The Red Sleeve

This drama is based on the true story of King Jeongjo, the 22nd king of Joseon, and his concubine, Ui Bin Sung. It depicts the tragic yet noble love between Yi San, Jeongjo, known as the greatest wise king of Joseon, and Deok-im, a court lady who wanted to live her own life rather than become the king's woman. It's a heartbreaking royal romance about Deok-im, who loved Yi San but also wanted to protect her autonomy as a court lady. The story concludes with a touching ending where Deok-im, who eventually became a royal concubine, passes away first, and then Jeongjo, who is on the brink of life and death, chooses her in the afterlife and they reunite. This ending seems to leave the most lingering impression of the drama. Instead of a typical Cinderella story, I found it refreshing how the historical romance was interpreted from the perspective of a court lady's autonomy and choices. I highly recommend 'The Red Sleeve,' a well-made drama, also thanks to the great chemistry between actor Lee Se-young, who excels in historical dramas, and actor Lee Jun-ho~~