Why ‘The King’s Affection’ is Reshaping Historical Drama: A Deep Dive into the Film’s Powerful Themes and Audience Reactions
Daniel Kim Views
[SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye] The film “The Man Who Lives with the King” has taken the box office by storm, surpassing 1 million viewers nationwide in just five days. As the movie gains popularity, two historical sites have also captured public attention: Jangneung, the tomb of King Danjong, and Gwangneung, the final resting place of King Sejo.
Set in the aftermath of the Gyeyu Jeongnan (1453), a political upheaval where Prince Suyang (later King Sejo) usurped the throne from his young nephew King Danjong, the film offers a fictionalized account of Danjong’s exile. It transforms this tragic historical event into a deeply moving narrative.
Interestingly, the movie never shows Prince Suyang (King Sejo), who stole the throne from his nephew. Instead, Han Myung-hwi (played by Yoo Ji-tae), Sejo’s trusted advisor, takes on the role of the villain, inciting audience outrage with his portrayal.
Unlike typical historical dramas, “The Man Who Lives with the King” doesn’t simply depict Danjong as a ill-fated monarch. Through his relationship with Eom Heung-do (Yoo Hae-jin), who remained loyal until the end, the film poignantly restores Danjong’s royal dignity and majesty.
The movie’s impact has extended beyond traditional review platforms. Viewers are leaving emotionally charged comments on the review pages of Jangneung, Gwangneung, and even the tomb of Han Myung-hwi. A fascinating trend has emerged: people are posting messages of remembrance and mourning at Jangneung, while expressing anger and criticism at Gwangneung.
“The Man Who Lives with the King” tells the story of a village chief who voluntarily exiles himself to Cheongryeongpo in 1457 to revitalize the community, and the young deposed king in exile. The film stars Yoo Hae-jin, Park Ji-hoon, Yoo Ji-tae, and Jeon Mi-do, and is directed by Jang Hang-jun, known for “Forgotten” and “Rebound”.
ebada@sbs.co.kr
Trending Stories
- Nam Hyun-hee: “My marriage fell apart because of the other woman… I’ll reveal everything”
- Kang Daniel enlists quietly… “I’ll be back from military service” with a buzzcut
- Late Oh Yoon-na’s colleague Geum Chae-rim also bids farewell… All MBC weather forecasters depart
▶ SBS Entertainment News Home
ⓒ SBS & SBS i: Unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited
Most Commented