*Spoiler Alert: Review contains spoilers. Please read only after you have completed the drama.
*Definition of So Bong for this review – when Bong Hwan and So Yong are recognised as co-existing in the same body
Cast
Shin Hye Sun/신혜선/申惠善 – Queen Cheorin / Kim So Yong/金昭容
Kim Jung Hyun/김정현/金正贤 – King Cheoljong/哲宗
Na In Woo/나인우/罗仁宇 – Kim Byeong In/金炳仁
Seol In Ah/설인아/ 薛仁雅 – Jo Hwa Jin/赵花真
Bae Jong-ok/裴宗玉 – Queen Sunwon / Grand Queen Dowager Myeonggung/ 純元王后
Kim Tae-woo/金太祐 – Kim Jwa-geun/金左根
Jo Yeon Hee/赵善珠 – Queen Dowager Jo/神贞王后
Yoo Min Kyu/ 유민규/刘旻奎 – Prince Yeongpyeong/永平君
Lee Jae Won/李在源 – Hong Byeolgam/洪別監
Cha Chung-hwa/车清华 – Court Lady Choi/崔尚宮
Chae Seo-eun/蔡瑞恩 – Hong Yeon/洪燕
Yoo Young-jae/刘永才 – Kim Hwan/金晥
Choi Jin Hyuk/최진혁/崔振赫 – Jang Bong Hwan/张奉焕
Ratings for the Show:
Acting: 9
Storyline: 8.5
Overall: 8.5
Grade: A
Everyone in the palace has a secret.
This includes the King with a Hyde and Jekyll personality and the Queen with a man’s soul in her body.
Viewers would be in for a thrill of a roller coaster ride as we join Bong Hwan in his out-of-this-world, hilarious, exhilarating and dangerous time slip journey back to the Joseon Dynasty as Queen Cheorin.
It was more than the hilarious plot of a free-spirited modern age chef trapped in Queen Cheorin’s body, wreaking havoc in the Joseon period, that earned “Mr Queen” its position as the 5th highest rated drama in TVN history, with a rating of 17.37% for its final run.
The rom-com factor that made us chuckle, the cast’s endearing & stellar performance, awesome teamwork & chemistry, cliffhangers at the end of each episode, fusion of modern thinking to bring about change in the olden days, infusion of KPOP, K-Beauty, KFood, giving new meaning to modern day phrases like “No Touch” & “Anti-Fan”, improvising food cuisines in Joseon Dynasty, scheming and plotting against one another, a King with a Hyde & Jekyll personality and the struggle between a homosexual vs heterosexual love line, were among the many reasons that whisked me through the 20 episodes.
Much effort has been placed on aesthetics where we get to marvel at the beautiful sets, matching colourful hanbok costumes and the interesting spread of food that made it a lovely visual feast.
The drama’s theme boils down to one word – freedom.
The freedom to break away from the shackles of society norms and standards, to be who we really are, to do what we have always wanted to, to love whoever we want and to express how how we truly feel. It is easier to spur creative innovations and bring about constructive changes in our lives, when you are given the freedom to do so.
While Sageuk dramas have never been my cup of tea, the mix of lightheartedness amidst the heavy-hearted political fights struck an equilibrium to keep viewers entertained.
Bong Hwan’s time slip adventure allowed us to experience life in Joseon with a modern filter. His quick wits, great survival instincts, the ability to adapt and improvise allowed him to pull through the biggest ordeals.
Corruption, political infighting, gender-based double standards and discrimination have all long existed before our time.
It is this man from 200 years in the future who taught his ancestors how to break free and know that they have the rights to fight for the future they dreamed of. Bong Hwan played an important role in shaping their future and also challenged the stereotypes of being a Queen.
先前埋下的伏笔也前呼后应，让剧情有更通彻的连贯性。有别于原著，编剧也尝试融入许多韩国文化的特性，让剧情更加生动有趣，也更符合韩国观众的口味。
Distinction from Other Time Slip Sageuk Dramas
The distinctive differences from other time slip dramas are that most time slip characters would travel to a certain era in their original body form and looks, while “Mr Queen” is a complex character with a man’s soul.
With an infusion of modern thinking in the Joseon Dynasty, many rules in those days were deemed as outdated or too rigid, but Cheoljong was receptive to positive changes. This new approach is pretty well received in the commonly conservative Korean society.
So Yong decided to change some of the rules such as not allowing those below the age of 10 to join the palace, while allowing palace maids who are at least 18 years old to be able to get married. This “contemporary” approach would allow her closest friends, Hong Yeon and Court Lady Choi to be able to find their Mr Rights too.
Stepping it up on another level, this drama broaches on a bold but taboo topic on homosexuality, bisexuality and gender identity crisis. While this pushes the boundaries in South Korea’s conservative society, it did not deter the ratings from escalating steadily.
“Mr. Queen” may have its shortcomings of lacking in-depth character development and a hasty ending with some unanswered questions, but it has brought much joy and comfort to its viewers during the pandemic.
It’s just like how Bo Hwan chose to make the best of his days in Joseon Dynasty, not knowing when he could return to the future. We need to find joy and happiness in our daily lives too.
Modern Day Innovations in Joseon
Since Bong Hwan loves clubbing in the 21st Century, we could see him attempting to pose and act suave before Hwa Jin and the palace maids (with 2NE1’s “I’m the Best” as background music). 他始终是有现代魂，而且好色。
He even danced to Blackpink’s “Ddu Du Ddu Du” when he thought he could return to the future soon.
(This hilarious dance got Cheoljong totally mesmerised)
Since Bong Hwan was the President’s Chef, he utilized his exceptional culinary skills to get into the Grand Empress Dowager’s good books. Since she loves good food and wishes to prolong her beauty, she’s the best person to introduce KFood and K-Beauty to. You would see her putting on improvised face masks.
Pasta, ramyeon, tornado potato and hamburger were some of the modern dishes that Bong Hwan whipped up.
– When So Bong was on a revenge mode, she wore pretty clothes and heavy makeup just like how it was in “Devil wears Prada“. 气势很重要。
– Bong Hwan and So Yong enjoyed reading novels such as the “World of the Married” (夫妇的世界) and “Temptation of Wife” (妻子的诱惑) with Court Lady Choi and Hong Yeon.
– The “finger heart” sign which means “I Love You” and “Twist” sign which signifies that someone is lying, are some modern hand signs that were introduced to Cheoljong. These have become their exclusive codes/专属暗语。
– The ramyeon scene implies a “booty call“ in modern Korea, but Cheoljong did not understand its meaning and rejected having Ramyeon.
New Meaning to Modern Phrases
Bong Hwan’s weird phrases made it to the “中殿词典“ that Cheoljong had compiled in his attempt to understand So Yong.
This has definitely given some modern phrases like “No Touch”, “Anti-Fans” and “All In” a whole new meaning.
No touch
Actual Meaning: no physical skinship allowed
New Meaning: to live happily & have fun separately (not together)
Fan
Actual meaning: an ardent supporter/admirer of a celebrity/artiste
New Meaning: someone who watches over and hopes for the best of someone
Anti-fan
Actual Meaning: The opposite of a fan, someone who detests a celebrity/artiste so much that they would devote their time to mocking, criticizing, or making derivative works about it.
New Meaning: Someone who worships you more than a fan
All In
Actual Meaning: betting your entire stack on a single hand during a game
New Meaning: to put all your eggs in one basket, meaning to risk it all
Brunch
Actual Meaning: combination of breakfast and early lunch
New Meaning: women coming together (get-together)
These are some of my favourite phrases from “中殿名言“.
– “If an apology is being made for the sake of the one making it, and not for the one whom it’s meant for, how does that constitute an apology?/ 道歉是看接受那方的心意，如果是为了让道歉的那方安心，那还叫道歉吗? “
This has sorta brought Cheoljong to comprehend that he should not do things his way, but more of understanding what the other party wants.
Her weird analogy such as “I curse when I’m happy to see someone, provoke people when grateful” is not easily digestible, but Cheoljong made an effort to accept her for being who she is.
That’s when he said “blessing to others may not be a blessing to you”.
– Attack is the best defence /最好的防御，就是攻击
You should be proactive and forestall your enemies before they attack you. It worked when So Bong retaliated and caught her enemies off guard.
What We Learnt
– Love transcends time and gender.
We can see this in Cheojong and So Bong’s relationship. It is more of loving someone for their character, personality, embracing them for who they are, regardless of their gender.
– 所谓“宫廷深似海“。在宫里，没有任何人是真正的好人或真正的坏人。只有立场和利益的不同。
As the saying goes, “everyone in the palace has their secrets”.
They wear masks and will do whatever it takes to keep their secrets under wraps.
Everyone has their vested interests, motives and agenda for doing what they do. Some do it for power, citizens, the greater good, family clan, loved ones or simply for survival.
Treading on thin ice in the palace and putting their lives at stake will push their inert human instincts to stay alive, no matter what it takes.
Is there someone who is 100% good or 100% evil in the palace?
Not likely. Everyone has their own stand and it depends on the perspective you take. Most people are lurking around the grey area, doing things against their conscience but for their personal good.
– The “truth” is based on what people choose to believe in.
Even back in the ancient days, scandals and rumours not merely tarnish people’s reputations but may even cost them their lives.
This word-of-mouth rumour spreading like wildfire is akin to the power of modern South Korea’s paparazzi, Dispatch. No one was interested in the real truth. When they choose to believe in what they hear, that is the truth. Our “No Touch” couple had to put on a PDA act to dispel rumours.
– If you have a common enemy, it either makes you friends or alliances. / 拥有共同的敌人就等于是友军。
This is evident when the Andong Kim Clan and Poongyang Jo Clan formed an alliance to go against Cheoljong, and also when Cheoljong and So Bong joined forces to retaliate.
– Never lose the most important person, which is yourself.
Losing oneself amidst the pursuit for status, power and wealth in the palace is not uncommon.
From the palace maids to royal consorts and court officials, many took bribes or commit evildoing for survival or to move up the corporate ladder.
Hwa Jin was swarmed with jealousy and hatred when Cheoljong began to take an interest in So Yong. In order to get rid of her love rival, she joined forces with Empress Dowager and almost killed So Bong out of rage.
– Everyone has their biggest weakness. How far are you willing to go to protect what you want and those you love?
It is the survival of the fittest in the palace. In order to achieve your goals, there come big or small sacrifices. Some would sacrifice their freedom or lives so that their loved ones can have a better life. Some would sell their conscience and souls in order to gain more power and wealth.
That is why most people will conceal their hidden agendas. You can get blackmailed or threatened and coerced to do things if someone else discovers your weakness.
Renowned for their acting abilities, Shin Hye Sun and Kim Jung Hyun were the initial pull factors for me to watch “Mr Queen”.
Director Yoon Sung Sik tries to strike a balance on the scale where Shin Hye Sun is primarily responsible for the wackier, more light-hearted moments while Kim Jung Hyun focuses more on the serious and melodrama parts. When these 2 stellar actors combine forces, viewers are in for some hilarious, sweet, lovey-dovey and touching moments.
Bong Hwan/So Yong/So Bong – 2 Souls in a Queen’s Body
Shin Hye Sun should be given a Daesang award!
MAMA nailed the role perfectly and stole most of the limelight.
I have always enjoyed watching Shin Hye Sun’s dramas as she handles her roles very well, from behaving like a 17-year-old teenager after she woke up from a coma at the age of 30 in “30 but 17”, to a blind but aspiring ballerina in “Angel’s Last Mission: Love”.
While we know she’s capable of conquering any role, the portrayal of a male & female soul with such diverse yet similar personalities in a woman’s body is just so exemplary. 她把这两个角色发挥地淋漓尽致，维妙维肖。
MAMA’s delivery of emotions and comedy was just so timely and on point. Viewers would be entertained by her comedic actions and struggles with gender identity crisis but not feel that it’s overly exaggerated. She’s able to pull you back into some serious, emotional moments when she worried about the King’s safety, plotted her revenge, yet falling in love with Cheoljong as a “2-in-1” version.
Choi Jin Hyuk’s voiceover tapped on with Shin Hye Sun’s acting was impeccable and it made us believe that there really is a man’s soul in the queen’s body. We totally love sipping on this “2 In 1 Coffee Mix”.
When So Bong wreaked havoc in the palace and caused tension between her mother-in-law and grandmother-in-law, she was quick to choose sides since the Grand Empress Dowager is from the same family clan.
Bet Bong Hwan would never expect himself to be embroiled in 婆媳之间的问题, but he surely knows how to get into the good books of the one with more power.
Was it Bong Hwan in So Yong’s body or was So Yong hiding in his subconscious all along?
It seems they co-existed, but more of So Yong being dormant for the initial episodes, leaving it to Bo Hwan to release all her penned up emotions and do the things that she didn’t dare to.
It was till Bong Hwan had a “direct confrontation” with So Yong in Episode 7 that his constant inner monologues were taken over by So Yong’s voice.
This hinted that she decided to be more “involved” in taking charge of her own life and shown courage to face the obstacles head on with Bong Hwan as a tag team, knowing that Bong Hwan will have her back. She also let her affection and lust towards Cheoljong show and that’s when Bong Hwan started to question his gender identity.
If we can hear 2 voices fighting in the head or So Yong taking over the body sometimes, we will be able to understand the real So Yong better.
Shin Hye Sun has done so well that we are able to differentiate when she is Bo Hwan and when she is So Yong with the change in her expressions and voice tone.
When Shin Hye Sun is Bong Hwan,
– You would notice the spitfire personality. She’s pompous with a total disregard to social etiquette and palace protocols. She would be very crude, shoots her mouth off, hurls vulgarities, raises her skirt very high up, taking big strides and running around the palace, burp without covering her mouth, etc.
中殿娘娘从昏迷清醒后的行为举止都非常脱轨，但那好气又好笑的行为，令人摸不透的思绪不只令皇上和堂哥，就连身旁的宫女大厨们都被她吸引。
All the actions and behaviour that are deemed as unfitting of a queen.
But hey, Bong Hwan is back in Joseon to change people’s perceptions of stereotypes!
21世纪的自由灵魂和民主主义思想的 Bong Hwan, 是不愿受到宫廷礼仪的束缚的。A leopard never changes its spots. Even in Joseon, Bong Hwan loves flirting around pretty ladies, aka Lady Consort Hwa Jin and the palace maids, and even sneaked his way into the gisaeng house.
He was very confident, especially when it comes to creating new fusion food and exploring KBeauty concepts. However, he couldn’t sew well like So Yong.
When she is So Yong,
– She’s more prim and proper, graceful, gentle, knows when she should say politically correct stuff.
She gets shy around Cheoljong and we could feel the butterflies fluttering in her stomach. Unlike most 大家贵秀, she’s well read even on wartime strategies and would try her best to assist and protect him.
However, she started to hurl vulgarities as she felt more “liberated” after Bong Hwan left. Bong Hwan has probably unleashed that “hidden” side of So Yong, allowing her to have the courage to open up and be herself.
Many viewers believe that Bong Hwan is the reincarnation of So Yong. Well, I think we can also see it that way.
She will achieve whatever she wants, including finding ways and means to see how her future husband looks like as she did not want to marry “blindly”. She was also strict with the maids.
From the spin-off episodes, we can see that So Yong always has been proactive and has a mind of her own. The words that she sewed before she threw herself into the lake were “放弃虚假的我“. This is also a hint that the real So Yong may be very similar to Bong Hwan.
When she is So Bong,
– The most obvious difference would be that the inner monologues changed to So Yong’s voice from Episode 7. She’s a contradicting embodiment of good versus evil, rough versus gentle, rash versus composed. The struggles when So Bong was attracted to the King but Bong Hwan slapping herself to ask So Yong to get a grip of herself.
(I’m sure many of us roared into laughter at the twist after a passionate kiss)
– Her tone became slightly gentle sometimes but whenever she gets angered, we would see the side of Bong Hwan surfacing. Though her eye expressions, she felt that she was the only one who could protect him. Guess it’s both So Bong feeling this way.
Similarity between the 2 of them is, 他们都不是省油的灯。有仇必报。They truly love Cheoljong and will get back at those who bully them.
Bong Hwan would probably never have imagined that there would be 2 men fighting over him, but I love those jealous moments when Byeong In and Cheoljong were pitting their drinking skills.
Hye Sun showcased Bong Hwan’s struggles of wanting to lead a carefree life, yet being restricted in the body of Queen Cheorin, who was supposed to be the country’s lady role model.
Being in a more disadvantaged position in the Joseon era due to higher double standards on gender discrimination, he learnt to understand women’s difficulties and started to fight for their rights (indirectly fighting for his).
He had to endure the physical pain of monthly menstrual cramps and weariness from being pregnant. This indirectly forced this womaniser to learn how to respect women.
Bong Hwan grew as a person and the changes he made in the past changed everyone’s fate, including his future. Cheoljong, So Yong and everyone else were able to lead happy lives thanks to him.
Cheoljong – The 2-faced Puppet Emperor
Since his return to the small screen with CLOY after a 6-month hiatus, we are able to see a more cheerful and lively Kim Jung Hyun. Known as the “Ad lib King”, his impromptu improvisations added more fun to not just his, but also many of his co-stars’ scenes.
One instance is when Cheoljong and So Yong were publicly displaying affection to dispel the rumours that the child she’s carrying is not Cheoljong’s.
While Shin Hye Sun stole most of the limelight, Kim Jung Hyun is lauded for portraying his multi-faceted character with much depth and intricacy that is at a level of its own.
It’s tough to make his character seem more interesting but he delivered it well. His character is slightly more serious and “toned down” but the smooth, intricate portrayal of his facial and eye expressions, vocal tone, body language, aids in delivering Cheoljong’s complicated and intense emotions.
On the surface, he is the lazy, timid, lecherous puppet king who knew nothing about governing the country and is afraid of getting into trouble. He loves to laugh out loud with “HoHoHo” to hide his real intentions.
The real Cheoljong is a pro at concealing his true motives and feelings. He’s ambitious, capable, prudent, witty, has goals and plans for the greater good, cares for his citizens and wants to better their lives.
When he was coerced to make painful decisions to kill his royal guards who are also his “secret troop”, the fury, despair, fear, helplessness he felt but had to rein it in despite humiliation, was so aptly and impactfully displayed.
No matter how he tried to hide his real self, he would step up to the defence of his loved ones (be it So Yong, Hwa Jin, his subordinates) and protect them like the ruler of the country should. When he needed to make important decisions, he would show his prowess as the king. That’s kinda manly and sexy.
所谓，“女人心海底针“。
He’s a typical man who can never fully understand wife, but we can’t blame him since no one could understand the queen’s idiosyncratic and eccentric behaviour.
When he began to discover the Queen’s cuter aspects, he gradually tried to understand and accept her as who she is. He learnt to loosen up and became more honest and in tune with his emotions towards his queen.
Kim Jung Hyun mentioned that the moment Cheoljong decided to see So Yong as who she is and not being blinded by sheer hatred, that’s when the relationship changed.
In the palace where everyone wears a mask, he’s attracted to So Bong’s loyalty, candidness, for being so genuine and not bothering about others’ opinions or perceptions.
The right person will love you for being you.
The emptiness he felt like something’s missing when he lost his soul mate, was mildly displayed in a short scene, but triggered a storm in our hearts.
He should know that the person came from 200 years later since they talked a lot about training the military soldiers and strategising.
Since Cheoljong remembered all that So Bong had told him previously, he may jolly well realise that Bong Hwan mentioned he was a man from 200 years later. So Bong mentioned Bong Hwan as the most attractive man, while he carved his name on the rock before he jumped into the lake.
These are the tell-tale signs that a wise man like Cheoljong would be able to fit the pieces of the puzzle together, someday. That’s presumably why he chose the “crossed eye” portrait that he thought was funny. It’s like a love letter from the past to the future.
It would be good if the story could address how both Cheoljong and So Yong come to terms regarding Bong Hwan’s departure, instead of just some one-liner thoughts going through their minds.
The Leads’ Chemistry
看两位戏精同台飙戏，怎一个“过瘾“了得?
It isn’t often you get both male and female leads who are on par in terms of their acting abilities, thus it was just so gratifying to watch them 同台飙戏。While both of them are not 第一眼帅哥美女, their charisma will grow on you.
Kim Jung Hyun seems smitten and full of admiration for Shin Hye Sun just like how Cheoljong is drawn to So Young. Her energy at the set is like a burst of sunshine. Their ad lib improvisations showed their comfort level with each other and do not mind experimenting new ideas to make the drama more enjoyable for viewers.
Cheoljong and So Yong were attracted to each other during their teens and their first unofficial meeting, but that was merely infatuation.
Discords between the Andong Kim Family Clan and the King had led them to start their marriage based on misunderstandings, hatred and resentment.
Tension building up in the initial episodes when both spouses were double guessing and wary of each others’ intentions and pitting against each other were served like a bowl of piping hot, spicy jjamppong.
Thanks to Bong Hwan for coming to So Yong’s rescue, Cheoljong began to have a soft spot for this cranky queen who dared to speak her mind and saw her in another light.
When you try to understand someone and resolves your conflicts, you will be able to discover the good points.
Their squabbles remind us of real-life married couples. You quarrel over the most trivial things and get jealous easily. Being in love makes you behave like an irrational child sometimes.
可爱的哲宗明明乐在被中殿虐却面露难色, 很多时候显得无奈无辜和不知所措的表情，简直让人啼笑皆非。
When our Queen insisted on the “No Touch” rule, Cheoljong manly embraced her and gave his order that “I forbid you to forbid me”.
He expressed that he still loves her despite her being so arrogant, rude and full of herself. Those are mainly Bong Hwan’s traits but remember, So Yong has such traits too but she chose to suppress them.
From the spin-off episodes, viewers get to see her wackier side, but she became weirder after Bo Hwan’s soul was trapped in her body.
Cheoljong is actually a romantic guy. From his 中殿词典，abiding by his queen’s “No Touch” rule and the “crossed eye” portrait, he never fails to show his affection even in the most subtle ways.
Kim Hyun Jung and Shin Hye Sun made this “No Touch” couple much more endearing. It’s a K-Drama pairing that we will remember for many years to come.
Kim Byeong In – The Steadfast Lover
小编 is a converted fan of Na In Woo now.
The first I remembered watching Na In Woo’s performance was his special appearance as an antagonist in “Mystic Pop Up Bar”. It was no doubt an impressionable one.
I felt this good looking lad has got potential and he would shine in antagonist roles. True enough, his small break came in “Mr Queen”, as supporting role that created an impact and ripples in many viewers’ hearts.
在观看”Mr Queen”的同时, 一定会被”堂哥”的帅气和深情圈粉。The confidence and determination In Woo has in real life is pretty much the same as Byeong In. They will push on till they attain their goals and have a “never give up” attitude.
Na In Woo is serious throughout the drama but he will capture the hearts of many female viewers as the tall, handsome, 深情专一 “堂哥”，who’s a skilled swordsman and shrewd strategist.
He’s farsighted and planned in advance to help So Yong stabilise her position as the queen. He would teach all who bully So Yong a lesson. He’s a protector and a warrior, just that So Yong never saw him as a potential other half. Despite it being an unrequited love, he never gave up on So Yong and fought with all his life to protect her.
Wished that the scriptwriter could be a little kinder to Byeong In but this brings us back to the realisation that we don’t always get happy endings. The “hide & seek scene” got me teary eyed.
The one with too much love to give but only for it to be unrequited, yet never experienced love his entire life.
The penned up emotions, rage, jealousy, overflowing love and sheer obsessiveness were so well executed by this young man that I wondered if he had such hurtful encounters in real life. The surprising revelation during an interview was that he never really had crushes for anyone. Huh?! Does this mean it has always been mutual and he never had to confess to any girls?
Not to mention the breathtaking fighting scenes with Cheoljong at the beginning when Cheoljong was trying to harm So Yong, the challenge at the festival event and when he was hunting Cheoljong down, were impressive. No stunt doubles, I read.
It’s a heartache watching Byeong In sometimes. It was the lack of love and loneliness that led him to become so obsessive towards So Yong and became more extreme.
He’s a sorrowful and pitiful character with a twisted love obsession. 凄美且壮烈。深谋远虑的堂哥早已为她准备了复仇之路。贴心和爱之心切，无法用言语来说明。
He had to prove his worth as an adopted child. He only had eyes for So Yong and would protect her at all costs, but she only treated him as a cousin and brother.
While it seemed So Yong didn’t have romantic feelings for Byeong In, it occurred to me that she is just like Hwa Jin who knows of Prince Yeong Pyeong’s feelings towards her.
She had been trying to disregard that extra “love and devotion” from her cousin, who’s her only life buoy in the palace. He would definitely catch her back. Maybe that’s why she didn’t outrightly push him away back then.
Byeong In’s the only one who could find So Yong during their “Hide and Seek” games, because he’s the only one who truly knows her inside out.
At the end of the day, only Byeong In noticed the change in So Yong and was the only one who could find her no matter how she hides.
He’s the only one who could tell So Yong was not So Yong, but someone else. No one else, including So Yong’s father, Hong Yeon, Cheoljong knew she’s not who she used to be. At least, So Yong’s not completely forgotten. Someone still remembers her.
If Byeong In knows So Yong so well, how is it that he did not realise Bong Hwan is in her body all along?
It could be largely due to the fact that there are similarities between Bong Hwan and So Yong’s real personalities, which we got to discover in the spin-off. Byeong In had seen this side of her and it’s not surprising to him in the very least.
From his steadfastness in love and unwavering devotion, to angst, possessiveness and back to pure devotion in protecting her, he is the only one who has been “consistent”.
He knew many of her darkest secrets. No one could understand So Yong like Byeong In would, not even Cheoljong.
His love may be obsessive and toxic to many, which in a sense is destructive too. I wished someone had taught him love. Just like how Na In Woo puts it, it can be any form of love, not just romantic wise, but also from family or friends.
So Yong is the symbolism of love, light and warmth in his life. She is his driving force to live, to excel, be better and more powerful. He had to become powerful so that he could protect her from the enemies who are trying to dispose of her.
If he merely sees So Yong a a possession, he would not be that “noble” to want to protect her and her child or even sacrifice his life for her.
He would have forced himself on her when she was in her most vulnerable state. He was okay for her to get married to Cheoljong, but it pained him to give up without fighting when he realised how Cheoljong did not cherish So Yong initially.
We often regret what we didn’t fight for. He didn’t want to live his life in vain and he put up a good fight for the love of his life. It’s just that he used the wrong means.
Byeong In has his selfish reasons, but who else in the palace doesn’t have their personal motives? Had he been on the same political stand as Cheoljong, things would have been very different.
Na In Woo has carved a very strong personality and presence, that left a lingering impact in our hearts.
Can’t wait for his debut movie as the 1st male lead soon!
Jo Hwa Jin – When Love and Hate Collide
Seoul In Ah’s outlook reminds me much of Park Si Yeon and Namie Amuro.
The pretty, intelligent, talented and composed Hwa Jin is definitely Queen material. Thinking that she was Cheoljong’s only true love, she agreed to be lady consort with a pure intention of assisting her loved one.
When So Bong usurped her “throne” in Cheoljong’s heart, that’s when she turned to the dark side.
Hwa Jin was swarmed with jealousy and hatred when Cheoljong began to fall for So Yong. In order to get rid of her love rival, she joined forces with Empress Dowager and also almost killed So Bong out of rage.
Looks can be deceiving and even the closest ones can deceive or betray you some day. Cheoljong never thought that his most trusted confidante would betray him since she’s aware of his aspirations. The human trail of thoughts is complex. Love can turn into hate overnight and our perspectives change in the blink of an eye.
To be fair to Hwa Jin, she tried to nurse her jealousy of So Yong but she was proven time and again that her once forever-love had a change of heart.
Love, hate and jealousy can drive people to behave in irrational and destructive ways. The palace can turn someone into a monster as they lose themselves in the pursuit for more wants. That’s likely the “most precious person” that she has lost, in So Yong’s words.
Hwa Jin had a chance to redeem herself and took steps to get out of that toxicity. Thumbs up to her since not many people would have that courage to undo their wrongs. 非常帅气，华丽的转身。
While she may not have Cheoljong’s full affection, Prince Pyeong Yeong remained by her side and protected her from as much harm as possible.
Prince Pyeong Yeong and Byeong In are so alike in their giving for their loved ones, just that they used different means to safeguard them.
Wished that there were more scenes for Hwa Jin. We hoped to see how she could take actions to defy the Empress Dowager or stage her own revenge in a more 痛快 manner. She was very much made redundant or irrelevant in the last 2 episodes.
The 缺一不可 SideKicks
The supporting roles instilled so much vibrancy, fun and laughter. No matter how “lame” they may seem, each of them contributed to the success and popularity of “Mr Queen”.
They are proof that friendship is possible in the palace, regardless of your level.
It is more than an “employer-employee” relationship between So Bong, Court Lady Choi and Hong Yeon. Other than taking care of her daily needs, they are her best friends (闺蜜) and support whenever she’s in danger or whenever she 差点出包。
How we love Court Lady Choi who usually kept a poker face but had to run to the bamboo forest to vent her frustrations or giggled whenever she was reading the love novels and looking at “macho men” in her “binoculars”. The images of her running after So Bong shouting “MAMA” are etched in our memories.
Royal Chef Manbok’s inital displeasure with Bong Hwan because women in that era weren’t allowed in the kitchen, till he felt threatened by Bong Hwan’s culinary skills and creativity, and ultimately treating Bong Hwan as his mentor, was a good example how the people working under So Bong loved her.
He was able to change people’s perception when he could prove his worth.
Bong Hwan has his friends and the king who tried hard to understand him, so it did not make him feel so lonely in a foreign era. His trip to the past was not a wasted one.
Cheoljong was not alone in his fight. He had his brother, bestie Hong Byeolgam, his troop of 敢死队 and So Bong who would never leave him to fend for himself.
Court Lady Choi and Royal Chef’s budding romance, Hong Byeolgam and Kim Hwan’s friendship were some of our favourite “ships” as well.
While Kim Hwan takes on a role of a clueless Himbo, he was loyal to his best friend Hong Byeolgam, even if he was just making use of him. Their love triangle with Hong Yeon was pretty funny as well.
The Antagonists
The drama’s antagonists succeeded in irritating the hell out of their viewers.
Kim Tae Woo assumes the role of Kim Jae Geun as the scheming, merciless and evil Head of Department of Justice had the viewers gritting their teeth. Everyone was scared of the domineering Grand Empress Dowager but she had some cute moments whenever she tried to 耍脾气 in only eating what So Bong cooks. There is always a different side to everyone.
The superstitious Queen Dowager Jo who plotted her revenge by spreading rumours and hiring shamans to see her future, preys on the weaker minds to do wrongful things for her. How shiok it was when we saw how So Bong declared “war” on her.
She lived in guilt and never had peace for a single moment since she caused the death of her son.
I cannot say more about how we all hated that evil eunuch with a scar on his face. The corrupted officials from the Andong Kim and Poonyang Jo Clan alike, had their parts in peeving the viewers too.
Thanks to all these antagonists who added spice to the drama.
The Much Debated Ending
Since “Mr Queen” is an adaptation from a popular chinese web drama “Go Princess Go”, many netizens have made inference to the original versions’ alternative endings.
Much debate has been going on regarding if Cheoljong only loves Bong Hwan or both Bong Hwan and So Yong.
Based on Kim Jung Hyun’s sentiments, he felt the difference is the change in perspective from which Cheoljong views So Yong, not so much on whether it is Bong Hwan or So Yong.
When he started to see So Yong from a cuter perspective and attempted to understand her, he began to like her personality, embracing all her flaws.
The mini spin off episodes revealed that Cheoljong was attracted to So Yong at their first meet up in the palace. The initial series also showed that they felt for each other since they were younger.
While Cheoljong noticed the difference in So Yong after Bong Hwan returns to the future and it undeniably felt a void, he still loved So Yong for who she was.
So Yong has always some crankiness and quirkiness in her that’s uncommon for women of the olden days, just that with Bong Hwan’s modern thinking and dare devil personality, it makes her stands out even more to Cheoljong.
From my personal perspective, he loves both of them.
Perhaps if Bong Hwan traveled to the past in his original body, it would be more like pure friendship and camaraderie with Cheoljong like Prince YeongPyeong and ByeolGam.
But who can dismiss the charisma of King Cheoljong? His half-brother and Byeolgam looked up to him as a governor with big aspirations.
Cheoljong found a lover, soulmate, comrade and a friend in So Bong. It may be hard for Bong Hwan to differentiate this ultimately if it’s So Yong’s hormones that made him suspect he loves Cheoljong more than a friend or was it really love?
My guess is, it’s a mixture of everything.
Nonetheless, it would be good if there’s a closure to this “love triangle” between Cheoljong, Bong Hwan and So Yong. Hwa Jin wasn’t even part of the equation towards the end.
Viewers would love to see at least So Yong coming clean about someone else co-existing in her body all this while and Cheoljong to finally realise who he’s missing – the man from the future and Bong Hwan to be able to meet Cheoljong’s reincarnation.
It isn’t fair to Cheoljong or Bong Hwan that she lives with a lie for the rest of her life, but perhaps they may have talked about it, just that it’s not shown in the drama.
This is an open-ended question that’s up to viewers’ discretion.
My favourite interpretation from one of the alternative ending in “Go Princess Go”, is that Bong Hwan is actually the reincarnation of So Yong. Well, this seems to fit the puzzle best.
When faced with a life crisis, So Yong sought the help of her future self, Bong Hwan. That explains why they are somewhat alike and he could have instant access to So Yong’s memories and emotions. While this may be due to the fact that So Yong has always been in her body, just that she took a back seat while allowing Bong Hwan to make most decisions for her.
When So Bong joined forces from episode 7, they became a formidable team. So Yong kept Bong Hwan’s actions in check, letting him understand love and friendship, while Bong Hwan’s quick-wittedness and strategies saved them from danger.
If Bong Hwan is not So Yong’s reincarnation, how is it that coincidental for their souls to intertwine when both their lives were in danger at the same time?
While many are hoping for a season 2 (including me), it’s best to leave the drama’s ending as it is.
It’s a life lesson for Bong Hwan that he could truly fall in love with someone some day, cross era, cultural differences and even gender.
We are not sure if it changes his gender identity but the cruz is he experienced true love and it has changed him to become a better person.
Cheoljong and him may have changed history, but corruption and evil will still exist in this world. You don’t give up without a fight. To quote Bong Hwan, “When you strive hard to change your life, the world would also change a little at a time”.
While the court house infighting could sometimes be a little heavy, it’s not difficult to understand the plot. Some twists and turns and cliffhangers here and there kept us glued to the screen too.
In the mini spin-off episode when shooting stars were deemed as “the end of the world”, Bong Hwan asked everyone to make a wish. Cheoljong wished that he would meet So Yong as a commoner in his future life, while Lady Choi and Hong Yeon wanted to be his mother and sister respectively.
Wished that there would be at least 5 to 10 mins more in the modern days whereby we see these characters’ reincarnations. Perhaps Hong Yeon’s descendants own the clubs in Gangnam and that can spark another romance for Bong Hwan, since he always liked Hong Yeon as a female.
It there’s a Season 2, Director Yoon can consider a modern version set in the entertainment industry whereby Cheoljong and Byeong In can be idol actors or singers, while So Yong a ballerina (since all of them are musically inclined in some way). Bong Hwan can appear on cooking variety shows and that’s how he gets acquainted with them.
“Mr. Queen” is definitely a time-slip Saeguk drama that would be on the Top of my charts for a long time to come.
Thanks for giving us more reasons to smile and laugh heartily.
May we get to meet the cast in their new projects soon!
We will be “Mr Queen”‘s forever “Anti-fans”!
