[Episode 10]
[4 Years Later]
Why can’t you do your job looking after her?
What about the pavilion?
I was just there.
She wasn’t there?
That’s what I told you.
Maybe I should go to the temple and tell Jini’s mother.
What’s the use of making her concerned when she’s trying to get some rest?
You should search for her elsewhere.
It’s gotten late.
Go should back home.
You shouldn’t let your body get so tired.
Today’s the anniversary of Eunho’s death.
Jini must not be feeling well.
But...
There’s nothing else I can do.
Trying to soothe the soul of the dead is the only thing I can do for Jini.
Look here!
Let me go!
Let me go! Let me go!
Let me go!
What are you doing?
Are you okay?
I told you to let me go.
I told you not to butt into my life.
So you expect me to let you die?
Do I look alive to you?
Don’t act like you know me.
Get me some wine.
Look here.
I’m going to drink to my endless love that’s faded.
Stop.
It’s been 4 years.
It’s time she got over it.
40 years won’t cure her pain.
The fact that you’re here makes things worse.
What?
Even if Eunho’s family has gone bankrupt, you shouldn’t have come to work here.
What did you say? You’re such a snob.
Do you think you have a new life just because you have some silk on?
You’ve become such a snob.
Hey, you!
I’m not here just because I have nowhere to go.
I felt sorry for Jini after what happened to my master, Eunho.
That’s why I wanted to stay near her.
Ouch! You’re hurting me.
How dare you act up?
Oh, that wench of a daughter...
Danshim. That’s her name.
Why don’t you use your head?
You shouldn’t call her anything else.
My daughter is now a gisaeng.
So don’t call her anything else.
Even the lower class have orders within.
- The wench. - What?
I’m talking about Danshim. The very beautiful Danshim.
Don’t say a word. Just carry on with what you were doing.
If you’re going to do it, you should do it right.
Are you mad?
How dare you stare at us that way?
She’s the lady of the house.
Courtesy is about what’s in your heart.
Don’t you agree?
Let’s go.
Where are you going? Didn’t you hear the drums?
It’s time for practice.
You have so much energy.
Do you think you have enough power to force me to do things?
Myeongwol.
I told you many times that I won’t dance from now on.
Let it go.
You’ve been like this for the last 4 years.
Stop bothering the lady.
That’s exactly what I had in mind.
What do you mean?
You want Myeongwol removed from the troupe?
Yes, it was a request from the official.
But sir, a government artist is barred from leaving the troupe by law.
Are you trying to teach me about the law?
Do you think I know less about the law than you do?
Sir.
I told you it was an order.
The high official has helped out the king himself.
Surely, you must know that he is above the law.
Let’s go.
It’s the end of the world.
I always knew that noblemen were robbers.
But how could you steal food from beggars?
I didn’t steal. I begged.
That’s even worse.
You should act noble, even if you were on the verge of starving to death.
Act noble?
Even Confucius himself would’ve done the same thing.
I was wondering why you let go of your food.
I guess you just saw Myeongwol.
Myeongwol?
Who is she?
Don’t you know Myeongwol, the gisaeng?
How could a simple gisaeng be in such a gorgeous carriage?
I would’ve thought she was the wife of a king.
Why not?
She has so much money.
I heard that it costs a house if you want to hold her hand.
I heard that you are the most coveted gisaeng in all these parts.
What do you say to sharing some of that love with me tonight?
That’s impossible.
Is it because I don’t seem like the type that can afford a house?
I’ve already received two houses just for tonight.
But if you can buy me an even more expensive house,
I could cancel my previous appointment.
You know that I can’t afford that.
It’s not just money I’m talking about.
What a loser.
Let’s go.
Are you talking about Myeongwol?
She is the most talented, but has the worst personality.
Nothing can compare to her arrogance.
Someone should teach her a lesson.
How?
Oh, man.
I think you’ve been out of the country for too long.
I guess being in China has made you less versed in what’s been going on.
There are men lined up for Myeongwol.
All the high-level officials from the capital flock to Songdo at every chance they get.
That’s not all.
The Chinese diplomats send her love letters all the time.
Can she write such beautiful poetry?
Can’t you tell by how our friend has fallen for Myeongwol?
Until someone even more talented appears,
I’d have to say that no one is more poetic than her.
Watch your temper.
Myeongwol. Myeongwol!
What does she have that makes men want her even more?
Don’t be so mad. She’s still from the country.
Let her be.
All she has is her temper to show for.
Myeongwol was able to perfect her voice when Booyong wasn’t able to perfect hers.
I can understand why Booyong is so angry.
Ma’am.
Don’t frown. You’ll get wrinkles.
Don’t be too concerned.
You’ve seen her at her worst.
She may be beautiful, but she has a loud mouth.
Even though she is famous for her talent in writing,
she may not be so versed in performing arts.
We cannot be sure about that.
Her troupe has never competed in the contest for the last 4 years.
If Myeongwol was talented in the arts and not just poetry, Baekmu would act differently.
If you’re still mad,
you can use your musical talents to win over her poetry.
I don’t think Myeonwol likes it that he’s interrupting.
She’s playing faster to get rid of him.
Her beauty and personality are the finest of all.
Are you happy with my reward?
It’s not bad.
Will you spend the night with me then?
Why not?
What?
I’m sorry about this, sir.
This lady prefers my music to the two houses that you presented to her.
Stop the nonsense.
Let’s not upset our guest today.
What is there to be upset about?
Everyone knows that a gisaeng lives on prizes given to us.
If your majesty will present me with a better gift, I will accept his offer.
What do you say?
If you can’t agree to this, I’ll be on my way.
Wait.
What is it you want?
I’ll give you what you want.
Are you serious?
A man would never go against his word.
What about being your wife?
What?
Why are you so surprised?
I was just joking.
Do you think it’s possible for me to be your wife?
It’s just not possible.
And it’s not something I want.
Then what?
Give me your wife’s quarters for me to live in.
And make sure that your wife moves into a room where I won’t see her.
Is this impossible as well?
Stop it.
No, I can do it for you.
I’ll do what you want for you.
Are you being serious?
You’re the rudest of them all.
Your morals have gone down the drain.
How dare you try to take down his wife who has stood by his side all her life?
You’re nothing but a mere animal.
I know that it’s wrong to try to break up his marriage, but it’s none of your business.
Who are these people?
I told them to come here.
I am guilty of trying to break up your marriage.
But you are also guilty of agreeing to have a gisaeng take the place of your wife.
Do you want me to get punished first?
Or would you like to go before me?
You wench!
This is going to be nice.
I can’t believe that you’ve been so blinded by a single woman.
How can we say that people like you are noble high-ranking officials?
What are you doing? Go after him right now!
Get him. Get him!
Stop, right there!
I was waiting for you, sir.
Since I’ve been rewarded by you, I’ll be treating you well.
No, that’s not necessary.
My music is not half as good as your musical talent.
My music isn’t much to listen to.
I’ll be on my way now.
Kim Junghan, you’re being arrested.
Mr. Kim is locked up in a prison for those who have committed treason.
Do you think he’s committed treason?
I’m going to appoint you as the Minister of Rites.
I can’t accept it.
Are you going to go against my wishes again?
Please think about it once more.
I can’t let it pass this time around.
If things weren’t urgent around here,
I wouldn’t have called you here like this.
But your majesty...
Are you saying that you can’t accept my offer?
If that’s so,
I can only let you go.
Is it life...
or death?
It’s your call.
I’d rather die.
How could you end your life so easily?
I should’ve died 6 years ago.
Then...
Who will be in charge of the nation’s music?
Stop!
What’s going on here?
Can’t you see for yourself?
No, you can’t burn valuable musical scores like these.
Valuable?
These music scores are contemptible.
But this music is being used throughout the palace.
It’s not right to call Joseon the land of the nobles.
Such music has been passed down traditionally for a hundred years.
Joseon honors the customs of China.
Therefore, its music must also be from China.
Step aside.
I can’t allow it. It’s not possible.
Are you going against the wishes of China?
Are you going to rebel against China?
What are you doing?
Burn the music scores, right now.
I want the music of Joseon.
Jungam was your teacher...
but he was a friend to me.
I had no choice but to kill him myself.
But that doesn’t mean that I have forgotten his philosophy.
Would you rather protect our own music?
Or would you throw away your life in honor of your teacher?
What do you think your teacher would’ve wanted more?
Let’s drink.
Welcome back. It’s good to have you back.
I think you’re the best person for the job.
I don’t know what I’m cut out to do.
Your first job is to find that out yourself.
You’ve been to China many times.
And you have many friends over there, so give me more information.
I’ll try to look for a way to help you.
Thank you.
But how are you going to deal with Mr. Jang?
Did you want to make a bet?
Yes, I would like to compete with you in poetry writing.
What will we bet on?
I’ve heard that you called off all the musical festivities.
I’m not interested in hearing the songs and instrumental music of Joseon.
If I win, will you listen to the performance?
Will you reconsider your thoughts on what Joseon’s music is all about?
Please, listen to it with an open mind.
If I win?
What will you do for me?
I’ll ban Joseon’s music.
I’ll do it myself and declare it to the king.
Fine.
Let’s do it.
Give me a word.
Let’s use “min” and “neung.”
How’s it going?
I’ve heard that over 30 poems have been recited.
And Mr. Jang is providing all the words?
Yes, sir.
That Kim Junghan is doing pretty well.
How long will he last?
It’s not just a matter of lasting.
I know that Mr. Kim will turn out to be the winner.
Why’s that?
It’s Mr. Jang’s duty as China’s diplomat to write up a report of what he’s seen.
He’s an extremely talented writer.
I’m sure he’s written scores of poems on his way to Joseon.
So?
I’m sure that Mr. Jang knows all of his poems by heart since he’s providing the key words.
But Mr. Kim is not someone who will run out of things to say.
When the diplomat has run out of poems to recite, what then?
What do you think?
You tell me.
You asked me who will win the bet.
Do you think your friend, who is doing all he can to protect Joseon’s music, will win?
Or would you rather have the diplomat win because he has the key to your wealth?
You’re unbelievable.
Did you say that they are competing for the future of Joseon’s music?
It’s been going on for two days now.
What will happen if Mr. Kim loses the match?
Joseon’s music will be banned.
I guess it’ll be a loss for all of Joseon’s music, including the troupe.
I wouldn’t think that far ahead.
I think I should learn how to sew and fetch water.
If I want to continue my job here, I guess I’ll have to change my duties.
Myeongwol.
Or maybe I need to act more like a slave.
You’re too extreme.
We’ll have to wait and see.
I heard that Mr. Kim Junghan, the new civil minister, writes great poetry.
Did you just say that the new civil minister is Kim Junghan?
Yes, that’s right.
I thought that he would make a good friend because he was so against the system.
But to see him take up that high level position,
I guess he was nothing but someone hungry for political power.
What are you doing, minister?
I wrote another poem because I liked your key word.
Here.
It’s your turn again.
If it’s okay with you, can I provide the key word?
I knew you would win.
I knew you were good enough to win over Mr. Jang.
I can’t say that I’ve won yet.
It’s just the beginning.
Now it’s up to the troupe to make it all happen.
That’s right.
Hello, sir.
Pay your respects.
This is the new civil minister.
How do you do? My name is Booyong.
You must be tired from practicing so late.
I’m only doing what I have to do.
Your moves are swift and cool.
I’m flattered.
I hope that the knives will move the hearts of the Chinese diplomats.
I don’t know if it’s possible.
You must’ve practiced so much to have been hurt like this.
It’s the dedication that counts.
With dedication like yours,
I’m sure that even the heavens will be impressed.
Did you say you won’t be able to perform during the ball?
Maehyang, what are you saying?
I fear that we’ll only anger the diplomat because our skills aren’t good enough.
That’s not true.
I saw the talented movements of your pupils myself.
- Don’t be afraid. - No, sir.
It’s a duty not fit for my troupe.
Are you saying that you’re totally fine with Joseon’s music being banned?
Of course, not.
Then?
There is a gisaeng that is very modest, but who is even more talented than I am.
Who is that?
Baekmu in Songdo’s troupe.
Baekmu in Songdo’s troupe?
Look here, Maehyang.
The procurement officer is well aware of who she is.
Don’t you, sir?
I guess so.
Have Baekmu’s troupe perform for the Chinese official.
I’m sure that the diplomats will be moved.
I’m sure you’ve heard that the ball to be held has great significance.
The future of Joseon’s music is in your hands.
Do you understand?
We will do everything to carry out our duties, sir.
Did you say that your name was Myeongwol?
Yes.
I was deeply impressed with your geomungo performance.
Do I need to compliment you on your playing as well?
No.
I just wanted to ask you to dedicate yourself fully to the performance.
I will.
Why did you pass up our chance to perform at the ball?
Don’t you know?
I wanted to avoid a fight that is impossible to win.
Ma’am.
The Chinese diplomats have come to Joseon intent on banning the music here.
Even the best performance is of no use.
The pride of Joseon’s music is on the line.
You wench.
- Do you think you’re some savior? - Ma’am.
What’s the big deal if Joseon’s music is banned?
All we need to do is dance to China’s music.
China’s music is sophisticated compared to Joseon’s music.
In any case, we should be prepared to send the diplomats off.
I have to see Baekmu break into pieces myself.
Isn’t this as foolish as jumping into fire with our eyes open?
Joseon’s music is on the line.
I can’t stand back and watch.
We can’t put up a fight.
The diplomats are coming here for a reason.
I don’t think they will listen to what we have to say.
With true dedication, the heavens will have mercy on us.
I heard that even the king was unsuccessful in trying to change their minds.
Look here.
Why else do you think Maehyang has dropped out of the ball?
We’ll all be branded as the untalented troupe and be turned into slaves.
If we are truly dedicated, there will be a way.
But, ma’am?
Why do you think Myeonwol was being so nice to the civil minister?
What are you trying to say?
I’m just suspicious.
I hope that she doesn’t plan on turning the ball into a mess.
A ball for diplomats?
Myeongwol is gone? What do you mean?
Hey, Baekmu.
I’m really sorry. I deserved to be punished.
It’s not the time to talk about your wrongdoings.
Tell me in detail what has happened.
She has gone to the temple in fear that she can’t sing well.
Did you say the temple?
I’m telling you to go back.
If you don’t go back, many people will be hurt.
How long will you be so mean?
I named you Myeongwol with hopes of giving you new life.
Myeongwol means a warm likeness of the moon’s light.
I’ve given that up, sir.
You should give up your name as well then.
But I think I can be a cold moon of the winter solstice.
I’m going to use my light as my weapon.
I’m going to show the world that
moonlight can break people’s hearts as well as blind people’s eyes.
And what will you prove by doing that?
Isn’t it only natural that you’ll get hurt just as much as everyone else.
Let’s go.
Go back.
Look here.
I won’t change my mind, whatever you do.
Don’t you feel responsible as an artist?
Did you just mention responsibility?
You noblemen have it so easy.
You treat the lower class worse than animals.
Now you talk about the responsibilities of an artist.
Go back.
My stomach feels very upset.
Whenever I see people dressed in official uniforms,
I get sick to my stomach.
You’re right.
You’re totally right.
The noblemen in this world are totally corrupt.
All we care about is using our power to take advantage of the people.
We don’t care about the people who are in misery.
But Joseon’s music stems from the love for the people.
It’s from the heart that cares for the people.
The world has come to be so corrupt because people have forgotten this.
This is why I cannot give up on the music of Joseon.
If we give up, the founding philosophy will be lost forever.
It’s a fight that cannot be won.
The diplomats have come to Korea with the purpose of banning Joseon’s music.
There is absolutely no one on earth who can persuade them otherwise.
I believe in the power of truth.
If you play your music, I believe that you will be able to protect Joseon’s music.
Where are the minister and Myeongwol?
They’re not here yet.
This is really unbearable.
Whenever I see people in their uniforms, I get sick to my stomach.
I believe in the power of truth.
If you play your music, I believe that you will be able to protect Joseon’s music.
The dresses are from China.
And the dance is also from China.
It’s a dance that’s incorporated the moves of both Joseon and China
for the sake of harmony between the two countries.
Sir.
What do you think, sir?
Do you have anything else prepared?
Yes...
Why don’t you play something nice?
Something that goes well with the scenery of Songdo.
Actually...
Are you saying you have nothing else ready?
Why aren’t you answering me?
Would you be interested in my humble music?
My name is Myeongwol.
I’ve been very well-informed of your reputation.
I think you will be able to hear the world’s most beautiful music today.
You’re being too arrogant.
Myeongwol, how could you play music without strings?
Are you trying to fool me?
- Of course, not. - You wench!
I don’t think there is any music on earth that would move you.
What?
Music is heard with the heart, and not with one’s ears.
But you have your agenda, and your heart is tightly closed.
Even if I were to show you great talent, it would all be in vain.
Don’t you agree?
There is only one thing that can move you.
It’s the music that’s in your heart.
I believe that you love music more than anyone here today.
Don’t you agree?
I would like to hear your music with this instrument.
What if my music on your geomungo turns out to be bad?
That would mean that your heart is full of bad music.
What if my music turns out to be valuable?
That would mean that the music of the heavens is in your heart.
You’re very clever.
You are really witty!
Why don’t you ask her to recite a poem?
I heard that her poems are just as deep as her music.
Really?
What do you say?
Do you want to recite a poem?
Will you give me the key word?
What about “gong?” meaning emptiness and "dong" meaning east?
["Waterfall," a poem by Hwang Jini]
A stream of water falls from the sky.
The sound of the waterfall is very loud.
It’s like a Milky Way falling from the sky.
And the rainbow that comforts it is very clear.
Troubled water is filling the valleys.
And the sky is as clear as jade.
Ran Ru, don’t speak of the mountains.
This is the best place for flying horses to get warm.
Are you referring to me when you mention Ran Ru?
That’s up to you to interpret.
How dare you compare China’s mountains to a mere waterfall?
I could punish you for insulting my country.
China is a large nation.
Is it possible that such a big country can be insulted
by some petty girl like me from a small country?
But you said that it was the best place for the flying horses.
Don’t you think that one should have pride in their own country?
Did you say pride?
How could anyone say that anything in nature is greater is than the other?
I believe it’s only natural that people love and revere
the nature of the land where they are born and bred.
I thought that Joseon was just a small and uncivilized country.
But you have taught me a great deal.
I’m flattered.
Let me award you since you have taught me a great deal today.
Show me your dress.
I’ll write something to repay the gratitude.
I’ll look for you when I’m back to Joseon.
Please, keep up your poetry.
I have seen Joseon through you.
What are you doing?
You wench!