Original subtitles

BON APPÉTIT, YOUR MAJESTY

-[pounding] -[pants]

-[moans] -Go on. Ask her why she's so mad.

-Gosh. How am I to know that? -What is this?

-What has gotten into her all of a sudden? -[yells] You're all gonna die! [pants]

What on earth is that pounding sound?

There is no more quiet here.

I guess the performers must have been summoned again.

Gosh. And the whole palace is in disarray already.

I bet it's not them though.

Is this your first day in the palace?

The performers would be here.

We should hurry.

We need to cook the breakfast,

before we get scolded for being late. Okay?

CHOJOBAN: EARLY MORNING MEAL THAT USUALLY INCLUDES SOOTHING FOOD

[sighs] All right.

[pounding continues]

[clears throat] Why are you pounding the fish that way?

You are frightening me, d-doing that.

[horror movie music plays]

-[screech sound effect] -[gasps]

You're finally here.

[chuckles]

-[pounding resumes] -She's not stopped going at that fish.

Just hitting it. All night. She will not stop.

I, uh, I need to go visit Saongwon, so I will go now.

[clears throat]

-Oh, uh, well, then I'll go with you. -Uh, wait, Man-su!

Now I remember, I think we're short on firewood.

Uh-oh, we cannot run out of firewood.

I will help.

-Screw this! [pants] -[yelps]

Your face is like...

It looks all haggard. What has happened, miss?

You can say what is going on here.

Hey.

It's just us two now. Okay?

So hurry up and tell me. What is wrong?

-[yells] You're dead to me! -[exclaims] Oh, my goodness!

Do I really have to make hangover soup for that guy? Huh?

And there's no chili powder anywhere here.

[yells]

It died twice, I guess. The poor little pollack.

Come on, miss. Can you tell me what you're trying to cook? Huh?

Huh?

I was going to make dried pollack hangover soup,

however, beating it isn't very graceful.

-Is it? -No.

I'm afraid that it is not. Goodness.

Gil-geum, take the rolling pin.

Huh. Yeah?

Next... [sighs]

...I will crush all the little bits and pulverize it.

Yeah. I am gonna crush you!

[yelling]

[yells]

[roaring sound effect]

[panting]

SNOWFLAKE SCHNITZEL

[sighs]

[Mal-im] Your Majesty, your breakfast is ready to be served.

You can enter.

YI HEON KING OF JOSEON

Your Majesty, are you all right?

You are here? [chuckles]

[gulps, sighs]

[sighs]

To cure your hangover after you drank yesterday,

I've prepared a dried pollack consommé to help Your Majesty.

A FRENCH-STYLE CLEAR SOUP

[traditional Asian music plays]

[grunts]

Pollock-con so-me?

Yes.

It's a French-style soup made with dried pollack.

Oh.

A soup with dried pollack.

-You will taste it. -Yes, Your Majesty.

-[traditional Asian music plays] -[sighs]

CHOI MAL-IM KING'S SENIOR COURT LADY

[chuckles]

[chuckles]

Um, hang on.

Did you not say it was dried pollack soup?

So where did all the dried pollack go?

I made it easier for you to eat. I crushed it up before adding it in.

-You're welcome. -[gulps]

Please have some more.

Go on. See if you feel anything poking you.

Nothing will, though. I'm sure.

[sighs]

Everyone may be excused, except the chief royal cook.

-Yes, Your Majesty. -Yes, Your Majesty.

-[door opens] -[footsteps depart]

[Yi Heon sighs]

Did, um, something happen last night that I do not know?

[laughs]

[sighs] I was just about to ask you that.

You don't remember anything you did at all?

Well, I was drinking a bit and then...

And then what?

Well, you drink to forget things.

So I suppose I do not recall.

Ah, you're telling me that

you have completely forgotten everything that happened with us last night?

Whoa. You are overstepping there.

Why do you keep asking anyway?

"Please just stay still.

For a moment."

-You still don't know? -What, um... Know what?

[sighs]

It's a bit awkward to explain it further. [chuckles]

You're done, right?

Why are you acting this way?

Please speak straightforward.

[grunts]

Your Majesty.

I would like to clarify one small thing to you now.

You're not my type, even in the slightest way, all right?

I'm not your what?

Are you serious? You are not my type. What one prefers in the other.

And you, Your Majesty,

you do not have any qualities that I look for in a guy.

[scoffs]

Have you forgotten?

All you are is my chief royal cook.

Which means that I consider you to never go seen or viewed as a woman here.

[scoffs]

That's good to hear.

So then, is that all you wanted to clarify?

[scoffs]

I've truly had enough of this.

[laughs]

I'll keep it short and sweet.

Understand...

that, from now on, keep your mouth... I mean...

Be mindful of how much you drink at night, all right?

All right. I will

be more careful when I am drinking.

[sighs]

-Take the table. -[servants] Yes, Your Majesty.

[scoffs]

She is truly being...

[sighs]

[clicks tongue]

[grunts]

Chang-seon.

CHANG-SEON CHIEF EUNUCH OF ROYAL FOOD

You called, Your Majesty?

Last night at Unyeongjeong,

what exactly happened to the chief royal cook?

Last night, the chief royal cook...

The chief royal cook?

She, uh...

[grunts]

Had been kissed by Your Majesty.

[gasps]

I kissed the chief royal cook? When I was drinking?

[Ji-young] Tonight I've... [gasps]

Please stay still.

[gasps]

Your Majesty...

-[gasps] -Stay like this.

Just for a moment.

[gasps]

-[gasps] -[laughs]

You don't remember anything you did at all?

Be mindful from now on,

of how much you drink at night, all right?

What on earth shall I do about this?

[sighs]

It would be convenient for both of us to pretend it never happened.

No. I should appease her since I acted in such a way towards the chief royal cook.

Hold on.

Why am I

worrying over this sort of thing?

I am the king of this land,

and Cook Yeon is merely the chief royal cook.

[scoffs]

It grows more absurd the more I even think about it.

[clicks tongue]

[clears throat, clicks tongue]

[Ji-young] He seriously doesn't remember?

[sighs] You seriously have to be freaking kidding me. This jerk.

[sighs] I get that he blacked out,

but still how can he be so shameless about that sort of thing?

I didn't even expect an apology or anything.

[sighs] This is absolutely insane.

[Gong-gil] Something on your mind?

Why are you over there just grumbling endlessly?

[Ji-young] Uh...

Who are you? Do I know you?

GONG-GIL - YEONHUIGUN'S JESTER WITH MANY SECRETS

Hold on. You honestly do not know?

Well, I wouldn't be asking if I did.

I mean, you don't exactly look like a new cook.

[sighs]

[harp strumming]

[Ji-young] Whoa. What are you doing?

Oh, you're the jester from before.

Gong-gil?

That's right.

I apologize for when we met and my behavior.

Tell me, then.

Are you here to trick me again with your so-called dancing?

[scoffs]

Well, since I last saw you, I have been

assigned as the new chief royal cook of the palace.

The junior sixth-rank, I believe.

Jaebu.

Oh, wow. How frightening.

Junior sixth-rank, Jaebu.

[laughing]

What's funny?

I'm giving you a warning right now.

All right. All right.

Understood. I hear you loud and clear.

[scoffs]

Oh. By the way, how is that court lady fairing?

What was her name again? Gil-geum?

Someone just knocked me over with their arm and... [exclaims] ...I hit the ground.

But then a man appeared and shouted at the culprit.

The guy was Gong-gil. He's that handsome jester.

Ah.

Yes. Gil-geum is doing well for herself.

Did you see the culprit or know who it was?

-I don't know. -Darn.

However,

the person was in court lady clothes.

I caught a glimpse of the hem of her skirt.

A court lady? [gasps]

Wait, who the heck would do...

Tell Gil-geum to be very careful around here for the time being.

Yes, sure.

Gil-geum is grateful for what you did that day.

Ah, please. It was nothing.

I saw it while I was searching for someone. That's all.

-Who were you looking for? -[shushes]

Ignorance is for your own good.

Yeah.

So, farewell.

I will see you next time, Chief Royal Cook.

[laughs]

What was that?

Wow. People are seriously weird around here.

Really not used to this at all.

[screams, grunts]

[Gong-gil] Who are you?

[troupe leader] They dragged her away to Jahongwon and she came back dead.

And all of this is all because of that damn king!

[crying]

[young Gong-gil] They said you get to live comfortably at the palace

with good food and good clothes, but what is this? [sobbing]

My sister, Ok-dan...

[sobbing continues]

[Gong-gil] If I continue to watch you,

I shall find out soon enough.

For I have finally found the owner

of this binyeo that my sister clung to even after death.

[Mok-ju] Speak plainly.

During the competition, are you absolutely sure that Gong-gil did not see you?

Yes, Your Grace. There's no need for concern.

Could it truly be that the lowly jester

is suddenly harboring some feelings for the gwinyeo?

[laughs]

How amusing is that?

If you are right about that,

and the jester is secretly harboring feelings for her,

then he will be a constant hindrance.

Have someone trustworthy go find out more about this Gong-gil fellow.

I must know why he's suddenly involved in the gwinyeo's affairs.

Yes, Your Grace.

Oh, and after that,

I need you to inform the chief eunuch I would like to make a request

after the morning assembly to have an audience with His Majesty.

It shall be done. I will send word, Your Grace.

[chuckles]

[Song-jae] Your Majesty,

all of these matters are concerning the ministers.

What are all these petitions for?

They are requesting to decrease the amount of ginseng

that the Hwanghae Governor submits as taxes.

They want the amount of ginseng to go down?

They claim they are suffering from a shortage of ginseng to submit as taxes

due to increased smuggling in Kaesong.

However, the envoy, who will be arriving from Ming in four days,

is said to also be interested in discussing this issue.

Pardon?

Not only are they buying out Joseon's ginseng illegally,

now they want to turn it into a diplomatic issue? [scoffs]

Does Ming intend to take all of Joseon's ginseng?

It is not for certain yet, Your Majesty.

Please remain calm.

[sighs]

So then,

who is the chief envoy this time?

He is one of the eight directors who have gained the emperor's support and trust.

The Imperial Palace Eight.

THE IMPERIAL EIGHT: EIGHT EUNUCHS FAVORED BY THE MING EMPEROR

Yu Kun, their leader.

Yu Kun?

The envoy that returned to Ming two years ago

agreed to stop accepting women as tribute.

Was it not that eunuch who called for the envoy to be punished?

Your Majesty is correct.

What on earth is he plotting now?

Why is someone like him coming personally as the chief envoy?

I want you to find out about his true intentions.

Yes, Your Majesty.

I will send a message to the reception official and find out in detail for you.

[sighs]

Excuse me, Your Majesty.

Last night,

when you were having your meal,

the chief royal...

-Forgive me, Your Majesty. -That's enough suspense.

Hurry up and say it.

[clears throat]

Whilst enjoying your meal last night,

with the chief royal cook, you...

[kisses]

...did such things. I am wondering if it's true.

P-Pardon?

I do apologize. Shall we head out now?

Uh, wait a moment!

[Song-jae] Uh...

Come over here.

I had a few drinks is all.

My actions have granted grace upon an audacious woman,

but instead of being grateful, a harsh frost

has covered an already unattractive face.

It is a spectacle to witness. Truly.

[chuckles]

Why are you laughing right now?

You see,

it is known far and wide that women are weak to gifts, Your Majesty.

You are positive?

Is it not enough that I bestowed grace? Now I have to buy her a gift too?

When a harsh face grows harsher,

would Your Majesty not find it difficult to keep looking at?

That is true.

Well, then,

what gift do you think would end up appeasing such a woman?

-My guess is silk? -Tsk, tsk, tsk.

A binyeo? Or what about... a ring?

No, Your Majesty.

Listen, it is known that you must never give just any sort of gift to a woman.

-Oh, then I must... -What does she like?

The key is to find out what that is and present that.

Well, I have no clue what she likes. How am I supposed to know?

Truly.

That is why women are difficult to understand.

Her Royal Highness may prefer books over jewelry on one hand,

while you may know that Her Grace prefers jewelry over books.

And even though they are both women, what they like is completely different.

Therefore, I believe you should give it some deep thought, Your Majesty.

[Min-seong] Your Majesty.

The envoy from the Ming with the emperor's edict

will be arriving in Hanyang in four days.

I have heard.

Are we ready for the arrival?

The office of the second minister of rites, Lord Yoo Hyeong-min,

has been appointed as reception official

and is on his way with the escort, Your Majesty.

[Mun-jeong] The main road from Namdaemun to Taepyeonggwan

has been ordered to be cleaned for the delegation, Your Majesty.

In addition, we have already organized a grand welcoming ceremony with jesters

to entertain the delegation.

Once the official schedule ends, boats will set sail on the Han River

to hold a poetry reading.

They have been ordered to thoroughly prepare.

Tell me, what of the bansong preparations?

SENDING THE CHINESE ENVOY OFF WITH GIFTS WHEN THEY RETURN TO CHINA

As well as having rolls of silk, there are 200 gwan of silver ingots

that have been prepared for the envoy

-to take back to Ming. -Pardon me?

200 have been cleared?

[Song-jae] Yes, Your Majesty. But that's not all.

Just transporting them to the border alone requires eight people

for every transport cart.

-That's 60 people in total, roughly. -[scoffs]

Half of the national treasury will be depleted.

Your Majesty,

this is something we must endure

in order to maintain a harmonious relationship with Ming.

However, 200 gwan of silver ingots is excessive, Your Majesty.

Even during the last envoy visit, it wasn't this excessive, so I must agree.

Have you forgotten? The last envoy was a civil official in Ming

who was not motivated by money.

However, the director eunuch coming this time

is notoriously greedy and arrogant even in Ming.

If we are in excess, we can reduce it,

but if we are lacking, it could be too late, Your Majesty.

For now, this is our best course of action.

I share the same sentiments as Lord Councillor Han.

We do not know what demands this chief envoy will make,

and we cannot ignore the influence they currently hold.

We must aim to avoid conflict this visit,

-should we not, Your Majesty? -Enough!

You've spoken enough.

As you all know,

the blood and sweat of the people

is what built the national treasury.

Yet you all

are eagerly catering to their whims and minding yourselves

without plans to protect the national treasury that we have built?

You prepared silk and 200 gwan of ingots because you are unsure of their demands?

[laughs]

And you stand here today, claiming that your actions are in the people's interest?

Can you truly say that you are acting in the interest of our country now?

However, Your Majesty,

diplomatic issues cannot be approached solely from our own standpoint.

The tax by the blood and sweat of Joseon, lies solely with the Joseon royal line.

Lessen the number of silk rolls and silver ingots to be sent to Ming

and prepare the reception for the envoy... using the least amount.

[all] Yes, Your Majesty. We will do as you have ordered.

Your Majesty.

All of you, step back.

[all] Yes, Your Majesty.

What do you want?

We found Yi Jang-gyun, fallen down at Banchon this morning.

Is he still alive?

Yes. He has deep wounds and appears to be unconscious.

Where is he now?

And the draft?

We were not able to find it.

He was taken to safety to receive medical treatment, but...

Say it.

There is no trace of him. He has disappeared.

He just vanished?

Yes. There were no signs of intruders, Your Majesty,

so it seems that he has left on his own.

Hang on, but in that condition, where could Yi have hidden himself?

It is clear that there is someone looking for Yi Jang-gyun, in pursuit of his life.

[Yi Heon] Who on earth is it? Who?

Select a few discreet and swift soldiers immediately... to find Yi.

Yes, right away.

You have to hurry yourself.

Your Majesty, Her Grace is requesting to have a brief audience with Your Majesty.

Will you proceed to Jahongwon?

Today... I shall not be bothered by anyone.

Ah, however... [stammers] Your Majesty!

[court lady] The butterfly hairpin, Your Grace.

Yes, this is quite lovely.

[Chu-wol] Leave the room at once.

What is it?

His Majesty has left the hall of governance

and immediately headed to his bedchamber.

What's that? Did my message reach His Majesty?

That I requested an audience with him?

-He had been told. -[scoffs]

[sighs] Is this truly how he'll treat me from now on?

Make haste! Drag the queen out!

[Yeon] Let go! Let go of me! [cries]

How dare you? [sobs]

Your Majesty, why are you...

I do not want to hear any more. Take her away now!

-Let go! I said, let go! -Get up, Your Royal Highness. Please!

[Yeon] Your Majesty, Your Majesty! [echoing]

[Yeon] A king is one who fathoms and understands.

He must consider his family, the heavens, and understand the hearts of others.

[young Yi Heon] Fathom and understand?

[Yeon] Once you grow up, you will understand.

Your Majesty, this way leads straight to the royal kitchen.

Uh, why did I come... here?

Are you going to eat it or not? Ah.

It makes me glad to see you enjoying it.

I figured that... you'd have a lot on your mind today with everything going on.

Being king must come with its perks, but also a fair share of challenges as well.

[Yi Heon] My heart is heavy today, but how is it that you come to mind?

[sighs]

[Su-hyeok] Someone is looking for Yi Jang-gyun, in pursuit of his life.

[Yi Heon] Even I have never seen the draft records.

So who on earth is pursuing Yi this persistently and why? I must know.

Your Majesty... it is I, Court Lady Choi.

-You can enter. -[door opens]

Your Majesty. For today's royal dinner...

-Not today. -Yes?

-How about... -Enough!

Today, I do not wish for a meal of any kind.

Yes, Your Majesty.

[door opens]

So he is not only skipping his meals but staying in his bedchamber as well?

Something does not feel right.

Have you heard yet? About how His Majesty kissed the new chief royal cook

when she served him his meal at Unyeongjeong last night?

Yes, I have.

However, that was because His Majesty was drunk...

It couldn't have just been that he was drunk.

There are always signs before these things happen.

What do you mean?

The very existence of the chief royal cook is a thorn I can't get out.

What should we do about it?

If he refuses to see me,

then I have no choice but to pay a visit.

Do I remember correctly that the jinhu is soon?

CEREMONY OF CHECKING THE KING'S HEALTH

Yes, Grand Prince Jesan will be coming to the palace in two days' time.

Lovely.

I have a wonderful idea. How about I serve His Majesty his food that day?

An excellent plan, Your Grace.

So you can win His Majesty's favor back.

[chuckles]

And what would be a good dish to serve?

His Majesty has decided to skip today's dinner.

Okay.

-What? He doesn't want dinner? W-Why? -I am not sure to be honest.

But he has ordered that no meals are to be served today.

It's rather strange, though, to give that order.

[Chun-sik] Strange indeed!

It is quite unusual for him to ever skip a meal, so I am worried.

Well, I'll get started on making dinner.

If he won't eat it, then there's nothing we can do.

Please say you have an idea.

We'll definitely try our best. Don't worry.

Yes, brilliant. You are doing good work. [sighs]

[all] Take care, sir.

-[Bong-sik] My goodness, this is really... -Let's go.

-What? -Le... Hmm?

[Gil-geum] Le-Le... Lego!

[Maeng] We could have removed the chief royal cook through that competition.

I have no excuse for my failure.

I am giving you one last opportunity to become the chief royal cook.

Your Grace...

-this is? -Bisang.

POISON/ARSENIC USED FOR EXECUTIONS OR ASSASSINATIONS

Watch for the right time and mix that into the royal meal the gwinyeo prepares.

[sighs]

ROYAL DINNER

Mmm.

CHICKEN FRICASSEE A FRENCH CREAM STEW WITH CHICKEN

What?

EARLY BREAKFAST

[Mal-im] Your Majesty, your early breakfast is served.

Gosh.

[Ji-young] He really should try this one.

LUNCH

[Mal-im] Your Majesty, your lunch is served.

-[sighs] -[Ji-young sighs]

[exhales]

ROYAL DINNER

[sighs]

[yawning] It's exhausting. So exhausting.

Goodness, you've worked so hard today, miss.

You worked really hard too, Gil-geum.

[Ji-young sighs]

Oh, my. Wait, you're not going inside to sleep?

Mmm, you go ahead.

All right. But hurry up and come in soon.

[Ji-young] I will.

[sighs]

[chuckles]

How did I end up here, of all places?

Winning La Poêle d'Or feels like it was only yesterday.

[chuckles] Now it feels like a past life.

[chuckles]

[sighs]

I can't help but wonder how Dad's doing.

I really miss him.

[sniffles]

He better not be skipping meals like His Majesty is doing.

[sighs]

[gasps]

Oh, my. You've gone insane. This is crazy. Crazy!

[gasps]

Whoa. What did I imagine right now? Huh?

Anyway, is this guy not even a little hungry?

Everybody needs to eat, so why on earth is he acting this way?

Seriously, though.

[sighs]

[owl hoots]

Our little princess, is this little bite good enough for you? Say, "Ah."

This is called "tableside service."

It's so that you can watch your food being prepared and ignite your hunger.

Here, watch me. "Ah."

[stomach gurgling]

Am I thinking of you because I'm hungry?

Or is it that I am hungry because I am thinking of you?

I cannot tell.

Chang-seon.

Yes, Your Majesty.

When will dinner be served?

Huh?

Did you ask me when dinner tonight will be served?

Yes.

[Chang-seon] Oh...

I have grown quite hungry.

[Chang-seon chuckles]

[Mal-im] Your Majesty, the royal dinner is served.

[Yi Heon] Bring it in.

[door closes]

[Mal-im clears throat]

It has been a while now, Chief Royal Cook.

Yes, it's been a while, Your Majesty. Too long.

So, what is for dinner tonight then?

I made chicken soup to soothe your stomach.

Considering you haven't eaten a meal all day, Your Majesty.

A CLEAR CHICKEN BROTH WITH MEAT AND VEGETABLES

What did you put in it?

It's been simmering with a few vegetables as well as whole pieces of chicken.

I thought you could use "simple" and "comforting."

-Hmm. -Just in case it might upset your stomach,

I also wanted to give you dongchimi as an easily-digestible side dish.

[chuckles]

You will be tasting it.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Mmm...

Mmm...

[sighs]

[chuckles]

It is truly delicious.

[Yi Heon grunts]

[romantic ballad playing]

Ah...

[sighs]

[Yi Heon chuckles]

Hmm? What am I feeling? Why am I so proud?

[chuckles]

[song continues]

[chuckles]

[heartbeat thumping]

[Yi Heon] When I look at you...

why does my heart... pound so heavily like so?

[song ends]

GRAND PRINCE JESAN'S RESIDENCE

Was it not recently, the anniversary of your brother Kim I-son's death?

Indeed, my lord. His tragic passing was... too sudden for us.

He did pass away so suddenly during the Muin Purge,

along with the brothers and the friends of the other lords.

That is why we have gathered like this, is it not?

Yes.

Then tell me why...

you sent an assassin without my permission into the Salgoji Forest.

With your entire family almost wiped out during the terrible purge...

I have no doubt that after you survived on your own, you felt ashamed of it.

After all, you were His Majesty's teacher.

Even so, did you think it acceptable to go off on your own and act out like this?

I thought that there would be no better opportunity than that very instance.

I sincerely apologize, Your Highness.

You are the reason that His Majesty doesn't have a calm heart any longer.

The day you are discovered, we will all pay...

for what you have done.

[Yang-son] The land deed for the Yeoju area.

With this, you and your family can now live comfortably

for the rest of your lives.

Grand Prince Jesan knows that I was the one who orchestrated

sending an assassin into the Salgoji Forest.

Henceforth, you live as if you were already dead.

[grunting]

[grunting continues]

[Deok-chul] Capture him!

[grunts]

[breathing heavily]

So Grand Prince Jesan is the reason for Kim Yang-son?

[scoffs] Interesting.

[sighs] It reeks of a foul stench.

So you're saying you lost him again?

I deeply apologize, Your Highness.

He is no ordinary man. A rat-like scoundrel.

I will capture him and eliminate any future threats.

You have already let him slip away once.

And now you will never find him again.

[Deok-chul] My lord!

He is the one who attempted to assassinate the king. He will surely reveal himself!

-[screams] -[cowers]

[breathing shakily]

If you ever fail me again, next time I promise it will be your head.

Understood, my lord!

JAHONGWON

[Mok-ju] His Majesty has begun to eat the chief royal cook's meals again

since last night?

Yes, Your Grace. I heard it directly from a court lady at His Majesty's quarters.

Chu-wol, go to the royal kitchen with this message at once.

Because today, I, Consort Kang, for His Majesty, the connoisseur,

will take care of the lunch preparations for the jinhu.

I'll send the message.

And deliver this separately to Cook Maeng.

Yes, Your Grace.

I will not let this get in my way any longer.

I will be teaching a lesson personally to the chief royal cook.

You will always burn yourself, whenever you fly too close to the sun.

[Chun-sik] Here, here, here, here.

-[Bong-sik] Oh, my, sir. -Yes, hello, hello.

-Oh, my. Oh, my. Here we are. -The cut you wanted.

-Oh, wow, thank you. -This beef is a very good cut

-from Banchon. -[Ji-young] Whoa...

[Gil-geum] Oh, my. Look at this beautiful meat.

It must have been freshly butchered, judging by the marbling on it.

It also has a nice sheen.

-Wow, this is as fresh as it gets. -Wow.

Oh, miss, you're right.

It has that distinct, rich aroma that you get with very fresh meat.

[chuckles]

There is already meat at the Saongwon. Why did you go all the way to Banchon?

Because His Majesty will have the jinhu today,

so Grand Prince Jesan will be at the palace.

If you could, please make a unique, royal meal with this.

[chuckles]

I will. Um, but what is jinhu, um, exactly?

It's when the Grand Prince Jesan will have an audience with His Majesty

and will examine the health of His Majesty

with the royal doctor present as well.

Ah, a health check-up, really.

He-health check-up?

Well, yes, you could say that, I suppose. [chuckles]

Um, so will His Majesty and Grand Prince Jesan dine together today for this thing?

That is right. You should start,

and prepare so it's ready for them after the jinhu.

-Yes, sir. Understood. -[chuckles]

[Gil-geum] Please take care, sir!

[cooks] Take care.

So, uh, who exactly is Grand Prince Jesan?

He is family of the late king, his cousin actually.

The late king is His Majesty's father.

Ah, so he's another royal. [chuckles]

Wait a second. Grand Prince Jesan?

Wasn't it Grand Prince Jinmyeong who became king through the coup?

[sighs] This is really confusing.

Okay. Since a special person is coming today, the menu... [grunts]

I believe we should have a meeting about the food? Hmm?

-Food meeting. -[cooks murmuring]

[Gil-geum] Come on. Don't just stand there. Let's gather together, all right?

[Bong-sik sighs] A meat-ing?

Here we go.

[Chu-wol] Cook Maeng. A word.

[Maeng] Ah!

Yes? What is it you need?

For today's lunch, Her Grace will personally prepare the meal.

Therefore, you must prepare these dishes.

She will prepare lunch? We have a chief royal cook. How could...

Do not argue about it!

Yes, I apologize.

BAEKMAJATANG, HWANGJAGYE HONDONTANG

Hen meat only?

Hmm. Can you make this side a little bit rounder?

-Yes. Like this much? -Mm-hmm.

-[Gil-geum] Mmm... Okay. -[Ji-young] I think we're done.

So, since today is important,

I thought we could make a very special kind of meal for our guest of honor.

[Gil-geum clears throat]

-Cook Maeng isn't here though? -Ah... Well, he...

I am here.

Uh, it's just... I just heard that Her Grace will be personally serving today's lunch.

What? And who told you that?

She gave me instructions

for what the lunch for His Highness and His Majesty should include

and what to prepare.

[Bong-sik clears throat] Is... is that so?

Oh, dear, this is... [clears throat]

Well, then, is the royal meal in your hands for the lunch today?

Yes. Embarrassingly, yes.

Hey, why would you feel that way, huh? What power do we have but to obey?

Please, Cook Maeng, you should prepare what Her Grace has instructed you to.

But since His Majesty didn't give new orders,

I will proceed with the lunch I was originally going to make.

[Gil-geum] Y-yes. I mean, she's right.

What if we don't make His Majesty anything and then he goes,

"I never ordered such a horrible thing"?

Then all of us here will lose our heads one by one.

[Maeng] Understood.

Cook Min, you will come and help me out.

Uh, yeah, I will do that.

[Bong-sik clicks tongue, sighs]

Now, shall I begin explaining it all? Gil-geum?

Yes.

For today's dish, we have...

schnitzel!

[cooks stammering]

Scho-nit...

It's pork cutlet.

It's that kinda meal that makes every single Korean, young or old,

go totally crazy.

"Cutlet"?

[Gil-geum] I've never heard of it. [chuckles]

Pound it thin and then spread it like so,

-and don't forget the connective tissues. -All right.

Yes. That's it. That's great. Good.

About this much.

-And then cut it in fours. -[Bong-sik] Ah...

Good.

My goodness, this is harder than I thought.

[uplifting music playing]

[Ji-young] Now we take the beef that has been pounded

and season it with salt and pepper.

Next we coat it with flour, and we dip it in the egg wash.

We will make a nice batter of fried flour crumbs and coat the meat with it

since we don't have breadcrumbs. Press firmly so it doesn't fall off.

Like that.

And once you put it in the oil, game over.

And this is what we call schnitzel, my friends.

Schu-nitzel.

"Shenny..."

"Shu..."

[Ji-young] We'll also fry some burdock root to serve on the side

and make a sauce with raspberry jam.

[Bong-sik] Whoa.

There's a saying that goes,

"Even a pair of shoes can taste good if you just fry it."

-[muttering] -Wow. [chuckles]

-This is impressive, look at it. Uh... good! -Ooh!

[Ji-young] It's still not quite done yet. Hang on.

-You cut it up before eating. -[Bong-sik stammering]

A-Are you putting a knife to serve with the royal meal?

Even the tiniest of knives, if you serve a royal meal with one,

we'll get in trouble

-and we will all lose our heads. -[Gil-geum gasps] Uh...

-I don't think you should that. -The knife could be threatening.

-[Sim] Mm-hmm. -We'll just cut it before we serve it.

Wow, miss, what clever words you use. Say it once more?

"Cu-cutting?"

[Bong-sik] "Cah-tting"?

[Sim] "Cotung, cotung."

[Gil-geum] Oh...

Hmm?

[Bong-sik groans]

-[Sim] That looks really good. -[Chu-wol] Her Grace has arrived!

[Sim] Right. [groans]

[Bong-sik] Oh, my.

[clears throat]

Is the food ready?

Yes, Your Grace, the meal preparation has been completed.

Mmm.

Mmm.

Yes, this will do. Well done.

[scoffs]

How dare you stare? Do you know who is currently standing in front of you?

Huh?

Uh... [chuckles] I'm not staring at...

Are you talking back to me right now?

Talking back? Oh, no, I wasn't trying to...

That's enough.

It's natural for one's eyes to be drawn to someone who is this beautiful.

[chuckles]

-[gasps] -Oh!

Ah!

[Mok-ju sighs, clicks tongue] What a mess you have made.

[Chu-wol] Your Grace, I will prepare a change of clothes for you.

-Let us stop at Jahongwon before we go. -Let us hurry.

[Chu-wol] Yes, Your Grace.

Oh, my God.

Seriously, the plating was perfect.

-Hurry, let's do it again! -Yes!

So, how is His Majesty's condition? Is he healthy?

I have examined to see whether or not his stomach has weakened

in any way from fasting... but he is in very good health.

However, to prevent his stomach from... growing upset,

it would be best to avoid cold foods for the time being.

[sighs]

Then how about taking some bellflower root juice, huh?

Or he could have braised beans after his meal?

Those seems like excellent choices, Your Highness. [chuckles]

Your Majesty, what are your thoughts on this?

Well, Uncle, you don't even brave showing your face in the royal kitchen.

Yet you seem curiously sincere only once a month, during jinhu.

[chuckles]

As the superintendent of Saongwon,

it is only right that I care for things like your health, Your Majesty.

You only emphasize your roles at times like this.

Then, I will make sure today to go and inform the royal kitchen.

[chuckles]

What are you doing? Announce us right now.

Lunch is ready, Your Majesty.

Bring it in.

[Mal-im clears throat]

I have wondered, have you been well, Your Majesty?

It has been a long time, has it not, Your Highness?

Fourth Junior Consort, what is all this?

Well, I was made aware that your jinhu was today,

so I prepared lunch for you in great haste. I hope you enjoy.

Did you make all of this yourself?

I prepared a special meal for Your Majesty

and of course, for your special guest, His Highness, with the help of Cook Maeng.

And that other lunch is the result of the chief royal cook

and the rest of the royal kitchen's efforts.

Then should you not have talked to the royal kitchen

and arranged for a single lunch meal?

[Ji-young] I knew it. I knew he would scold you.

Ooh, that feels so good.

I made myself clear and sent instructions,

but when I went to the royal kitchen, another lunch had already been prepared.

Perhaps the chief royal cook considered my food

insufficient for a king to eat for lunch.

[Ji-young] Seriously? Why is she acting so childish?

[scoffs]

The chief royal cook likely acted that way

because there was no direct order from my quarters.

Huh.

Then please, continue the lunch as it was planned.

I hope you will look upon my humble food as a sign of my sincerity.

All right. I shall.

[chuckles] Your Majesty,

do look upon Her Grace's sincerity. It is admirability at its finest.

[clears throat] Are you the chief royal cook then?

Yes, this is the new chief royal cook of the royal kitchen.

The palace is full of talk surrounding the new chief royal cook Yeon.

Nice to meet you.

[Ji-young] Hello. I heard you were coming today

and prepared a special dish. I do hope it suits your taste.

Oh, I'm looking forward to it. [chuckles]

An exceptional beauty, and a fearless tone.

[chuckles]

Taste the meal.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Is this... chogyetang?

This baekmajatang is made with young hen meat.

The meat and ground majang are simmered for a long time to make the broth,

which is served cold with shredded chicken.

It is meant to protect the five organs, ward off the summer heat,

and also act as a medicine.

I made it especially for Your Majesty to feel better.

Hmm. I was told by the doctor to avoid cold foods.

Ah...

[coughs]

Then tell me, what is the name of this dish here?

They refer to this dish as hwangjagye hondontang, I believe.

-Oh... -[Mok-ju] The broth is made from

simmering the bones of a yellow-feathered hen.

A defining characteristic of the dish is the seasoned chicken filling

wrapped into dumplings and boiled.

I had this dish prepared for your Highness's stomach,

-as you are an avid drinker. -[Jesan] Hmm...

The smell is very light and not overpowering.

[both chuckle]

Hmm.

However, both dishes here are only made with hen meat.

Yes. However they are adorned on the outside,

all females are alike on the inside.

I hope these dishes will allow you to consider this lesson

and distance yourself from those who keep you

from your royal ancestral rites and state affairs.

[Ji-young] Wait... then am I the hen? Huh, this is so ridiculous.

Your intention is truly admirable. I will keep that in mind going forward.

[Jesan clears throat] I am intrigued now.

What is the dish that the chief royal cook has specially prepared?

Yes, what have you prepared for us today?

[chuckles]

The dish I prepared for you today is a German favorite, schnitzel, Your Majesty.

Uh... "Sunite-teh"?

[Jesan laughs]

Oh, my goodness. [clears throat]

Your Majesty, that is not it. Sun-chae.

VEGETABLE FROM THE LOTUS FAMILY SERVED TO THE ROYAL COURT

You may not know it well, but there is a vegetable called sunchae.

It is known to look similar to a lotus leaf. Sun-chae.

-Oh, sunchae, right? -[laughs]

-Oh. Wait. -Hmm?

Wha-What... What did you say was the name... again?

Beef schnitzel, Your Majesty.

Bee-bu-shoe-sell?

[Yi Heon laughs]

Uncle, really. Did you not just say it was a sunchae meal?

[Jesan clears throat]

Schnitzel is a dish where the meat is pounded thin,

then it's coated in flour, and fried in oil.

I recommend dipping it in the sweet and sour fruit jam you have here.

The key to the meal.

And it is a protein-rich dish that helps with mental and physical recovery.

And seeing how Your Majesty has skipped meals for a while,

I made sure to use particularly fresh beef to prepare this special dish

that balances taste and nutrition.

[Mok-ju] Yet again, another strange dish.

Unfortunately for you, it will not work today.

-[Yi Heon] Taste it. -[Mal-im] Yes, Your Majesty.

[crunching]

[chuckles]

Hmm.

[scoffs]

[Yi Heon] It looks almost as though

the blackberry has blossomed on top of the pancake.

It is quite a work of art.

-[chuckles] -[Jesan] Mmm.

This white sprinkled thing on top is milk? Or what exactly?

That's tartar sauce on top for you.

It has a sweet and sour taste to it, but it's still creamy.

If you wish to make it a little sweeter instead,

you can dip it in the raspberry jam next to it.

"The taro painting"? In the jam... What?

[Jesan] Oh, the raspberry.

Uh, the blackberry... Black jam water? [chuckles]

The blackberry jam water.

You can just take it and dip it like this.

So you dip it and eat it.

Dip and eat it?

Dip it, and eat it.

Like-Like this way?

Yes, that's perfect.

[exhales deeply]

[crunching]

What is this? This flavor is...

[chuckles]

It's a crispy outside, but the inside is so succulent and not overly chewy.

You're right!

Your Majesty, that's what we call "crispy outside, chewy in the middle."

Crisp and chewy, did you say?

That is it! I've got it!

It means, "See? The inside is chewy."

Does it not? I think it does. [laughing]

Yes. It's basically a shortened way of saying

that "The inside is chewy and the outside is crispy."

-Crispy out, chewy in. -[scoffs]

My word, there is no need to shorten everything.

Yes, "NSE."

[Ji-young] Look at her attacking me for no reason.

Hey, Mok-ju, two can play at that game.

[sighs]

Hmm.

Your Highness, and Your Majesty.

Try the vegetable on the side as well, please.

[Yi Heon] Oh, you mean this?

Yes. It's burdock root.

And if you have it together, it helps cut through the greasiness of the meat.

[gags] Oh, that's bitter.

It is bitter, just like Uncle said.

Usually, when people eat their veggies, they only eat the leaves and the stems,

avoiding the bitter taste of the roots.

But actually, the roots contain the most nutrients.

I worry that you might end up misjudging someone based on their appearance,

and act on that, without considering their roots.

Do you understand, Your Majesty?

[scoffs]

[Mok-ju] How dare you, you wench?

[scoffs, clears throat]

Like you just said, it is indeed bitter,

but it does seem to actually cleanse the palate quite well.

[chuckles]

I will always remember the roots, just like you said.

Your Majesty. Thank you.

Now, shall we get into our meal or not?

Yes, please. Enjoy, Uncle.

Thank you.

Hmm. [chuckles]

-[chuckles] -[gasps]

Here we are.

[chuckling]

Hmm.

Mmm!

[Mok-ju] Mark my words, I will never, ever let you get away with this.

[Ji-young] Aw, I bet you're really pissed off now. Watch yourself.

You might be a notorious villain, but I'm from the future,

and I know more than you do.

Oh, that was delicious.

-[sighs] -[Jesan exhales deeply]

I am so utterly delighted to see you enjoy your meal so much.

-It is truly joyous, Your Majesty. -[chuckles]

Your Majesty, we should bestow a great reward for these two.

Her Grace and for Cook Yeon.

Is there anything you desire at this time, Your Grace?

The only thing I wish for right now is the health and safety of Your Majesty.

[groans] You are truly virtuous and wise, well beyond your years, Your Grace.

Thank you, Fourth Junior Consort.

Cook Yeon, is there anything you desire as well?

[stammers] What I desire? I'd like a...

[Ji-young] I can't talk about my bag in front of that woman.

Well, I...

It is known far and wide that women are weak to gifts, Your Majesty.

What does she like?

The key is to find out what that is and present that.

Yes, please speak up. What is it that you desire?

Truthfully...

whenever I see fresh, new ingredients to make food with,

I feel really happy and it makes my heart flutter.

[scoffs]

And the Saongwon has it all, so I will just accept your sentiment.

[scoffs] Just some vegetables are enough for you?

-As expected of the chief royal cook. -[chuckles]

It seems as though she is hiding the fact that she wants something very big.

[Ji-young] Hey, you're the one who wants something big, not the other way around.

[chuckles] Oh, is that so?

Uh, no. I... No, I really don't want anything.

I will you send you, as Superintendent of Saongwon,

any and all sizes of vegetables you want.

[Jesan, Yi Heon laughing]

[exhales sharply]

BEEF

[Ji-young] Usually, when people eat their veggies,

they only eat the leaves and the stems, avoiding the bitter taste of the roots.

But actually, the roots contain the most nutrients.

[Yi Heon scoffs] She truly is bright and wise

in every situation I have seen her in.

Your Majesty! Today's theme for the competition was family.

Wouldn't cutting off their arms be a great breach of respect

and loyalty towards Her Royal Highness?

[Yi Heon] She is kind enough to spare the other cooks who competed against her,

simply out of kindness.

The true definition of a virtuous woman.

CRISPY OUTSIDE, CHEWY INSIDE

[Seo-hong] The delegation will be arriving to the palace any day now.

But my word, why can't they just stop chattering on?

Why don't you get a little rest? I will take a look at them for you.

You are the epitome of a filial son, aren't you?

-[bones crack] -[groans]

Goodness gracious.

[sighs] By the way, Son,

how are things going with the chief royal cook and His Majesty?

Is the plan you devised working well? How is it going? Go on.

Father, His Majesty is now in the throes of contemplating

what gift to give to Cook Yeon.

If he is truly contemplating giving a gift to her,

does that mean they both like each other?

We know that is your area of expertise, Son.

So gently suggest a gift that will lead her heart to His Majesty's.

I should suggest a gift to His Majesty for Cook...

-Ah. -Bu...

Have you thought of a good gift already?

I do know of a gift that the gwinyeo is searching for.

-And what is that? -When we were bringing Cook Yeon

from the Gyeonggi Governor's Office,

she confided in me that she had lost a knapsack in Salgoji Forest,

so I went and got it and I have kept it safe.

A knapsack? So what? Or does it hold something that could be important to us?

She was so desperate to find it,

I thought it might contain gold or something like that.

Oh, my goodness.

"Daehanminguk passport."

Daehan-minguk.

Daehan minguk.

[gasps] Why is the gwinyeo in here?

But it was filled with all kinds of strange items I have never seen.

Well, then it should be fine even if you give it back to her from his Majesty.

At any rate,

if it is something that the gwinyeo desperately needs,

hurry and give it as your suggestion.

Yes, Father.

Having you point out things clearly like that

definitely helps my mind become sharp again.

[laughs]

It is exactly the right gift. His Majesty returns the bag to Cook Yeon.

Their relationship will only grow.

Oh, your bag, is it?

[both laugh]

BONGDEOKGUNG

[Yi Heon] The bag?

Yes, Your Majesty.

It is what Cook Yeon was desperately looking for.

Oh, this is it? She was claiming that it came from the future.

Your Majesty is correct.

And why did you manage to have her bag?

The day after Your Majesty shot the bag off the cliff's edge,

I had my subordinates retrieve it for me.

If you present this to Cook Yeon as a gift, she will definitely be pleased.

Oh, you brilliant man.

[laughs]

Hold on. How did you know

that I was searching for a gift for Cook Yeon? Who told you that?

No one told me. I'm that good.

[clears throat] Well, thank you for this.

Oh. One other thing, about the delegation coming here.

Yes? What about it?

The chief envoy, Director Woo Gon,

he has brought along three first-class cooks with him.

Three cooks?

Has word of my particular taste reached them as well?

Do you think that is why?

It seems that they want to win your palate over again,

I believe, in their goal of gaining something.

What could they want?

We cannot know at present, but it will likely be a significant request,

since they are an envoy of a great nation.

Things that will be overwhelming for us to bear. It's only guesses, Your Majesty.

So they are bringing three first-class cooks with a significant request.

[sighs]

BYEOKJEGWAN

Hmm.

Ask him for us if the food is not to his liking.

[in Mandarin] My lord, are you dissatisfied with this food?

How can you serve something like this to eat?

[in English] Uh, he says that he does not want to eat the meal.

Why not?

YU KUN: CHIEF ENVOY OF MING

TANG BAILOR: MASTER OF SICHUAN CUISINE

-[in Mandarin] Try it. -[in English] He says to try it.

[Hyeong-min clears throat]

[gasps] Hold on, is this...

[in Mandarin] Do not be surprised. He has cut the tofu as thin as threads

and made it into a blossoming flower.

[in English] He says not to be surprised.

He's cut the tofu as thin as threads to make it a blossoming flower.

[Hyeong-min] Hmm.

Hmm.

[cackles]

[in Mandarin] This is the cuisine of a great nation.

Go and tell the King of Joseon that I cannot eat Joseon's food. [scoffs]

[gasps, speaks in English] Wow, I had no idea this existed.

-This place is called Jangwonseo. -Jangwonseo.

OFFICE IN CHARGE OF HORTICULTURE

Go ahead.

It's where the flowers, fruits, and vegetables for the royal family are grown.

[chuckles] Here we are.

[gasps]

Wow! Oh, Jangwonseo! The world's first greenhouse and I'm in it!

I read about this in the history books.

Wow, I'm in absolute shock right now. [gasps]

Whoa! [gasps]

It's really an apple tree.

And even a tangerine tree. Wow. [laughs] This is unreal.

Wow. And that smell's unreal. Ah!

-[chuckles] -[Yi Heon] Come over here.

[clears throat]

You are so unrefined.

Well, I'm fascinated because I'm seeing all this for the first time.

You may use this place freely for as long as you would like.

What?

[clears throat]

Well, the ingredients must be fresh

for you to make even more delicious dishes, correct?

Oh, um, sort of like a free ticket?

Well, I, um, I suppose you could put it like that.

[chuckles]

It's my gift.

-For me? Are you sure? -[scoffs] Very.

Please, take a look around.

[Ji-young chuckles]

This tree is a pyeondo tree. It means "dented peach."

It was offered by a merchant from Persia, but it's just ornamental. It's inedible.

[chuckles] No, it's not. This is edible for sure.

[chuckles] But it's too astringent and rather pungent to eat.

It's true about the fruit, yes. You can only eat the seeds for this one.

Where I'm from, these seeds are everywhere,

and we call them almonds, and they're amazing.

"Ah-ahmomde"?

[Ji-young chuckling]

[clears throat] If you would follow me this way.

[Ji-young] Hmm.

This is where we study poisonous plants. Do not get too close to them.

[gasps]

Hold on. Did I not just say they were poisonous? Do not touch it.

No, Your-Your Majesty, these-these- these are all chili peppers!

"Gotcho"?

I can make chili pepper powder now!

No, what...

Whoa!

Where did you originally get this?

A few years ago, there was a shipwreck.

The Westerner we rescued, he gave me this as a thank you gift.

However, it is so spicy and toxic that some have even died eating it.

We are currently cultivating them to use as a poison.

So they did use them as weapons in the old days. It was all true!

Oh, this is good.

I mean, what is this crazy fortune? A godsend, really!

-A godsend? -[squeals]

Do you like it that much?

Of course I do! This is insane!

Then, um, how about this as well?

What is this?

I picked it up on the way here.

-What? -[clears throat]

Wait, so, uh, what is this?

The thing you had been looking for.

Your bag.

[gasps]

Wha-what? [gasps] Is it really?

Whoa. [squeals, laughs]

Thank you so much! Thank you! Thank you so, so much! [exclaims]

-How did you even find this? -Oh.

I, um, I told you already. I picked it up on the way here.

Mmm. I'm just so happy. I can't believe I finally have it again.

[chuckles]

Oh, come on. This is nothing.

How can you just say that it's nothing? This is so precious to me.

Are you mad at me anymore?

For what occurred at Unyeongjeong...

I do apologize.

Oh. Are you saying sorry to me right now?

Then did you give me this 'cause you wanted me to feel better?

Yes. That's right.

Wh-why?

What do you mean, why?

It is because...

[Ji-young] No way.

[Yi Heon] I have begun to see you for the woman you are.

[grunts]

It's simply because... I like the food you make.

What?

Wait, why are you turned away from me when you're saying that?

[stammers] Well, I-I mean, uh, well...

Hold on. [stammers] Why are you running away?

So, the thing is, I, uh, um...

-[exclaims] -[gasps]

[both grunt]

[pop song playing]

BON APPÉTIT, YOUR MAJESTY

[Ji-young] I will return now.

But where do you keep saying that you'll be returning to?

[gasps]

A taste of how good true Joseon cuisine is.

How could you just ask me to do this and have the entire nation's fate in my hands?

If you really do want to go back, then win.

Joseon must lose this competition. Or else.

They're more than just cooks, it seems.

-[Yi Heon] Just one thing then... -Royal kitchen, let's win!

...tell them that I also have a chief royal cook.

I'm going to show you blazing hot flavor.