In the 17th episode of The King’s Affection, palace rumors drive Ji-un to accept his father’s proposition to marry So-eun.
Putting an end to the spreading rumor, Seok-jo uses the fact that Yi Hwi is a woman to marry off Ji-un to So-eun. Refusing his father’s way, Ji-un has no choice but to comply unless Seok-jo cannot guarantee Yi Hwi’s safety.
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Episode Recaps: 01 & 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | 07 | 08 | 09 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | Finale + Review |
The King’s Affection Episode 17 Key Moments
“Even if he saw anything, he would not be able to speak of it easily”
Following Lord Changun’s sudden attack, Yi Hwi and Ji-un returned to the palace.
Conversing with a concerned Court Lady Kim, she inquires as to why Seok-jo was at Officer Yoon’s burial place. Lady Kim also wonders if he is aware of Yi Hwi’s secret.
Doubting the possibility of Seok-jo knowing the truth, Yi Hwi undeniably asserts that even if he did, it would be difficult for him to speak of it.
To conceal Seok-jo’s mistake, the least he could do is not reveal that Yi Hwi is a woman, as doing so would culminate in his demise.
Learning the news that assassins attacked the King, Jaeun pays Yi Hwi a visit. He consequently asks Yi Hwi whether Changun really directed the attack.
Meanwhile, Yi Hwi insists on not publicizing the incident in order to avoid causing chaos at the palace.
“I told you that I am ready to endure all the consequences.”
With Prince Wonsan’s frustration at not being able to establish conclusively that the King is a woman, he concocts a rumor that Yi Hwi and Ji-un have been seeing each other since they both returned to the palace together.
Rumors travel quickly and reach the Queen, who initially disbelieved them, but after seeing Yi Hwi and Ji-un together late at night, she confirms her suspicions.
Although Ji-un is aware of the rumors about him and Yi Hwi, he treads cautiously in case he and Yi Hwi are seen together.
However, Yi Hwi reminds him that the rumors do not bother her since she is willing to endure any consequences in order to be with him.
“If it is because of the rumors spreading within these walls, please do not proceed any further.”
Still doubtful that Ji-un will wed So-eun, Yi Hwi firmly refuses to accept Ha-gyeong’s words.
Afterwards, during her evening walks, Yi Hwi runs into Ji-un, whom she had not seen all day.
Telling Yi Hwi with a heavy heart, Ji-un admits that he is getting married.
Asking if the reason for his marriage was due to the rumors, Yi Hwi pleads with Ji-un not to continue anymore. However, when asked what the reason was, Ji-un responds that it is what he wants.
With tears in her eyes, Yi Hwi watches Ji-un walking further away from her after repeatedly ordering him to stop.
The King’s Affection Episode 17 Musings
Despite the guarantee that Yi Hwi would endure everything for their love, Ji-un couldn’t risk her safety in order to reject her father’s wishes regarding his marriage with So-eun.
We can also feel Ji-un’s anguish as he walks away from Yi Hwi, knowing he will be unable to remain with her and keep his promises.
However, we cannot ignore the fact that Yi Hwi’s life is in grave danger as more people become aware of her true identity.
Without a doubt, The King’s Affection episode 17 draws closer to wrapping up its story as we are tormented with the same sorrow as the fated couple, who are once again on their separate ways.
Watch the last 3 episodes of Park Eun Bin and Kim Rowoon’s poignant palace romance in The King’s Affection on Netflix!
Photos: KBS
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