Bon Appetit, Your Majesty (2025) s01e03 Episode Script
Course N° 3 Haute Cuisine
1
BON APPÉTIT, YOUR MAJESTY
Your Majesty, the wind is cold.
You should head to your chambers.
YI HEON
KING OF JOSEON
All right. We shall go.
Wait, Your Majesty.
Can you tell us where we're…
KANG MOK-JU
FOURTH JUNIOR CONSORT, YI HEON'S CONCUBINE
…headed?
Why do you ask? Are you afraid?
Of course I am.
Everything around me
is unfamiliar and scary right now.
SHIN SU-HYEOK
COMMANDER OF URIMWI
What the heck?
How is that?
Are your surroundings
less unfamiliar and scary now?
Yes. I can't see anything now,
so there's nothing to fear.
Thanks a lot.
What a remarkably fresh approach.
I have prepared
a special residence for you.
You may look forward to it.
I will.
We shall go.
In this era, is it natural and ordinary
for the king to do as he pleases?
I told you to watch what you say!
How is His Majesty?
An unknown ointment
was applied to the wound,
which seems to have stopped the bleeding.
Any delay and His Majesty's life
could have been in grave danger.
The heavens protected him.
It is greatly fortunate
that it was not any worse, Your Majesty.
If the bleeding had not been stopped,
my life could have been in danger?
What's your problem?
Don't you see
that I stopped the bleeding for you?
I saved your life!
Very well. You may all leave.
Yes, Your Majesty.
You must forget every detail
of what you saw and heard in here today.
Yes, Your Grace.
It was truly a close call, Your Majesty.
May I ask who stopped
the bleeding from the wound?
It was the gwinyeo.
The gwinyeo?
Did you bring her here
because she saved your life,
not because she committed a crime?
That is partially why.
However, no one in all of Joseon
wants to kill her as much as I do.
It has been a while
since I last saw you look that amused.
Are you perhaps bothered about that?
Is the great Consort Kang bothered?
Oh, please. Why would I be?
Earlier, you said you prepared
a special residence for her.
It is not a byeolgung, is it?
BYEOLGUNG: SPECIAL RESIDENCE
FOR THE KING'S FUTURE BRIDE OR CONCUBINE
Byeolgung?
Or did you prepare a special residence
outside the palace?
Are you jealous?
Stop teasing me
and tell me what is happening.
Go on.
Do not worry.
Her residence
is much more special than a byeolgung.
You know,
I didn't expect a five-star hotel,
but this is what he meant
by "special residence"?
He meant a tiny prison
in the corner of the palace.
He even has a prison in the palace.
What an amazing guy, huh?
These may be mourning clothes,
but at least they gave us clean clothes
and let us bathe.
We survived the ordeal,
so let us be satisfied with that.
You're right.
We did survive.
So far, that is.
COURSE N° 3 HAUTE CUISINE
The prison?
He acts extremely strangely
for someone who wants to kill her.
I am certain His Majesty
took an interest in that wench.
It is nothing but a fleeting curiosity,
Your Grace.
It is also odd how he calls her a gwinyeo.
She surely did not just fall from the sky.
Where on earth did she come from?
Find out all you can about that wench,
and spare no detail.
How they met,
and how she caught His Majesty's eye
at the Gyeonggi Governor's Office.
Would it not be faster
to inquire of the Chief Royal Secretary?
You are right. I forgot about Im Song-jae.
Shall I send word, Your Grace?
Yes. Let him know I wish to see him.
Also…
Send this to Grand Prince Jesan.
Yes, Your Grace.
ROYAL KITCHEN:
THE PLACE WHERE ROYAL MEALS ARE PREPARED
The medicinal herbs we got today
are nice and fresh.
EOM BONG-SIK
SEVENTH-RANK SENIOR COOK
Can you not pound that harder?
Do not waste a single grain of rice.
Watch the blade
so you do not cut yourself.
Yes, sir.
Cook Sim.
The batter needs more water.
Yes, sir.
- Cook Min.
- Yes?
This is not the color you want
your buchimgae to have.
Pan-fry them until they turn golden yellow
so they look appetizing.
- Yes, sir.
- Goodness me.
Let me have a look.
Look all you want.
By the way, have you all heard the news?
His Majesty returned to the palace
with some gwinyeo.
A ginyeo?
What courtesan house is she from
that His Majesty fancied her?
Gosh, you fool.
He said "gwinyeo," not "ginyeo."
It is a ghost
who took the form of a woman.
Yes, Cook Sim is right.
His Majesty brought back a ghostly woman.
Is it not time that you stopped caring
about palace rumors?
Do you not have work to do?
It would be strange and wrong not to know
about a rumor on everyone's mind
at the palace.
Is it because you came from the kitchen
in Waegwan, a Japanese village?
You have a closed and narrow mind.
I see now. It is because you are
a third-generation cook
that you are so sensitive
about palace rumors.
Did you not know, Cook Maeng?
The Grand Royal Queen Dowager's
Senior Court Lady Kim
and Cook Eom
are more than just acquainted.
That is how he is the first to know
what is going on in the palace.
That is why the Grand Royal Queen Dowager
will support him as the next chief royal--
You fool. Will you shut your mouth?
What if someone were to hear?
There is no one here to hear but us.
Did you drink again last night?
Stop drinking so much!
Anyway, I believe you will be
the next chief royal cook.
We never know.
It could be Cook Maeng for all you know.
It has not been long since the former
chief royal cook passed away,
and you are already discussing
his replacement?
Watch what you say
if you wish to at least stay
and eat His Majesty's leftovers.
What is wrong with talking about
something that came up already?
Are you disgruntled that you will not be
the next chief royal cook?
That is enough, Cook Sim.
Why would you taunt Cook Maeng like that?
So what if he is upset?
It is the truth.
He can try all he wants,
but you, Cook Eom,
should head the royal kitchen next.
You never know.
Greetings, Eunuch Yoon.
Her Grace Consort Kang
believes Cook Maeng is the best cook.
Speaking of,
the former chief royal cook
passed over a fortnight ago.
It is time His Majesty
appointed a replacement.
Yes, that is true.
Greetings, all.
My lady.
Please speak, Head Senior Court Lady Kim.
The Grand Royal Queen Dowager
would like hangwa, rice confections,
as a snack.
Consort Kang requested samhapjuk,
porridge with three ingredients,
for her late-night refreshment.
- Yes, my lady.
- Yes, my lady.
Do not waste the ingredients.
- Yes, of course not.
- We will not.
He brought back a gwinyeo?
On top of that,
he punished Gyeonggi Governor
Hong Gyeong-dal for high treason?
I have a bad feeling about this.
Governor Hong?
He is the one who compared Consort Kang
to Yang Guifei, Tang Dynasty Emperor
Xuanzong's consort, is he not?
Yes, that is him.
Is His Majesty
truly acting out of personal vengeance?
Where is Consort Kang?
It is her. Gwinyeo.
I have prepared
a special residence for you.
A gwinyeo?
There is no way His Majesty
would bring someone like her
unless she has connections.
Who could it be?
Your Grace,
the Chief Royal Secretary is here.
Let him enter.
Your Grace,
I hope you have been in good health.
I have. Thank you for your concern.
I heard you failed to bring Mi-hyang
for the chaehong in the end.
I did.
However, her grandfather Governor Hong
has been exiled, as you wished,
and his family has become
government-owned slaves.
Then,
why did you return with that gwinyeo?
Oh, that girl?
That was His Majesty's decision.
I know nothing about it,
so I am afraid
I have no explanation for you, Your Grace.
I see. So it was you.
His Majesty made a decision
that even you were not privy to.
That is shocking.
I heard she is a good cook.
However, she is nothing but a cook.
I believe this is not worthy
of your concern, Your Grace.
Is that so?
What did you bring me?
This is jewelry confiscated
from Governor Hong's residence.
Is this all you collected
on this round of the chaehong?
Of course not.
Once we finish organizing
the slaves and property deeds--
Locate Governor Hong's family
that have become slaves
and send them all to Jahongwon.
If you go that far,
the officials will oppose.
There are already talks
about Governor Hong's exile.
That is exactly why.
You should be smart and quick
to act before I instruct you
if you do not want
any issues in the future.
Are you certain
that would not pose a problem?
I am certain indeed.
How dare you question me
after neglecting your duties?
If that is what you wish,
I will do as you say.
This is what you have always done.
Yes, Your Grace.
I will obey.
Father.
It seems to be time
to come up with a new plan.
What do you mean by that?
Consort Kang
has abused His Majesty's favor
to treat us
like her personal servants for years.
How dare she order me,
a third-rank senior official, around
when she is merely
a fourth-rank junior consort?
Watch your mouth!
Have you forgotten
that we are in the palace?
If living in this luxury
were a servant's life,
I would willingly be one
for hundreds of decades.
If you insist on being a servant,
how about we switch masters this time?
You do not mean that gwinyeo, do you?
Do not be ridiculous!
His Majesty does not care for any woman
other than Consort Kang.
Even that sly nine-tailed fox
is of low birth if you think about it.
Who is to say a gwinyeo
cannot become like Consort Kang?
How will you handle the consequences?
I have arranged a new playground
for His Majesty.
You will soon see for yourself
who His Majesty's heart is leaning toward.
Who are you?
If we get caught, we all die.
Do not make a sound.
The keys?
Come on.
The criminals escaped.
Search the palace thoroughly!
- Yes, sir!
- Yes, sir!
The criminals escaped. Find the gwinyeo!
Let's go.
What are we doing
in the middle of the night?
Look at the sky.
My gosh.
It is so beautiful.
They reported
that the gwinyeo has escaped.
It seems that His Majesty
is making his way to that place.
Let us go!
Here it goes!
This is fun!
Come and play!
This is great!
Come on!
This is fun!
Come on!
This is great fun!
Gil-geum, who are all these people?
I have no idea.
They look like performers,
but why are they here?
And where did that man go?
Everyone is wearing the same mask,
- so I can't tell who's who.
- I think this is the man.
My gosh!
So,
did you enjoy the moonlit stroll?
What are you doing?
- You said you'd help us escape!
- Exactly!
Will you let us go now?
Let you go?
Your Majesty.
Your Majesty…
I prepared this performance
especially for you.
I wonder if you enjoyed it.
Wait, then who was the masked guy
from earlier?
You there, Gong-gil.
Everyone, stop!
Do you mean him?
What? You were in on it together?
You did well today, as usual.
It is my pleasure, Your Majesty.
GONG-GIL
YEONHUIGUN'S JESTER WITH MANY SECRETS
Oh my, look at that scoundrel.
He is very tall and handsome.
That's not the point, Gil-geum.
He tricked us.
I would willingly
be deceived by him again.
- What got into you?
- This man
is an actor I cherish greatly.
His name is Gong-gil.
He's an actor?
Yes. His mask dance, Cheoyongmu,
is simply exquisite, is it not?
Yes, it is.
You may go now.
Were you entertained, Your Majesty?
I was much more entertained tonight
than usual.
Here you go!
Thank you for your generosity,
Your Majesty!
Tonight, we shall drink
until we cannot see straight!
Let us go and drink!
Let us go!
- My word.
- Wait.
Where did I hear
the name "Gong-gil" before?
The court jester, Gong-gil.
The movie The King and the Clown!
I have heard rumors about him,
but he certainly brings joy to the eye.
Get a grip, Gil-geum.
We are eating meat today!
- Come along!
- Let us play some more!
Have some fun!
I was struck by an assassin's arrow
in Salgoji Forest.
Discreetly find out who was behind it.
Why are you going this far?
For fun.
Why do you ask?
Did you not enjoy it?
You put way too much effort
into simply having fun,
that I didn't even have the chance
to be entertained.
If you try to run away again,
I will not let you off with a smile.
All will be well as long as you don't send
that masked fool.
How dare you.
Must you always have the final word?
Do you truly not wish to live anymore?
Guards! Is the iron nice and hot?
- Yes, Your Majesty.
- Yes, Your Majesty.
You said this was just for fun.
I told you to control your temper.
That wouldn't have made any difference.
I knew it would get us in trouble one day.
Start with her.
- Me?
- What?
- Miss!
- Wait.
Gil-geum!
Miss!
Gil-geum!
Miss!
- Miss!
- Oh no.
Miss.
Your Majesty.
Please hear us out.
You were so insolent just a moment ago.
Did you change your mind?
Insolent? Who, me?
I will never run away again.
Will that do?
You will not?
That is good to hear.
It would have been a shame
to let you go like this.
Release the girl.
- Yes, Your Majesty.
- Yes, Your Majesty.
Your Majesty.
Will you send us back to prison now?
Of course not.
I am extremely famished right now.
Prepare me something to eat.
Unbelievable.
So he still wants my food, huh?
Miss, hurry up and answer him.
Okay.
I'll get to it right away.
But I must make a request first.
A request, you say?
Let Gil-geum be my assistant cook.
I cannot manage on my own.
Very well.
In return,
I expect you to cook with all your heart
and do your absolute best.
It will take much more
than the boiled beef you made
back at the Gyeonggi Governor's Office
to satisfy me.
Is there a particular dish you'd like,
Your Majesty?
A dish I would like?
"Those who seek to live will die,
and those who seek to die shall live."
If you serve what you did before
to save your life,
you will die.
If you cook something new
with your life on the line,
you will live.
Only if the food satisfies me, that is.
Miss.
I am pleased
to finally enter the royal kitchen,
but will we be all right?
No.
Gil-geum.
I'm going to do whatever it takes
to survive and go home.
I'm going to reunite with my dad,
and I'm going to eat with him…
You must stay strong,
especially at times like this.
I will also do whatever it takes
to survive
and become the senior court lady
of the royal kitchen.
Okay, Gil-geum.
I will try to stay strong.
Oh dear, miss.
I can't believe this.
Oh my, miss, what is the matter?
Why are you crying? Are you all right?
Stop crying.
Thank you, Gil-geum.
I aced a cooking competition, you know.
You faced it?
I mean, I got the highest score.
The harder the mission, the better I do.
So don't worry.
You are so amazing.
Let's do this.
Yes, we can do this.
Pardon? Let a woman prepare
the royal meal?
You are taking your joke too far,
Chief Eunuch.
CHANG-SEON
CHIEF EUNUCH OF ROYAL FOOD
CHIEF EUNUCH OF ROYAL FOOD:
THE HEAD OF THE ROYAL KITCHEN EUNUCHS
What can I say?
It was His Majesty's command.
Is the Grand Royal Queen Dowager
aware of this?
Silence.
The Chief Eunuch came in person.
Do you not understand
the gravity of the situation?
But a woman can work as a maid
in the royal kitchen
or a court lady on palace grounds.
I can tell at a glance
that your roots differ
from those of the cooks here.
Where did you learn to cook?
At an entertainment house
like Myeongwolgwan?
Well, the place I worked at
is quite far away from here,
so you wouldn't know even if I told you.
Are you from Sichuan in Ming? Or Waegwan?
Where?
Did you learn to cook
in some barbarian country?
No. Well, I was--
You are all so harsh.
Why are you questioning things
when it is His Majesty's command?
Hey, wait.
- Excuse me?
- Wait up.
My gosh. You people are so unfriendly.
You know what?
This is how things should be in a kitchen.
All right then.
How about we get warmed up?
Chief Eunuch,
allow me to apologize on behalf of them.
His Majesty has specifically asked
for that cook,
so be sure
to let the other cooks know of this.
Yes, Chief Eunuch.
Goodbye.
They have a great fire going.
There are so many of them.
Wait. This is it?
I'll substitute cassia bark for cinnamon
and myoga for onions.
Cassia bark for cinnamon
and myoga for onions?
Yeah.
They don't have them here,
but those are popular ingredients
used in the future.
Oh, the future?
Okay. Let's do this.
Let us do this.
Miss.
I smell raw meat somewhere.
Raw meat?
I don't smell anything.
You really have the nose of a dog.
Why would you taste that
without knowing what it is?
- It's not beef.
- What?
Deer?
Is it deer meat?
Mister, was there deer meat here?
Deer?
Oh, right.
The deer His Majesty hunted yesterday
was cleaned and sent
to Saongwon, Office of Royal Meals.
Deer meat…
What is it, miss?
- Gil-geum.
- Yes?
Deer steak is my specialty.
Deer stack?
Take note of the recipe.
First of all…
Is this how you will serve the food?
- Yes.
- This is a disaster.
Quickly set two tables,
one for His Majesty and one for tasting.
- Yes, sir.
- So?
Are you saying the woman His Majesty
brought back took over the royal kitchen?
Yes, exactly.
Do you think this is acceptable?
This is so unfair.
My goodness!
What did you just say?
His Majesty brought back a gwinyeo
and sent her to the royal kitchen?
Yes.
She is preparing a meal with the meat
from the deer His Majesty caught.
What?
Deer meat?
The gwinyeo was appointed
as a special cook?
Are you saying she really cooks?
Yes, Your Grace.
Do you know
what His Majesty made her cook?
I do not.
But how could a woman possibly prepare
a decent royal meal?
The result is as clear as day.
He is extremely picky and sensitive
when it comes to food.
I cannot believe it.
From what I heard,
the gwinyeo cooked
at the Gyeonggi Governor's Office,
and His Majesty enjoyed it.
At the Gyeonggi Governor's Office?
She cooked there?
Yes, Your Grace.
However, it is highly unlikely
that a woman has properly learned to cook.
She will not last long just by knowing
how to make a few decent side dishes.
After the gwinyeo finishes cooking,
you must see for yourself.
Find whatever fault or flaw you can.
Yes, Your Grace.
- Chu-wol.
- Yes, Your Grace.
Is His Majesty in his chambers?
Yes, Your Grace.
I must see him immediately.
Let us get ready.
Yes, Your Grace.
Change into this.
GANGNYEONGJEON
What? Into these clothes?
Hurry up. Walk faster.
Hurry up.
Now stand here.
The food is getting cold.
- Right.
- Let me see.
You are ready.
Stand over there.
Your Majesty.
Your seoksura, evening meal, is ready.
Bring it in.
Why is a grown man not dressed properly?
Relax.
CHOI MAL-IM
KING'S SENIOR COURT LADY
Oh, right.
I see you brought the food.
Stay alert.
He might be Joseon's worst tyrant,
but I know history.
It's okay. Don't be nervous.
What are you doing?
Explain the eoseon.
EOSEON: MEAL PREPARED FOR THE KING
Your Majesty.
This is a meal rooted in the royal cuisine
of the Palace of Versailles,
known as haute cuisine,
or traditional French cooking.
FRENCH GOURMET COURSE MEAL
"Trench"? "Oat sheen"?
It's pronounced "haute cuisine."
First, I prepared an hors d'oeuvre
to boost your appetite.
It's steak tartare topped
with various vegetables and raw egg yolk
served with kelp chips.
"Older"?
"Taro taro"?
I have never seen raw meat
shaped this way.
Steak tartare
is truly an older dish.
Are you mocking me?
Would I dare?
Do you suggest I eat this first?
You should eat that with this.
This tastes best
when mixed right before you eat it.
This is what we call "tableside service."
Watching and enjoying
the food being prepared before your eyes
stimulates the appetite.
Please try it.
Taste the food.
Yes, Your Majesty.
Please try it.
Wait.
What is this taste?
It is the same raw meat I have had,
but this tastes richer and sweeter.
How interesting.
How should I describe it?
It is powerful but shy,
and it leaves a lingering taste
on my tongue.
Next is the potage.
I made a thick milk porridge with peas.
"Botage"?
It has a peculiar color and aroma.
What is more important
when it comes to food, Your Majesty?
The taste or the aroma?
Would it not be the taste?
I believe the aroma is more important.
Why is that?
When it comes to taste,
you can only sense the five basic types,
which are bitter, sour, sweet,
spicy, and salty.
But aromas are countless and diverse.
You have a point.
Yes, Your Majesty.
Allow me.
This aroma is not extravagant,
but it is subtle and fresh
and has a clean taste.
Like peas glistening in the morning sun
and bursting out of the pods one by one.
Right?
That was very well said.
That is truly astute.
Now, it is time for the main dish.
The highlight of haute cuisine, viande.
THE MAIN COURSE, A MEAT DISH
The behind of oat sheen?
For goodness' sake.
What should I do with you?
It feels like you are mocking me again.
This is also just raw meat.
This is deer tongue.
It's not meant to be eaten raw.
I'll grill it for you here.
Slightly grilling both sides
on a charcoal fire
enhances the texture
as well as the flavor and aroma.
I have eaten deer
prepared in various ways,
but this is a method
I have never seen before.
Historically speaking,
deer represented the king,
and its tongue was considered
one of the eight delicacies,
a very rare ingredient to come by.
I am surprised
that you know of such a thing.
That's why the fight for royal power
is called chukrok, no?
CHUKROK: CHASING THE DEER
You are quite intelligent.
Her skill is beyond anything of this time.
Where in the world
did this woman come from?
An unquenchable desire for power,
extreme narcissism,
and an acute sense of taste.
This is the best meal to satisfy
all of Yeonhuigun's desires.
Where did you learn to make all this?
I know it's hard to believe,
but as I told you before,
I'm from the future.
I'm serious.
It is truly a shame
that you are still not in your right mind.
I would believe you
if you said you were from
a distant barbarian land or an island.
Nonetheless,
I am pleased…
with the first royal meal you served.
I'm glad you at least like my food.
Your Majesty, I will taste the food.
No.
You taste it this time.
Pardon? Me?
Okay, sure.
DEPOSED QUEEN YEON
YI HEON'S BIRTH MOTHER
Now, you have a bite, Crown Prince.
It is delicious, Mother.
Now,
give me a piece.
Pardon?
Are you asking me to feed you?
Do you not want to?
No, it's not that.
How did you see into my heart?
Sorry?
How did you know
I would like this dish?
Actually…
I studied Yeonhuigun,
and I won a cooking competition
with this dish.
I never imagined
I'd get to serve it to you in person.
How fascinating.
Yeonhuigun?
You mentioned that name before.
Who in the world is this Yeonhuigun?
Wait, telling him the story
would be too risky.
Well, you see…
I can't quite remember right now.
Let me rephrase my question.
Why did you decide to serve this meal?
Oh, well…
I thought about your meals
and thought it'd be nice to serve
what kings in other countries eat.
In Europe, kings eat
course meals like this all the time.
"Yuleop"?
Is that another name
for the Nanman people?
The Nanman people?
Is "Nanman" the Joseon term for Europe?
Announce my arrival.
You cannot enter right now.
What did you say?
How dare you stop her?
Step aside.
Your Grace,
His Majesty is currently tasting
the new cook's food.
No one is allowed to enter.
You cannot, Your Grace.
How dare you!
Do you not fear the consequences?
- You cannot, Your Grace.
- Step aside!
What is this commotion outside?
I made it clear not to let anyone in.
Your Majesty, it is I, Consort Kang.
I brought you
a precious painting from Ming,
but I seem to have come at a bad time,
so I shall take my leave.
That would be best.
Return to your chambers.
I think it'd be best if I leave.
You are…
no ordinary woman.
Okay, but there's no need
to come this close to my face.
I have…
chosen you.
For what?
Why would he choose me? What for?
Does choosing me mean…
No way. He didn't mean
granting a royal favor, did he?
No, that can't happen.
History will change
if I become the king's concubine.
This is driving me crazy.
Why are you so deep in thought?
I summoned you
because I have an order for you.
Of course, this is the palace cliché.
The king gives commands,
and the chief royal secretary
gives secret commands.
- An order?
- Whenever you serve His Majesty,
tell me everything you learn from him.
You want me to spy for you for free?
I apologize, but realistically speaking,
that'd be difficult.
You know what His Majesty is like.
He'll kill everyone
if he were to find out,
and you see,
I'm chicken-hearted.
Don't take it to heart. It's not personal.
Do you not think you need an ally here?
Well, the more allies, the better.
When you were serving His Majesty
moments ago,
Consort Kang came by, did she not?
She did.
This was the first time
His Majesty sent her away
over a royal meal.
Naturally, Consort Kang
will keep a watch on you from now on.
Just you.
And then she will try to kill you.
That means, without help,
it will be extremely hard
for you to survive here.
That's true.
It'd be hard for me to survive.
He does have great insight.
This sure is a deal befitting
a top-tier treacherous subject.
I will support you in secret.
I will shield you and help you survive.
But I don't need anyone
to support me in secret.
What I need is…
In that case, I have a condition.
- A condition?
- Yes.
I need you to find something for me.
If you can promise me that you will,
I'll consider your offer.
Are you trying to negotiate with me?
Very well.
What is it that you are looking for?
- My handbag.
- "Handybag"?
- Yes, my handbag.
- "Handybag."
You know…
It's the thing you hang on your shoulder
and put things inside.
What do they call it in this era?
My handbag is shaped like this.
- It's called a handbag.
- A handbag.
A handbag that looks like this.
A bundle!
Yes, a bundle.
You mean your bundle.
Please find my bundle for me.
It went over the cliff in Salgoji Forest
the day I met His Majesty.
I need the bundle as it is
with everything inside.
Your bundle is all you want?
MANGUNROK
That will do. You can stop.
Yes, Your Grace.
How could His Majesty do this to me?
Shall I tell Cook Maeng
to chase the gwinyeo
from the royal kitchen?
If the cooks act coldly toward her,
she will not last a day.
That is a good idea.
Can you ensure
I will never have to see her again?
Yes, Your Grace. Leave it to Cook Maeng.
Dear heavens!
I have never tasted
anything like this before.
I cannot believe it.
Gwinyeo!
We cannot live under the same sky.
What's going on? Is the firewood damp?
This must be the territorial bullying
I have only heard of.
What is all this smoke?
Who is making such a mess in the kitchen?
My gosh.
What's his problem?
A snake! It's a snake!
- Gil-geum!
- What is it? What is the matter?
You sneaky little thing. I got you.
Just look at that snake!
All sorts of things are happening
with a woman in the royal kitchen.
Gosh, I'm so tired.
What are those?
No! Cockroaches!
Stay calm and let me handle this.
Where are they coming from?
What are you looking at?
Oh my gosh, these people are crazy!
I see you had another long day.
- Indeed.
- Indeed.
Gil-geum.
I feel more at ease in here.
It feels like home.
I wish His Majesty
would just keep us here all day long.
Things will be better tomorrow.
To be honest,
I wish tomorrow would not come.
The cooks are nastier than I expected.
Their bullying is on a whole other level.
Should I just tell on them to His Majesty?
They might all end up dead.
Your Majesty!
You're right.
It'd be disastrous.
That'd be wrong.
GANGNYEONGJEON
Your Majesty.
The Chief Royal Secretary is here.
What is all that?
I am reluctant to inform you,
Your Majesty,
that they are letters of resignation
from the ministers.
What?
What are their reasons?
They are expressing regret
about your absence
at the gusikrye, salvation ritual,
and the exile of Gyeonggi Governor Hong.
Is it a problem to punish a traitor
who committed a crime
against the king?
It is not that.
Since Governor Hong
has been exiled for high treason,
they are petitioning
for the execution of the gwinyeo
who was captured for the same crime.
It is only right that I decide
when a criminal is punished.
I will go to the hall of governance.
Chief Eunuch.
Bring Yeon Ji-young
to the hall of governance.
Yes, Your Majesty.
- Your Majesty.
- Your Majesty.
- We beg for your understanding.
- We beg for your understanding.
Your Majesty.
If Gyeonggi Governor Hong Gyeong-dal
was exiled for insulting you,
then it is only right that the gwinyeo,
who was captured for treason,
is sentenced to capital punishment.
Instead, the criminal was sent
to the royal kitchen to cook
when she should have been
punished severely.
That is outrageously unfair.
Enough.
I will not listen to any more of this.
The cunning woman has stayed alive
by deceiving both Your Majesty
and Hong Gyeong-dal,
thus causing all these events.
You all are going too far.
Do you think His Majesty
exiled Hong Gyeong-dal
just because of a mere gwinyeo?
Do you all truly not understand
His Majesty's intent?
The fact that you petition about
and speak of a treacherous subject
who insulted His Majesty
is truly a disgrace.
Second Minister of Works
and Chief Royal Secretary,
you two seem to speak as though you deeply
understand His Majesty's mind.
Your antics are an entertaining sight.
Your Majesty.
We ask that you execute the gwinyeo
who was brought in for humiliating you
and rescind the penalty of exile
that you commanded
upon Governor Hong Gyeong-dal.
- Please consider our request.
- Please consider our request.
Do you desire a puppet
for a king?
Answer me!
Should I have let the man
who insulted and humiliated me be?
Yes.
Very well.
I will gladly give a command.
Your Majesty.
We have brought Yeon Ji-young
of the royal kitchen.
Well done.
Thank you.
I did as you said, Your Grace,
and started the rumor
that Governor Hong Gyeong-dal's exile
was also the gwinyeo's fault.
It spread like wildfire
throughout the palace.
Well done.
The gwinyeo will soon lose her life.
Your Majesty,
you must sentence the gwinyeo
to capital punishment
and restore order to the throne.
- Please restore order to the throne.
- Please restore order to the throne.
Heed my words.
Last night,
this woman served me a strange dish
and confused my senses.
Therefore,
I command that she be immediately…
appointed as the chief royal cook!
What?
- What? The chief royal cook?
- The chief royal cook?
What?
Starting today,
you are to cook for me
every day without fail.
However,
if you ever serve the same dish
more than once,
or if it is not to my liking,
you will be sentenced to death.
As if that sly Consort Kang
was not enough,
he now favors a gwinyeo
from goodness knows where.
Not to mention how he coddles the woman.
We must get rid of her when we can.
The Grand Royal Queen Dowager
will not just stand by and watch.
It was our chance to eliminate
the Grand Royal Queen Dowager's
Han family,
and His Majesty brought in another woman
whose roots we know nothing of.
We must drive her out at all costs.
His Majesty will soon see
just how troubled a nation becomes
when its king loses himself in women.
Please forgive me, Your Grace.
I did not expect things
to turn out this way.
His Majesty appointed her
as the chief royal cook himself,
so I cannot get involved right now.
It looks like
I will need someone else's help.
JAGYEONGJEON
To think that you came to visit,
Consort Kang.
A long life lets you witness wonders.
I apologize, Your Royal Highness.
I will visit you more often.
You must have a reason
for coming all the way here.
What is it?
The truth is,
I am here to discuss the matter
regarding the gwinyeo.
Gwinyeo?
Yes, Your Royal Highness.
The cunning wench who is clouding
His Majesty's mind with her cooking skills
was appointed as the chief royal cook.
Like she is not cunning.
What is it that you wish to say?
She appeared on the day of the eclipse.
Also, the day she appeared,
His Majesty was shot
by an assassin's arrow.
What?
His Majesty was shot?
Why did you not inform me sooner?
His Majesty commanded my silence,
so I could not inform you.
However,
seeing that His Majesty went so far
as to make her the chief royal cook,
I could not simply stand by and watch,
which is why I came to see you,
Your Royal Highness.
No one knows of her roots or her past.
I am also bothered by her presence,
but I have no authority to interfere
with those in the royal kitchen.
I understand you do not.
Then how about
you test the gwinyeo's skills yourself,
Your Royal Highness?
Test her?
That is a great idea.
If you test the gwinyeo and she proves
to be as good as she is rumored to be,
that should quell
the ministers' opposition.
If she does not, we have the opportunity
to expel her from the palace.
I had heard a great deal
about the gwinyeo's cooking skills
and was wondering
just how impressive it could be.
I await your command, Your Royal Highness.
I will prepare all that is necessary.
You can stay here now.
Miss.
There are walls.
My gosh. These are actual walls.
Gil-geum, the floor is heated.
Are those things over there the bedding?
Oh my!
- Let me see.
- Oh dear.
It is our bedding!
Gil-geum, you've been through so much.
Things happened, but you became
the chief royal cook in the end.
It feels like a dream.
Whatever the case,
they gave us a proper place to stay.
This is just great!
Who knew we would be treated
to such privilege?
Miss!
To be honest,
it was getting a bit tough for me.
I felt the same.
How did we end up
meeting that damned tyrant?
Miss.
You promised to watch your mouth!
It's fine.
There are walls. No one can hear us.
They can't hear.
You are right. There are walls.
- My goodness.
- Cook Yeon.
Come on out.
Hello.
Greetings.
I congratulate you
on becoming the chief royal cook.
Wear those clothes and come
to the royal kitchen starting tomorrow.
Clothes?
Let me have a look.
Oh my, this is silk.
It is incredibly pretty and fancy.
This is a female cook's uniform, right?
When did you have this made?
I will see you tomorrow then.
Thank you, sir.
You too, Mister Eunuch Yoon.
Thank you.
Miss, let me carry that.
- Let us go.
- It suits you so well.
- Is this how you wear it?
- Yes.
She does not seem sane.
Will it be all right?
Watch what you say.
How long have you been a eunuch?
- Do not speak so freely.
- Yes, Chief Eunuch.
There are court ladies and maids
in the royal kitchen.
- But a female chief royal cook?
- That is enough.
Did you not hear it was His Majesty
who made a woman the chief royal cook?
That may be the case,
but I cannot allow the order
in our kitchen to hit rock bottom.
What will you do then?
If we cannot chase her away…
we must make her leave voluntarily.
I get to work at the royal kitchen
as a maid thanks to you.
My wish came true.
Yes. The first day at work
is always exciting.
I get to work at a palace kitchen,
so I guess it's not all that bad.
Will it be all right, miss?
What if the nasty cooks bully you
or act all territorial again?
How will we handle that?
It wasn't my kitchen then.
Don't worry.
I won't let them walk over me now.
Did you mix the salt and flour?
That is what I am doing right now.
Cook Maeng, how are the knives looking?
I completely dulled them all
on a whetstone.
They will not even cut through tofu.
Well done.
Hide all the older sauces
and fermented pastes in the back.
Yes, Cook Eom!
Set aside the best cuts of meat!
- Yes, Cook Eom!
- Yes, Cook Eom!
Greetings, Chief Eunuch and Eunuch Yoon.
You will have heard by now.
This is the new chief royal cook
appointed by His Majesty the King.
Hello.
We've met before, but I'd like to
formally introduce myself.
I'm Yeon Ji-young.
And this is Seo Gil-geum,
who will assist me.
Nice to meet you all.
I will leave you to your work.
Be sure to cook
and serve the meals without fail.
Yes, Chief Eunuch.
- Goodbye.
- Goodbye.
I do not know with what skill or talent
a woman like you secured the position
of chief royal cook,
but do you know how much responsibility
that position carries?
The number of people who work
in this royal kitchen per shift is 195,
and since there are two shifts,
that makes a total of 390 people.
You must lead them
without problem or fail,
and that role belongs to
the sixth-rank junior cook.
In other words,
that is what the chief royal cook does.
He's so eloquent. I didn't miss a word.
Anyway, 390 people?
You have more kitchen staff
than any of the top hotels.
That's really impressive.
"Hot tail"?
What is that?
Anyway, a novice like you
cannot handle the responsibility.
Before you get into huge trouble
and are humiliated,
- you should just leave--
- Just a moment.
Who is the highest-ranking person here?
Who might that be?
Other than me, the chief royal cook.
That would be me.
I am Eom, the senior cook.
I cooked His Majesty's food
until you came along.
Oh, I see. Cook Eom.
Then…
I am Cook Maeng,
and I am mainly in charge of side dishes.
I am Cook Sim.
I manage the fires and the seasonings.
I prepare
- the rice--
- All right!
Now that the introductions are over,
let's get started on the royal meal.
What is she saying?
His Majesty will be furious
if you don't serve him on time.
You know what he's like, right?
What?
Then what will you do?
You are the chief royal cook.
Do your duty and instruct us!
How many side dishes and of what kind?
What meat goes in the soup
- and what cardinal-colored ingredients--
- Oh, come on.
What do I know about the royal kitchen?
I'm just here
because His Majesty plopped me here.
What in the world is she saying?
Do your usual thing.
Cook Eom and Cook Maeng
can take care of everything.
Of course,
you two will take full responsibility too.
I'll stay out of it.
What utter nonsense is this?
Why should we be responsible
when we are not the chief royal cook?
I already told His Majesty
that I won't be doing anything
for the time being
and will just observe.
If what she said is true,
this will be the day I die.
There is no way
His Majesty would allow that.
But she does not seem to be lying.
- Cook Min, sharpen the knives!
- Yes, coming!
Get the meat for the soup!
- The best quality meat!
- I am on it!
Hurry.
Hurry! Where are the sauces
and pastes we hid?
Miss, that was amazing. Good!
Well done.
I've been through these kinds of things
countless times.
It won't work on me.
What brings you here, Lady Kim?
- Will you move it?
- Okay.
Cook Yeon.
Yes?
The Grand Royal Queen Dowager
wishes to see you.
The Grand Royal Queen Dowager?
Why would she want to see me?
What's with this suffocating atmosphere?
Are you the gwinyeo
that His Majesty brought to the palace
and appointed as the chief royal cook?
I'm not a gwinyeo.
I just come from a faraway place.
I will get straight to the point.
As His Majesty's grandmother,
I summoned you to check
if your skills are genuine.
Check my skills?
If you captivated His Majesty's tongue
with some shallow tricks,
you must pay the price.
Jeez, what price
do I have to pay this time?
Ma'am.
I mean…
Your Royal Highness.
What exactly is the price to pay?
If you deceive a king with your tongue,
then you must lose your tongue.
If you deceive a king with your food,
you must lose an arm.
What?
Well…
How do you plan to check my skills?
I will have you compete
against the senior cooks,
so prepare yourself.
Are you saying that I have to risk my arm,
which is everything to a cook…
for this competition?
I see you understood.
If you wish to keep your arm,
convince me with your cooking.
Yes. That is exactly what you will do.
Why on earth do I have to do such a thing?
Why?
Get out of this if you can.
It was you.
You set this up, didn't you?
Cutting off an arm of mine
is nothing to you, huh?
It will not end with just one arm.
Kang Mok-ju.
I'm in big trouble.
You received a message
from Principal Drafter Yi Jang-gyun
of Hongmungwan, Office of Royal Decrees?
Yes, Your Majesty.
I have obtained a draft
of the historical record.
I will meet you tonight
at the twenty-second hour.
He found the draft.
I will finally be able to find out
the secret behind my mother's death.
Your Majesty,
it is I, the Chief Royal Secretary.
You may enter.
What is it?
The Grand Royal Queen Dowager
has summoned Cook Yeon.
What for?
Her Royal Highness
wants to taste the gwinyeo's food.
She is a picky eater
with almost no appetite.
But she wants to taste her food?
She is to compete against
the senior cooks,
and Her Royal Highness
demanded that she lose an arm
for deceiving the king
should she lose the competition.
What? Lose an arm?
What in the world is happening?
I believe Her Grace Consort Kang
was also present.
Consort Kang?
- Everything seems to be ready.
- Yes.
You may try your best,
but it will be to no avail.
Her Royal Highness
does not care for food at all.
The only thing she enjoys is…
His Majesty the King has arrived!
I hope you have been well, Grandmother.
Your Majesty.
I have not seen you in a long time.
I heard the gwinyeo
became the chief royal cook,
so I prepared a competition.
Would you like to watch together?
Yes.
I heard you are holding this competition
for the arm of the gwinyeo
I have appointed.
You seem to care a great deal about her,
seeing that you came
all the way here to face--
You are the one
who crossed the line first.
She is my chief royal cook,
which means she is my person.
All she has to do is win the competition.
Then all will be well and settled.
I heard the ministers objected
to your appointing her
as the chief royal cook.
You must know
their dismay will not die down
unless something is done.
In that case,
will the other cooks
also lose their arms if they lose?
The other cooks have already
been recognized by the palace.
They are not the same.
Where is the fun in that, Grandmother?
As you said, all they have to do is win.
It is only right to keep the rules fair.
Listen carefully.
Other than the one cook who wins today,
the rest will give up an arm.
Do you understand?
- Yes, Your Majesty.
- Yes, Your Majesty.
Bring in the straw cutters.
I really want to go home.
Dad.
I want to go back!
Very well.
Let the competition begin.
I have no choice.
All I can do now is prove myself.
Gwinyeo.
If it is true
that you came from the future,
show them
a new dish that only you can make.
BON APPÉTIT, YOUR MAJESTY
The theme of the competition is…
That's cursive.
Filial piety?
There's no way I'll lose.
Let go!
I heard you were the one
who organized the competition.
Just let me get something really quick!
This is not the time
for you to coddle the gwinyeo.
Shut your mouth!
There's no flirting or anything going on
between His Majesty and me.
- Open your mouth.
- I hope that His Majesty enjoys
your blurting.
Subtitle translation by: Jennifer Jean Lim
BON APPÉTIT, YOUR MAJESTY
Your Majesty, the wind is cold.
You should head to your chambers.
YI HEON
KING OF JOSEON
All right. We shall go.
Wait, Your Majesty.
Can you tell us where we're…
KANG MOK-JU
FOURTH JUNIOR CONSORT, YI HEON'S CONCUBINE
…headed?
Why do you ask? Are you afraid?
Of course I am.
Everything around me
is unfamiliar and scary right now.
SHIN SU-HYEOK
COMMANDER OF URIMWI
What the heck?
How is that?
Are your surroundings
less unfamiliar and scary now?
Yes. I can't see anything now,
so there's nothing to fear.
Thanks a lot.
What a remarkably fresh approach.
I have prepared
a special residence for you.
You may look forward to it.
I will.
We shall go.
In this era, is it natural and ordinary
for the king to do as he pleases?
I told you to watch what you say!
How is His Majesty?
An unknown ointment
was applied to the wound,
which seems to have stopped the bleeding.
Any delay and His Majesty's life
could have been in grave danger.
The heavens protected him.
It is greatly fortunate
that it was not any worse, Your Majesty.
If the bleeding had not been stopped,
my life could have been in danger?
What's your problem?
Don't you see
that I stopped the bleeding for you?
I saved your life!
Very well. You may all leave.
Yes, Your Majesty.
You must forget every detail
of what you saw and heard in here today.
Yes, Your Grace.
It was truly a close call, Your Majesty.
May I ask who stopped
the bleeding from the wound?
It was the gwinyeo.
The gwinyeo?
Did you bring her here
because she saved your life,
not because she committed a crime?
That is partially why.
However, no one in all of Joseon
wants to kill her as much as I do.
It has been a while
since I last saw you look that amused.
Are you perhaps bothered about that?
Is the great Consort Kang bothered?
Oh, please. Why would I be?
Earlier, you said you prepared
a special residence for her.
It is not a byeolgung, is it?
BYEOLGUNG: SPECIAL RESIDENCE
FOR THE KING'S FUTURE BRIDE OR CONCUBINE
Byeolgung?
Or did you prepare a special residence
outside the palace?
Are you jealous?
Stop teasing me
and tell me what is happening.
Go on.
Do not worry.
Her residence
is much more special than a byeolgung.
You know,
I didn't expect a five-star hotel,
but this is what he meant
by "special residence"?
He meant a tiny prison
in the corner of the palace.
He even has a prison in the palace.
What an amazing guy, huh?
These may be mourning clothes,
but at least they gave us clean clothes
and let us bathe.
We survived the ordeal,
so let us be satisfied with that.
You're right.
We did survive.
So far, that is.
COURSE N° 3 HAUTE CUISINE
The prison?
He acts extremely strangely
for someone who wants to kill her.
I am certain His Majesty
took an interest in that wench.
It is nothing but a fleeting curiosity,
Your Grace.
It is also odd how he calls her a gwinyeo.
She surely did not just fall from the sky.
Where on earth did she come from?
Find out all you can about that wench,
and spare no detail.
How they met,
and how she caught His Majesty's eye
at the Gyeonggi Governor's Office.
Would it not be faster
to inquire of the Chief Royal Secretary?
You are right. I forgot about Im Song-jae.
Shall I send word, Your Grace?
Yes. Let him know I wish to see him.
Also…
Send this to Grand Prince Jesan.
Yes, Your Grace.
ROYAL KITCHEN:
THE PLACE WHERE ROYAL MEALS ARE PREPARED
The medicinal herbs we got today
are nice and fresh.
EOM BONG-SIK
SEVENTH-RANK SENIOR COOK
Can you not pound that harder?
Do not waste a single grain of rice.
Watch the blade
so you do not cut yourself.
Yes, sir.
Cook Sim.
The batter needs more water.
Yes, sir.
- Cook Min.
- Yes?
This is not the color you want
your buchimgae to have.
Pan-fry them until they turn golden yellow
so they look appetizing.
- Yes, sir.
- Goodness me.
Let me have a look.
Look all you want.
By the way, have you all heard the news?
His Majesty returned to the palace
with some gwinyeo.
A ginyeo?
What courtesan house is she from
that His Majesty fancied her?
Gosh, you fool.
He said "gwinyeo," not "ginyeo."
It is a ghost
who took the form of a woman.
Yes, Cook Sim is right.
His Majesty brought back a ghostly woman.
Is it not time that you stopped caring
about palace rumors?
Do you not have work to do?
It would be strange and wrong not to know
about a rumor on everyone's mind
at the palace.
Is it because you came from the kitchen
in Waegwan, a Japanese village?
You have a closed and narrow mind.
I see now. It is because you are
a third-generation cook
that you are so sensitive
about palace rumors.
Did you not know, Cook Maeng?
The Grand Royal Queen Dowager's
Senior Court Lady Kim
and Cook Eom
are more than just acquainted.
That is how he is the first to know
what is going on in the palace.
That is why the Grand Royal Queen Dowager
will support him as the next chief royal--
You fool. Will you shut your mouth?
What if someone were to hear?
There is no one here to hear but us.
Did you drink again last night?
Stop drinking so much!
Anyway, I believe you will be
the next chief royal cook.
We never know.
It could be Cook Maeng for all you know.
It has not been long since the former
chief royal cook passed away,
and you are already discussing
his replacement?
Watch what you say
if you wish to at least stay
and eat His Majesty's leftovers.
What is wrong with talking about
something that came up already?
Are you disgruntled that you will not be
the next chief royal cook?
That is enough, Cook Sim.
Why would you taunt Cook Maeng like that?
So what if he is upset?
It is the truth.
He can try all he wants,
but you, Cook Eom,
should head the royal kitchen next.
You never know.
Greetings, Eunuch Yoon.
Her Grace Consort Kang
believes Cook Maeng is the best cook.
Speaking of,
the former chief royal cook
passed over a fortnight ago.
It is time His Majesty
appointed a replacement.
Yes, that is true.
Greetings, all.
My lady.
Please speak, Head Senior Court Lady Kim.
The Grand Royal Queen Dowager
would like hangwa, rice confections,
as a snack.
Consort Kang requested samhapjuk,
porridge with three ingredients,
for her late-night refreshment.
- Yes, my lady.
- Yes, my lady.
Do not waste the ingredients.
- Yes, of course not.
- We will not.
He brought back a gwinyeo?
On top of that,
he punished Gyeonggi Governor
Hong Gyeong-dal for high treason?
I have a bad feeling about this.
Governor Hong?
He is the one who compared Consort Kang
to Yang Guifei, Tang Dynasty Emperor
Xuanzong's consort, is he not?
Yes, that is him.
Is His Majesty
truly acting out of personal vengeance?
Where is Consort Kang?
It is her. Gwinyeo.
I have prepared
a special residence for you.
A gwinyeo?
There is no way His Majesty
would bring someone like her
unless she has connections.
Who could it be?
Your Grace,
the Chief Royal Secretary is here.
Let him enter.
Your Grace,
I hope you have been in good health.
I have. Thank you for your concern.
I heard you failed to bring Mi-hyang
for the chaehong in the end.
I did.
However, her grandfather Governor Hong
has been exiled, as you wished,
and his family has become
government-owned slaves.
Then,
why did you return with that gwinyeo?
Oh, that girl?
That was His Majesty's decision.
I know nothing about it,
so I am afraid
I have no explanation for you, Your Grace.
I see. So it was you.
His Majesty made a decision
that even you were not privy to.
That is shocking.
I heard she is a good cook.
However, she is nothing but a cook.
I believe this is not worthy
of your concern, Your Grace.
Is that so?
What did you bring me?
This is jewelry confiscated
from Governor Hong's residence.
Is this all you collected
on this round of the chaehong?
Of course not.
Once we finish organizing
the slaves and property deeds--
Locate Governor Hong's family
that have become slaves
and send them all to Jahongwon.
If you go that far,
the officials will oppose.
There are already talks
about Governor Hong's exile.
That is exactly why.
You should be smart and quick
to act before I instruct you
if you do not want
any issues in the future.
Are you certain
that would not pose a problem?
I am certain indeed.
How dare you question me
after neglecting your duties?
If that is what you wish,
I will do as you say.
This is what you have always done.
Yes, Your Grace.
I will obey.
Father.
It seems to be time
to come up with a new plan.
What do you mean by that?
Consort Kang
has abused His Majesty's favor
to treat us
like her personal servants for years.
How dare she order me,
a third-rank senior official, around
when she is merely
a fourth-rank junior consort?
Watch your mouth!
Have you forgotten
that we are in the palace?
If living in this luxury
were a servant's life,
I would willingly be one
for hundreds of decades.
If you insist on being a servant,
how about we switch masters this time?
You do not mean that gwinyeo, do you?
Do not be ridiculous!
His Majesty does not care for any woman
other than Consort Kang.
Even that sly nine-tailed fox
is of low birth if you think about it.
Who is to say a gwinyeo
cannot become like Consort Kang?
How will you handle the consequences?
I have arranged a new playground
for His Majesty.
You will soon see for yourself
who His Majesty's heart is leaning toward.
Who are you?
If we get caught, we all die.
Do not make a sound.
The keys?
Come on.
The criminals escaped.
Search the palace thoroughly!
- Yes, sir!
- Yes, sir!
The criminals escaped. Find the gwinyeo!
Let's go.
What are we doing
in the middle of the night?
Look at the sky.
My gosh.
It is so beautiful.
They reported
that the gwinyeo has escaped.
It seems that His Majesty
is making his way to that place.
Let us go!
Here it goes!
This is fun!
Come and play!
This is great!
Come on!
This is fun!
Come on!
This is great fun!
Gil-geum, who are all these people?
I have no idea.
They look like performers,
but why are they here?
And where did that man go?
Everyone is wearing the same mask,
- so I can't tell who's who.
- I think this is the man.
My gosh!
So,
did you enjoy the moonlit stroll?
What are you doing?
- You said you'd help us escape!
- Exactly!
Will you let us go now?
Let you go?
Your Majesty.
Your Majesty…
I prepared this performance
especially for you.
I wonder if you enjoyed it.
Wait, then who was the masked guy
from earlier?
You there, Gong-gil.
Everyone, stop!
Do you mean him?
What? You were in on it together?
You did well today, as usual.
It is my pleasure, Your Majesty.
GONG-GIL
YEONHUIGUN'S JESTER WITH MANY SECRETS
Oh my, look at that scoundrel.
He is very tall and handsome.
That's not the point, Gil-geum.
He tricked us.
I would willingly
be deceived by him again.
- What got into you?
- This man
is an actor I cherish greatly.
His name is Gong-gil.
He's an actor?
Yes. His mask dance, Cheoyongmu,
is simply exquisite, is it not?
Yes, it is.
You may go now.
Were you entertained, Your Majesty?
I was much more entertained tonight
than usual.
Here you go!
Thank you for your generosity,
Your Majesty!
Tonight, we shall drink
until we cannot see straight!
Let us go and drink!
Let us go!
- My word.
- Wait.
Where did I hear
the name "Gong-gil" before?
The court jester, Gong-gil.
The movie The King and the Clown!
I have heard rumors about him,
but he certainly brings joy to the eye.
Get a grip, Gil-geum.
We are eating meat today!
- Come along!
- Let us play some more!
Have some fun!
I was struck by an assassin's arrow
in Salgoji Forest.
Discreetly find out who was behind it.
Why are you going this far?
For fun.
Why do you ask?
Did you not enjoy it?
You put way too much effort
into simply having fun,
that I didn't even have the chance
to be entertained.
If you try to run away again,
I will not let you off with a smile.
All will be well as long as you don't send
that masked fool.
How dare you.
Must you always have the final word?
Do you truly not wish to live anymore?
Guards! Is the iron nice and hot?
- Yes, Your Majesty.
- Yes, Your Majesty.
You said this was just for fun.
I told you to control your temper.
That wouldn't have made any difference.
I knew it would get us in trouble one day.
Start with her.
- Me?
- What?
- Miss!
- Wait.
Gil-geum!
Miss!
Gil-geum!
Miss!
- Miss!
- Oh no.
Miss.
Your Majesty.
Please hear us out.
You were so insolent just a moment ago.
Did you change your mind?
Insolent? Who, me?
I will never run away again.
Will that do?
You will not?
That is good to hear.
It would have been a shame
to let you go like this.
Release the girl.
- Yes, Your Majesty.
- Yes, Your Majesty.
Your Majesty.
Will you send us back to prison now?
Of course not.
I am extremely famished right now.
Prepare me something to eat.
Unbelievable.
So he still wants my food, huh?
Miss, hurry up and answer him.
Okay.
I'll get to it right away.
But I must make a request first.
A request, you say?
Let Gil-geum be my assistant cook.
I cannot manage on my own.
Very well.
In return,
I expect you to cook with all your heart
and do your absolute best.
It will take much more
than the boiled beef you made
back at the Gyeonggi Governor's Office
to satisfy me.
Is there a particular dish you'd like,
Your Majesty?
A dish I would like?
"Those who seek to live will die,
and those who seek to die shall live."
If you serve what you did before
to save your life,
you will die.
If you cook something new
with your life on the line,
you will live.
Only if the food satisfies me, that is.
Miss.
I am pleased
to finally enter the royal kitchen,
but will we be all right?
No.
Gil-geum.
I'm going to do whatever it takes
to survive and go home.
I'm going to reunite with my dad,
and I'm going to eat with him…
You must stay strong,
especially at times like this.
I will also do whatever it takes
to survive
and become the senior court lady
of the royal kitchen.
Okay, Gil-geum.
I will try to stay strong.
Oh dear, miss.
I can't believe this.
Oh my, miss, what is the matter?
Why are you crying? Are you all right?
Stop crying.
Thank you, Gil-geum.
I aced a cooking competition, you know.
You faced it?
I mean, I got the highest score.
The harder the mission, the better I do.
So don't worry.
You are so amazing.
Let's do this.
Yes, we can do this.
Pardon? Let a woman prepare
the royal meal?
You are taking your joke too far,
Chief Eunuch.
CHANG-SEON
CHIEF EUNUCH OF ROYAL FOOD
CHIEF EUNUCH OF ROYAL FOOD:
THE HEAD OF THE ROYAL KITCHEN EUNUCHS
What can I say?
It was His Majesty's command.
Is the Grand Royal Queen Dowager
aware of this?
Silence.
The Chief Eunuch came in person.
Do you not understand
the gravity of the situation?
But a woman can work as a maid
in the royal kitchen
or a court lady on palace grounds.
I can tell at a glance
that your roots differ
from those of the cooks here.
Where did you learn to cook?
At an entertainment house
like Myeongwolgwan?
Well, the place I worked at
is quite far away from here,
so you wouldn't know even if I told you.
Are you from Sichuan in Ming? Or Waegwan?
Where?
Did you learn to cook
in some barbarian country?
No. Well, I was--
You are all so harsh.
Why are you questioning things
when it is His Majesty's command?
Hey, wait.
- Excuse me?
- Wait up.
My gosh. You people are so unfriendly.
You know what?
This is how things should be in a kitchen.
All right then.
How about we get warmed up?
Chief Eunuch,
allow me to apologize on behalf of them.
His Majesty has specifically asked
for that cook,
so be sure
to let the other cooks know of this.
Yes, Chief Eunuch.
Goodbye.
They have a great fire going.
There are so many of them.
Wait. This is it?
I'll substitute cassia bark for cinnamon
and myoga for onions.
Cassia bark for cinnamon
and myoga for onions?
Yeah.
They don't have them here,
but those are popular ingredients
used in the future.
Oh, the future?
Okay. Let's do this.
Let us do this.
Miss.
I smell raw meat somewhere.
Raw meat?
I don't smell anything.
You really have the nose of a dog.
Why would you taste that
without knowing what it is?
- It's not beef.
- What?
Deer?
Is it deer meat?
Mister, was there deer meat here?
Deer?
Oh, right.
The deer His Majesty hunted yesterday
was cleaned and sent
to Saongwon, Office of Royal Meals.
Deer meat…
What is it, miss?
- Gil-geum.
- Yes?
Deer steak is my specialty.
Deer stack?
Take note of the recipe.
First of all…
Is this how you will serve the food?
- Yes.
- This is a disaster.
Quickly set two tables,
one for His Majesty and one for tasting.
- Yes, sir.
- So?
Are you saying the woman His Majesty
brought back took over the royal kitchen?
Yes, exactly.
Do you think this is acceptable?
This is so unfair.
My goodness!
What did you just say?
His Majesty brought back a gwinyeo
and sent her to the royal kitchen?
Yes.
She is preparing a meal with the meat
from the deer His Majesty caught.
What?
Deer meat?
The gwinyeo was appointed
as a special cook?
Are you saying she really cooks?
Yes, Your Grace.
Do you know
what His Majesty made her cook?
I do not.
But how could a woman possibly prepare
a decent royal meal?
The result is as clear as day.
He is extremely picky and sensitive
when it comes to food.
I cannot believe it.
From what I heard,
the gwinyeo cooked
at the Gyeonggi Governor's Office,
and His Majesty enjoyed it.
At the Gyeonggi Governor's Office?
She cooked there?
Yes, Your Grace.
However, it is highly unlikely
that a woman has properly learned to cook.
She will not last long just by knowing
how to make a few decent side dishes.
After the gwinyeo finishes cooking,
you must see for yourself.
Find whatever fault or flaw you can.
Yes, Your Grace.
- Chu-wol.
- Yes, Your Grace.
Is His Majesty in his chambers?
Yes, Your Grace.
I must see him immediately.
Let us get ready.
Yes, Your Grace.
Change into this.
GANGNYEONGJEON
What? Into these clothes?
Hurry up. Walk faster.
Hurry up.
Now stand here.
The food is getting cold.
- Right.
- Let me see.
You are ready.
Stand over there.
Your Majesty.
Your seoksura, evening meal, is ready.
Bring it in.
Why is a grown man not dressed properly?
Relax.
CHOI MAL-IM
KING'S SENIOR COURT LADY
Oh, right.
I see you brought the food.
Stay alert.
He might be Joseon's worst tyrant,
but I know history.
It's okay. Don't be nervous.
What are you doing?
Explain the eoseon.
EOSEON: MEAL PREPARED FOR THE KING
Your Majesty.
This is a meal rooted in the royal cuisine
of the Palace of Versailles,
known as haute cuisine,
or traditional French cooking.
FRENCH GOURMET COURSE MEAL
"Trench"? "Oat sheen"?
It's pronounced "haute cuisine."
First, I prepared an hors d'oeuvre
to boost your appetite.
It's steak tartare topped
with various vegetables and raw egg yolk
served with kelp chips.
"Older"?
"Taro taro"?
I have never seen raw meat
shaped this way.
Steak tartare
is truly an older dish.
Are you mocking me?
Would I dare?
Do you suggest I eat this first?
You should eat that with this.
This tastes best
when mixed right before you eat it.
This is what we call "tableside service."
Watching and enjoying
the food being prepared before your eyes
stimulates the appetite.
Please try it.
Taste the food.
Yes, Your Majesty.
Please try it.
Wait.
What is this taste?
It is the same raw meat I have had,
but this tastes richer and sweeter.
How interesting.
How should I describe it?
It is powerful but shy,
and it leaves a lingering taste
on my tongue.
Next is the potage.
I made a thick milk porridge with peas.
"Botage"?
It has a peculiar color and aroma.
What is more important
when it comes to food, Your Majesty?
The taste or the aroma?
Would it not be the taste?
I believe the aroma is more important.
Why is that?
When it comes to taste,
you can only sense the five basic types,
which are bitter, sour, sweet,
spicy, and salty.
But aromas are countless and diverse.
You have a point.
Yes, Your Majesty.
Allow me.
This aroma is not extravagant,
but it is subtle and fresh
and has a clean taste.
Like peas glistening in the morning sun
and bursting out of the pods one by one.
Right?
That was very well said.
That is truly astute.
Now, it is time for the main dish.
The highlight of haute cuisine, viande.
THE MAIN COURSE, A MEAT DISH
The behind of oat sheen?
For goodness' sake.
What should I do with you?
It feels like you are mocking me again.
This is also just raw meat.
This is deer tongue.
It's not meant to be eaten raw.
I'll grill it for you here.
Slightly grilling both sides
on a charcoal fire
enhances the texture
as well as the flavor and aroma.
I have eaten deer
prepared in various ways,
but this is a method
I have never seen before.
Historically speaking,
deer represented the king,
and its tongue was considered
one of the eight delicacies,
a very rare ingredient to come by.
I am surprised
that you know of such a thing.
That's why the fight for royal power
is called chukrok, no?
CHUKROK: CHASING THE DEER
You are quite intelligent.
Her skill is beyond anything of this time.
Where in the world
did this woman come from?
An unquenchable desire for power,
extreme narcissism,
and an acute sense of taste.
This is the best meal to satisfy
all of Yeonhuigun's desires.
Where did you learn to make all this?
I know it's hard to believe,
but as I told you before,
I'm from the future.
I'm serious.
It is truly a shame
that you are still not in your right mind.
I would believe you
if you said you were from
a distant barbarian land or an island.
Nonetheless,
I am pleased…
with the first royal meal you served.
I'm glad you at least like my food.
Your Majesty, I will taste the food.
No.
You taste it this time.
Pardon? Me?
Okay, sure.
DEPOSED QUEEN YEON
YI HEON'S BIRTH MOTHER
Now, you have a bite, Crown Prince.
It is delicious, Mother.
Now,
give me a piece.
Pardon?
Are you asking me to feed you?
Do you not want to?
No, it's not that.
How did you see into my heart?
Sorry?
How did you know
I would like this dish?
Actually…
I studied Yeonhuigun,
and I won a cooking competition
with this dish.
I never imagined
I'd get to serve it to you in person.
How fascinating.
Yeonhuigun?
You mentioned that name before.
Who in the world is this Yeonhuigun?
Wait, telling him the story
would be too risky.
Well, you see…
I can't quite remember right now.
Let me rephrase my question.
Why did you decide to serve this meal?
Oh, well…
I thought about your meals
and thought it'd be nice to serve
what kings in other countries eat.
In Europe, kings eat
course meals like this all the time.
"Yuleop"?
Is that another name
for the Nanman people?
The Nanman people?
Is "Nanman" the Joseon term for Europe?
Announce my arrival.
You cannot enter right now.
What did you say?
How dare you stop her?
Step aside.
Your Grace,
His Majesty is currently tasting
the new cook's food.
No one is allowed to enter.
You cannot, Your Grace.
How dare you!
Do you not fear the consequences?
- You cannot, Your Grace.
- Step aside!
What is this commotion outside?
I made it clear not to let anyone in.
Your Majesty, it is I, Consort Kang.
I brought you
a precious painting from Ming,
but I seem to have come at a bad time,
so I shall take my leave.
That would be best.
Return to your chambers.
I think it'd be best if I leave.
You are…
no ordinary woman.
Okay, but there's no need
to come this close to my face.
I have…
chosen you.
For what?
Why would he choose me? What for?
Does choosing me mean…
No way. He didn't mean
granting a royal favor, did he?
No, that can't happen.
History will change
if I become the king's concubine.
This is driving me crazy.
Why are you so deep in thought?
I summoned you
because I have an order for you.
Of course, this is the palace cliché.
The king gives commands,
and the chief royal secretary
gives secret commands.
- An order?
- Whenever you serve His Majesty,
tell me everything you learn from him.
You want me to spy for you for free?
I apologize, but realistically speaking,
that'd be difficult.
You know what His Majesty is like.
He'll kill everyone
if he were to find out,
and you see,
I'm chicken-hearted.
Don't take it to heart. It's not personal.
Do you not think you need an ally here?
Well, the more allies, the better.
When you were serving His Majesty
moments ago,
Consort Kang came by, did she not?
She did.
This was the first time
His Majesty sent her away
over a royal meal.
Naturally, Consort Kang
will keep a watch on you from now on.
Just you.
And then she will try to kill you.
That means, without help,
it will be extremely hard
for you to survive here.
That's true.
It'd be hard for me to survive.
He does have great insight.
This sure is a deal befitting
a top-tier treacherous subject.
I will support you in secret.
I will shield you and help you survive.
But I don't need anyone
to support me in secret.
What I need is…
In that case, I have a condition.
- A condition?
- Yes.
I need you to find something for me.
If you can promise me that you will,
I'll consider your offer.
Are you trying to negotiate with me?
Very well.
What is it that you are looking for?
- My handbag.
- "Handybag"?
- Yes, my handbag.
- "Handybag."
You know…
It's the thing you hang on your shoulder
and put things inside.
What do they call it in this era?
My handbag is shaped like this.
- It's called a handbag.
- A handbag.
A handbag that looks like this.
A bundle!
Yes, a bundle.
You mean your bundle.
Please find my bundle for me.
It went over the cliff in Salgoji Forest
the day I met His Majesty.
I need the bundle as it is
with everything inside.
Your bundle is all you want?
MANGUNROK
That will do. You can stop.
Yes, Your Grace.
How could His Majesty do this to me?
Shall I tell Cook Maeng
to chase the gwinyeo
from the royal kitchen?
If the cooks act coldly toward her,
she will not last a day.
That is a good idea.
Can you ensure
I will never have to see her again?
Yes, Your Grace. Leave it to Cook Maeng.
Dear heavens!
I have never tasted
anything like this before.
I cannot believe it.
Gwinyeo!
We cannot live under the same sky.
What's going on? Is the firewood damp?
This must be the territorial bullying
I have only heard of.
What is all this smoke?
Who is making such a mess in the kitchen?
My gosh.
What's his problem?
A snake! It's a snake!
- Gil-geum!
- What is it? What is the matter?
You sneaky little thing. I got you.
Just look at that snake!
All sorts of things are happening
with a woman in the royal kitchen.
Gosh, I'm so tired.
What are those?
No! Cockroaches!
Stay calm and let me handle this.
Where are they coming from?
What are you looking at?
Oh my gosh, these people are crazy!
I see you had another long day.
- Indeed.
- Indeed.
Gil-geum.
I feel more at ease in here.
It feels like home.
I wish His Majesty
would just keep us here all day long.
Things will be better tomorrow.
To be honest,
I wish tomorrow would not come.
The cooks are nastier than I expected.
Their bullying is on a whole other level.
Should I just tell on them to His Majesty?
They might all end up dead.
Your Majesty!
You're right.
It'd be disastrous.
That'd be wrong.
GANGNYEONGJEON
Your Majesty.
The Chief Royal Secretary is here.
What is all that?
I am reluctant to inform you,
Your Majesty,
that they are letters of resignation
from the ministers.
What?
What are their reasons?
They are expressing regret
about your absence
at the gusikrye, salvation ritual,
and the exile of Gyeonggi Governor Hong.
Is it a problem to punish a traitor
who committed a crime
against the king?
It is not that.
Since Governor Hong
has been exiled for high treason,
they are petitioning
for the execution of the gwinyeo
who was captured for the same crime.
It is only right that I decide
when a criminal is punished.
I will go to the hall of governance.
Chief Eunuch.
Bring Yeon Ji-young
to the hall of governance.
Yes, Your Majesty.
- Your Majesty.
- Your Majesty.
- We beg for your understanding.
- We beg for your understanding.
Your Majesty.
If Gyeonggi Governor Hong Gyeong-dal
was exiled for insulting you,
then it is only right that the gwinyeo,
who was captured for treason,
is sentenced to capital punishment.
Instead, the criminal was sent
to the royal kitchen to cook
when she should have been
punished severely.
That is outrageously unfair.
Enough.
I will not listen to any more of this.
The cunning woman has stayed alive
by deceiving both Your Majesty
and Hong Gyeong-dal,
thus causing all these events.
You all are going too far.
Do you think His Majesty
exiled Hong Gyeong-dal
just because of a mere gwinyeo?
Do you all truly not understand
His Majesty's intent?
The fact that you petition about
and speak of a treacherous subject
who insulted His Majesty
is truly a disgrace.
Second Minister of Works
and Chief Royal Secretary,
you two seem to speak as though you deeply
understand His Majesty's mind.
Your antics are an entertaining sight.
Your Majesty.
We ask that you execute the gwinyeo
who was brought in for humiliating you
and rescind the penalty of exile
that you commanded
upon Governor Hong Gyeong-dal.
- Please consider our request.
- Please consider our request.
Do you desire a puppet
for a king?
Answer me!
Should I have let the man
who insulted and humiliated me be?
Yes.
Very well.
I will gladly give a command.
Your Majesty.
We have brought Yeon Ji-young
of the royal kitchen.
Well done.
Thank you.
I did as you said, Your Grace,
and started the rumor
that Governor Hong Gyeong-dal's exile
was also the gwinyeo's fault.
It spread like wildfire
throughout the palace.
Well done.
The gwinyeo will soon lose her life.
Your Majesty,
you must sentence the gwinyeo
to capital punishment
and restore order to the throne.
- Please restore order to the throne.
- Please restore order to the throne.
Heed my words.
Last night,
this woman served me a strange dish
and confused my senses.
Therefore,
I command that she be immediately…
appointed as the chief royal cook!
What?
- What? The chief royal cook?
- The chief royal cook?
What?
Starting today,
you are to cook for me
every day without fail.
However,
if you ever serve the same dish
more than once,
or if it is not to my liking,
you will be sentenced to death.
As if that sly Consort Kang
was not enough,
he now favors a gwinyeo
from goodness knows where.
Not to mention how he coddles the woman.
We must get rid of her when we can.
The Grand Royal Queen Dowager
will not just stand by and watch.
It was our chance to eliminate
the Grand Royal Queen Dowager's
Han family,
and His Majesty brought in another woman
whose roots we know nothing of.
We must drive her out at all costs.
His Majesty will soon see
just how troubled a nation becomes
when its king loses himself in women.
Please forgive me, Your Grace.
I did not expect things
to turn out this way.
His Majesty appointed her
as the chief royal cook himself,
so I cannot get involved right now.
It looks like
I will need someone else's help.
JAGYEONGJEON
To think that you came to visit,
Consort Kang.
A long life lets you witness wonders.
I apologize, Your Royal Highness.
I will visit you more often.
You must have a reason
for coming all the way here.
What is it?
The truth is,
I am here to discuss the matter
regarding the gwinyeo.
Gwinyeo?
Yes, Your Royal Highness.
The cunning wench who is clouding
His Majesty's mind with her cooking skills
was appointed as the chief royal cook.
Like she is not cunning.
What is it that you wish to say?
She appeared on the day of the eclipse.
Also, the day she appeared,
His Majesty was shot
by an assassin's arrow.
What?
His Majesty was shot?
Why did you not inform me sooner?
His Majesty commanded my silence,
so I could not inform you.
However,
seeing that His Majesty went so far
as to make her the chief royal cook,
I could not simply stand by and watch,
which is why I came to see you,
Your Royal Highness.
No one knows of her roots or her past.
I am also bothered by her presence,
but I have no authority to interfere
with those in the royal kitchen.
I understand you do not.
Then how about
you test the gwinyeo's skills yourself,
Your Royal Highness?
Test her?
That is a great idea.
If you test the gwinyeo and she proves
to be as good as she is rumored to be,
that should quell
the ministers' opposition.
If she does not, we have the opportunity
to expel her from the palace.
I had heard a great deal
about the gwinyeo's cooking skills
and was wondering
just how impressive it could be.
I await your command, Your Royal Highness.
I will prepare all that is necessary.
You can stay here now.
Miss.
There are walls.
My gosh. These are actual walls.
Gil-geum, the floor is heated.
Are those things over there the bedding?
Oh my!
- Let me see.
- Oh dear.
It is our bedding!
Gil-geum, you've been through so much.
Things happened, but you became
the chief royal cook in the end.
It feels like a dream.
Whatever the case,
they gave us a proper place to stay.
This is just great!
Who knew we would be treated
to such privilege?
Miss!
To be honest,
it was getting a bit tough for me.
I felt the same.
How did we end up
meeting that damned tyrant?
Miss.
You promised to watch your mouth!
It's fine.
There are walls. No one can hear us.
They can't hear.
You are right. There are walls.
- My goodness.
- Cook Yeon.
Come on out.
Hello.
Greetings.
I congratulate you
on becoming the chief royal cook.
Wear those clothes and come
to the royal kitchen starting tomorrow.
Clothes?
Let me have a look.
Oh my, this is silk.
It is incredibly pretty and fancy.
This is a female cook's uniform, right?
When did you have this made?
I will see you tomorrow then.
Thank you, sir.
You too, Mister Eunuch Yoon.
Thank you.
Miss, let me carry that.
- Let us go.
- It suits you so well.
- Is this how you wear it?
- Yes.
She does not seem sane.
Will it be all right?
Watch what you say.
How long have you been a eunuch?
- Do not speak so freely.
- Yes, Chief Eunuch.
There are court ladies and maids
in the royal kitchen.
- But a female chief royal cook?
- That is enough.
Did you not hear it was His Majesty
who made a woman the chief royal cook?
That may be the case,
but I cannot allow the order
in our kitchen to hit rock bottom.
What will you do then?
If we cannot chase her away…
we must make her leave voluntarily.
I get to work at the royal kitchen
as a maid thanks to you.
My wish came true.
Yes. The first day at work
is always exciting.
I get to work at a palace kitchen,
so I guess it's not all that bad.
Will it be all right, miss?
What if the nasty cooks bully you
or act all territorial again?
How will we handle that?
It wasn't my kitchen then.
Don't worry.
I won't let them walk over me now.
Did you mix the salt and flour?
That is what I am doing right now.
Cook Maeng, how are the knives looking?
I completely dulled them all
on a whetstone.
They will not even cut through tofu.
Well done.
Hide all the older sauces
and fermented pastes in the back.
Yes, Cook Eom!
Set aside the best cuts of meat!
- Yes, Cook Eom!
- Yes, Cook Eom!
Greetings, Chief Eunuch and Eunuch Yoon.
You will have heard by now.
This is the new chief royal cook
appointed by His Majesty the King.
Hello.
We've met before, but I'd like to
formally introduce myself.
I'm Yeon Ji-young.
And this is Seo Gil-geum,
who will assist me.
Nice to meet you all.
I will leave you to your work.
Be sure to cook
and serve the meals without fail.
Yes, Chief Eunuch.
- Goodbye.
- Goodbye.
I do not know with what skill or talent
a woman like you secured the position
of chief royal cook,
but do you know how much responsibility
that position carries?
The number of people who work
in this royal kitchen per shift is 195,
and since there are two shifts,
that makes a total of 390 people.
You must lead them
without problem or fail,
and that role belongs to
the sixth-rank junior cook.
In other words,
that is what the chief royal cook does.
He's so eloquent. I didn't miss a word.
Anyway, 390 people?
You have more kitchen staff
than any of the top hotels.
That's really impressive.
"Hot tail"?
What is that?
Anyway, a novice like you
cannot handle the responsibility.
Before you get into huge trouble
and are humiliated,
- you should just leave--
- Just a moment.
Who is the highest-ranking person here?
Who might that be?
Other than me, the chief royal cook.
That would be me.
I am Eom, the senior cook.
I cooked His Majesty's food
until you came along.
Oh, I see. Cook Eom.
Then…
I am Cook Maeng,
and I am mainly in charge of side dishes.
I am Cook Sim.
I manage the fires and the seasonings.
I prepare
- the rice--
- All right!
Now that the introductions are over,
let's get started on the royal meal.
What is she saying?
His Majesty will be furious
if you don't serve him on time.
You know what he's like, right?
What?
Then what will you do?
You are the chief royal cook.
Do your duty and instruct us!
How many side dishes and of what kind?
What meat goes in the soup
- and what cardinal-colored ingredients--
- Oh, come on.
What do I know about the royal kitchen?
I'm just here
because His Majesty plopped me here.
What in the world is she saying?
Do your usual thing.
Cook Eom and Cook Maeng
can take care of everything.
Of course,
you two will take full responsibility too.
I'll stay out of it.
What utter nonsense is this?
Why should we be responsible
when we are not the chief royal cook?
I already told His Majesty
that I won't be doing anything
for the time being
and will just observe.
If what she said is true,
this will be the day I die.
There is no way
His Majesty would allow that.
But she does not seem to be lying.
- Cook Min, sharpen the knives!
- Yes, coming!
Get the meat for the soup!
- The best quality meat!
- I am on it!
Hurry.
Hurry! Where are the sauces
and pastes we hid?
Miss, that was amazing. Good!
Well done.
I've been through these kinds of things
countless times.
It won't work on me.
What brings you here, Lady Kim?
- Will you move it?
- Okay.
Cook Yeon.
Yes?
The Grand Royal Queen Dowager
wishes to see you.
The Grand Royal Queen Dowager?
Why would she want to see me?
What's with this suffocating atmosphere?
Are you the gwinyeo
that His Majesty brought to the palace
and appointed as the chief royal cook?
I'm not a gwinyeo.
I just come from a faraway place.
I will get straight to the point.
As His Majesty's grandmother,
I summoned you to check
if your skills are genuine.
Check my skills?
If you captivated His Majesty's tongue
with some shallow tricks,
you must pay the price.
Jeez, what price
do I have to pay this time?
Ma'am.
I mean…
Your Royal Highness.
What exactly is the price to pay?
If you deceive a king with your tongue,
then you must lose your tongue.
If you deceive a king with your food,
you must lose an arm.
What?
Well…
How do you plan to check my skills?
I will have you compete
against the senior cooks,
so prepare yourself.
Are you saying that I have to risk my arm,
which is everything to a cook…
for this competition?
I see you understood.
If you wish to keep your arm,
convince me with your cooking.
Yes. That is exactly what you will do.
Why on earth do I have to do such a thing?
Why?
Get out of this if you can.
It was you.
You set this up, didn't you?
Cutting off an arm of mine
is nothing to you, huh?
It will not end with just one arm.
Kang Mok-ju.
I'm in big trouble.
You received a message
from Principal Drafter Yi Jang-gyun
of Hongmungwan, Office of Royal Decrees?
Yes, Your Majesty.
I have obtained a draft
of the historical record.
I will meet you tonight
at the twenty-second hour.
He found the draft.
I will finally be able to find out
the secret behind my mother's death.
Your Majesty,
it is I, the Chief Royal Secretary.
You may enter.
What is it?
The Grand Royal Queen Dowager
has summoned Cook Yeon.
What for?
Her Royal Highness
wants to taste the gwinyeo's food.
She is a picky eater
with almost no appetite.
But she wants to taste her food?
She is to compete against
the senior cooks,
and Her Royal Highness
demanded that she lose an arm
for deceiving the king
should she lose the competition.
What? Lose an arm?
What in the world is happening?
I believe Her Grace Consort Kang
was also present.
Consort Kang?
- Everything seems to be ready.
- Yes.
You may try your best,
but it will be to no avail.
Her Royal Highness
does not care for food at all.
The only thing she enjoys is…
His Majesty the King has arrived!
I hope you have been well, Grandmother.
Your Majesty.
I have not seen you in a long time.
I heard the gwinyeo
became the chief royal cook,
so I prepared a competition.
Would you like to watch together?
Yes.
I heard you are holding this competition
for the arm of the gwinyeo
I have appointed.
You seem to care a great deal about her,
seeing that you came
all the way here to face--
You are the one
who crossed the line first.
She is my chief royal cook,
which means she is my person.
All she has to do is win the competition.
Then all will be well and settled.
I heard the ministers objected
to your appointing her
as the chief royal cook.
You must know
their dismay will not die down
unless something is done.
In that case,
will the other cooks
also lose their arms if they lose?
The other cooks have already
been recognized by the palace.
They are not the same.
Where is the fun in that, Grandmother?
As you said, all they have to do is win.
It is only right to keep the rules fair.
Listen carefully.
Other than the one cook who wins today,
the rest will give up an arm.
Do you understand?
- Yes, Your Majesty.
- Yes, Your Majesty.
Bring in the straw cutters.
I really want to go home.
Dad.
I want to go back!
Very well.
Let the competition begin.
I have no choice.
All I can do now is prove myself.
Gwinyeo.
If it is true
that you came from the future,
show them
a new dish that only you can make.
BON APPÉTIT, YOUR MAJESTY
The theme of the competition is…
That's cursive.
Filial piety?
There's no way I'll lose.
Let go!
I heard you were the one
who organized the competition.
Just let me get something really quick!
This is not the time
for you to coddle the gwinyeo.
Shut your mouth!
There's no flirting or anything going on
between His Majesty and me.
- Open your mouth.
- I hope that His Majesty enjoys
your blurting.
Subtitle translation by: Jennifer Jean Lim