou to take control, the King finally expresses regret and apologizes to his son.

A young woman from a rural area decides to pursue a career in acting, starting from the bottom. She encounters a cynical and egotistical celebrity who eventually develops feelings for her. Jian Xi relocates from her small town to Beijing in search of her birth mother. Through a twist of fate, she becomes involved in the entertainment industry and must compete against other up-and-coming actresses for a shot at stardom. Along the way, she captures the heart of the conceited top actor Tang Fei with her natural charm and dedication to her craft.

Zhu Ying Tai, a young lady, decided to conceal her identity as a female in order to enroll at a school in Hangzhou. During her journey, she encountered a fellow traveler and classmate named Liang Shan Bo. They developed a strong bond and made a pact to be sworn brothers. Over a span of three years, they shared living quarters and studied together, with Liang remaining unaware of Zhu's true gender.

Ling Wan, a young and beautiful girl, disguises herself as ugly to avoid marriage. She befriends Chor Chor, who is also not conventionally attractive. One day, Ling Wan saves the Emperor in disguise, revealing her true beauty to him. Smitten, the Emperor arranges for her to come to the palace. Upon learning of the Emperor's intentions, Chor Chor seeks out the "face changer", Siu To, to switch faces with Ling Wan. With Chor Chor now posing as Ling Wan, she enters the palace while the real Ling Wan, realizing the deception, decides to confront the Emperor on her own.

Choi Jung Soo was abandoned in an orphanage by his father, who could no longer care for him after his wife left for another man. Although he had a promising future in the medical field, the tuition fees were beyond his means. In a state of hopelessness, he journeyed to the remote island where his father had been raised, hoping to find him there. He ended up spending seven years on the island, working under the mentorship of its sole physician, and became quite proficient in medicine. However, when he treated Yoon Jung Won, who was suffering from severe appendicitis, he was mistakenly recognized as a skilled doctor, complicating his life. Yoon Jung Won was the daughter of the proprietor of a prestigious hospital in Seoul, and as they began to develop feelings for one another, it became complicated by her engagement. Unable to resist his love for Jung Won, he started deceiving himself and those around him about his qualifications. The higher he climbed in his newfound status, the more devastating his fall became. The love he believed would provide him everything ultimately turned toxic. He lost everything except for the unwavering support of the woman who stood by him through it all. This story is inspired by the novel "Kumo no Kaidan" by Junichi Watanabe.

The series seeks to present a historically precise depiction of Cao Cao, chronicling his life starting from his youth and early professional endeavors up to the time leading up to the Battle of Red Cliffs. The content is based on the book "Records of Three Kingdoms" by Chen Shou.