Title: 사임당, 빛의 일기 / Saimdang, Light’s Diary
Previously known as: Saimdang, the Herstory
Also known as: Saimdang, Memoir of Colors
Chinese Title: 師任堂，光的日記
Genre: Historical, Romance, Fantasy
Episodes: 28 (30-2)
Broadcast network: SBS
Broadcast period: 2017-Jan-26 to 2017-May-04
Air time: Wednesday & Thursday 22:00
Synopsis
This is a 100% pre-produced drama. Filming began on 2015-August-10 and finished on 2016-June-4.
A reinterpretation of Saimdang from the Joseon times. She was a genius artist and passionate lover. Lee Young Ae takes on two roles; Seo Ji Yoon, a college professor who specializes in Korea Art History and Shin Saimdang.
Meanwhile, Lee Gyum (Song Seung Hun) is a man who had a fateful first encounter with Saimdang in his youth and has carried her in his heart for whole life.
Cast
Main Cast (Past)
Lee Young Ae as Shin Saimdang
– Park Hye Soo as Shin Saimdang (young)
Song Seung Hun as Lee Gyum
– Yang Se Jong as Lee Gyum (young)
Main Cast (Present)
Lee Young Ae as Seo Ji Yoon
Supporting Cast (Past)
Oh Yoon Ah as Whieumdang Choi
– Yoon Ye Joo as Whieumdang Choi (young)
Choi Chul Ho as Min Chi Hyung (Whieumdang Choi’s husband)
Choi Jong Hwan as King Joongjong
Yoon Suk Hwa as Queen Dangyeong
Yoon Da Hoon as Lee Won Soo (Saimdang’s husband)
– Noh Hyung Wook as Won Soo (young)
Jung Joon Won as Lee Hyun Rong (Saimdang’s son)
Choi Il Hwa as Shin Myung Hwa
Jang Seo Kyung as Hyang Yi
Lee Joo Yeon as Princess
Lee Kyung Jin as Saimdang’s mother
Jung Ah In as Whieumdang Choi’s helper
Park Jung Hak as Escort warrior
Lee Sung Wook as leader of wandering people
Heo Sung Tae as Wang Jung Chul
Supporting Cast (Present)
Yang Se Jong as Han Sang Hyun
Choi Jong Hwan as Min Jung Hak (Professor)
Kim Hae Sook as Kim Jung Hee (Seo Ji Yoon’s mother-in-law)
Lee Hae Young as Jung Min Seok (Seo Ji Yoon’s husband)
Lee Tae Woo as Jung Eun Soo (Seo Ji Yoon’s son)
Park Joon Myun as as Ko Hye Jung (Seo Ji Yoon’s friend)
Kim Young Joon as Teacher assistant Nam
Kim Mi Kyung as Director Seon
Song Min Hyung as CEO Heo
Anda as Anna
Others
Hong Suk Chun
Sul Jung Hwan
Song Joon Hee
Kwak Ji Hye
Kim Min Hee
Goo Hye Ryung
Jo Seung Yun
Kim Jung Hak
Ban Hyo Jung
Shin Soo Yun
Park Sang Hoon
Yoo Ji Yun
Production Credits
Production Company: Creative Leaders Group8 Inc., Emperor Entertainment Korea Ltd.
Director: Yoon Sang Ho
Screenwriter: Park Eun Ryung
Note
– Lee Young Ae makes a TV comeback through this drama after 14 years since 2003 MBC drama “Dae Jang Geum“.
– Kam Woo Sung was offered the lead male role, but declined.
– Shin Saimdang who born on 1504-October-29 is an artist, calligraphist, poet and she appears on the current South Korean 50,000 won bill (highest value).
– She was the mother of the Korean Confucian scholar Yi I who appears on the current South Korean 5,000 won bill.
– The series was originally scheduled to air at 10:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, beginning in 2016-Oct-08, but on 2016-Sep-27, SBS announced that the broadcast of series would be delayed and has finally confirmed a time slot for this drama. It will be broadcasted after “The Legend of the Blue Sea“. (Source)
Episode Ratings
| Date | Ep | TNmS | TNmS | AGB | AGB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nationwide | Seoul | Nationwide | Seoul | ||
| 2017-01-26 | 1 | 13.9 (4th) | 16.0 (3rd) | 16.3 (4th) | 16.6 (3rd) |
| 2017-01-26 | 2 | 11.8 (7th) | 13.4 (5th) | 15.6 (5th) | 16.6 (3rd) |
| 2017-02-01 | 3 | 10.6 (10th) | 12.2 (5th) | 13.0 (4th) | 13.5 (4th) |
| 2017-02-02 | 4 | 10.2 (11th) | 11.5 (6th) | 12.3 (5th) | 12.6 (5th) |
| 2017-02-08 | 5 | 8.6 (15th) | 9.9 (6th) | 10.7 (6th) | 11.0 (5th) |
| 2017-02-09 | 6 | 8.7 (13th) | 10.3 (7th) | 12.0 (7th) | 12.5 (5th) |
| 2017-02-15 | 7 | 7.0 (17th) | 8.7 (12th) | 9.7 (9th) | 10.2 (5th) |
| 2017-02-16 | 8 | 7.8 (16th) | 9.0 (14th) | 10.3 (9th) | 10.9 (6th) |
| 2017-02-22 | 9 | 7.6 (16th) | 8.6 (9th) | 9.8 (8th) | 10.4 (5th) |
| 2017-02-23 | 10 | 8.3 (13th) | 9.9 (7th) | 10.1 (10th) | 10.7 (6th) |
| 2017-03-01 | 11 | 7.7 (16th) | 9.1 (8th) | 9.6 (9th) | 9.7 (8th) |
| 2017-03-02 | 12 | 8.4 (17th) | 9.4 (8th) | 10.3 (8th) | 10.3 (6th) |
| 2017-03-08 | 13 | 7.8 | 8.7 | 10.3 (8th) | 10.3 (6th) |
| 2017-03-09 | 14 | 8.4 (12th) | 9.1 (8th) | 10.5 (8th) | 10.7 (7th) |
| 2017-03-15 | 15 | 8.4 (13th) | 9.0 (8th) | 10.4 (7th) | 10.8 (5th) |
| 2017-03-16 | 16 | 9.3 (11th) | 10.5 (6th) | 10.2 (9th) | 10.2 (7th) |
| 2017-03-22 | 17 | 8.3 (16th) | 9.0 (10th) | 9.4 (8th) | 9.1 (6th) |
| 2017-03-23 | 18 | 9.0 (10th) | 10.4 (5th) | 10.0 (7th) | 9.9 (7th) |
| 2017-03-29 | 19 | 8.1 (17th) | 9.7 (8th) | 9.0 (9th) | 9.3 (7th) |
| 2017-03-30 | 20 | 8.2 (17th) | 9.4 (9th) | 9.3 (9th) | 9.3 (8th) |
| 2017-04-05 | 21 | 8.6 (16th) | 10.0 (7th) | 9.4 (9th) | 8.8 (10th) |
| 2017-04-06 | 22 | 8.7 (15th) | 9.3 (11th) | 9.6 (9th) | 9.3 (8th) |
| 2017-04-12 | 23 | 7.4 (19th) | 8.4 (12th) | 8.5 (11th) | 8.4 (10th) |
| 2017-04-13 | x | Postponed | |||
| 2017-04-19 | 24 | 6.0 | 6.2 | 6.1 (20th) | 5.9 |
| 2017-04-20 | 25 | 7.2 (18th) | 7.9 (18th) | 8.3 (12th) | 8.8 (11th) |
| 2017-04-26 | 26 | 6.4 | 6.9 (18th) | 7.8 (11th) | 7.7 (11th) |
| 2017-04-27 | 27 | 7.4 (16th) | 7.8 (15th) | 8.4 (10th) | 8.5 (9th) |
| 2017-05-04 | 28 | 6.8 (18th) | 7.5 (12th) | 8.2 (9th) | 8.8 (7th) |
Sources: TNmS Media Korea & AGB Nielsen Korea
*** Different between TNmS Media Korea & AGB Nielson – Here
Poster
Related Photo
Trailer:-
– Official Trailer
– Early Trailer
– Trailer I
– Trailer II
– Trailer III
– Trailer IV
294 Comments to “Saimdang, Light’s Diary”
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September 7th, 2016 at 10:58 am
I miss her. Janggeuma…
September 7th, 2016 at 12:25 pm
I LOVE HER AND I LOVE SSH so much i hope that the ratings will doing fine fighting !
September 8th, 2016 at 2:21 pm
Can’t wait this drama since last year’s premise with Lee Young Ae stars in it. Almost 14 years since her last hit drama “Jewel in the Palace.” Why just out now?? Have been waiting for you. Her looks almost having no change compare to her in JITP. She’s true natural beauty.
Also for SSH, can’t wait because his last three drama didn’t make that much. Hope this drama do well and make at least our or beyond our expectations because the premise seems promising.
September 8th, 2016 at 3:06 pm
love lee young ae acting…
September 13th, 2016 at 12:24 am
can’t wait for this drama. because this drama is lee young ae comeback after a jewel in the palace. and song seung hoon after the drama time slip dr. jin if not wrong .. and also drama this drama pre reproduction as Descendants of the sun song joong ki – song hye kyo .. hopefully this drama become one of the best drama in 2016 after DOTS and Doctors kim rae won – park shin hye .. and got high ratings … amen
September 14th, 2016 at 11:34 pm
Giving to this two popular leads, definitely this writer wanted this drama to be the top-hit but too bad, I’m not so interested in Korean histories.
Lee Young Ae always given a role as mighty lady and I don’t agreed to it by judging 1 hit drama all times. She is really a crying dude and her acting is really like a mother figure to me. No thank you, I’m not going to watch it. It might be a very boring storylines.
September 17th, 2016 at 12:21 pm
welcome back Miss Lee Young Ae. I miss you so much finally you come back to the drama after Jewel in the Palace. THIS IS UNDERTAKER KOREAN DRAMA.
fighting!!!
September 17th, 2016 at 5:36 pm
Nice info, i love korean drama. Im from indonesia nice to meet u
September 20th, 2016 at 12:15 pm
Jewel in Palace is still one of the best Korean drama of all time. It is unfortunate that Lee Young Ae stop acting right after that. I am very excited to see her again, perhaps she will look very different after so many years. The story sounds interesting. Shin Saimdang must be very important to have her face printed on the money bill.
September 24th, 2016 at 4:27 pm
i agree to positive comments here!
September 25th, 2016 at 3:36 pm
another hooked drama of LYA after Jewel in the Palace.
September 25th, 2016 at 6:33 pm
love the 2 main cast.
miss you both.
September 26th, 2016 at 10:23 am
wonderful trailer must watch this soon airing.
September 27th, 2016 at 10:59 am
Beautiful lee young ae is back after so many years past.
i miss you !
September 27th, 2016 at 12:23 pm
Love her and waiting for this drama with the high expectation !! 13 years after Dea Jang Geum, so long .. <3 <3
September 27th, 2016 at 3:11 pm
wish you all the best to your drama LYA and SSH.
October 1st, 2016 at 12:18 pm
LYA the best of the best actress in korea.
good luck !!!
October 18th, 2016 at 5:56 pm
i agree undertaker drama 2017.
i watched the trailer super awesome,interesting.
October 23rd, 2016 at 10:40 pm
its gonna be hits next year.
October 29th, 2016 at 9:45 am
can’t wait to see this drama and MISS LYA after so many years past since i watched your drama Jewel in the Palace. and SSH i watched your dramas since Autumn in my heart endless love 1.
Fighting!
October 29th, 2016 at 10:10 am
I hope earnestly and safety, I’ll enjoy the drama and each of his characters, as well as the wonderful actors and actresses in their interpretations they give us unforgettable moments. Thank you very much
October 29th, 2016 at 11:23 pm
super pretty good drama of LYA and SSH.
December 1st, 2016 at 10:37 am
cant wait to watch this drama.
December 3rd, 2016 at 1:58 am
undertaker kdrama 2017.
December 4th, 2016 at 2:09 pm
excited to watch this drama.
December 5th, 2016 at 2:26 am
It’s been a while Song Seung Hoon. It’s been a while. I’ve missed you on small screen!
December 5th, 2016 at 8:51 am
lovely pretty girl Lee Young Ae is come back !!!! and handsome Song Seung Hoon too. i think its gonna be big hits korean drama next year. fighting!!!
December 5th, 2016 at 1:32 pm
i like both cast LYA and SSH. interesting !!! waiting for this…..
December 12th, 2016 at 1:23 pm
wow !!! excited to watch!!!!
December 16th, 2016 at 10:37 am
yeah i agree undertaker kdrama 2017.
December 18th, 2016 at 9:22 am
the undertaker kdrama is now coming… applause~~!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 19th, 2016 at 12:59 am
I don’t know if this drama has lost the “on air” timing or not because SBS don’t have that much hits this year. Not that much promotion itself. I hope this is wrong, because the story synopsis seems promising and no doubt for main cast of this drama. May this drama become a big success and big impact (positive) for many people.
December 19th, 2016 at 1:03 am
Is there anymore poster for this drama? Actually seems beautifull and simple, but at the same time feels lonely. Hope for another posteer contains of two or more main character in main poster. Otheer charaters seems still unclear enough. No doubt for Lee Young Ae’s star power.
December 19th, 2016 at 7:00 pm
2017, 1st interesting drama. At least we have good drama to watch and not have to try crap ones.
But after Seung Hoon’s poor taste in girlfriend, not too keen to watch him really.
December 23rd, 2016 at 7:54 am
OK well just wanna say song seung hoon HIS BACK😱😱 this drama has been too long i waiting for even maybe my sister said “oh no joeseon once again ” but for me still ok cuz luv doesn’t think that matter’s right😀😉
December 25th, 2016 at 2:34 am
looking forward to this drama. i like both main cast.
December 25th, 2016 at 7:55 am
Lee Young Ae is back together with SSH !
i’ve almost wait this drama finally it will be air by January 2017.
December 26th, 2016 at 5:04 pm
Awesome! My favorite actor Song Seung Hun and Lee Young Ae.
Can’t wait to watch this drama!……..
January 4th, 2017 at 7:04 am
I don’t think I will watch this drama. This aunty and uncle always cast in very sad dramas and they are too old for me to admire them.
January 10th, 2017 at 9:40 am
LYA of ”Jewel in the Palace”. and SSH of ”Autumn in my Heart”. (In one drama ”Saimdang,Light’s Diary”) can’t wait to watch this drama. fighting!!!
January 15th, 2017 at 9:52 am
aja aja fighting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 20th, 2017 at 1:46 pm
I long time looking forward to this drama. Finally I can see playing two excellent actors together (Lee Young-Ae and Song Seung-Heon). Have me a really lacked enough absence my favorite actors in good cast …
January 20th, 2017 at 1:54 pm
“SAIMDANG, LIGHTS DIARY”…WOW…a drama I’ve been waiting for some time to air and finally the day is close! January 28th, perhaps? I am not familiar with Lee Young Ae’s acting, but according to the reads, I am very impressed and am looking forward to see this seasoned actress bring her expertise to the screen. A difficult role and a huge task she obviously accomplished along with the gorgeous Song Seung heon. I’m very familiar with SSH’s work as I’ve followed him since 2007. OUTSTANDING actor and I have no doubt in my mind that “SAIMDANG, LIGHTS DIARY” will skyrocket the ratings in an impressive way. Both actors will bring the Joseon Dynasty into our homes…what a delight and an education it will be for some; like myself! WONDERFUL!!! Thanks Lee Young Ae and Song Seung heon Honey for your hard work! Lovingly, I look forward to watching this spectacular drama coming our way real soon!!! KAMSAHAMNIDA!!! <3 <3 <3
January 21st, 2017 at 10:37 am
I watched LYA drama since 2003-2004 Jewel in the Palace it is interesting it became big hits. and i think this drama Saimdang Light’s Diary is interesting and become big hits too. LYA is outstanding actress in korea. and SSH i watched his dramas Autumn in my Heart,East of Eden,My Princess,Dr.Jin and When A Man Falls in Love. GOOD ACTOR AND GOOD ACTRESS PERFECT TO THIS DRAMA.
January 21st, 2017 at 10:43 am
i feel more more more … excitement to this drama because Lee Young Ae and Song Seung Heon are come back. i think this is the best kdrama 2017 because the story and trailers are so very excited to watch.
January 21st, 2017 at 11:24 am
go go go fighting alam ko ito ang nararapat maging numero 1 ngayong taon.
January 21st, 2017 at 12:04 pm
JUST WAITING FOR THIS NEW COME BACK KDRAMA OF THE LEADING LADY!
January 22nd, 2017 at 11:12 am
amazing hits kdrama 2017
January 22nd, 2017 at 11:43 am
perfect
January 22nd, 2017 at 2:34 pm
間違いなく良いです。
January 22nd, 2017 at 2:39 pm
Saigono kissu waTabako fara aroma gashitaNigakute setsunai kaoriAshita nu ni imagoro waAnata wa Doko ni irun darou’Dare aviz omotte ‘rula darou’You întotdeauna va fi loveItsuka mea îndrăzni kato ni ochitemoI’ll KOI Mata amintesc să Loveyou ma învățat cum te sunt întotdeauna o să fie oneImawa mada kanashii dragoste songAtarashi utaeru uta făcut
January 22nd, 2017 at 2:50 pm
कोई स्वाद gashitaNigakute setsunai kaoriAshita कोई imagoro नी waAnata वा doko नी Irun darou’Dare omotte wo ‘चलाने darou’You हमेशा वाला हो जाता है मेरा loveItsuka हिम्मत काटो माता Koi नी ochitemoI’ll याद प्यार करने के लिए मुझे सिखाया howYou हमेशा होने वाला कर रहे हैं oneImawa माडा kanashii प्यार songAtarashi Uta बनाया utaeru
January 23rd, 2017 at 8:59 am
3 days to go yes saimdang !!!!
January 23rd, 2017 at 9:11 am
visualizzare che finalmente
January 23rd, 2017 at 9:24 am
あなたが見逃してはならない素晴らしいドラマ。
January 26th, 2017 at 4:10 pm
Can’t. Wait.
January 26th, 2017 at 5:57 pm
tonight ….
January 26th, 2017 at 6:05 pm
wow ! saimdang finally !
January 27th, 2017 at 9:41 am
the 1st 2 episode so good. nice ratings. good job guys. im so excited to next episode. fighting!!!
January 27th, 2017 at 10:09 am
Jewel In The Palace is super graded A. And this drama Saimdang is super graded A too. Looking forward until the end of this drama.
January 27th, 2017 at 12:31 pm
من مانند لی جوانان نمایشنامه های بدست آورد.
January 27th, 2017 at 3:58 pm
Watched the first two episodes! It’s really good!!
January 27th, 2017 at 6:18 pm
I enjoyed watching this drama.
January 28th, 2017 at 9:32 am
more interesting. i love it. highly recommended !!
January 28th, 2017 at 1:23 pm
The drama looks good and Lee Young Ae is still beautiful.
January 28th, 2017 at 6:41 pm
At last, Saimdang! and the first two episodes are really good! Very interesting..10/10. Highly recommended!
January 28th, 2017 at 8:53 pm
For another user, please use english. Thanks for ur appreciate.
Eps 2 is more interesting than eps 2. Actually ep 1 is a bit boring. I m so excited after adult lee gyum and saimdang appear. And how they separate after 20 years. Woowwww….
January 29th, 2017 at 3:47 pm
maybe just me, i prefer modern scene than joseon scene, maybe because it just the begining so i feel joseon scene a bit slow. Or maybe i prefer older saimdang than younger one. I hope it will continue to switch between joseon and modern era, so we can see imediately how it affected her in modern era. Glad to see lee young ae again after 14 years…
January 31st, 2017 at 8:05 pm
ep. 1: ji yoon was kissing ass so she can get a better position in the university, and for that ‘mistake’, the head department dropped her, forgetting that she was like a servant to serve him. i hate that in the professional world, danggg, but it’s just the beginning of the series.
February 1st, 2017 at 5:33 pm
…’mistake’, the department head dropped her, ……
ep 2: looks like ji yoon is reincarnation of saimdang? let’s see how much history i’ll learn from this series.
February 2nd, 2017 at 1:06 pm
The first 2 episodes were very boring. I fast forward more the 60% of scenes. Maybe it’s not my cup of tea.
February 2nd, 2017 at 2:35 pm
There are lots of pressure for this drama, since this drama stars Lee Young Ae. This is another drama from her after 13 years. Also for Song Seung Hun, almost 4 years. Because of these two stars, media (including Social Media) gives much pressure with their provocative news title and fans’ give too much expectations (in my opinion).
Since this is 100% pre-produced drama, PD and their crews can’t change another story plot. For me, the timing is a little wrong. Since the 1st eps broadcasting schedule keep changed, might if netizen have big expectations. Always nice to see two of them individually, by thwe way.
February 2nd, 2017 at 2:43 pm
Ep 3 and I still like this drama. I kinda expect the slow storyline in the beginning as this drama has 30 eps, which is longer than usual. So every details and every story are important.
February 2nd, 2017 at 2:50 pm
It’s a usual for people who don’t like the drama, since this drama has just broadcasted for 3 episodes only. Might be a boring. This is a process for a drama.
I say I’m a little agree with @Greia says, this drama has a lot of pressure and timing off for 1st episode broadcast schedule. Myself asking: What work that has this PD and Writer done before?? I only heard about this drama wrote “Bride of the Century” , which wasn’t that famous. How they convince the two of few elite Korean stars to star in this production?
There are three possibilities: Big success, like DOTS. Second, pretty good although not meet too much expectations, like Legend of the Blue Sea (although not 100% pre produced), or Fail, like Uncontrollably Fond. Let’s just see, because the journey is still long enough.
February 3rd, 2017 at 8:30 am
hindi naman boring ang Saimdang. wag kayo mag kumpara sa ibang drama dahil naman ito parehas sa mga iyon. para sa akin best drama ito dahil mahusay gumanap si LYA at SSH. kumpara kay LMH at Suzy hindi marunong umarte.
February 3rd, 2017 at 8:39 am
DOTS,Uncontrollably Fond,LOTBS,Goblin,Scarlet Ryeo are boring.
February 3rd, 2017 at 10:13 am
This drama is getting better! The love story between Lee Gyeom and Saimdang is so tragic. 😭 Can’t wait for ep 5!
February 3rd, 2017 at 11:51 am
Young Saimdang’s naive action triggered a wave of human carnage in a highly volatile political environment. She gave a painting to a peasant child containing a poem which she did not and could not have foreseen the ramifications.
Excellent drama.
February 3rd, 2017 at 3:29 pm
wow! interesting drama this year. more excitement ! best LYA ! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
February 5th, 2017 at 10:16 am
mga puta kayo mag comment kayo dito. maganda ang drama na ito kumpara sa mga iba walang kwenta. pinakamagandang kdrama sa taong 2017. bravo !
February 5th, 2017 at 10:19 am
hoy kayo dyan mga ulol hindi ba kayo marunong tumingin kung anong drama ang maganda. ito na yon Saimdang is the best. super panalo at walang pwedeng tumalo dito.
February 5th, 2017 at 10:26 am
Love love love
love love love
love love love
February 5th, 2017 at 1:24 pm
Brilliant. Great cast, amazing acting and soul touching storyline. Love watching every minute of Saimdang. Highly recommended.
February 5th, 2017 at 3:01 pm
I just finished watching episode 4, i can say that is really amazing drama! Recommended ♥♥♥♥
February 5th, 2017 at 3:02 pm
I am so thrilled and so happy! Finally after a very long wait and anticipation, Lee Young-Ae is back with such a FANTASTIC drama (“,)
February 5th, 2017 at 3:33 pm
why this drama is super ……………… awesome…………… amazing…………..
nice……..great………..excellent……….fantastic……..brilliant…………
drama that i’ve ever watch this year.
February 5th, 2017 at 5:48 pm
muah muah muah. importante drama in asia.
February 5th, 2017 at 6:03 pm
Sorry, but I can’t not comment about the Italy part, because I live there! The so-called Bologna part was filmed mostly in Florence – when they are on that terrace you can see the Duomo/Cathedral of Florence and Palazzo Vecchio in the distance (and the terrace is probably the rooftop of one of the posh-est hotels in town). The only things filmed in Bologna were the day scene after she left the hotel dragging the suitcases (when she talks to her friend in Korea), the hotel Paradise and the shop where she bought toiletries. When she cries on the bridge, in the background there is Ponte Vecchio, but it can’t really be seen because it’s very blurred. I don’t know where is that villa, and I’m ashamed because it might be a very famous one, but I’ll keep looking!
The Italians’ way of speaking is quite true to life. As regards them addressing her as “Beautiful One”, it is not an exaggeration, it’s just a common way of greeting a woman here. A friend (including a female friend) might greet you with “Ciao, bellissima” (Hello beauty) or maybe an older shopkeeper might greet you like that (even the project managers who send me work e-mails use “Ciao Bellissima” sometimes, and they have never met me or seen me!).
The guy at the manor was not the owner, he even told her that finding those objects was a miracle, so he will give them to her as gifts, because he is not the owner 😉 (the translation of the Italian subtitles was quite off on the site where I watched it). He was probably tasked with selling the manor, so I didn’t understand why he wouldn’t let her see the other rooms, as long as he believed she was a buyer! The thing that irked me the most was the fact that he kept talking to her in Italian (he kept asking: Why don’t you listen to me?), when she was clearly a foreigner – there is a lot of tourism in Italy, so people usually know a little bit of English and they don’t automatically assume that you understand Italian! At most, they might try to explain you with lots of hand gestures.)
The only exaggeration were the 4 young men on the bridge – don’t worry, if you come to Florence they don’t really behave like this!
I’m thrilled that Lee Young Ae is in a drama again and I can’t wait to see how the story unfolds. From Saimdang’s biography on Wikipedia, I liked that she received the same education as a male heir would, and also the fact that she had an understanding husband. I suppose this was quite revolutionary for that era.
I suppose I am a feminist at heart and, in my opinion, girls should get an education and become strong and independent women, capable of taking care of themselves without waiting for a Prince Charming to come and save them. I can’t wait to see how Ji-yoon grows a spine (we have already seen that she’s intelligent and well prepared)and becomes strong enough to crush the evil Professor!
February 5th, 2017 at 6:18 pm
Let me say this firstly, LYA is gorgeous!! She glows through the screen. I love her!!
That said, watching the whole 1st episode made me ill, like realy physically ill, my stomach hurt. I hate the kind of story where the main character has to go down in the gutter, with a supper villain pushing her even deeper. I hated it with my whole body. Yes, i understand this is a set up for a great comeback and revenge, and thanked god for her friend!
Maybe this is the reason why it feels outdated, because makjang is not in trend anymore (at least not for me). I hope the revenge will be sickenly sweet, and i need that prof. Evil to get what he deserves, that is eternal damnation. Eugh i hate him!!
February 5th, 2017 at 6:21 pm
Saimdang’s production cost was approximately $20M and about half of that money came from a Chinese investor. Since Dae Jang Geum was a huge hit even in China, maybe they thought any Korean sageuk about a strong female main character would make them a lot of money especially if Lee Young Ae chose it as her come-back piece after 13 years.
What’s more, they originally planned to air this simultaneously in Korea and China but because of the fall-out between the two countries over the THAAD issue, China refused to approve its airing. Instead of going ahead with airing it in Korea only, SBA put off even the Korean airing date by a few months while continuing to promote it heavily. This also ticked off many Korean viewers and many already feel fatigued by this drama. And so far what I have seen (ep 1-2) does not make me feel optimistic about this drama.
February 5th, 2017 at 6:26 pm
Lee was last seen in Park Chan-wook’s thriller flick, Sympathy Of Lady Vengeance (2005), but most audiences will remember her best for playing the king’s first woman physician in epic period drama Jewel In The Palace (2003).
The lavish 54-episode series, which was reportedly exported to about 90 countries, solidified the regional popularity of Korean television, which had early hits such as the 2000 melodrama, Autumn In My Heart.
Jewel In The Palace, about perseverance and triumph in the face of injustice, has become such a classic that it continues to be rerun on various TV channels today. Lee says: “I sometimes watch it with my kids because I think it contains good messages for young children. My kids know that I am in it and they love it.”
She will have no regrets if none of her future work eclipses the immensely successful Jewel In The Palace.
“As long as a drama has an interesting storyline, like in Saimdang, I will do it. Now that I have kids, I believe I tend to choose film and drama roles that can be watched by everyone from the young to the old.
“In the past, I didn’t think about those things. I used to think only about myself, but now, I have to think about my family as well.”
Still, there is something else about Saimdang that drew her to the project – the chance to work with South Korean heartthrob Song Seung Heon, 40. In the series, Song plays Lee Gyum, an aristocrat and painter who was Saimdang’s childhood sweetheart.
Lee says: “As we all know, Song is an actor who is loved by women across Asia. The female staff members on the show adored him so much. I believe that the love story between Saimdang and Lee Gyum in this series will touch viewers.” http://www.star2.com/entertainment/tv/2017/01/28/lee-young-ae-is-one-fussy-k-drama-star/
February 5th, 2017 at 6:28 pm
I don’t have any idea of Saimdang before but as its own story, this drama manage to make their set up believable.
This drama has quiet tone and I think the fuss about artwork can’t be explained that she doesn’t have any money left.
It’s all accidental and she gotta do what she can do, smuggling painting which hasn’t been found, get found accidentally and more likely include fate (cause this has the reincarnation vibe) by an art professor/student can be easily done, as impossible as it sounds but they’ll not search on your luggage cause it just a paper and nothing is missing, besides she didn’t use the big cargo to smuggle it.
The Painting in here (as much the debate about the originality) is about finding a 500 years old artefact, that alone is a big deal. The story is about how someone infatuated with the past while looking a 500 years old artefact, I don’t see how this is a questionable thing or downgrade the story.
I like how jiyoon is an actual person that need the history’s clue because of her passion and her own job. Finding Saimdang’s diary is what makes Jiyoon finds her life again and I like the setup so far.
February 5th, 2017 at 6:32 pm
Lee Yong Ae looks gorgeous and that is about it. The first episode is underwhelming and didn’t make me want to keep watching.
It was hard to watch her character being so subservient and grovelly to her professor at the beginning even when her family circumstances had not begun to deteriorate yet.
To me this is a beautiful drama. In fact it is my “cup of tea” to be exact. So, I am looking forward very much to what happens next.
Huh? Gidget. Ignore the history between China and Korea. Not sure what you mean. But, let me tell you, Korea is very much under China influence since Tang Dynasty. This entails importing wholesale Chinese surname, handwriting and painting styles, Confucius thinking, poems, lunar festive and dumpling eating habits, and the very design of hanbok (is in fact an adaptation of Tang Dynasty fashion), Buddhism enters Korea through China, national flag, etc etc…few years back, Korean changed the name of its capital from a Han City (i.e. Chinese city) to Seoul. In the Ming Dynasty, Korea was part of China. Hehe…similarly, Japanese did the same during Tang Dynasty. It is through the one road, one belt concepts i.e. modern Silk Road that China putting forward now that you have correctly pointed out to dominate the land and sea routes from Europe to the Pacific. However, this time, through capital and technology (rail, especially).
With the decreasing population growth in Japan in the next 50 years, it will be a peripheral economy by the turn of 22nd century. Korea may be the same too. History is a better judge than any of us.
Rather than trying to determine whether An Gyeom’s painting is a genuine one, it is better for the Korean government to intervene to go to the international tribunal to retrieve the An Gyeom’s paintings from the Japanese. Japan used to colonise Korea in the turn of last century and they stole many many paintings and artefacts from Korea. History is still fresh? Let’s do it!!!
February 5th, 2017 at 6:38 pm
Ok, from your comments, it appears that you have little understanding about the Joseon era and the contemporary Korean society. Kids/children are normally referred to as piglets for easy raising. Even today, it is common for the parents to call their kids as piglets. The classic example being Song IL Kook calling the triplets as piglets.
It is nothing disrespect to the children. You are reading my comments in the light of a Western view. I am writing in English, but from a classic view. Understand?
it could just be me but i feel Yang Se Jong’s acting si better here in saimdang than in RDTK? Even though he filmed this first he feels better here!! As for the male lead which everyone is complaining about i have never seen any of his works but i don’t have a good feeling about his acting skills based on what i’ve seen so far……
February 5th, 2017 at 6:40 pm
Oh you two! Miss you much!
I’m really anticipating what you both can do to 30 episode of lovely SSH. Bring back YOBOSEYO and the mesmerizing power of The Hand Towel to the limelight!
Who knows the extremely superbly awesome Don’t Call Me Mr. Hand Towel would deign to grace us with his presence. Aja aja fighting!
This is for you, jomo.
~Towel of Love~
(Sung to “Circle of Life’/ The Lion King)
From the day he arrived on the planet
He’s been broodin’ and showerin’ every show
He’s always angry, he’s always angsty
He’s gonna smash all those paint pots, I’m sure
He’s the Towel of Love
And he moves us all
“He’ll be great this time!”
“No more bug eyes, no more tilting, fetus begone!”
He will set the screen on fire
He will be the Best Bestest Actor
Hail Hand Towel
The Towel of Love
February 5th, 2017 at 6:42 pm
YESSSSSS!
1..Check, if staring strangely out a window counts.
2..Yes, maybe not with modern plumbing but he can find a waterfall or pond. He is kinda like a human divining rod. He douses regularly.
3..Yes, of course, because if not, life has no meaning.
4..Check. Did you see his room? It wasn’t like that before the help interrupted him while he was painting.
5..Check. In this episode, he smashed the mirror using the dove’s wings flapping, which a clear signal of his long forgotten rage over being interrupted while painting.
I was not at first interested in watching this show until, YOBOSAYO, the Hand Towel. Then I thought, wow, I will write poems, and there will be YY, and VOILA here you are!
Thirty episodes? Are you kidding me? We will have so much fun. <3
February 5th, 2017 at 6:45 pm
You think if the actress could speak Italian they would have written the character as someone who speaks it as well? Probably, I guess you would take advantage of that to show how well educated she is but than again, we don’t really know do we? That scene wouldn’t really have worked much differently though because she was supposed to be in a trance state and someone would hardly have a full fledged discussion in that kind of a mood.
I’m confused by the opening episodes of a lot of K-dramas where atmosphere and emotion are more important than clear storytelling. Same here. I enjoyed watching LYA again but kept wondering, Why are we in Italy? The bit with the Italian actor following her around the house talking and talking and talking while she ignores him was almost comical — it just made it obvious to the viewer that the actress couldn’t speak Italian.
“Flowing and flowing. To feel regret for the death of an innocent. Letting go of this desperate sadness to the skies. The past memories must be written.”
Given that the action at Siesta di Luna takes place in 1551, I can’t help but wonder if Signor Lee has just learned of her demise.
You know where the dated feeling might come from? The cinematography reminds me sometimes of older movies. Long shots with the camera being positioned at the far end of the room or above looking down like in the scene with her in the hotel room. Even the beginning when we got first introduced to her and she looks directly in the camera. That reminded me of Ozu somehow ^^maybe the director wanted to go for a classic feel. Oh, or when the mc is preparing drinks in the background while the lady of the house is talking to her, there is no cut to her even when she is speaking she is still in the background.
I personally like how it is filmed and I don’t really mind of the coincidences because the show clearly suggests the idea of fate. Even stuff like the mirror breaking was okay to me because the story clearly has magic.
However, the illogical things like the way she treat the painting/ old artifacts, stuff like that did annoy me.
Still, I like this show right now and am curious how it’s going to further develop.
February 5th, 2017 at 6:48 pm
hmm i didn’t think the show felt dated. i liked the first episode well enough. i didn’t have high expectations for it either way, so i’m content. i did think all the stuff where she was kicked out of her hotel + creating a ruckus on the streets was quite unnecessary and melodramatic. only in a kdrama, but at this point in my kdrama career i’ll just have to roll my eyes and move on.
but… the italian man at the estate. most annoying foreigner in a kdrama in recent memory. i don’t know a word of italian, but i could just tell that he was a bad actor. so noisy and dramatic—i just wanted to tell him to shut up because he was so distracting! haha
I love his voice. At first was annoyed with him in RTDK but later, i started to like him better. Initially I thought he will just play a younger part of SSH in this drama, but little that I know he will have some major parts in modern setting too. I know he is a lot younger than LYA in this drama, but i already love his interaction with her so far. Maybe I will love to see their scenes more than LYA-SSH later.
Hopefully he will get more projects after this. After all, starting the career with two great drama with two A-listed veterans is the best thing to any newcomer.
I for one think Lee Young Ae was born in the right era. To make it even better, she even chose the perfect job that displays her regalness.
Both being on TV and having that air of magnificence that no one else can pull off for a period that no one can go back to cemented her place as precious and perfect and created a niche role for her.
Basically, if she were in Joseon, her beauty and elegance would only be known by a few or may not even have been much of an issue, since there will be other ladies like her. But in the 21st century, she’s the only one we all know who fits the bill the best.
I haven’t watched the show yet, but from the recap, this looks interesting. (Minus comments about Song SeungHeon’s terrible acting… that I fully believe in. He’s not called the Hand Towel for so long for nothing. But, we’ll see.)
February 5th, 2017 at 6:53 pm
I will be happier if they casted someone like Ji Jin Hee beside Lee Young Ae rather than hmm.. At least JJH is more believeable and has more experiences in sageuk. I won’t be surprised if rookie actor Yang Se Jong acts better than Song Seung Heon, though.
I love what I watched so far, especially on epi 2. Maybe most of times i was more captivated with LYA in hanbok, i dont know. lol.Park Hye Soo and Yang Se Jong both are OK playing the younger parts, although the pronounciation comes not so natural. Yang Se Jong probably served the country in the past, for his first two drama got to act with veteran actors like Han Suk Kyu and Lee Young Ae.
I guess when you put it that way, it does seem ridiculous. However I don’t know I guess it was easy for me to overlook just because the atmosphere was beautiful, and the way the events were shot was smooth (I guess this is a testament to good execution). I view it as a fairy-tale, and I think that is why it is easy for me to suspend my disbelief. About her hanging the painting outside, I just assumed that she hanged it out for like 15 minutes, so not a long time (at least that’s my attempted explanation for the scene). Anyways this drama has something that just pulls me in, so far. But I have to wonder how the hero fits into this story, and how the romance will work, but I’m hoping for the best.
I’ll persist with this for a few more episodes. It might not come out the gate in a grand way but it hints at greater things (hopefully). I’m also curious by SSH’s acting. Can it be, possibly, after all these years, he finally steps up as an actor? The eternal optimist in me just want to give him one more chance.
I cringe at the Italian scenes where Ji-yoon interacts with locals, especially the owner of the manor *facepalm*. It is just illogical but yes let’s go with the plot.
Lee Young Ae just glows in screen. She has that magnetic and delicate quality that draws you in.
Honesy, for me, I found the first episode to be intriguing. I am very excited for what’s to come as well, and to hear that the ratings for the two episodes were 15% and 16%, respectively, shows the Lee Young Ae power everyone’s heard at least once about. I’ve been waiting for this drama since 2015, too, so I can’t say much either, heh ^^
Lee Young Ae made me forget that she is LYA for this episode. She just is the character itself for me at the moment, ha. I got mini jolts whenever I heard her voice because it’s so… regal, I guess. Not the usual voice you hear these days in dramas at least. I am so excited for this!! 🙂
February 5th, 2017 at 6:55 pm
SLVR: I suggest you check this too link to have some background about the story:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shin_Saimdang
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/An_Gyeon
And by the way Shin Saimdang is the first woman to appear on a South Korean banknote, the 50,000 won note, first issued in June 2009. So I think she is well known by most SK people!
February 6th, 2017 at 10:06 am
ang pinaka matinding dramang dapat suportahan hanggang sa huling kabanata ng storya. kaya kayo dyan manood kayo nito. ang pagbabalik ni LYA matapos ang napakahabang panahong nakalipas. panoorin natin at iboto ang nararapat na kdrama Saimdang Light’s Diary is the best! walang tatalo at hindi pwedeng matalo ngayong taon.
February 6th, 2017 at 10:10 am
paramihin po natin ang comment dito pati na sa asia wiki nito at iboto din para manalo ang drama na ito. suportahan ko talaga ito hanggang sa botohan. dahil alam ko ito ang dapat at nararapat talagang maging numero uno ngayong taon.
February 6th, 2017 at 10:27 am
im addicted to this drama. love it so much.
February 6th, 2017 at 1:07 pm
100% solid fan of this drama.. great story,great cast. highly recommended!!!
February 8th, 2017 at 11:44 am
emang bagus ya?
February 9th, 2017 at 1:58 pm
Why is the rating drop? This drama is getting better and better to me!
February 9th, 2017 at 2:19 pm
Lee Young Ae is more beautiful now than 14 years ago. She is incandescent.
The look of the production, so far, is expensive — very classy. Will they maintain it to the end? We shall see.
I like the story so far. Gyum’s strong attachment to Saimdang hadn’t abated in the two decades they were ruthlessly separated. Watching Gyum’s drunken bouts, I’m reminded of 3 lines from the song “What’s Become of the Brokenhearted”. It somewhat describes Gyum’s state during his bouts of depression punctuated by long, deep sighs, albeit less elegant than the art depicted by the drama:
“Happiness is just an illusion
Filled with sadness and confusion
What becomes of the broken-hearted?”
February 9th, 2017 at 2:21 pm
Correction: The song is “What Becomes of the Broken Hearted”.
February 9th, 2017 at 3:56 pm
Every people have their own expectations about performance. Not exceptional for
Lee Young Ae and Song Seung Hun who are the biggest stars of this drama. If this drama belongs to my country, then it might big and success. But, this is South Korea, where there are many particular dramas in the past like this. Expectations also seems too high at first.
Eventually, I like both of them because no doubt for their acting ability (although in this drama feels a tiny bit dissapointment). But, I don’t think it’s a good thing to make this in fantasy saeguk, because for me, it’s just not suitable enough. Just saeguk original might be fine. But, what already happened, just happened. Since it’s a 100% pre produced drama, we can’t hope from production team. Fingers cross and hope everything’ll be fine.
February 10th, 2017 at 4:42 am
I like this drama, but I do have a few things. Lee Young Ae is a main reason for me to watch it. I even started with Dae Jang Geum again beginning of 2017, for the third time. One of those drama’s that has it all.
Saimdang is very intense, but the scene- and time-swaps are a bit too fast for my taste. I am able to fill in the gaps, but a little bit of showing what happened would not have hurt. It is intense, and the filming itself is beautiful and designed.
Overall that could be overdone, giving it a heavy feel.
For the balance , it would not hurt to have some lighter scenes. where we could see Lee Young Ae laughing .
February 10th, 2017 at 7:47 pm
So elegant. So beautiful. And the score is powerful.
I really like this drama, especially the scenes in the Chosun period. The atmosphere for me at least, is breathtaking. It’s like a classic work of Byron and you know because all others seem to fall into mediocrity.
The subject of Gyum’s painting woven into the tapestry of 15th century life in a Chosun town; the tender moments of affection between the dog and her pups is analogous to Saimdang’s maternal affection towards her children as seen through Gyum’s eyes.
We already know he will come to know that Saimdang had sacrificed much to save his life. What we don’t know is what he will do when he learns the whole truth. And will he have what it takes to set things right?
February 12th, 2017 at 10:51 am
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February 12th, 2017 at 2:08 pm
@Timpf, we already know what would happen to Gyum. It was seen at the start of Ep1, and Gyum looked deranged, drunk and miserable.
I think one of the flaw of the main plot is that we all know Saimdang and Gyum would lead to nowhere. No matter how much they want to put romance into these two characters, it would be a dead end. So there is nothing much to look forward to as far as romance is concerned.
February 13th, 2017 at 2:06 am
The tension between Saimdang and Le Geom is just spot on! Even just at their first meeting (more specifically the older versions) the eyes say it all and without words you can feel what they were trying to convey..
While in modern times, the hoobae and sunbae relationship is also very well done! there is tension but you are left guessing what kind of tension and how far will it go..
their acting, the 2 main leads, are just perfect! they express emotions without having to say a word.. and when they do say something their tone feels so much!
February 13th, 2017 at 1:58 pm
love love love this drama.
February 14th, 2017 at 10:09 am
best drama that i’ve ever watch so far this year.
February 14th, 2017 at 1:08 pm
EXCELLENT !
February 15th, 2017 at 10:26 am
for the win !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
February 17th, 2017 at 1:52 pm
Saimdang’s husband is fat and ugly.
February 17th, 2017 at 8:15 pm
beautiful story.
February 17th, 2017 at 11:39 pm
Lee Young Ae is so elegant with natural beauty. She is real beauty.
February 18th, 2017 at 12:18 am
every episodes of this drama is interesting. i like / love it!!!
February 18th, 2017 at 12:27 am
I really like this drama. I have been anticipating it since last year. This is another masterpiece acted by LYA. I am her fan. She is truly a good actor. This story is classy and and educational. I cant believe there are people saying it is outdTed and boring. This is a different level drama that brighten up your mind with different perspective. Thos ewho said thiz iz a boring drama surely not intelligent enough to understand the objective.
February 18th, 2017 at 1:10 am
i love the drama, Lee Young Ae is really a excelent actress. fighting! the drama is really addicted for me. Good Job SBS for making this drama.
February 18th, 2017 at 5:23 am
OMG this drama is so good. Saimdang is so elegant, love her so much. LYA did a good job portraying Saimdang in this drama.
But of course, the bad guy in this drama is getting on my nerves. Whieumdang is so delusional. She acts like she’s the victim when she’s the one who’s causing the chaos. She’s the only who fell in love with Gyeom, but then she accused Gyeom for mistreating her and looking down on her. Wth
My heart still feels sad whenever Saimdang and Gyeom met each other in this drama after they broke up. It’s just too sad.
February 18th, 2017 at 10:14 am
the best !
February 18th, 2017 at 7:20 pm
i agree to possitive comments here
February 19th, 2017 at 9:24 am
The historical part of this dram is particularly moving and beautiful. Lee Young Ae acts beautifully the inner strength and personal tragedies of Saimdang.
The way Saimdang-LYA interacts with her family reminds me of a comment that I heard once and stayed in my mind: love makes you live in the present. No matter her material hardships, Saimdang-LYA shows no self pity. She has towering dignity. She focuses on the present and on the welfare of her family and of the welfare of her four different children that se loves so deeply. By the way. little Woo is a marvelous actor himself.
February 19th, 2017 at 9:30 am
Chief Kim solidified its first place position in Nielsen drama ratings this week. It saw another nice increase this week by bringing in 15.5% for episode 5 on Wednesday. It then continued to rise with 16.7% for episode 6 on Thursday.
Saimdang Light’s Diary continued to fall, but still brought in a solid 10.7% for episode 5 on Wednesday. It then increased to 12% for episode 6 on Thursday.
Missing 9 also saw a decrease bringing in 3.8% for episode 7 on Wednesday and then rebounded to 4.4% for episode 8 on Thursday.
The gap widened between Chief Kim and Saimdang Light’s Diary this week. Chief Kim appears to have a lot of upward momentum, so maybe this surprise hit office comedy will just continue to climb in the weeks to come.
Saimdang Light’s Diary airs Wednesday and Thursday on SBS.
Missing 9 airs Wednesday and Thursday on MBC.
Chief Kim airs Wednesday and Thursday on KBS.
February 19th, 2017 at 10:01 am
Saimdang light’s diary is the best drama this year.
February 19th, 2017 at 2:17 pm
superb, great drama. highly recommended. !
February 19th, 2017 at 2:27 pm
This drama is pretty interesting drama because of Song Seung Hun and Lee Young Ae and the interesting combine modern and historical. Hopefully we get to see Song Seung Hun in present time for this drama……..
February 19th, 2017 at 4:46 pm
i dont know what im going to say to this drama.
because it is very super pretty good drama compare to others.
February 19th, 2017 at 5:05 pm
Episode 1: The portrait and the green mountains
The drama begins centuries ago in an Italian castle where there’s music and dancing amid a stormy night. Despite the festivities, Lee Gyeom locks himself up in his room, furiously painting a portrait.
The present time …
Seo Ji-yoon is a businessman’s wife and the mother of a young boy. She works as an instructor in Hankuk University’s Art Department while pursuing her PhD. She’s given a big career opportunity by Professor Min Jung Hak in presenting her evaluation of “Mount Geumgang”, a centuries-old painting of mountains by An Gyeon, a famous Joseon artist. But the presentation is disrupted by Han Sang-hyun, a young instructor who has previously been in conflict with Professor Min.
In an art conference in Bologna, Italy, Professor Min tells Seo Ji-yoon to change her major because he will not allow her to get her PhD. She gets locked out of her hotel room, and her problems worsen when she hears from her friend Hye Jung that Professor Min told the University that she must be fired from her job.
In despair, she wanders around Bologna. In an alley, she nearly gets run over by a bicyclist, and she stumbles over a book stand. The owner apologizes to her by giving her a stack of books.
Later, she discovers among the books an ancient diary that mentions the “Mount Geumgang” painting.
February 19th, 2017 at 5:09 pm
Episode 1 recap:
Professor Kim and the owner of the Sun Gallery connive to present “Mount Geumgang” as authentic, thus earning for both of them money, prestige, and power.
Seo Ji-yoon’s investigation leads her to the Italian castle known as “Siesta Di Luna” in Tuscany, Italy where the real estate agent shows her the enormous halls filled with all kinds of art works. She and Lee Gyeom’s spirit cross each other, and as if she’s possessed, she rushes to a room where she stares at a painting. The glass cover then breaks into a thousand pieces, and Seo Ji-yoon is stunned to find behind the painting a full-length portrait of a Joseon-era lady.
February 19th, 2017 at 5:16 pm
Episode 2: Saimdang and Lee Gyeom; Seo Ji-yoon and Saimdang
The University’s Disciplinary Committee terminates Seo Ji-yoon’s employment as lecturer.
Because of her husband’s legal problems, Seo Ji-yoon, her mother, and her boy are forced to relocate to a tough neighborhood. There, she meets Han Sang-hyun, the instructor who disrupted her presentation.
As Seo Ji-yoon and her friend Hye Jung (who works at the Conservation Science Department) examine the diary, they begin thinking that the “Mount Geumgang” painting authenticated by Professor Min is fake.
In Joseon …
The young Saimdang wants to see An Gyeon’s famous painting “Mount Geumgang”, and so she climbs over the wall of a house belonging to a member of the Royal family. She meets the young Lee Gyeom who’s in trouble again with her great aunt. When Lee Gyeom doesn’t stop teasing her about her skirt, she runs away, leaving behind her sketchbook. But Lee Gyeom comes up with a plan to be able to see her again.
At present …
After Seo Ji-yoon shows Hye Jung the portrait she got from Siesta Di Luna, they hurry off to a museum. As they’re looking at paintings by Saimdang and Lee Gyeom, Seo Ji-yoon gets a call from her husband. She meets her husband, and later on, they meet an accident. Her husband rushes her to a hospital, but she is unconscious and beginning to have visions.
Back to Joseon …
On their way to Hanyang, Saimdang and her children visit her childhood home in Gangneung for one last time. Unknown to Saimdang, Lee Gyeom has been watching out for her.
The adult Lee Gyeom leads a frivolous life, spending his time painting on the bodies of gisaengs. He visits his great aunt who wants him to get married and to stop pining for Saimdang. He wanders around his childhood home and sees the bracelet that Saimdang gave him decades ago.
February 19th, 2017 at 5:23 pm
Notes:
(1) Seo Jin-yoon’s husband leaves money for her inside a locker. If you look closely, the money is in the denomination that features Shin Saimdang.
(2) In this episode, a butterfly appears when Seo Jin-yoon and her family are moving to their new home.
Is there something significant about butterflies in Joseon culture? Remember the butterfly in “The Moon That Embraces The Sun” (Episodes 1 and 7)? Remember the butterfly key chain of Lady Jang in “Dong Yi”? If I remember correctly, the ornate hair pin that Bang-won gave Boon-yi in Episode 46 of “Six Flying Dragons” was in the shape of a butterfly.
(3) The historical Shin Saimdang had a son who became one of Joseon’s highly-respected Confucian scholar; he was known by his pen name “Yulgok.” The street that Seo Jin-yoon and her family were traveling on as they moved to a new apartment is named “Yulgok.”
February 19th, 2017 at 5:33 pm
Episode 3: The poem, the goddess, and the paper
Saimdang and Lee Gyeom climb up a mountain and admire the grand view. When Saimdang says that she wants to visit beautiful places like Mount Geumgang (Keumkangsando), Lee Gyeom tells her that they should visit those places together as husband and wife.
King Jungjong, along with his bodyguard, breaks away from the Royal procession in order to visit his cousin Lee Gyeom. In disguise, he meets Saimdang while she was painting; he also meets a scholar who has become infatuated with Saimdang.
King Jungjong finds out from Lee Gyeom who Saimdang’s father is. He writes a poem, signing it with his name, and sends it to Saimdang’s father.
Saimdang carves out a seal as a gift for Lee Gyeom. When she goes to her father to borrow an engraving tool, she happens to read the King’s poem.
At present …
Debt collectors looking for Ji-yoon’s husband force their way into her apartment. But Han Sang-hyun comes to her rescue.
Later, Ji-yoon and Han Sang-hyun discover a clue that can prove that the “Mount Geumgang” painting that Professor Min authenticated is fake.
Back to Joseon …
While painting at a temple up in the mountain, Saimdang sees a painting of a goddess. She begins following the head monk, trying to convince him to show her the painting. She sees in the temple compound a paper mill that produces the famous Goryeo paper. She also sees some people who are starving and who have been beaten up.
While Saimdang is at the temple, a rowdy group of government officials, their bodyguards, and gisaengs arrives at the compound. Part of the group is Min Chi-hyung, a county mayor and a big businessman. He tries to convince the head monk to supply him with the Goryeo paper that everyone wants.
While painting near the temple compound, Saimdang meets a young, starving girl. She gives the girl her food and the painting on which she had written part of the poem that the King gave to her father.
Despite her father’s order for her not to return to the temple, Saimdang decides to go back and bring food to the starving people. She writes a letter asking Lee Gyeom to come with her.
The maid goes to deliver Saimdang’s letter to Lee Gyeom, but on her way, she suddenly feels the urgent need to go to the outhouse. She asks Seok Soon to deliver the letter to Lee Gyeom.
February 19th, 2017 at 5:36 pm
Episode 4: A wedding and a funeral
Overwhelmed by her emotions, Seok Soon doesn’t give Saimdang’s letter to Lee Gyeom. Later, she goes to where Saimdang is waiting and offers to help her. Together, they go to Unpyeongsa Temple.
At the temple, the drunken revelry by the government officials, the nobles, and the gisaengs continues even as dozens of starving people are waiting be fed by the monks. When the child befriended earlier by Saimdang steals some fruits from the nobles, the drunken son of Lord Young-myung kills the child and the head monk who tried to intervene.
The monks and the people begin stoning the nobles. Min Chi-hyung arrives and orders the soldiers to kill all the monks and the people. Chaos erupts in the temple. Chased by soldiers, Saimdang and Seok Soon try to escape, but they fall into a ravine.
Meanwhile, news spreads about the riot, and Lee Gyeom finds out that Saimdang is at the temple. He rides out and finds Seok Soon carrying Saimdang on her back. Lee Gyeom takes Saimdang with him and leaves Seok Soon all by herself.
Seok Soon blames Saimdang for all her misfortunes and decides to seek revenge.
Meanwhile, the King overhears from some itinerant merchants about the massacre at the temple. One of the merchants says that the massacre was caused by a poem and begins reciting the poem. The King recognizes the poem and starts to panic. He fears that the ministers will misinterpret the poem and rebel against him, just like what they did with the former King.
The King orders his bodyguard to kill everyone who received the poem, including Saimdang’s father. When the bodyguard asks him about Saimdang and Lee Gyeom, the King tells him, “If Saimdang and Lee Gyeom’s marriage isn’t called off, kill them both!”
February 19th, 2017 at 5:38 pm
Episode 5: Lovers and enemies in Hanyang
Year 1540 in Joseon …
As Saimdang and her children leave for Hanyang (Joseon’s capital), Lee Gyeom creates a scandal during his wedding. Later, he goes to Hanyang to see the King.
Min Chi-hyung (the man who massacred the monks and people at the temple) has become a high government minister and an extremely rich paper merchant. His wife is Hwieumdang, formerly known as Seok Soon (the lowborn child who betrayed Saimdang) and who’s now an accomplished artist whose paintings are coveted by the wives of government ministers.
Hwieumdang later learns from Min Chi-hyung that Lee Gyeom is in Hanyang and will be among the guests in their house.
Meanwhile, Saimdang and her children find themselves homeless in Hanyang. To make matters worse, Saimdang’s youngest child becomes sick with measles.
February 19th, 2017 at 5:40 pm
Episode 6: Rekindling the flame
Le Gyeom confronts Saimdang about how pathetic her husband is, leaving her and her children to fend for themselves, and how Saimdang’s life could have been so different if she had married him. But Saimdang defends the choices she has made for her life.
Later, Saimdang encourages her children to make the best of their situation. As they clean up the house and plant a garden, a tipsy Lee Gyeom watches them from afar. He walks away dejected, and on his way home, he sees a dog and its puppies.
At present …
Ji-yoon and Han Sang-hyun continue looking for the possible location of the real “Mount Guemgang” (Keumkangsando) painting.
In Joseon …
Lee Gyeom becomes popular in Hanyang, with women swooning over him. When the ministers begin complaining about him, the King asks everyone to visit Lee Gyeom at home.
Saimdang’s husband, Lee Won Su, comes home starving. He’s welcomed back home, but Saimdang firmly tells him that he must study hard and pass the civil service exams next year.
Later, Saimdang and her maid walk around the market to find out what kind of business she can put up. Just then, the King passes by on his way to see Lee Gyeom.
Returning home, Saimdang tries to be a good neighbor with the deposed Queen.
Suspicious of Lee Gyeom’s motives, Min Chi-yung visits him at Biikdang.
Saimdang’s son, Hyun-ryong, walks out of the house after an argument, and Woo (the youngest) follows him. Saimdang, her husband, her maid, and other children search frantically all over Hanyang for them.
February 19th, 2017 at 5:43 pm
Episode 7: The past, the present, and the future
After meeting Min Chi-hyung, Saimdang begins to have nightmares again of the temple massacre. She decides to write a letter for Lee Gyeom.
Lee Gyeom starts investigating Min Chi-hyung by visiting his paper factory.
Hwieumdang remembers how she met Min Chi-hyung.
At present …
Professor Min finds out that Ji-yoon and Han Sang-hyun are meeting Hye-jung, who’s working at the National Museum.
Hye-jung finds a poem hidden between the pages of Saimdang’s diary.
Back to Joseon …
Hyun-ryong (Saimdang’s second son) sits near a class in Jungbu School. Later he meets the Head Teacher and Hwieumdang. At that same time, Woo (Saimdang’s youngest child) wanders off to Biidang where Lee Gyeom meets him.
After an incident at the market, Saimdang takes her family to a place in the mountain.
Lee Gyeom visits Jungbu School; later, the school’s Head Teacher goes to see Saimdang.
February 19th, 2017 at 5:46 pm
Episode 8: The contest
Saimdang’s husband, Lee Won Su, leaves their home.
Saimdang takes her son Hyun-ryong to Jungbu School. There, Saimdang, Hwieumdang (Seok Soon), and Lee Gyeom meet each other again.
Lee Gyeom goes up to the mountain and asks someone to help him investigate Min Chi-hyung’s illegal activities. Meanwhile, Min Chi-hyung learns more about Lee Gyeom’s past.
Hyun-ryong finds a letter in one of his grandfather’s books and gives it to Saimdang.
The mothers of the Jungbu School students complain to the Head Teacher that Hyun-ryong is not qualified to enter the school. Lee Gyeom arrives and suggests to the mothers that a contest be held between Hyun-ryong and the other student applying for the vacant slot.
The other student’s father is a very rich nobleman who has asked the Prime Minister and Min Chi-hyung to get his son (Jang Tae-ryong) admitted into the school.
At present …
Ji-yoon does what her husband asked her to do, but her mother-in-law accidentally finds out about it.
Back to Joseon …
Hwieumdang gets private tutors and puts Jang Tae-ryong through a crash course for the contest.
February 19th, 2017 at 10:52 pm
Nice interesting excellent lovable touching drama.
February 20th, 2017 at 11:27 am
ONE OF THE BEST KDRAMA THIS 2017
February 20th, 2017 at 2:57 pm
Lee Young Ae still beautiful doesnt age at all.
best actress best drama.
February 20th, 2017 at 4:26 pm
This is a beautifully compelling show. Love Lee Young Ae and Song Seong Heon he’s very attractive.
February 21st, 2017 at 1:02 pm
im very addicted to watched kdramas since 2000.
saimdang light’s diary is the best drama this year.
February 21st, 2017 at 11:36 pm
I like the story of this drama. Its very good. Love the cast LYA and SSH. Fighting!!!
February 23rd, 2017 at 9:36 am
I kinda having an interest watching this drama. Hope that character of Saimdangs life here won’t be so difficult to watch….please writer!!!
February 23rd, 2017 at 9:46 am
I like to see those adorable children of Saimdang here plus Song Seung Hun.
February 25th, 2017 at 1:02 am
the best ! no matter what happens to ratings ! but this drama is the best that i’ve ever seen so far this year.!
February 25th, 2017 at 1:38 am
Episode7
Using her left hand to write so that she can’t be identified, Saimdang warns Lee Gyeom about Min Chi-hyung. Not knowing who sent the letter, Lee Gyeom thinks that one of Min Chi-hyung’s allies sent the letter to scare him off.
Min Chi-hyung sees a striking resemblance between the painting of flowers that Lee Gyeom gave and the ribbon of the girl who witnessed the temple massacre.
Hwieumdang remembers how she, as Seok Soon, became Min Chi-hyung’s servant. She remembers presenting herself to bear Min Chi-hyung’s children. When he scoffed at her saying she’s just a servant, she replied with a poem: “People loved the red peony, and their gardens were filled with them. Who knew that a beautiful flower bloomed even from desolate grounds?”
At present …
After meeting Hye-jung, Ji-yoon tells Han Sang-hyun not to stick close to her to prevent gossip in their neighborhood. Prof. Min’s assistants see them going into the same apartment complex and think that they’re having an affair.
Hye-jung finds a poem hidden between the pages of Saimdang’s diary. The poem, which was not written in ancient Korean, says: “Our two souls, therefore, which are one, Though I must go, endure not yet a breach, but an expansion like gold to airy thinness beat.” Ji-yoon says that the poem was written by John Donne, a 16th century English poet.
Prof. Min arrives and warns Ji-yoon, Hye-jung, and Han Sang-hyun that he’s watching out for them. Han Sang-hyun later offers a room at the club where they can continue studying Saimdang’s diary.
Back to Joseon …
Jungbu School’s Head Teacher becomes impressed with Hyun-ryong’s intelligence; he’s also surprised to know who Hyun-ryong’s grandfather was.
Hwieumdang sees Hyung-ryong in the school and scolds him for loitering there. Later, she warns the Head Teacher to keep the school’s tradition in accepting new students.
At Biidang, Lee Gyeom finds Woo adorable, not knowing that he is Saimdang’s son.
Saimdang’s children are caught stealing dried persimmons at the market. Finding out about it, Saimdang whips them repeatedly. Sun, the eldest child, shouts that they did it because they were hungry. He and the other children begin blaming their father.
Saimdang takes her family to a barren place in the mountain. She tells her children that’s the place their father bought in a scam. She inspires her children to look beyond the barren conditions of the place and imagine how better it can be if they work together. Later, they spend a happy time playing at the river.
Going back home, they meet Jungbu School’s Head Teacher. He tells Saimdang that he knew her father and how proud he was of her. He then tells Saimdang and her husband that the school has a place open for Hyun-ryong.
But when Hyun-ryong’s brother and sister tell him that they barely have enough to eat for tomorrow, he decides not to attend Jungbu School.
That evening, while Saimdang tends to her children’s wounds from the whipping, she finds Hyun-ryong’s notebook. In it, he has written a poem: “Autumn deepens at the gazebo in the woods, but the poet finds no solace in its beauty. River faraway is the color of the sky it touches; red leaves under frost are burning red.”
February 25th, 2017 at 1:40 am
Episode 8
Saimdang’s husband goes to a mountain temple to prepare for the civil service exams.
At the school, Hwieumdang recognizes Saimdang as Lee Gyeom arrives. She turns to avoid Saimdang, and Saimdang walks past Lee Gyeom without acknowledging him. Later, Hwieumdang goes to see where Saimdang lives.
Hwieumdang then asks the mothers to protest Hyun-ryong’s admission into the school. But on Lee Gyeom’s suggestion, the mothers agree to a contests between Hyun-ryong and the other student.
Min Chi-hyung learns that Lee Gyeom and Saimdang nearly got married years ago and that Lee Gyeom showed up in Hanyang just when Saimdang and her family have relocated there.
Lee Gyeom asks his friend (the leader of a bandit group) to find out what he can about Min Chi-hyung’s illegal activities.
Lee Gyeom tells the Head Teacher that he will anonymously sponsor Hyun-ryong and other intelligent but poor students.
At present …
Ji-yoon’s husband tells her to file for divorce. Her mother-in-law finds out about it and becomes angry at Ji-yoon’s ingratitude.
Back to Joseon …
Hyun-ryong finds his grandfather’s letter containing a copy of the King’s poem and gives it to Saimdang. Saimdang orders him never to talk about the letter. Remembering that the poem started all the sad turns in her life, she tries to burn the letter but could not.
Jang Tae-ryong, the other student applying for the vacant slot, turns out to be good at eating and nothing else. Despite a crash course with tutors arranged by a frustrated Hwieumdang, he still cannot understand or memorize what he’s being taught. But Hwieumdang later on gets a copy of the contest question and prepares Jang Tae-ryong for it.
Lee Gyeom finds out from a nervous Jang Tae-ryong that the contest question has been leaked. He arranges another contest where both Hyun-ryong and Jang Tae-ryong fail. (The two have become instant friends who do not want to deprive each other the opportunity to enter the school.) On Lee Gyeom’s suggestion, both of them are admitted.
Hwieumdang tells the other mothers that Saimdang could have influenced Lee Gyeom. The mothers go to Saimdang’s house and demand that she formally greet them. They also tell her that Hyun-ryong was admitted to the school only because Lee Gyeom intervened.
An angry Saimdang goes to the school to see the Head Teacher and Lee Gyeom.
February 25th, 2017 at 1:42 am
Episode 9: “Complacent clouds” (The painting and poetry contest)
Offended by what the mothers told her, Saimdang tells Lee Gyeom not to intervene in her life.
While tending to a fire in her kitchen and remembering Lee Gyeom’s words, Saimdang realizes that she can make and sell paper as her family’s source of income.
Lee Gyeom and Hwieumdang find out separately that Saimdang is putting up a small business of making and selling paper. Through his friend (the bandit group’s leader), Lee Gyeom also finds out more about Hwieumdang.
Hwieumdang vows that Saimdang will spend the rest of her life as a “worthless woman doing manual labor.” She then visits Lee Gyeom in Jungbu School and proposes that Biikdang host a painting and poetry contest among the students and their mothers.
Recap
Lee Gyeom justifies himself to Saimdang, saying the he didn’t know that Hyun-ryong was her son and that she should not let their sad past get in the way of Hyun-ryong’s education. Nevertheless, Saimdang tells him that to prevent misunderstandings, he should stay out of her family’s life. (Later, Lee Gyeom thinks that Saimdang might possibly still have feelings for him.)
Saimdang finds plenty of mulberry trees in the land that her husband was scammed into buying. To help her, she contacts an ornery, always drunk former artisan at the Office of Paper Production. But because of the broken down sheds and with only kitchen knives for tools, the artisan turns her down. He agrees only when Saimdang promises a 50-50 split in whatever they will be able to sell later on.
Hwieumdang thinks at first that Saimdang will use the paper for her paintings. When she finds out Saimdang’s real purpose, she orders all the paper merchants in Hanyang not to buy from or sell paper for Saimdang.
Lee Gyeom finds out that Hwieumdang has a mysterious past, with no relatives to speak of, and that Min Chi-hyung has another wife.
When Hwieumndang catches a female servant trying to flirt with Min Chi-hyung, she orders the servant to be whipped and sent away.
In Jungbu School, Lee Gyeom teaches his students not just to memorize things but to express what they have in their hearts. He’s moved when Hyun-ryong begins describing Saimdang as a great person: “My mother taught me that I have to make the most out of even difficult situations. She made the most out of the difficult things; my mother is a strong but soft-hearted person.”
The deposed Queen gratefully sends dried persimmons for Saimdang and her children. Later, Saimdang and her children visit the Queen. When Mae-chang (Saimdang’s daughter) says that she wants to visit again, the Queen tells Saimdang that it will do her no good being seen with a deposed queen. Saimdang touches the Queen’s heart by saying that being kind to neighbors is a virtue.
Looking at the paper that she has made, Saimdang begins tracing lines and shapes on it. (Like Lee Gyeom, she has been traumatized by what happened 20 years ago and has not painted anything since then.)
Hwieumdang tells herself that she is the best painter in Joseon and vows that Saimdang must never be able to compete with her again.
On the day of the contest, the mothers are all dressed up, hoping to impress Lee Gyeom. But Saimdang comes in her work clothes that offends the mothers. When Hwieumdang describes her silk dress as being in “Yeonji” color, Saimdang wonders who she is.
Not wanting Saimdang to continue being embarrassed by what she’s wearing, Lee Gyeom orders his nephew to buy aprons from the market. When the mothers complain that the aprons are like rags, he tells them that with the aprons, they don’t have to worry about spilling paint on their silk clothes.
Hwieumdang proposes that the contest theme be “Unpyeong” (“complacent clouds”). Saimdang and Lee Gyeom become agitated, remembering Unpyeong Temple from 20 years ago. As Saimdang agonizes, Hwieumdang watches her and thinks, “Are you suffering? What a pathetic sight. You’ll never be able to paint again. Because of your painting, nearly 100 people died. This is how you pay for your sin.”
When Saimdang overhears that Hwieumdang is the wife of Min Chi-hyung (the man who ordered the temple massacre), she panics and runs out of the contest hall. Hyun-ryongs follows her and, having been bullied in school, he cries that Saimdang cannot leave just like that. When Saimdang says that she simply cannot paint, Hyun-ryong storms off, saying that he’ll finish everything himself.
In his poem, Hyun-ryong writes, “In the chaotic world, a poet wanders around like complacent clouds. I’d like to stir up the clouds and let the sweet rains fall on the dry land.”
Later, Lee Gyeom sees the scar on Hwieumdang’s hand and remembers the lowborn girl Seok Soon from 20 years ago. At that same time, Saimdang is on the mountain; remembering the “Yeonji” color, she realizes that Hwieumdang and Seok Soon are one and the same person.
February 25th, 2017 at 1:44 am
Episode 10: Unpyeongsa (Unpyeong Temple)
Saimdang and Lee Gyeom realize that Hwieumdang is none other than the lowborn girl Seok Soon whom they met 20 years ago.
Lee Gyeom starts investigating what happened at Unpyeong Temple that has scarred Saimdang’s life.
The King becomes anxious when the government ministers complain that newly-appointed government officials are flocking to Biikdang and meeting with Lee Gyeom.
Saimdang gets an order for 5,000 sheets of colored paper that she must deliver within five days. If she can’t deliver them, she must pay a penalty of 10 times the down payment. Unknown to Saimdang, the paper that she has at the workplace has been stolen by her paper artisan.
Recap
Lee Gyeom warns Hwieumdang: “I don’t know your reason behind it, but if you’re trying to hurt someone, I hope that you don’t only look after your scar while putting daggers in someone else’s heart.
But Hwieumdang doesn’t back down and retorts: “If I want to hurt someone, don’t you think that person deserves it? An eye for an eye is only human nature.”
The Prime Minister’s insane son kills a woman, and Min Chi-hyung has to clean up the mess.
Hyun-ryong refuses to go home with Saimdang and tells her that he is no longer her son. Saimdang is assured by Lee Gyeom that he will bring Hyun-ryong home later on. As Saimdang begins to leave, Lee Gyeom tells her that Hyun-ryong is as stubborn as she was during her younger years.
Lee Gyeom tells Hyun-ryong that he regrets not having known his own mother. Hyun-ryong replies: “I’m frustrated. I’m studying for my mother and my family. I’m going to study very, very hard. I’m going to win first place in the civil service exam and become a government employee. I will buy a huge house where all my family members will have their own rooms. And I will also buy silk dresses so that my mother won’t have wear shabby clothes. How come my mother doesn’t understand how I feel?’
Lee Gyeom advises Hyun-ryong to tell her mother everything that’s in his heart.
Lee Gyeom brings Hyun-ryong home, and when he mentions that Hyun-ryong is a very intelligent boy, Saimdang says: “That’s why I’m careful with him. I don’t want him to become arrogant.” When Lee Gyeom repeats his offer to sponsor Hyun-ryong’s studies, Saimdang rejects the offer and walks away.
Saimdang freezes when Lee Gyeom mentions Unpyeong Temple. He asks: “Just what happened there? Why did you storm out trembling at the mention of the temple? Does the reason you stopped painting for 20 years have to do with the temple? The Saimdang I knew would have never given up painting. What happened to the daring girl who climbed over walls just to see the ‘Mount Geumgang’ painting?’
Later, Lee Gyeom goes to where Unpyeong Temple used to be. He meets an old man who tells him about the massacre and that Min Chi-hyung could have been involved.
The store manager at Jangwon Paper Store refuses to buy Saimdang’s paper because of their low quality. When Hwieumdang finds out that Saimdang is selling her paper, she sets up a plan to sink Saimdang deeply into debt. She orders the store manager to buy from Saimdang 5,000 sheets of colored paper that must be delivered within five days. If Saimdang is not able to deliver the paper, she must pay a penalty of ten times the down payment.
The paper artisan has stolen the paper that Saimdang has at the workplace. With only her servant to help her, Saimdang tries to produce the paper within the deadline. That night, Lee Gyeom and his nephew sneak into the workplace and try to produce as much paper pulp as they can.
When a boy steals their food, Saimdang, her servant, and her sons stumble upon a group of starving and sick drifters. Saimdang remembers the people she saw at Unpyeong Temple 20 years ago. Moved by their plight, she tells the drifters that if they help her make the paper, she will split the profits with them.
The store manager turns against Hwieumdang and reveals to Lee Gyeom the bribes that Min Chi-hyung has given to government officials. But later on, the store manager is killed by Min Chi-hyung.
Saimdang is shocked when the new store manager refuses to buy the 5,000 sheets of paper. She decides to sell the paper herself on the street. But Hwieumdang orders soldiers to break up the sale. As a soldier pushes Saimdang aside, she falls into Lee Gyeom’s arms.
February 25th, 2017 at 11:14 am
Can’t wait to next episodes.
February 25th, 2017 at 11:33 am
Best drama of 2017 so far ♥
February 25th, 2017 at 11:34 am
Lee Young Ae is the best actress in korea. this drama is super the best this year……… thank you for make come back drama of LYA.
February 25th, 2017 at 7:31 pm
Successful excellent kdrama.
February 25th, 2017 at 8:59 pm
i wish this drama is everyday so that i watch it everyday. because it is interesting drama this year.
February 26th, 2017 at 9:59 am
the best kdrama!!!
February 27th, 2017 at 9:13 am
I’m really happy for this drama. It helped me discover Song Seung Heon and of course, it’s lovely to see Lee Young-Ae again. Such a beautiful well-meaning drama and I’ll always support you guys.
February 27th, 2017 at 11:14 am
put your hands up !!!
February 27th, 2017 at 5:23 pm
go go go fighting…………………!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
February 28th, 2017 at 1:43 pm
I love this drama, good story and good chemistry between the roles. Even the children are all adorable. I always look forward to watch every episode even when there is no subs… that’s how I like it that I can’t wait.
March 1st, 2017 at 12:32 pm
super love it!
March 1st, 2017 at 7:16 pm
I like how the story plays out sensibly without feeling like the writer is unashamedly going for the tear ducts.
March 2nd, 2017 at 2:24 pm
Can anyone please explain to me the real reason for the Wyungpeongsa tragedy? Is it because of the painting she drew or just mass killing by that bad guy who wants to monopolize the paper-making industry? I still don’t understand why Saimdang has to marry someone else. I knew the king wanted Saimdang to do that but why didn’t the king like Saimdang?
I am so confused! Can someone explain to me please?
March 2nd, 2017 at 2:55 pm
Korean drama never disappoint in storyline, good job!
March 3rd, 2017 at 10:33 am
@Gill I think it was a mass killing to monopolise paper production by silencing everyone privy to the paper production process as well as the witnesses to the murders. And a separate issue related to the poem; a royal order to halt the spread of the King’s poem due to a perceived political fallout.
March 4th, 2017 at 10:34 am
They not just telling story, but telling history as well. I love this kind of drama. Lee Young Ae, such a beautiful woman. Her kindness, inspire us how to be an independent woman.. I respect her a lot.
March 4th, 2017 at 10:42 am
Hi gill, I will answer your question. Woonpyeongsa tragedy has happened because of that bad guy want monopolize, and saimdang became a witness who saw the corrupt action. The king would kill whoever knew the poem because he was afraid that his enemy (many ministers) used it to overthrow his throne. If lee gyeom married saimdang, his enemy would know that lee gyeom became witness too about woonpyeongsa tragedy. the reason why that poem is horrible is not been told yet.
March 4th, 2017 at 6:03 pm
This drama is very exciting Love the plot and everything I am very much looking forward for the new episode
Fighting !!!!
March 4th, 2017 at 6:05 pm
Please somebody from production team or whoever, please confirm that no horses were harmed during the filming. Really want to see BTS from that scene where lee gyeom falling from his horse to make sure that the horse was fine in reall life.
March 4th, 2017 at 7:05 pm
Episode 11: Secrets revealed
Lee Gyeom confronts the soldiers who stopped Saimdang from selling her paper and scattered them on the street.
After meeting with the Ming ambassador, Min Chi-hyung confronts Hwieumdang about the way she has been running the paper store.
While at the mountain praying, Saiumdang is approached first by the leader of the drifters and later on, by an old man (the grandfather of the boy who stole Saimdang and her children’s food days ago).
Lee Gyeom asks his nephew to find out what happened to the paper store manager who told them about Min Chi-hyung’s illegal activities.
Hwieumdang remembers all the things she had to do to gain Min Chi-hyung’s favor; that night, she decides to go to Biikdang.
The ministers complain to the King that Lee Gyeom is engaging in politics. They demand that the King dismiss Lee Gyeom, his staff at Biikdang, and his friend (the Head Teacher of Jungbu School).
Policemen arrive at Saimdang’s paper mill and arrest all of the drifters.
Episode 11 recap:
The soldiers stop attacking Lee Gyeom when they recognize from his fan that he is a member of the Royal Family. As Saimdang is hurriedly led away by her husband, policemen start arriving. The soldiers back down, and the drifters run off with their cartload of paper.
Lee Gyeom takes the colored paper scattered on the street and asks the artists at Biikdang to use them for their painting and poetry. Inspired by the paper’s unique colors, the artists create dozens upon dozens of art works.
Min Chi-hyung terrifies Hwieumdang by showing her the cut-off finger of the paper store manager who betrayed them to Lee Gyeom.
Saimdang pleads for mercy with the drifters and their leader for having failed to sell the paper they worked on. Just then, the bald-headed man who’s always hanging around Biikdang comes with several men, and they buy all of Saimdang’s paper.
Later at the mountain, Saimdang tells the leader of the drifters that she is praying for the men and women who were massacred at Unpyeong Temple. She says that she was shocked by the two strikingly different worlds at the temple between the government officials who were partying and the drifters who were starving. She wanted to do something, but because of her painting and poetry, nearly a hundred people died.
When the leader asks if she has been praying for forgiveness for the last 20 years, Saimdang replies: “I will be paying for what I did forever. When I met all of you, that was when I knew. The heavens had sent me precious people so that I could repay that debt.”
Unknown to them, an old man is listening to their conversation. That old man later confesses to Saimdang that he’s the one who sold to Min Chi-hyung the secret to making the famous Goryeo paper. He also counsels Saimdang not to blame herself because the massacre was planned by Min Chi-hyung to eliminate everyone who knew how to make Goryeo paper.
Saimdang is stunned by the old man’s revelation. She stands up and screams her heart out, realizing that evil men and her misunderstanding of the events at Unpyeong Temple have turned her life upside down.
Lee Gyeom finds out that the paper store manager has been missing for the past several days. He remembers what the manager said about Min Chi-hyung taking care of the mess that the Prime Minister’s son creates.
Hwieumdang remembers how Min Chi-hyung ordered her to poison his father-in-law and how she got her false identity. That night, putting on a disguise, she goes to Biikdang and amazes everyone with her masterful playing of the gayageum.
The King scolds Lee Gyeom for not being discreet in investigating the corrupt activities of the ministers. When Lee Gyeom says that the Head Teacher of Jungbu School is the King’s loyal subject, the King becomes angry and tells him that the Head Teacher is lucky not to have been killed along with the other members of Sir Jo Gwang-jo’s group.
The drifters are thrown into jail. But Saimdang gets them released by putting up her house and land as collateral to pay for their unpaid taxes of 900 sacks of grains and 200 rolls of cotton. She promises the Police Chief that she and the drifters will pay the balance within 30 days. She also promises that if the drifters cause any problem or run away, she can be arrested in their place.
When the drifters start arguing among themselves, the old man gives Saimdang the secret to making Goryeo paper.
Lee Gyeom learns from his friend (the Head Teacher) how the King’s poem caused the death of Saimdang’s father. Riding his horse day and night, Lee Gyeom races to Saimdang’s ancestral house in Gangneum. When Saimdang’s mother refuses to meet him, he kneels on the ground and pleads to talk with her.
March 4th, 2017 at 7:10 pm
Episode 12: Parallel paths
Lee Gyeom begs on his knees for Saimdang’s mother to talk to him, but she refuses. Upon learning that Saimdang’s father sent a letter to his great aunt before he died, Lee Gyeom goes to see her. But his great aunt refuses to tell him what’s in the letter.
The old man says that the expensive Goryeo paper that Saimdang and the drifters bought from Min Chi-hyung’s store is inferior in quality. He tells Saimdang that he needs to touch a sample of genuine Goryeo paper so that he can reconstruct how the paper was made in Unpyeong Temple.
Hwieumdang hires someone to create trouble in Saimdang’s paper mill.
The King senses that the top ministers are beginning to fight each other over promotions; he needs Lee Gyeom to drive the ministers farther apart. But Lee Gyeom is missing, and no one knows where he went. The ministers begin to sow intrigues, suggesting that Lee Gyeom has abandoned the King and has gone back to his wild, carefree days.
When Lee Gyeom tells his great aunt about the King’s poem, she warns him that he’s putting Saimdang and himself in danger again. She tells Lee Gyeom: “You cannot make the King your enemy. That’s the only way you can protect the woman you love!”
On his way back to Hanyang, Lee Gyeom falls off his horse.
The King visits Biikdang incognito, but no one can tell him where Lee Gyeom is. Worried, the King orders his bodyguard to look for Lee Gyeom.
Saimdang remembers that her father’s letter is written on Goryeo paper from Unpyeong Temple. The old man confirms that it’s indeed genuine Goryeo paper, but their attempts to reconstruct how the paper was made in Unpyeong Temple fails again and again.
Hwieumdang hires Saimdang’s former paper artisan to create trouble in her paper mill.
Lee Gyeom goes back to Sujinbang and surprises Saimdang by embracing her. He tells Saimdang: “I’m sorry; for so long, how did you endure everything for me? I’m alive because of your sacrifice. Now, it’s my turn to live for you. I’ll become the most powerful man in Joseon so that you can paint all you want without any worries.”
Saimdang pushes Lee Gyeom away as the drifters start coming back to the paper mill. Unknown to them, Min Chi-hyung has been watching them from a distance. Later, Lee Gyeom sees the Police Chief talking with Min Chi-hyung.
Lee Gyeom meets the King’s bodyguard and tells him: “What hurts me most is that it’s the King who made my life hell.” But the bodyguard replies: “The King has been living in hell his entire life. He feared being killed by King Yeonsan; as Crown Prince, he feared the ministers; as King, he lost his precious Queen when she was dethroned.”
Echoing what Lee Gyeom’s great aunt told him, the King’s bodyguard counsels Lee Gyeom: “Don’t make the King your enemy. If you can’t love the King, at least pretend to love him. That’s how you can protect Saimdang.”
Later, Lee Gyeom sends his falcon with a message for his close friend, Lord Seo, who is Joseon’s ambassador to Ming.
Lee Won Su, Saimdang’s husband, messes up again, this time with the face powder that he bought for Saimdang; the powder creates rashes all over Maek-chang’s and Woo’s faces. When he goes to confront the tavern owner who sold the face powder to him, he gets ensnared in another scam.
Lee Gyeom challenges Min Chi-hyung to a sword fight. He could have killed Min Chi-hyung, but their swords get broken into half. Walking away, he passes by a stunned Hwieumdang and tells her: “You disgust me!”
Min Chi-hyung and Hwieumdang plan their revenge against Lee Gyeom by using Saimdang’s sketch book and ribbon. Hwieumdang says: “Betrayal is more bitter the closer you are to the person. Lee Gyeom is the only Royal Family member whom the King wants at his side. The card we hold is the most powerful.” When Min Chi-hyung replies that the fruit is not yet ripe, Hwieumdang says, “When the fruit is ripe, I’ll pick it for you.”
Alone later on, Hwieumdang thinks about Lee Gyeom’s words to her and vows: “Disgust? I’ll show you what disgusting envy looks like.”
Saimdang and Hyang are on their way back to the paper mill when Hyang sees rows of lights along their path. Saimdang smiles seeing the lights; when Hyang sees Lee Gyeom at the other end of the path, two men quickly grab her, leaving Saimdang and Lee Gyeom by themselves.
Lee Gyeom tells Saimdang: “Keep smiling. You look the best when you smile that way. Do you like the lights?”
Lee Gyeom continues: “Everything that happened 20 years ago － the reason you had to leave me and marry another man, what the drifters mean to you, and why you must make paper with them － I know everything now. I understand you.”
Saimdang replies: “You just have to live your life, and I’ll live on with my own life. Please don’t worry about me anymore. You just go on with your life.”
Lee Gyeom answers back: “How can I when I now know about everything? How can you think that’s possible? If I were you and you were me, if we are in each other’s place, could you just live on?”
Lee Gyeom continues pleading with Saimdang: “You can continue to live your life. For the drifters and for your family. If that’s the path you must walk on, then go ahead. But for me, I’ll always be standing right where you can see me.”
When Saimdang protests that it cannot be and that he’s being reckless, Lee Gyeom says: “I don’t care if you’re another man’s wife, or if you’ll never look at me. Even if our paths are parallel and we’ll never be able to meet, I’ll walk along with you for the rest of my life!’
March 6th, 2017 at 5:45 pm
This drama based on a major Korean historical figure was intended for an international audience. Its quality is very high in every way: directing, plot and strong screen writing, acting, music, photography. I am enjoying every moment as the story twists and turns.
The acting is so good across the board! In particular, the performance of Lee YoungAe as Saimdang is impressive and often moves me deeply. I am learning a lot about life and the values of a different Korean era. Yet, some of these values are still alive today.
The gap between the interests of international audiences and those of local Korean viewers seems to be the reason behind the current ratings of Saimdang compared to those of shallow – sometimes plain silly – dramas aimed at local Korean teens.
March 10th, 2017 at 11:29 am
Great drama
Agree ưith Berty
March 12th, 2017 at 10:28 am
Episode 13: The confrontation and the hunt
The academic rivalry between Saimdang’s son (Hyun-ryong) and Hwieumdang’s son (Ji-gyoon) results in an incident that forces Saimdang to attend the Mothers’s Club meeting the next day. At the meeting, Hwieumdang and the Prime Minister’s wife ask the other mothers to expel Hyun-ryong because his family has “damaged the school’s dignity.”
On Lee Gyeom’s suggestion, the King asks the ministers to go with them on a hunting trip. At the hunt, Lee Gyeom breaks off from the other hunters; Min Chi-hyung follows him and tips his arrow with poison.
Hyun-ryong beats Ji-gyoon by getting the first place in an essay-writing assignment. At lunchtime, Hyun-ryong’s classmates taunt him by asking why he’s only eating rice during lunchtime when everyone else is eating lots of food prepared by their servants. Later, Ji-gyoon tears up Hyun-ryong’s essay, and a fight ensues between them. When Hwieumdang sees Ji-gyoon with a bloody nose, she slaps Hyun-ryong twice and threatens the Head Teacher.
That night, the deposed Queen sees Hyun-ryong crying by her fence. The next day, the Queen asks her attendant to fetch Saimdang from the paper mill. The Queen tells Saimdang that she’s required to attend a meeting at Jungbu School. As she gives Saimdang a jacket and dress made of expensive Chinese silk, she says, “Think about your discouraged son and how he feels.”
When Saimdang arrives at the meeting, she impresses the other mothers with the way she looks and the expensive silk dress she’s wearing. But Hwieumdang and the Prime Minister’s wife begin at once to bully her by saying that Hyun-ryong must be expelled from school because his family has “damaged the school’s dignity.”
Hwieumdang says that while the mothers all have husbands who are court officials, Saimdang’s husband has failed the civil service exams for the last 20 years. Saimdang defends her husband saying, “Being a good father doesn’t only mean being rich and famous; a father who loves his children and always makes them smile, this is the kind and sweet father that my husband is.” But Hwieumdang retorts, “That’s just a nice way of saying that your husband is a jobless bum!”
Saimdang then quotes examples from history and literature of men who were not court officials but who “sympathized with the weak and set a good example, or wrote great poems that are still influencing people beyond their times.” But Hwieumdang says, “Your husband is the biggest loser of all for having failed the exams for the last 20 years!”
Hwieumdang then says that Saimdang herself has damaged the school’s dignity by engaging in manual labor and working with drifters. Saimdang replies that she’s making paper that’s a necessity for students. She asks if the mothers would like to go back to the days when students had to read books written on bamboo strips.
Hwieumdang says that Saimdang has been wearing peasant’s clothes. She also mentions that Saimdang’s silk skirt is a royal color and asks if her neighbor, the deposed Queen. gave her the clothes. The other mothers are shocked at the mention of the deposed Queen whom they say is a traitor’s daughter.
Saimdang says that her clothes do not define who she really is. (When she mentions the “yeonji” color, Hwieumdang realizes that Saimdang already knows that she was the lowborn Seok Soon.) Saimdang defends herself by saying, “ A gourd’s flowers may look simple, but a gourd can feed a whole family. A lotus flower may look fancy, but its fruit is no better than dates or chestnuts.”
The Prime Minister’s wife and some of the mothers are offended by what Saimdang said; they ask, “Are you saying that we look fancy, but like a lotus fruit, we don’t have substance?”
On Hwieumdang’s signal, the Prime Minister’s wife then says that Saimdang’s father was jailed during the Gi-myo incident. The other mothers begin saying that someone with a traitor in his family is not fit to be a student in Jungbu School. Saimdang defends her father by saying that he was found innocent of the charge against him. She then quotes from the Classic of Filial Piety: “Even if my father was guilty, a child hiding her father’s crime and not reporting it honestly, that’s compassion. How can you accuse a child for his father’s crime?’
(When Saimdang mentions her father’s name, Tae-ryong’s mother recognizes that Saimdang was her classmate 20 years ago.)
Hwieumdang and the Prime Minister’s wife call for a majority vote on Hyun-ryong’s expulsion. But the vote is tied 7-7. Hwieumdang then calls for a tea break. When Saimdang overhears from a mother that Hwieumdang slapped Hyun-ryong twice, she seethes in anger.
The Prime Minister’s wife whispers to the servant to spill tea on Saimdang’s silk dress. But Tae-ryong’s mother hears the instruction and trips up the servant. The tea is spilled on the silk skirt of the young mother sitting next to Saimdang. The young mother becomes hysterical and cries out that she only borrowed her silk clothes from her neighbor. The Prime Minister’s wife, Hwieumdang, and the other mothers are aghast by that sudden confession and say that the young mother has been deceiving them about being rich.
Saimdang realizes that she was the real target and pities the young mother; she orders the servant to get some ink and a brush. After some hesitation, Saimdang begins painting grapevines and grapes on the silk skirt. The mothers are stunned at Saimdang’s masterful and graceful strokes, with some remarking that she’s better than Hwieumdang. After Saimdang finishes the painting, she says that “there is no border between ugliness and beauty.” She and Tae-ryong’s mother tell the young mother that she can sell the silk skirt for a very high price.
Saimdang then tells the mothers that she is voluntarily withdrawing Hyun-ryong from the school. The Head Teacher pleads with her to reconsider, but Saimdang stands firm.
Hwieumdang wants to have the last word, and as Saimdang is about to leave, she says, “You’re not quitting, I’m throwing you out.” Saimdang recalls that Hwieumdang saved her in Unpyeongsa and thanks her for it. But she also tells Hwieumdang, “I don’t know how you became a nobleman’s wife, but you have lost your kind heart. You may look like a splendid butterfly on the outside, but on the inside you’re still a larva.”
Later, Saimdang tells Hyung-ryong about her decision. He pleads that he won’t ever fight with Ji-gyoon again and that he wants to continue studying at Jungbu School. But Saimdang tells him that she heard him at school that day and says that he has become vain and arrogant. She says, “You’re born with tremendous talent that other people don’t have. If you fail to use your gift for the right cause and use it instead to to ignore or humiliate other people, it means you don’t deserve such a gift. Your character is more important than your talent.”
That night as they’re about to sleep, Saimdang tells Hyun-ryong, “I love everyone, you, your brothers, and your sister, equally and incredibly. But I pity you the most because with your talent and ambitions, I can’t do much for you. That’s why I will work much harder in order to give you the wings you deserve. I’ll work hard and go beyond my limit. Will you accept your mother’s heart?” Hyun -ryong says yes and replies, “I so sincerely want to give you the life that you deserve; I want to make you proud of me!”
At the hunt, Lee Gyeom presents the King with his painting of a falcon. (Before the hunt, he has given the King a fan with his delicate painting using cinnabar, with a dragon design on the handle and a jade ornament.) With a veiled criticism of the ministers, he explains to the King the meaning of the falcon as a talisman against evil. The King tries but hesitates in writing a poem on the painting.
When Lee Gyeom separates himself from the other hunters to track down a pheasant, Min Chi-hyung aims his poison-tipped arrow at him. The arrow flies past Lee Gyeom’s face and hits a wild boar behind him. Later, Lee Gyeom shocks the ministers when he asks Min Chi-hyung pointblank, “Were you aiming at the wild boar or at me?”
The King and the ministers are forced to return to the Palace because a Ming ambassador is coming with a personal message from the Emperor. The message complains about the inferior quality of the Goryeo paper that Joseon has been sending to Ming. The King becomes frightened that there’s a hidden motive in the Emperor’s message; he immediately orders his bodyguard and the bHead Eunuch to find anyone who can make the highest-quality Goryeo paper.
Min Chi-hyung begins preparing more bribes to be given to the Ming ambassador. Meanwhile, Lord So (Joseon ambassador to Ming and Lee Gyeom’s close friend) warns Lee Gyeom that Min Chi-hyung is a dangerous enemy.
Lee Gyeom finds out from his nephew that all of Hanyang is talking about and praising Saimdang’s painting on a silk skirt. Despite his plea with the store owner that he will pay triple the selling price for the painting, the store owner refuses.
Hwieumdang has bought the painting and in rage, burns it up. She vows, ”Saimdang and Lee Gyeom, I will destroy all of you arrogant aristocrats!”
(Note: The dialogues quoted above are from the Dramacool website’s video of this episode, with some editing.)
March 12th, 2017 at 10:33 am
Episode 14: The portraits of a Joseon beauty and the goddess
Hwieumdang goes to Biikdang again at night and in disguise; she mesmerizes everyone with her dance.
Saimdang and two of the drifters come across the bulletin that announces a Joseon-wide search for anyone who can supply the government with the highest-quality Goryeo paper.
Min Chi-hyung goes to the Ming ambassador’s residence with his cartload of bribes. Later, the ambassador demands that Joseon must deliver within four days the Goryeo paper that the Emperor wants.
Lee Won-su falls asleep again at the temple during his study time, and the Head Monk disciplines him.
Man-deuk, the paper artisan, steals a sample of Saimdang’s Goryeo paper and gives it to Hwieumdang.
Min Chi-hyung orders his men to arrest and lock up Saimdang, while policemen arrive at the paper mill and surround the drifters.
At present …
Prof. Min forces his way into Ji-yoon’s house and threatens her.
Hwieumdang disguises herself as the “Black Peony” and tries to get more information from Lord So about the Ming ambassador. But Lord So refuses her offer to help entertain the ambassador. Later, Lee Gyeom recognizes from Lord So’s description that “Black Peony” is none other than Hwieumdang.
Saimdang brings 3,000 sheets of high-quality paper to the Police Chief, but he refuses to extend the deadline for paying the overdue taxes of the drifters.
Mandeuk steals a sample of Saimdang’s paper and gives it to Hwieumdang. She becomes alarmed after finding out that the quality of the paper is better than the paper she supplies to the Paper Production Office.
The bulletin posted at the market announces that people who want to be the government’s supplier must submit their sample of Goryeo paper by the end of the month and that the winner will be given a store and appointed as the government’s exclusive supplier. Saimdang tells the drifters with her that this is their biggest opportunity to make their lives better.
Min Chi-hyung fails to bribe one of the lesser officials at the Ming ambassador’s residence. When Lee Gyeom and Lord So see him there, Lord So tells him to stay away from the ambassador.
Lee Gyeom convinces the ambassador to give Joseon 15 days within which to deliver the Goryeo paper that the Emperor wants. Later, the King grants Lee Gyeom the power and authority over the Paper Production Office. Casting aside the ministers’s objections, the King also orders Lee Gyeom to arrest and interrogate anyone involved in the paper scandal.
On Lee Gyeom’s orders, policemen to raid the Paper Production Office, seizing documents and arresting its officials. Jangwon paper Store is also raided, but Hwieumdang has already hidden its ledgers and other documents.
Enraged by Lee Gyeom’s actions, Min Chi-hyung orders his men to snatch Saimdang. But his men fail because Lee Gyeom has ordered police officers and their men to guard Saimdang’s paper mill.
On her way back to the paper mill, Saimdang meets Lee Gyeom. He gives her a bunch of flowers which she reluctantly accepts. Lee Gyeom says, “I saw your painting on the silk skirt, and it made me very happy.” When Saimdang replies that she just picked up the brush to help a lady in need and that it doesn’t mean anything beyond that, Lee Gyeom says, “Then I’ll just make ladies in need keep appearing before you.”
Lee Gyeom continues, “When I saw from your painting that your talent has not faded and has actually become better, it made my heart flutter.” Saimdang replies, “Painting is a luxury for me now, and these flowers make me feel uncomfortable. I won’t accept any more gifts from you from now on.”
But Saimdang’s mood brightens when Lee Gyeom gives her a sample of a 200-year old paper with the texture and quality that the Ming royalty value highly. Lee Gyeom says, “Use this to make Unpyeongsa Goryeo paper, and on that paper, do your art.”
That night, Lee Gyeom meets Hyun-ryong in Biikdang. Hyun-ryong tells him that his mother has withdrawn him from Jungbu School. He also says that he resents and at the same time, pities his father who has failed the state exams for the last 20 years.
After meeting Saimdang’s husband at the temple, Lee Gyeom uses his influence to get him appointed to a 7th rank position at the Office of Translations. Going home, Lee Won-su proudly informs Saimdang and their children that he has been appointed as a government official. Later, he wants to have some conjugal time with Saimdang, but he falls asleep waiting for her. When he wakes up, Saimdang is gone. Along with his neatly sewn and pressed uniform, he finds a letter from Saimdang.
Saimdang thinks that the secret to making Goryeo paper is hidden in the painting of the Buddhist goddess that she saw 20 years ago. She and old man Pal Bong leave the paper mill and begin trekking back to Unpyeong Temple.
By threatening the paper artisan, Hwieumdang finds out that Saimdang is on her way to Unpyeong Temple to find the secret of making the genuine Goryeo paper. She and her men ride on horses and race towards Unpyeong Temple.
Trudging through the deep snow, Saimdang remembers the recent events between her and Lee Gyeom.
Present time …
Ji-yoon informs the owner of Seon Gallery that the gallery’s “Mount Geumgang” painting is fake. Meanwhile, Prof. Min finds out that RADE is investigating the painting’s authenticity.
Warned by the gallery owner that he can be fired at any time, Prof. Min forces his way into Ji-yoon’s house and then threatens her. Later, he orders his assistants to break into and search Ji-yoon’s house.
Ji-yoon finds something odd at the back of the “Portrait of a Joseon Beauty” and calls Hye-jung and Han Sang-hyun for an urgent meeting at the club. Despite being followed by Prof. Min’s assistants, Ji-yoon, Han Sang-hyun, and Je-hyung work at the club and begin peeling off the paper at the back of the portrait. To their shock, they find, hidden behind the portrait, the genuine “Mount Geumgang” painting.
March 17th, 2017 at 11:37 am
I am happy to see the lengthy notes on each episode have stopped. The English subs are out hours after episode is uploaded on most sites. I could not understand the need to add Cliff Notes to this section that buries all the other comments.
March 17th, 2017 at 9:48 pm
best drama 2017.
March 18th, 2017 at 9:12 am
Episode 15: Choices and revelations at the cliff
Saimdang and old man Pal Bong reach Unpyeongsa and start looking for the painting of the Buddhist goddess. But soon after, Hwieumdang and her men arrive and start chasing them.
Min Chi-hyung visits Noble Lady Nam at a temple; she was the favored concubine of King Seonjong and a trusted adviser of King Jungjong.
Lee Gyeom orders the arrest of Min Chi-hyung.
Hwieumdang and her men corner Saimdang at a cliff.
Episode 15 recap:
Min Chi-hyung tries to convince Noble Lady Nam to return to Hanyang and help stabilize King Jungjong’s reign. She refuses at first, thinking that he has ulterior motives. But when she finds out that Lee Gyeom is the grandson of her family’s mortal enemy, she agrees. On their way back to Hanyang, however, Lee Gyeom blocks their way and orders Min Chi-hyung arrested for bribing the previous Ming ambassador.
When the Prime Minister hesitates in helping him, Min Chi-hyung vows to retaliate.
Lee Gyeom finds out that Saimdang has gone to Unpyeongsa and that Hwieumdang and her men have gone there too. He races after them.
Saimdang and old man Pal Bong fail to find the painting of the Buddhist goddess. Chased by Hwieumdang’s men, they’re helped by an old man.
Because of the darkness, Hwieumdang and her men stop searching for Saimdang. On their way and at the inn, Hwieumdang is overwhelmed by memories of herself as the lowborn Seok Soon.
The old man later gives Saimdang the painting of the Buddhist goddess; it was entrusted to him by Unpyeongsa’s Head Monk on the night before the massacre. On the back of the painting is a poem:
“The glow of fireflies in the night air, The autumn forest forest is rich, Man is as worthy as gold, But he will return to white soil tomorrow.”
The next day, Hwieumdang and her men kill the old man when he covers up for Saimdang. On the mountain, Pal Bong sees the men and shouts at Saimdang to run. Saimdang screams as she sees Pal Bong stabbed repeatedly. In the distance, Lee Gyeom hears Saimdang’s screams and rushes to her.
Cornered at a cliff, Saimdang refuses to hand over the painting to Hwieumdang. When Hwieumdang’s men close in to kill her, Lee Gyeom arrives and engages the men in a sword fight.
Lee Gyeom kills all the men, but Hwieumdang threatens Saimdang with a knife. She mocks Le Gyeom by saying, “Go ahead and keep attacking like an angry tiger! Are you afraid I might do something to this woman? What’s so important about this woman?”
When Lee Gyeom says that he will spare her if he lets Saimdang go, Hwieumdang retorts, “Or what? You will have two dead women right in front of you. What’s so great about her? Why does it have to be her, not me? Why? Why?”
Disregarding Lee Gyeom’s pleas to stop, Hwieumdang tells him, “You shouldn’t have been kind to me in the first place. You even gave me a brush, saying it’s great that I am studying hard despite poverty.”
Hwieumdang continues, “You left me alone in the mountain when I was hurt. You went away taking Saimdang alone. Is it that lowborn people like me can be just left to die? Is that it?”
Hwieumdang then reveals, “I threw you two in the pit of hell, with my own hand. I wanted to ruin your lives. It was me who left her sketchbook and ribbon for them to find.”
Hwieumdang and Saimdang fall off the cliff, but they manage to hold on to some branches. Lee Gyeom reaches out to help Saimdang. As the branch that Hwieumdang is holding on to begins to break, Saimdang reaches out to help her. Lee Gyeom manages to pull both of them back to safety.
Before leaving the seemingly-chastened Hwieumdang, Saimdang tells her, “Now I don’t owe you anything anymore.”
As Lee Gyeom and Saimdang travel back to Hanyang, he begins to have flashes in his mind of future events.
Present time …
Han Sang-hyun wants to immediately calla press conference and announce that they have found the genuine “Mount Geumgang” painting. But Ji-yoon and Hye-jung remind him that they still have a lot of work to do.
Prof. Min and his assistants mange to get inside the club. But Ji-yoon, Han Sang-hyun, and Hye-jung lock themselves inside the room. As Prof. Min walks away from the door, they realize that they have to take the painting out of the club. Han Sang-hyun and Ji-yoon then dress in costumes so as to blend in with the crowd in the club. Han Sang-hyun dresses up as a pirate, while Ji-yoon wears a “Lady Vengeance” dress.
As Prof. Min confronts Ji-yoon, she begins remembering all the sacrifices and menial task she had to do for him. She takes off her glasses and thinks, “Prof. Min, you’re finished!”
Note: The dialogues quoted above are from the subtitles in the Dramacool website video.
March 18th, 2017 at 9:14 am
Episode 16: Danger and intimacy in the forest
Prof. Min confronts Ji-yoon and Han Sang-hyun about what they’re doing in the club and why they need taffy oil. His assistants, meanwhile, continue looking for Hye-jung.
Back to Joseon …
With support from the Left and Right Ministers, the Prime Minister urges the King to hold Min Chi-hyung responsible for creating the crisis with Ming. More paranoid than ever, the King agrees and orders Min Chi-hyung’s execution.
Later, while visiting his mother’s royal tomb, the King meets Noble Lady Nam.
Saimdang and Lee Gyeom travel slowly back to Hanyang. On the other hand, an emotionally-broken Hwieumdang meets someone on the road.
With Saimdang gone for a long time and the house in disarray, Lee Won-su and his children panic and begin thinking that Saimdang has abandoned them. Lee Won-su tries to organize a search and rescue squad.
Episode 16 recap:
Hye-jung escapes from the club by dressing up as the Singing Nun and by using the guitar case of Han Sang-hyun’s girlfriend to hide the painting.
Later, Ji-yoon goes to the subway terminal; she leaves in the locker some money and a note for her husband saying that she won’t divorce him.
Back to Joseon …
Saimdang tells Lee Gyeom to ride the horse with her so that they can get back to Hanyang as early as possible. Meanwhie, an emotionally-broken Hwieumdang meets on the street his seriously-injured assistant.
The King changes his mind about executing Min Chi-hyung after Noble Lady Name advises him to balance his government with both loyal and disloyal officials.
Upon his release, Min Chi-hyung visits Noble Lady Nam, who tells him that in order to survive, he must become invaluable to the King by producing the Goryeo paper that the Emperor demands.
But Min Chi-hyung instead gathers his men and begins searching for Lee Gyeom in the mountains near Hanyang.
The King is warned by his bodyguard that Lee Gyeom’s life is in danger and that he must send the Palace soldiers to rescue Lee Gyeom. But the King says that the more dire situation is that the Emperor’s deadline ends in just seven days, and the Paper Production Office still hasn’t produced the required paper.
Min Chi-hyung and his men corner Lee Gyeom and Saimdang in the forest. In the ensuing fight, Min Chi-hyung slashes Lee Gyeom’s right arm. As Saimdang tries to protect Lee Gyeom, they fall into a ravine and are able to escape.
Lee Won-su panics and goes to the police headquarters asking for help in finding Saimdang. The policemen at first mock him, saying that his wife has truly abandoned him. But later on, they recognize him as the man who treated them to drinks and food at the tavern. They organize a search squad and begin searching the “cheating forest.”
In their hiding place, as Saimdang tends to his wound, Lee Gyeom tells her, “I have this dream once in while, how we used to run around in the fields, make colors, and draw paintings. I dreamed of the time 20 years ago. It’s as if they happened just yesterday. I can endure through the rest of my life by holding on to that memory. That audacious girl who jumped over the wall just to peek at the “Mount Geumgang” painting, if only I could see you paint again, that’s all I want.”
As Lee Gyeom loses consciousness, Saimdang touches his face and says, “You’ll live through this because you have always been strong!”
At the Palace, the King regrets his decision not to help Lee Gyeom; he immediately orders Lord So and the Palace soldiers to rescue Lee Gyeom.
At the forest, Min Chi-hyung orders his men to kill Lee Won-su and the policemen. But Lord So and the Palace soldiers arrive.
Lee Gyeom regains consciousness and tells Saimdang, “I don’t think that’s it’s all bad to have been injured like this. What other time could I be deeply cared for by you?” As he reaches out to touch Saimdang’s face, she turns to avoid his touch.
They hear Lee Won-su and the policemen calling for her, and Lee Gyeom tells Saimdang to go on ahead and meet her husband. As she turns to leave, Lee Gyeom remembers the day Saimdang got married, seeing her leave for Hanyang, and meeting her again.
Note: Dialogues quoted above are from the subtitles in the Dramacool website video, with some editing.
March 19th, 2017 at 9:03 am
Did anyone notice at the end of episode 12, the trailer for episode 13, in the modern time of Seo ji Hyun (lee young ae) there was a man in a historical place that is taking picture and he is shadowed but in the looks, it looks like Song Seung Hun (Lee Gyeom in the series) so possibly there is a reincarnation or present character of SSH in the series?? I don’t know but his young version has appeared in the present time (Yang Se-Jong) so I’m not sure if I’ve seen it correctly….did anyone who watch it also see it like me at the end of ep 12 that there is a present time of Lee Gyeom??
March 19th, 2017 at 2:05 pm
This is a fine production. Don’t know why the ratings are as low as they are in Korea, but I consider it well written, good cast, filming, music etc. all around a good film/series. WELL DONE.. I’m from the U.S. and we do not have quality entertainment in movies and or tv. My family and I have taken to watching Korean media, because over all, for the most part, what is made public is good and “clean”. I offer a big thumbs up for Saimdang, Lights Diary.
March 23rd, 2017 at 9:43 am
@MinJung I saw that as well. It doesn’t compute that the young Gyeom and the adult Gyeom of the past are in the present, separate individuals. Then again, so far, reincarnation is not established in this drama, merely implied, albeit feebly.
March 24th, 2017 at 3:32 pm
Lee Young Ae’s Saimdang has the qualities of the pious woman; the embodiment of womanhood — grace, patience, compassion, loving, equanimous, charitable, respectful, nurturing and beautiful that a man is rendered powerless before her.
March 31st, 2017 at 1:31 pm
It is a beautiful story.. so many life lesson in here. But ny heart so hurt watching this love bird cant be together.. so heartbreaking.
March 31st, 2017 at 8:11 pm
Excellent drama. Love it so much!
April 1st, 2017 at 1:41 am
Oh my Goooddd… Last scene of episode 20 was amazing, georgeous. Aaaaaaaaaa….. The story become more interesting. The way how Lee gyeom express his feeling for saimdang by painting saimdang paint with flower is ssooooo beautiful. And when saimdang add butterfly into the painting to comolete Lee gyeom painting is soooooo touching. And the background music is match at all. Love love love
April 1st, 2017 at 1:43 am
The rating should get increase actually…. 😍😍😍❤❤❤
April 1st, 2017 at 1:56 pm
After episodes 19 and 20, I am more impressed than ever by this drama. It is not a watery lollipop. It makes you think. In a useful way.
Lee Young-Ae is a great actress! Her confrontation with her feckless husband was painful to watch, but so is real life at times.
Every actor is good. By the way, I took a special liking to Park Jun-Myun, Saimdang’s friend in both the past and present stories. Her intelligence and warmth shine through a body clearly not of her choosing. It is easy to imagine having a lively lunch with her in real life too.
I wonder how the two stories woven 500 years apart will eventually converge. ore hardships ahead for sure, but them what?
Also, I enjoy learning about how Saimdang, Yulgok, and Toegye contributed to the way Koreans look at life. This drama makes me see the disorders in so many countries today with clearer eyes: good leaders are precious.
April 1st, 2017 at 2:10 pm
Episode 17: The secret of Unpyeongsa Goryeo paper
The King tells Lee Gyeom and Min Chi-hyung that whoever brings him the Goryeo paper that the Ming Emperor wants is his loyal subject.
Hwieumdang gathers all the best scholars in Hanyang to interpret the poem that holds the key to making Unpyeongsa Goryeo paper. Meanwhile, Lee Gyeom offers to Saimdang the help of Biikdang’s scholars.
Present times …
The chairman of the Seonjin Group has taken out a loan of US 50 million dollars using the “Mount Geumgang” painting as collateral. The conflict between him and his wife (the director of Seon Gallery) heightens when he finds out that she has met with Ji-yoon and is starting to think that the painting is fake. They threaten to expose each other’s illegal activities.
Lee Gyeom is shocked and becomes angry when the King refuses to arrest and punish Min Chi-hyung. But Lord So advises him to calm down and learn from Noble Lady Nam’s example who speaks softly but influences the King the most.
Min Chi-hyung finds out that Hwieumdang has been disguising herself as the Black Peony. He threatens and abuses her.
When the scholars fail to interpret the poem, Hwieumdang brings in an expert code breaker from the Ministry of War. The code breaker soon after learns the meaning of the poem.
On the other hand, Saimdang learns how to decode the poem through an innocent remark by her youngest son Woo.
The secret to making Unpyeongsa Goryeo paper is mixing the pulps of mulberry and wisteria trees in the right ratio.
Lee Gyeom threatens the Prime Minister and the top two ministers that he will report their corrupt activities to the King unless they work with him against Min Chi-hyung. But Min Chi-hyung threatens the ministers that there will be a massacre in the court after the Goryeo paper competition.
After numerous experiments and failures on the proper ratio between mulberry and wisteria pulp, Saimdang and the drifters finally succeed in reproducing the famous Goryeo paper from Unpyeongsa. But on Min Chi-hyung’s orders, Man Deuk (the paper artisan) burns down the shed where Saimdang has stored all the paper.
On the day of the competition, Hwieumdang and Min Chi-hyung’s paper store becomes one of the two finalists. In the presence of the King, the Ming envoy, and the ministers, Lord So calls Hwieumdang and the owner of Yangyoo Paper Production Office to come forward. To everyone’s surprise, Saimdang comes forward and identifies herself as the owner.
Present times …
Breaking into a secluded van, Ji-yoon’s husband finds the documents detailing the illegal transactions of the Seonjin Group and the gallery.
Prof. Min’s assistants break into Ji-yoon’s apartment and find a printout of Saimdang’s diary that mentions the “Mount Geumgang” painting. They give the printout to Prof. Min, who later on proposes to the Seonjin Group chairman a radical solution to the whole mess. Unknown to them, someone has bugged the chairman’s office and is using a drone to record their conversation.
The owner of Seon Gallery decides to fight against her husband and cancels the “Mount Geumgang” exhibition. She contacts Ji-yoon and arranges to have the genuine painting delivered to the gallery. But as Ji-yoon and Han Sang-hyun are on their way, Prof. Min and his men block them and hijack the painting.
April 1st, 2017 at 2:14 pm
Episode 18: The vindication
Modern times …
Han Sang-hyun and Hye-jung report the robbery to the police, while Ji-yoon tells the gallery’s director to do something immediately.
Ji-yoon’s husband gets the evidence that Seonjin Group is using the gallery to channel its slush fund. He sets up a meeting with his friend (also an executive of their failed company).
Later, Prof. Min calls Ji-yoon for a meeting at the gallery.
Joseon times …
Lord So and the other officials say that the papers from Saimdang and from Min Chi-hyung’s Jangwon Paper Store are both excellent. To break the tie, the Ming ambassador asks the King to order Saimdang and Hwieumdang to paint on their papers. But Min Chi-hyung connives with a court official to sabotage Saimdang’s painting.
Modern times …
Previous to the robbery, Han Sang-hyun and Hye-jung have asked the help of RADE (a group that investigates art forgeries). But the police investigators can’t find any security footage of the robbery.
The friend of Ji-yoon’s husband betrays him to the chairman of Seonjin Group. On their way, he and Ji-yoon’s husband fight to take control of the car. But in trying to avoid an oncoming truck, they lose control of the wheel, and the car jumps over a cliff.
Ji-yoon, Han Sang-hyun, and Hye-jung arrive at the gallery to meet Prof. Min. To their utter disbelief and horror, Prof. Min burns Ji-yoon’s “Mount Geumgang” painting.
Joseon times …
Lee Gyeom has found out that Man Deuk (the paper artisan) has been reporting secretly to Min Chi-hyung. With the drifters, he captures and interrogates Man Deuk, who confesses everything. Lee Gyeom convinces Saimdang to transfer all of their Unpyeongsa Goryeo paper to a safe place and to burn the shed in order to mislead Min Chi0-hyung and his men.
Min Chi-hyung connives with a court official to tamper with Saimdang’s pigments. While Hwieumdang works on her multi-colored painting of flowers and butterflies, Saimdang stands transfixed, not knowing what to do. Then she sees some cherries near her and starts picking them. She mashes them up and uses the red juice to color her painting of plum blossoms.
Later, the Ming ambassador describes how he feels about her painting: “You only used black ink and red color. The painting has an unaffected feeling. The roughness of the branches is so well illustrated that I can feel their texture on my hand. I get the impression of dignified plum blossom that blooms beautifully despite how harsh its environment is.”
When the King asks the ambassador why he chose Saimdang’s paper as the best, he says, “It’s the same logic as a woman with beautiful skin; she doesn’t need heavy make-up. It felt as if I were touching old Goryeo paper I had once come across.”
The King asks Saimdang, “Is it because you believe how sturdy and good your paper is?” Saimdang replies, “I used the red stains from the cherries only because I wanted to express the grace and purity of the plum blossoms.”
When the King asks about the poem she wrote on her painting (“The caresses of many cold hands brought about Spring”), Saimdang says that it reflects her gratitude for the drifters who have helped her in producing the paper.
Later, Lee Gyeom urges the King to punish Min Chi-hyung. He presents Man Deuk (the paper artisan) who testifies that Min Chi-hyung ordered him to burn up all of Saimdang’s paper. He also presents the Prime Minister’s son who testifies that Min Chi-hyung ordered the massacre at Unpyeong Temple 20 years ago.
Min Chi-hyung is exiled, and his assets are confiscated. But he orders Hwieumdang to use their hidden assets to gain his freedom.
As they watch Min Chi-hyung being sent into exile, Saimdang thanks Lee Gyeom for all that he has done for her and the drifters. As she turns to leave, he stops her by holding her hand. He says,”I didn’t do it just so you would thank me.” They look at each other intensely, remembering everything that have happened, until Saimdang walks away.
Two years later …
Saimdang and the drifters have become prosperous paper merchants and have established themselves in a place called Willow Village. The village has its own school run by Hyun-ryong. Sun works at a blacksmith’s shop, while Mae-chang has become a proficient painter.
Saimdang’s paintings have become famous all over Joseon, and buyers line up to see her.
Meanwhile, Lee Gyeom has embarked on a personal mission to fight the Japanese pirates who are trafficking men and women from Joseon.
April 1st, 2017 at 2:17 pm
Episode 19: The concubine
After Ji-yoon, Han Sang-hyun, and Hye-jung are kicked out of the gallery, Ji-yoon gets a telephone call from the police headquarters.
Joseon times …
Lee Gyeom accompanies to Hanyang the people he saved from the Japanese raiders. He returns to Biikdang, which has become even more famous with its events and programs. Later, he visits the King at the Palace. While there, he meets the King’s daughter, Princess Jeongsun.
Hwieumdang visits her husband Min Chi-hyung in his place of exile.
Lee Won-su has taken the tavern owner as his concubine. She has become more possessive and demands more money and things from him. Later, she visit Saimdang’s paper store.
Walking home alone at night, Saimdang sees Lee Won-su. She decides to follow him and see where he’s going.
Ji-yoon is informed by the police that her husband most probably died in the car accident. Later, she takes her traumatized son to recuperate at her father’s place.
The people whom Lee Gyeom saved from the Japanese raiders tell him that they want shelter and start a new life in Saimdang’s village in Hanyang.
Min Chi-hyung has almost become insane because of his exile. He gets beaten up by the officer guarding him.
To raise money for Min Chi-hyung’s freedom, Hwieumdang trades Buddhist artifacts with the Japanese raiders. She refuses, however, when the Japanese ask her to deliver to them beautiful Joseon women.
At Biikdang, Lee Gyeom regales the staff and his friends with stories of his travels to faraway lands, blue-eyed people, and exotic cultures. He shows them pepper, which he says is more precious than gold. Taking the pepper and smelling them, the bald-headed Mong-ryung sneezes and wonders what pepper is good for.
Lee Gyeom visits the King who tells him that because of his poor health, he wants to abdicate in favor of the Crown Prince. He also meets the King’s spoiled daughter, Princess Jeongsun. She’s so spoiled that she refuses to live with her husband and grabs the King’s fan that Lee Gyeom painted several years ago. She tells the King that she wants private tutoring in painting from Saimdang.
Unknown to Saimdang and her kids, Lee Won-su has taken the tavern owner as his concubine and that she’s now pregnant. Later the concubine visits Saimdang’s paper store and picks a fight with the drifters/paper merchant, claiming that they’re selling low-quality paper. (Later, she demands that Lee Won-su take all of Saimdang’s paintings so that she can sell them and buy nice things for herself.)
Tae-ryong’s mother (who’s now Saimdang’s business partner) warns Saimdang that the woman could create problems for them later on.
Saimdang finally finds out about her husband’s concubine. She walks back home brokenhearted and fails to see Lee Gyeom who’s at a roadside tavern.
April 1st, 2017 at 2:19 pm
Episode 20: The paintings; love and respect
Ji-yoon and her father have a heart-to-heart talk about what’s happening in her life.
Han Sang-hyun tries to convince Prof. Min’s assistants to testify against him. Later, he and Hye-jung browse RADE’s website for any answer to their situation.
Joseon times …
Lee Gyeom accompanies Crown Prince Lee Ho around Hanyang.
Saimdang meets Princess Jeongsun at the Palace.
Hyun-ryong begins attending Biikdang’s classes led by a renowned Confucian scholar.
Pressured by his concubine, Lee Won-su takes all of Saimdang’s paintings without her knowledge and sells them.
Ji-yoon tells her father: “I didn’t fight for the right cause. I fought only for myself because of my pride and greed. I think I really screwed up my life. I lived with a vain dream.”
Ji-yoon confesses: “After what happened to my husband, I came to my senses. I’m so scared. I don’t have the confidence either. How are they going to get me next time? How am I going to fall again? I’m just so scared now. What do I do? What am I going to do if I’m like this for the rest of my life?”
Ji-yoon’s father reassures her: “Now, it looks like you’re about to get really strong. Fighting without fear isn’t being brave, it’s being reckless. But fighting with fear, that’s real courage.”
Prof. Min remembers how he asked an expert art forger to create the copy of the “Mount Geumgang” painting that he burned at the gallery. He tells his assistants that when he becomes president of Hankuk University, he will present the genuine “Mount Geumgang” painting to the world.
Han Sang-hyun and Hye-jung find in RADE’s website pictures of “Mount Geungang” painting titled “The Hidden Catch.”
After receiving RADE’s pictures, Prof. Min calls and threatens Ji-yoon.
Joseon times …
Lee Gyeom’s great aunt again pressures him to get married by presenting to him several prospects.
Lee Gyeom paints flowers and insects in Saimdang’s style. When his nephew asks him if he misses Saimdang, he answers with the poem that he has written on the painting: “The farther the distance, the clearer the fragrance becomes.”
At Biikdang, Hyong-ryun discusses with Togye Yi Hwang (a renowned Confucian scholar) the virtues of a noble man. Unknown to them, Ji-gyoon (Hwieumdang’s eldest son) is listening in to the discussion.
Sun (Saimdang’s eldest son) tells Saimdang that he doesn’t want to study anymore and that he wants to be a blacksmith. Saimdang reassures him that she will love him whatever he decides to do with his life.
Crown Prince Lee Ho visits Lee Gyeom at night in Bikdang. He asks Lee Gyeom for advice, based on his travels to faraway lands, on how to rule as a future king. Later, the King is impressed with the way the Crown Prince handles the matters raised by the ministers.
Saimdang realizes that Princess Jeongsun only has mediocre talent in painting. Using her responsibilities at the paper production office as an excuse, she begs off from tutoring the Princess.
In disguise, Crown Prince Lee Ho wants Lee Gyeom to show him how people are actually living. They end up in Saimdang’s village where they notice the “No work, no eat” policy/ The Crown Prince is amazed by how popular Lee Gyeom is, and how people can easily talk with him. They also see Saimdang facing off with the angry tavern owners.
Later, the Crown Prince is awed by Saimdang’s paintings. He commends Saimdang for what she has done for her community and says that he has learned so much from her. When he comments on what the red-painted canvas is for, Lee Gyeom begins thinking that Saimdang is going through some difficult times.
At home, while Saimdang irons Lee Won-su’s uniform, her children begin asking why their father hasn’t come for a long time.
Pressured by his concubine, Lee Won-su takes all of Saimdang’s paintings and sells them. His concubine tells him that he should order Saimdang to give them more paintings from now on.
Tae-ryong’s mother barges into the tavern and begins breaking things and threatening Lee Won-su’s concubine.
Alone with Lee Won-su, Saimdang asks him: “Have you thought of breaking up with your concubine?”
Lee Won-su answers: “I can’t and I won’t break up with her. We’re meant to be together.”
Saimdang then asks: “What do you love so much about her?”
Lee Won-su replies: “Everything! She made me feel comfortable. Every time I’m with you, I’d always feel small. It’s like I even had to breathe gracefully. I’ve always felt suffocated and lonely.”
“But when I’m with her, I’m different. I could fart or burp whenever I need to. It doesn’t matter if I felt lazy and didn’t wash before going to bed.
“The damn studies! I’m sick and tired of them, and she didn’t make me do them.
“She made me feel comfortable with everything. You were more like a teacher to me!. I don’t need a wife who’s like a teacher. I needed someone who made me feel comfortable and would accept me as I am.
“Tell me, did you earnestly love me as your husband?”
Saimdang answers: “I heeded you and respected you as my husband.”
Lee Won-su retorts: “I don’t need your respect! I asked you if you’ve ever loved me for the man that I am? Life is short. Now, I’m going to live however I want.”
Saimdang pleads with Lee Won-su not to divorce her and to remain the kind and loving father that he has been to their children.
Lee Geyom finds out from his nephew that Saimdang’s paintings are being openly sold in the market. He goes there and buys back all of the paintings.
When Saimdang gets back to her studio at the village, she’s surprised to see all of her paintings back in their proper places. She reads Lee Gyeom’s letter to her:
“I’m scared you might get angry for bringing the paintings back to you. You might tell me to stop caring so much. I’m the last person who would want to see you get upset.
“Don’t worry. I’m simply returning them to where they truly belong. If that still doesn’t make you feel better, please consider them as a gift from a good friend. The warmth of spring is in the air. I leave a peony here with you, wishing for a flower to blossom in your heart as well today.”
Saimdang muses: “Thinking about his love and grace, and remembering the old times, I realize he’s always been the same. The paintings have a place to return to. How mysterious, the will of heaven!”
Saimdang begins painting a butterfly on the red canvas where Lee Gyeom has painted a flower.
April 2nd, 2017 at 9:54 am
Hi KDramas,
I would like to thank you for creating such a magnificent televison drama. From the day the I watched Saimdang’s trailer i always knew this will be big and worth watching for. I admire LYA’s act and the story is awesome. It is indeed one of the best modern/historical Kdrama ive ever watch. Great job for the team and cast. Impressive!!
April 2nd, 2017 at 10:08 am
I love this drama and don’t care a fig what the ratings are in Korea. I like the fact that Saimdang is a woman in her 30’s with children and disappointing husbands. That’s the real life scenario for millions of hard working women who are married to fools and that’s why there is a 1 in 2 divorce rate today. That truth is probably too difficult for superficial kdrama viewers to grasp but those of us who appreciate a more realistic view of marriage can enjoy this show on its own unique merits.
April 2nd, 2017 at 11:18 am
love love love
April 3rd, 2017 at 9:35 am
very interested drama, good..Lee Young Ae is my favorit actress in Korea.
April 3rd, 2017 at 2:21 pm
The best korean drama 2017 !
April 6th, 2017 at 1:43 pm
Lee Gyeom’s letter to Saimdang was graced with love and admiration. The letter indeed reminded us of their time together before their fates sent them spiralling on different paths. Saimdang read Gyeom’s words, her heart soothed and her worries washed away by her tears. Love this drama.
April 7th, 2017 at 10:02 pm
Episode 21: Divided families
Hwieumdang and her men kill all of Princess Jeongsun’s soldiers and attendants. Staging a fake rescue, she gains the princess’s trust. Later, the grateful King pardons Min Chi-hyung despite the objections of Lee Gyeom and the ministers.
Crown Prince Lee Ho (now the Regent) spends more time with Lee Gyeom, going through the markets incognito and observing how people actually live. He learns about firearms and what they can do to strengthen Joseon’s army. He also consults Lee Gyeom about improving Joseon’s battle-tested turtle ship.
But Noble Lady Nam turns the King’s heart against Lee Gyeom. Later, the King slaps and orders the Crown Prince to stay away from Lee Gyeom.
Lee Gyeom tells all of Biikdang’s staff that he is giving away to Biikdang all of his assets as a member of the Royal family. The staff begin wondering if he’s planning to leave Biikdang for good.
Princess Jeongsun asks Hwieumdang to be her tutor in painting. Together, they visit Saimdang’s studio, and without permission, the princess takes several of Saimdang’s paintings.
Saimdang’s children agree to work together to ease some of her burdens and heartaches. Over lunch, Saimdang tells them to patiently wait for their father to come back. Later, she tells Mae-chang that the problem is between husband and wife, and should not affect her and her siblings.
Saimdang sees Lee Won-su being scolded by his superiors in the Office of Translations. Later, she visits the concubine and gives her a letter.
In Willow Village’s school, Saimdang paints her “Watermelon and mice” in front of the students. She teaches them that even the lowly rat has a reason to exist in nature’s scheme of things.
Despite having been pardoned, Min Chi-hyung is ostracized by the ministers and even by the lower officials. In desperation, he agrees to sell to the Japanese raiders the plans for Joseon’s improved and more powerful turtle ship.
At night in the market, Min Chi-hyung chances upon and threatens Saimdang and her daughter. But Lee Gyeom arrives and threatens him back.
Hwieumdang plans to set Min Chi-hyung free by using Princess Jeongsun.
The King tells the ministers that he is appointing Crown Prince Lee Ho as the Regent. Meanwhile, the Crown Prince spends more and more time with Lee Gyeom.
Lee Gyeom meets all of the Biikdang staff for an important announcement on Biikdang’s future.
Saimdang struggles to keep her family together as her children have found out that their father has taken a concubine.
The leaders of the Japanese raiders secretly visit Hwieumdang and ask her to sell to them one of Joseon’s military secrets.
April 8th, 2017 at 11:46 am
Episode 22: The King’s portrait painter
The Crown Prince appoints Lee Gyeom as head of the Office of Art, and Mae-chang (Saimdang’s daughter) takes the qualifying exams for new artists.
Saimdang finds Ji-gyoon (Hwieumdang’s eldest son) listening in to Hyun-ryong and the other students of Willow Village’s school.
Min Chi-hyung becomes more violent than ever.
Hwieumdang begins planning how to steal the plans for Joseon’s improved and more powerful turtle ship.
While waiting for his food at the tavern, Lee Won-su happens to read Saimdang’s letter to his concubine.
The Crown Prince’s reforms at the Office of Art create dissension among the artists, make the ministers suspicious, and stir up protests by the scholars.
Mae-chang disguises herself as a boy and places first in the qualifying exams for new artists. But the officials find out that she’s a girl and kick her out. When she meets Lee Gyeom and the Crown Prince, she tells them that it’s unfair that she can’t be an artist simply because she’s a girl.
Saimdang finds the bitter Mae-chang alone at the plum blossom trees and tries to comfort her.
Mae-chang: “I was thinking about the world I’m living in. You’ve never told me not to do some things because I’m a girl. But the world is different. No matter how good a painter I am, I can’t become an artist at the Office of Art just because I’m a girl.
“I want to become the most famous artist in Joseon. I want to follow in your footsteps and become the best artist, who’s as good as Ahn Kyun. I was better than all others who took the exams. So why do I have to give up my dream just because I’m a girl? How come only men can have dreams? It’s so unfair!”
Saimdang: “I thought that too when I was your age. Living as a woman in Joseon will often feel suffocating and unfair. But wouldn’t the world become a better place someday?”
Mae-chang: “But what if the night never ends and the world never becomes a better place?”
Saimdang: “Of course, the night may be long. But someday, when you get married and have a child, and when that child has a daughter and her grandchild has a daughter, the sun will rise. We can shine light through their night little by little.”
Mae-chang: “What about me? What can I do? You’re a genius painter, but you’re living like this, always upset because of my father? Are you really happy?”
Unable to answer Mae-chang’s last question, Saimdang simply embraces her.
Ji-gyoon accepts Saimdang’s offer for him to have lunch with her and her children, and he’s surprised by the love and camaraderie among them. Later, at home, he witnesses his father choking his mother.
Lee Won-su cries as he reads Saimdang’s letter to his concubine, which details all the special care that he needs. He begins to realize that all his concubine wants is money.
Using her responsibilities as the painting tutor of Princess Jeongsun, Hwieumdang moves around the Office of Art, thinking of how she can steal the plans for Joseon’s turtle ship.
Saimdang wins the open competition to become the King’s portrait painter. As she shares tea with Lee Gyeom who brought the Royal order to her, Lee Gyeom notices the butterfly painted near the peony on the red canvas.
But immediately after Saimdang wins the competition, the artists, scholars, and ministers begin protesting that it’s against the law for a woman to be appointed to a government office. But the Crown Prince brushes aside the objections and backs up Lee Gyeom and Saimdang.
At the portrait painting session, the King orders everyone to leave except for Saimdang.
King Jungjong: “You must be Shin Myung Hwa’s daughter. I remember your upright father and his audacious daughter.”
Saimdang: “Yes, your majesty.”
King Jungjong: “I do remember you. You were quite a bold girl. I’m sure your boldness has brought you all the way here. How does my face look compared to back then? Tell me.”
Saimdang: “You have many worries written on your face, and your mind doesn’t seem to be at ease, either.”
King Jungjong: “Not at ease? How do you plan on painting me? Will you draw me as the worrisome and troubled King as you see me? Or will you draw my confident and majestic look of the past? Tell me.”
Saimdang: “The job of a portrait painter is not only to draw your face but your heart as well. Thus, I will paint not only your face but your spirit as life-like as possible.”
King Jungjong: “You’ll draw even my spirit as life-like as possible? Could that be possible if there’s grudge left inside of the painter’s heart?”
Saimdang: “If my father is alive today, I am certain that he will be proud of me. He will encourage me to do well. So I plan to give my all to paint the King’s portrait, the face of Joseon.”
King Jungjong: ”If you draw even a wrinkle or a hair on my face incorrectly, you might face punishment. Do you understand that?”
Saimdang: “I’ll do my best.”
Saimdang begins working throughout the night on the portrait. When she neglects to eat, Lee Gyeom brings some food for her. But at that same time, a repentant Lee Won-su is on his way to the Office of Art, also bringing food for Saimdang.
April 9th, 2017 at 4:53 am
I get sad everytime I watch the scenes between Saimdang and Lee Gyeom. Sigh
April 9th, 2017 at 8:04 am
[…] Fonte: KoreanDrama […]
April 9th, 2017 at 10:10 am
I have watched so many Korean dramas over the years but none have captivated me in every aspect as “Samidang, Light’s diary”. It is superb in every way, the acting, the plot, the history and OMG the art. I was never an art’s fan but this drama really made fall in love with art, that’s how good it is. I also can feel every emotion of the actors, their love, happiness, sorrow, frustration, anger. It touches on what is important, what is ethical, what is right and what is wrong. I was skeptical to start watching it in the beginning and actually started with episode 6, as I have made it a point not to watch a drama with more than 20 episodes, but the plot is great and not slow paced, it keeps me at the edge of my seat.
I totally recommend!!!!
April 10th, 2017 at 7:32 am
undertaker kdrama 2017.!!!
April 13th, 2017 at 2:01 pm
This is really great drama especially captivated with Lee Gyum and Saimdang love that they have to sacrifice by the stupid king.
The King is so ridiculous because he is doing lousy job as a King. That is why I dont like historical drama because it is ridiculous lifestyle and the way human are being treated.
YES, the paintings are wonderful in this drama. Great Artists.
The old king need to die ASAP in order for the young King to be successful in his kingdom. The young King is a better king and dream for the future.
Hopefully fate brought Saimdang and Lee Gyum together and live happily in present life.
HAPPY ENDING………
April 13th, 2017 at 8:06 pm
The decline in the ratings accurately reflects the down turn in the drama that started out with a fresh take on history of a rare female, then, descended into multiple losing fights in both the current scenes and the historical ones. Fast forward over the current timeline, since the historical scenes are the only ones worth watching…as of now. Disappointing.
April 16th, 2017 at 11:08 am
Really love to watch this two lovers…my god!!!never expect i will cry watching them living seperatedly..i really wanna visit korea…if theres a star to rating them,i’ll give 10 out of 10…
April 16th, 2017 at 1:20 pm
Episode 23: The paranoid King
Lee Gyeom brings food for Saimdang and teases her that as head of the Office of Art, he’s ordering her to eat.
Saimdang continues her painting session with King Jungjong.
King: “They say that a bird chooses the right tree to build a nest. Confucian scholars across the nation have been outraged because of you and have been flooding the palace with appeals.
Saimdang: “I’m not interested in politics, so I don’t know what’s going on outside.”
Surprised by Saimdang’s answer, the King describes her calmness as “stillness that sits amidst a blizzard.” The King then asks, “Aren’t you afraid?”
Saimdang answers, “The whirlwind doesn’t blow all morning and a rain shower doesn’t fall throughout the day.”
Noting that Saimdang has just quoted from the “Tao Te Ching” (a book that only scholars read), the King laughs and says that it’s no wonder Lee Gyeom fell in love with her.
Saimdang: “I just believe that it’s all fate.”
King: “Fate?”
Saimdang: “Once I accepted it as fate, I wasn’t afraid of anything and felt like I could do anything. I’m going to paint your portrait no matter what!”
King: “Where’s that bravery coming from?”
Saimdang: “It isn’t bravery; it’s maternal instinct. I wanted to give hope to my daughter who wants to be a member of the Office of Art.”
King: “Then tell me, from a mother’s perspective, since a king should take care of his people like their mother: what would you like fix the most in Joseon right now?”
Saimdang: “I’d like Joseon to be a country where people can have dreams. A dream that life will get better. A dream that things can get better if you work hard.
“The reason we’re not afraid of the dark at night is because we believe that the dawn will break and the sun will come up if we just wait. A life where you can’t have dreams just because you’re a woman or a concubine’s child or because you’re not from the noble class is like living your life walking along a dark road with a bag over your head. Please create a country where people can have dreams!”
After having a nightmare of angry people attacking him, the King decides to go around the capital in disguise. But he becomes more uneasy when he hears the lower-ranking officials praising the Crown Prince’s reforms and Lee Gyeom as his main pillar . His paranoia increases when he hears people at the Yangyoo Paper Production Office praising Saimdang for bringing them hope that the King could not.
In a meeting with the Japanese that nearly turns bloody, Min Chi-hyung again promises to deliver to them the blueprint for Joseon’s turtle ship. Later, he pressures Hwieumdang to bribe officials at the Office of Art or do whatever it takes to get the blueprint. When Hwieumdang objects to his plan to kill Lee Gyeom, Min Chi-hyung asks her if she’s still in love with Lee Gyeom.
The top ministers return to the meetings as the King dismisses the Crown Prince from all his responsibilities. He then orders Lee Gyeom to be the co-painter of the Royal Portrait. When Lee Gyeom hesitates, the King shouts at him, saying that it’s a Royal order. The King also says, “The two of you even discussed marriage at one time. So I’m sure you will work very well together. Work together to create a masterpiece that will make history.”
Later, while watching Saimdang and Lee Gyeom work together, the King asks, “The two who know each other very well are working together in the same place. How does it feel? Does it feel nice?”
Fearing the moral implications of what the King said, Saimdang says no, while Lee Gyeom says that their early romance is now just an old memory they can laugh about and that he has no ulterior motive.
The King then answers with a veiled warning, “Whether you have an ulterior motive or not, the time you have painting my portrait may be the last time you two can be together.”
When the King mentions that people at Yangyoo treat Saimdang with great respect and that she’s like a king in that place, Lee Gyeon defends her by saying that the King may have jumped to a conclusion. The King explodes in anger and ends the painting session.
Later, Saimdang tells Lee Gyeom that she doesn’t know what road these things will lead, but she will give her best so that she won’t be embarrassed as an artist. When Lee Gyeom mentions that he thought they would be painting together at a much better place that this place, Saimdang says, “But I’m happy here. I’m thankful we could be together like this.”
Hwieumdang is finally able to steal the blueprint for the turtle ship. As she’s about to leave the Office of Art, she overhears from some of the artists that Saimdang and Lee Gyeom are painting together. She sees them working together, and for a brief moment, she imagines herself working with Lee Gyeom. She wonders, “They look so beautiful together. What have I been doing with my life?” She then walks away, crying.
The King plans with the ministers how to destroy Saimdang and Lee Gyeom during the public unveiling of the Royal Portrait. He wants to use the Confucian scholars to turn public sentiment against them both: “Before their admirers and the Yangyoo people, I will destroy them both at once so that they can never think of disrespecting me.”
Saimdang and Lee Gyeom are placed under guard and not allowed to leave the Palace.
The scene outside the Palace gate becomes tumultuous with poor folks fighting over the free rice from the King, Confucian scholars protesting and calling for Saimdang’s arrest, and the Biikdang staff and Yangyoo people gathering to see the Royal Portrait. As the portrait is paraded outside the Palace gate, the Confucian scholars begin shouting against the painting’s artistic quality. But the scholars are stunned into silence when people begin praising the painting as being alive and radiant. The people begin singing and dancing and later on bowing down and praising the King.
Saimdang returns home triumphantly to Yangyoo. During the dancing and eating, she sees Hwieumdang dragging her son Ji-gyoon away. When Hwieumdang asks Ji-gyoon why he’s there, he says, “Our family doesn’t have a pleasant meal together. Are we even a family?”
After Ji-gyoon walks away, Hwieumdang begins crying. Saimdang takes her hand and says, “Our children are much more mature than us. Let’s forget about everything else, and let’s just live for our children!”
The King orders Min Chi-hyung to kill Saimdang and Lee Gyeom. Conniving with the Japanese, Min Chi-hyung takes Saimdang hostage and uses her as bait to lure Lee Gyeom. But as Lee Gyeom fights them off, Hwieumdang goes to where Saimdang is being held and kills the Japanese guarding her.
The confusian scholars continue protesting Saimdang’s appointment
as the Royal Portrait Painter, while the top ministers step up the pressure against the Crown Prince.
The King dismisses the Crown Prince from all his duties and orders Lee Gyeom to paint his portrait together with Saimdang.
The Japanese pressure Min Chi-hyung about the blueprint for Joseon’s turtle ship. When Hwieumdang reasons out that security has been tightened at the Office of Art since Lee Gyeom took over, Min Chi-hyung says that he must then kill Lee Gyeom.
Deciding that that “there can only be one sun under the Joseon sky,” the King plans to destroy Saimdang and Lee Gyeom during the public viewing of the Royal Portrait.
April 16th, 2017 at 9:48 pm
Really love to watch this two lovers..
April 16th, 2017 at 9:49 pm
Lee Young Ae is my favorit actress in Korea…
April 16th, 2017 at 10:57 pm
So far this drama is not bad. And quite good i think. Except the modern scene i mean. So sad this drama cut to 28 episode from 30. And you know, this drama has more interesting story n good scenery, better than another drama with good rating, like whisper, or defendant, or mystery queen (sorry, my honest thought).
April 19th, 2017 at 11:56 pm
MY HOPES HAVE RUN OUT. I WISH THIS DRAMA HAD STABILIZED AND NOT GONE DOWNHILL IN QUALITY ABOUT 10 EPISODES AGO! The modern day scenes are boring. The historical scenes are repetitive and mediocre at best. Great actors are wasted in this and that’s a shame. Blame the writer and the script that is uselessly repeated ad nauseum in the comments which reminds me once again why I dislike it!
April 19th, 2017 at 11:59 pm
I understand and agree the drama should be shorter. A 16 episode drama would have only included the good parts and had much better ratings. And 28 episodes are still too long if they have no better product to show.
April 20th, 2017 at 5:19 pm
Episode 24 was really good. Saimdang n Lee gyeom express their love each other. Grrrrf the thing annoyed me is why Saimdang should leave him alone. Gahhh, its better if they back as lovers again. I really want there is a kiss scene between adult saimdang n lee gyeom. It would be perfect
April 24th, 2017 at 6:03 am
I might be the only one enjoy modern scene more than joseon scene. The scenery and confilct are better than joseon scene.
But overall, the story was too slow and predictable. all the protagonists was made unrealistically powerfull. For 28-episodes long drama, viewers needs more climax and anty-climax in the midle of the story in order too keep up with this drama. But what i can see here is just conflict all the way, i can barely see the progress. It just getting better after 25th episode.
April 28th, 2017 at 6:37 am
The fading picture was a weak plot element. The instructions Ji Yoon gave Saimdang to effect an outcome that had already happened — Gyeom ends up in Italy anyway — was not necessary. The writer might have had Ji Yoon say comforting words to Saimdang instead and avoid the time paradox nonsense altogether.
April 28th, 2017 at 1:06 pm
Episode 24: The sun and the moon in Keumkangsan
As she and Min Chi-hyung are sure to be branded as traitors for collaborating with the Japanese. Hwieumdang begs Saimdang to take care of her children.
Before Min Chi-hyung dies, he tells Lee Gyeom that the King ordered him to kill him and Saimdang.
Saimdang takes Ji-gyoon and his brother to safety. Later, she gathers the drifters and gives them lands that she bought for them.
Lee Gyeom confronts King Jungjong.
King: “Did you come here to kill me, or did you come here to die?”
Lee Gyeom: “I didn’t come here expecting to survive. Why did you do that? Why did you want to kill me and Saimdang?”
King: “Did you not really know?”
Lee Gyeom: “You said I was like your one and only brother and an important friend. You said there’s no one in the Palace you can talk to.
King: “Well. We did have those times.”
Lee Gyeom: “Then why? Why?”
King: “Because you have triggered the King’s fury.”
Lee Gyeom: “I wasn’t trying to take the throne or try to get the soldiers to revolt. How could you want to try to kill a defenseless woman?”
King: “I warned you not to get involved in politics. This was brought about by your rash ideals!”
Lee Gyeom: “Rash ideals? Why have you stopped listening? Can you not hear the court or the cries of your people?”
King: “Don’t you know that my late brother withstood the humiliation and fear over and over again in order to protect his throne? For 40 whole years! Do you know why? The King can also be brought down by his subjects and be killed. I’ve witnessed it my own eyes.
Lee Gyeom: “Dethronement … How long are you going to hide in the shadows of dethronement?”
King (drawing his sword): “How dare you! This is all your fault! I was just trying to protect Joseon’s foundations, the King’’s dignity.
Lee Gyeom grabs the King’s sword with his bare hand and turns it against the King. But the King’s guards and the Crown Prince arrive. The Crown Prince begs on his knees for the King to spare Lee Gyeom’s life.
Later, the ministers pressure the King to arrest Lee Gyeom for treason. Soldiers shut down Biikdang and drag all the staff out into the street. They also ransack Yangyoo Paper Production Office and seize its assets. But the drifters have already left earlier.
Saimdang finds out that Lee Gyeom is being hunted down for treason and that nobody knows where he is.
As Saimdang goes home, she sees her angry and dejected children out in the courtyard. Lee Won-su has brought his concubine to their home; he and his concubine have found Ahn Kyun’s “Mount Geumgang” painting and laid it out on the bedroom floor.
Saimdang takes the painting and, outside the house, breaks down crying in front of her children. When the children start screaming in hate and anger at him, Lee Won-su couldn’t care less.
Mae-chang urges Saimdang to leave and go to Keumkangsan just as she had always wanted in her younger years. Sun, on the other hand, promises to take care of his siblings while she’s gone.
At the hideout of the bandits. Lee Gyeom finds out from his nephew that Saimdang has gone up to Keumkangsan.
Saimdang reaches Keumkangsan and starts to paint the mountain, as she had always wanted to do. Just as she has almost finished the painting, she sees Lee Gyeom there.
Lee Gyeom pleads with Saimdang to spend three days with him so that they can paint the mountain together, just as he had promised more than 20 years ago.
While Lee Gyeom is carving his half of the Biikjo seal, it starts to rain. He and Saimdang use the painting to cover themselves. Later, after the rain stops, Saimdang notices the early moon.
Saimdang: “The moon is about to wake up from its nap.”
Lee Gyeom: “The moon’s nap … What an interesting expression!
Saimdang: “The sun resents the moon that sleeps all day and wakes up later at night. The sun doesn’t know how hard it is for the moon to keep the darkness away alone at night. The sun doesn’t know that the moon is keeping its side.”
Rather than running away with Lee Gyeom, Saimdang decides to go back to her children. She writes a farewell note for Lee Gyeom. She also burns Ahn Kyun’s “Mount Geumgang” painting, but before the painting is completely burned up, Lee Gyeom arrives and takes what’s left of the painting out of the fire.
In her letter, Saimdang tells Lee Gyeom:
“I thought about leaving everything behind and going away with you. But if I do that, my children will be condemned to live in shame for the rest of their lives. I don’t think I can abandon my children and live my life without them, missing them everyday.
“I choose to live as a mother and will not regret it. I wonder if we’ll be able to be together in our next lives. I love you with all my heart!”
On their painting of Keumkangsan, Saimdang has drawn the early moon and a house with a man and a woman in it.
April 28th, 2017 at 1:10 pm
Episode 25: Ji-yoon and RADE
Ji-yoon breaks the barrier between her and her son Eun-soo by admitting that she made mistakes by not telling his father that she loved him and missed him before he died. Later, Ji-yoon also reconciles with her mother-in-law.
Ji-yoon gets a postcard from the mysterious photographer; the postcard features the “Man in Korean Costume” painting by Peter Paul Rubens (1577–1640 ), and written on it are the words “Courage is fear that has said its prayers.” She begins researching that painting and another painting titled “The Miracles of St. Francis Xavier.” She finds out that the model for the painting had come to Italy after a long overseas voyage.
Ji-yoon wonders why RADE gave her the postcard. She also begins having visions of Saimdang, Lee Gyeom, and events in their lives.
Eun-soo meets the mysterious photographer, who helps him finish his painting. Later, Ji-yoon finds out that Eun-soo’s painting has been posted in RADE’s website.
Prof. Min becomes the president of Hankuk University. When he continues to be pressured by RADE, he retaliates by accusing Ji-yoon and Han Sang-hyun of having plagiarized their theses. He also gets Hye-jung fired from her job.
The president of the Antique Arts Association accepts a 100 million won bribe from President Min, and he tells Han Sang-hyun and Hye-jung that Saimdang’s diary is a forgery.
Ji-yoon decides to go back to Seoul and continue fighting for the real “Mount Geumgang” painting. She confronts President Min and tells him that he cannot take her honor even though he may take all her degrees.
Ji-yoon finds out that RADE is not an individual but a worldwide group investigating art forgeries. The Korean member of RADE tells her that they have been investigating the “Mount Geumgang” painting.
April 28th, 2017 at 1:13 pm
Episode 26: Ji-yoon and Saimdang
Ji-yoon finds out what RADE is all about and how it’s investigating the “Mount Geumgang” painting. She also asks why her son’s painting was published in the RADE website.
Prof. Min’s assistant (the one with glasses) steals the genuine “Mount Geumgang” painting and gives it back to Ji-yoon. She then informs the Korean guy from RADE about the painting, and they plan their next moves against Prof. Min.
Joseon times …
Saimdang comes home to her children, and the King finds out about it. Later, the Crown Prince reaches out to Saimdang.
The drifters can’t decide whether to go back home to their respective villages or to go back to Yangyoo Paper Production Office for Saimdang.
Lee Gyeom goes back to Biikdang, carrying with him the painting that he did with Saimdang. Later, he meets his great aunt and his nephew. He decides to surrender in order to protect Saimdang.
Ji-yoon and the Korean guy from RADE plan to entrap Prof. Min using the “Mount Geumgang” painting as bait. Han Sang-hyun promptly puts up a CCTV camera in their room at the club.
Ji-yoon stares at the painting of the Joseon beauty and begins having visions.
Joseon times …
As soon as Saimdang comes back home, the King orders her house arrest on the pretext that she engaged in illegal activities at the Yangyoo Paper Production Office.
After writing a letter for Saimdang, Lee Gyeom buries their painting near a tree in inside Biikdang. In his letter, he tells Saimdang: “Life is like a flower that blooms only once. The heaven and earth are like one big tree. It will fall off the tree once it blooms. There’s no reason to be sad or scared. It was your choice to choose life. And accepting death is my choice. Coming into this world is to have life. And returning to where we came from is death. There’s no reason to cry over fallen leaves. This is my choice to protect you.”
Lee Gyeom and his great aunt reconcile after decades of misunderstandings. She embraces Lee Gyeom tearfully and says that she will take upon herself the punishment (exile or even death) in his place.
Meeting his nephew later, Lee Gyeom tells him to protect Saimdang. He then surrenders to the authorities.
The Crown Prince visits Saimdang and tells her all that have happened between Lee Gyeom and the King.
When Saimdang’s house arrest is lifted, Lee Won-su runs with his concubine, without caring for what happens next to Saimdang and her children.
Inside the prison, Lee Gyeom and the King can hear Saimdang’s pleas to be allowed to see Lee Gyeom. Lee Gyeom confesses to everything and pleads with the King not to harm Saimdang. The King replies that he will not do anything to Saimdang but that she will live her whole life in pain knowing that she has caused Lee Gyeom’s death.
The King refuses to allow Saimdang to see Le Gyeom; he also tells her that Lee Gyeom will be exiled to Jeju and later executed by poisoning.
Dejected, Saimdang goes back to Yangyoo Paper Production Office where she finds that all of the drifters have come back. She begins writing a diary narrating everything that have happened between her and Lee Gyeom for the last 20 years or more.
Modern times …
After Hye-jung reminds her of the John Donne poem hidden inside Saimdang’s diary, Ji-yoon copies the poem on a piece of paper. She’s shocked to see that her own handwriting and the handwriting on the diary’s John Donne poem are exactly the same.
Goons sent by Prof. Min attack the club and beat up Han Sang-hyun as they search for the “Mount Geumgang” painting. Ji-yoon grabs the painting and rushes out of the room. The goons chase her up to the rooftop where she falls from off the roof and on to the ground below.
In a vision, Ji-yoon sees Saimdang. Seeing the postcard with the “Man in Korean Costume” painting by Rubens, Saimdang exclaims that it’s Lee Gyeom. Piecing the puzzle together, Ji-yoon assures Saimdang that Lee Gyeom is alive in Italy but that she must rescue him from the exile and death by poisoning that the King has ordered.
April 28th, 2017 at 1:40 pm
I realise it is the drama norm for the lovers to kiss and embrace, but I really liked that Saimdang and Gyeom didn’t in almost all their scenes together. It speaks to Saimdang’s dignity as a married woman and a mother and to their love as something deep, beyond the carnal.
The poems, love letters and soliloquies were all beautiful expressions of their love. Very good drama indeed.
April 28th, 2017 at 4:32 pm
i just don’t understand why this drama rank is lower than any. i love the story, love the character, and every massage on it. so sad that youth people may not interested in historical fiction drama.
April 29th, 2017 at 10:46 am
One more episode and I can’t wait. I dream of some kind of happy ending, at least in the past or the present. Till recently I thought maybe they could be happy in the present if not in the past. But with the husband back alive and those last images in the preview I really don’t know what’s gonna happen. I get frustrated because it seems quite impossible but I keep on hoping for some miracle 🙂
Anyway I’ve loved this drama ! I’ve enjoyed each minute of it. The actors are so good ! And I don’t think it was too long or too slow, I loved this delicate and progressive discovery of each character and event. I usually get impatient quite rapidly and get bored easily. But not this time. I can’t explain why but I loved it, loved them and got addicted. I’m sure 2 more episodes would have been great. Too bad that the low ratings made them shorten the original version.
Good job anyway. Congrats to all !
April 29th, 2017 at 2:27 pm
It so heartbreaking… i cant stop craying in the last ep 27. Love the chemistry.. love with dignity
April 29th, 2017 at 5:57 pm
Why I like this drama: the quotes are so beautiful, so inspiring. I feel that I’m sitting through an amazing Literary lesson.
For e.g. Saimdang answers, “The whirlwind doesn’t blow all morning and a rain shower doesn’t fall throughout the day.”
Such wisdom & depth to share to kfans.
April 30th, 2017 at 2:24 am
Magnificent, Brilliant, Intelligent, Wonderful, Beautiful; Best Korean Drama in 2017. Highly recommended.
April 30th, 2017 at 1:33 pm
love between Saimdang & Lee Gyeom is so beautiful.. Story in Joseon era is more interesting than modern era.. Love it, OST is good too.. recomended!!
May 2nd, 2017 at 10:05 am
This drama is too beautiful and well-written. I don’t know how many times I cried watching this drama after ep 20 onwards. I hope the actors, actresses and production crews are not discouraged by the ratings as this drama is superb. It gives me all the emotional. I can feel the longings and love between Lee Gyeom and Saimdang even though they’re not meant to be together.
Now I’m just gonna wait how this drama is going to be wrapped up. Can’t wait for the finale.
May 3rd, 2017 at 10:12 am
One of the best kdrama this 2017. Highly recommended !
May 3rd, 2017 at 10:29 am
Episode 27: Saving Lee Gyeom
Ji-yoon tells Saimdang that she if rescues Lee Gyeom, he will live on in Italy and become a famous painter.
Saimdang: “I’m only a woman. How can I rescue Lee Gyeom?”
Ji-yoon: “You can do it. You are a greater woman than you realize. You need to believe in yourself. If you can get Lee Gyeom to Italy, he will be remembered for hundreds of years as a mysterious artist from the East.”
Saimdang: “It sounds so impossible. He’s in prison right now. Can I really save him?”
Ji-yoon gives Saimdang the dianthus bracelet and tells her: “You must gather all of your strength. You prayed desperately for help to save Lee Gyeom. That prayer helped us to meet like this. You must remember. Believe in yourself. You can do it.”
Ji-yoon’s husband turns up alive and reunites with his family. A mystery man (probably the Korean guy from RADE) pays for all of Ji-yoon’s hospital bills.
Joseon times …
Saimdang gives the last remaining copy of the King’s poem to the Crown Prince. Later, in front of the King’s bodyguard, the Crown Prince burns up the poem.
The bandits and the drifters catch up with the soldiers transporting Lee Gyeom. To everyone’s surprise, the King’s bodyguard releases Lee Gyeom. Later, the bodyguard kills himself.
The other soldiers report that Lee Gyeom’s cart fell of the cliff, and that the King’s bodyguard died with Lee Gyeom.
When Lee Gyeom sees Saimdang at the river, he tries again to get Saimdang to run away with him. But Saimdang shakes her head and says: “You must go. Please get out to the bigger world and live freely out there.”
Lee Gyeom then takes the Biikjo seal that he carved at Keumkangsan and places it around Saimdang’s neck. He says: “I planned to make this seal for you earlier. But it took me 20 years.” As Saimdang looks and touches the seal, she replies: “Finally, the seals are complete.”
Lee Gyeom: “Because I met you, I have been very happy.”
Saimdang: “From now on, you must be even happier.”
In the boat, Lee Gyeom opens the bag that Saimdang gave him and sees clothes, a seed pouch, and a letter. In her letter, Saimdang says: “Thinking back, I never made you any clothes. While praying for your safety, I made something for you. No matter where you are, I will feel everything you are feeling. I will see everything you are seeing. Being physically separated will not mean we are truly separated. I’m certain of this. Forever …”
After a long, arduous journey over sea and land, Lee Gyeom reaches Italy where he lives a peaceful and productive life.
Lee Gyeom becomes part of a manor where he continues to paint. He remembers Saimdang:
“I wake up in this foreign land. I have dreamed of you again. Even though you are not here, my lifeis bearable. No matter where I am, you said you would always be there for me.
“These beautiful sights that lie before me, I believe you’re seeing them too. There are beautiful flowers blooming here that remind me of you. There are gentle breezes that remind me of your touch. When I stay still and listen to that breeze, I think I can hear your voice. I’ve realized it once arrived here. By my side and inside my heart, you’re the only one there. You’re the reason I walk the earth, and you are my dream.
As Lee Gyeom carves out in marble a house based on what Saimdang drew on their Keumkangsan painting, he remembers all their happy days and conversations: “Our time passed by like a sweet dream. I still haven’t woken up. Since I must remain here at Siesta Di Luna, our dream will be remembered forever.”
Back in Joseon, Saimdang and the drifters have rebuilt Yangyoo Paper Production Office and have become prosperous again. Some of Biikdang’s staff help out in educating and training the drifters and their families.
At home remembering Lee Gyeom, Saimdang collapses, clutching her heart.
May 5th, 2017 at 9:23 am
And so it ends with Saimdang and Lee Gyom. This drama is very beautiful in every way.
May 5th, 2017 at 2:04 pm
I think the only thing that I don’t like about the final episode is too many flashbacks. But otherwise, I think it’s a good ending. I know some people are frustrated as the reincarnation of Saimdang and Lee Gyeom didn’t end up together as well in the modern era, but I think it’s understandable and more logical to end that way. Saimdang and Lee Gyeom did end up together when they die together.
It’s also self-explainable that modern Lee Gyeom is the leader of RADE and he helped Seo Ji Yoon, which is something that Lee Gyeom did in the past, helping Saimdang in lots of ways.
Anyway, it’s a beautiful drama and the art is just magnificent! Highly recommended.
May 6th, 2017 at 11:02 am
A beautiful sad but eternal love story of two gorgeous figures. It is beautifully depicted. Beautiful cinematography and arts.
Wish SSH & LYA had no care of the low ratings in their country.
It is really an underrated drama of the years 😣😢
May 6th, 2017 at 3:46 pm
Episode 28 (Finale): A gift of fate
Director Sun confesses before members of the media that the “Mount Geumgang” painting displayed in her gallery is fake. Her husband and Prof. Min are later arrested by the police.
Ji-yoon regains consciousness and finds out that her husband is alive.
The genuine “Mount Geumgang” painting and Saimdang’s diary are turned over to the Cultural Center, but Ji-yoon decides to keep private the “Portrait of the Joseon Beauty”.
In Joseon time …
Saimdang suffers from chest pains but hides them from her family.
Hyun-ryong and Ji-gyoon both pass the state exams.
Hwieumdang, now working at an isolated tavern, is reunited with her children.
Saimdang entrusts her children to Lee Won-su.
At the beach, Saimdang and Mae-chang have a final heart-to-heart talk. Saimdang gives her the flower bracelet that Ji-yoon gave her. Saimdang tells Mae-chang that the bracelet is a gift of fate: “There are many connections of fates in the world. Some we are aware of, and some we aren’t. This is my gift for you to express my gratitude that you were fated to be my daughter.
Woo gives Saimdang the “China pink flower” that’s her favorite; she then asks her children, especially Hyun-ryong, to reconcile with their father.
In Italy, as Lee Gyeom mourns for Saimdang, he imagines that they’re together and happily wandering around Siesta Di Luna. He imagines Saimdang telling him: “This place is beautiful under the languid sun, and the breeze scatters the fragrance of grass. All my prayers unto the breeze will touch your heart with my longing for you. Please live freely in the bigger world. Please be happy.”
Modern times …
Ji-yoon and her family visit Saimdang’s shrine; she has now become part of RADE investigating art forgeries.
The painting that Saimdang and Lee Gyeom painted together in Keumkangsan is found at a construction site.
As Ji-yoon walks around the halls and premises of Siesta Di Luna, she witnesses the spirits of Saimdang and Lee Gyeom finally coming together.
May 6th, 2017 at 4:47 pm
The cast was absolutely perfect. It was engaging, beautiful to watch, wise, and an altogether enjoyable drama.
May 7th, 2017 at 11:19 am
Sooooo good. Lee young ae still veryyyy good since Jewel in The Palace. Love the movie, casts, and everything about this movie. Daebak.
May 7th, 2017 at 12:30 pm
THE BEST KDRAMA 2017 .
May 8th, 2017 at 8:38 am
I think SAIMDANG, LIGHT’S DIARY was excellent. In my opinion, it was NOT too long. I think the cast was stellar and the storyline is fantastic. It was good to see Lee Young Ae again. Great job everyone! I’m looking folrward to your next drama already.
May 8th, 2017 at 10:00 am
I love this drama. Sad that they are shortened the drama to 28 episode rather than originally plammed 30 episode. I bet it is because the drama didn’t do good with the ratings. But still this is a good drama and i really like it. Sad that not many people like this drama.
May 8th, 2017 at 12:32 pm
The ratings of this drama is not bad its not very low , compare to some dramas that very poor ratings (i dont want to mention what are those dramas.)
And the story of this drama is very excellent compare to some dramas that BORING to watch.
Saimdang Light’s Diary is the best in 2017.
May 9th, 2017 at 9:34 am
Amazing story and cinematography. This is highly recommended to watch.
Forget about the rating, just watch and you’ll see how great this drama. Compare to other historical that you ever watched. You’ll be hooked and love every scene and the story line. All the cast and crew, the writers are excellent, LYA and SSH are both deliver well their characters. I wish them all the best of luck and hope to see them in another dramas.
fighting!
May 9th, 2017 at 12:29 pm
Yup, I agree
And some dramas are high ratings but the story is boring like TLOTBS.
Saimdang Light’s Diary is the best korean drama this 2017.
LYA and SSH are best actress / best actor.
Best story, Excellent,Good job,Super winner.
May 9th, 2017 at 12:36 pm
This is a beautifully played and inspiring drama.
The undeserved low ratings in Korea may be because too many young Koreans are not in very good mood these days. They prefer cheerful, escapist, non-sense (and excellent) dramas like “Strong Woman Do Bong-Soon” with the love between Min-Min and Bong-Bong. Or the enchanting “Love in the Moonlight”, which is a sort of endearing Korean Romeo and Juliet story that ends well.
Saimdang’s story is about a great artist and a great mother condemned by fate to live a unfulfilled parallel emotional life with her true, and deep love. Actually condemned by an unsecure, weak and murderous king. Lee Young-Ae and Song Seung-Heon tell that story in an excellent and most convincing way throughout the drama. The modern story introducing Saimdang also works and ends well.
Does anyone know the true name of “Siesta di Luna” this awesome castle on top of its steep hill surrounded by Chianti vineyards in the golden Italian sunlight?
May 9th, 2017 at 12:38 pm
I watch this drama because of song seung heon ( I like him pretty much), but I realized this drama for lee young ae ( I didn’t know he) and SSH supporting her. I was looked back her dramas and found ” a jewel in palace” similar to this drama and she got award too. Anyway, it was fun to watch she came back from 14 years later, she is still beautiful at her age.Congratulation LYA! I am looking forward to watch SSH dramas as well.
May 9th, 2017 at 12:41 pm
Honestly, I bit disappointed because why rating is so important, until they decided to cut it off until Episode 28 instead to finish until Episode 30. I hope they realized how precious and beautiful the story about this greatest artist, wonderful woman and admirable mother like Saimdang. Saimdang and Lee Gyeom, their sacrifices for each other amazed me. It’s true love. They never get a chance to be together in their life but I’m pretty sure that their soul are happy together. OST Everlasting Love made me cry.. I am not really familiar with Lee Young-Ae and Song Seong Heun but I would say they are pretty good actor and actress. I truly see them as the character of Saimdang and Lee Gyeom.
Congratulation to the success of Saimdang, Light’s Diary all the cast especially to Lee Young-Ae and Song Seong-Heun, the writer etc. May other don’t appreciate the story but to me, this story will remain to my heart. Very unforgettable historical KDrama. Respected historical figure.
I love Saimdang… Looking forward for a new project of Lee Young-Ae and Song Seong-Heun
May 9th, 2017 at 12:44 pm
A lovely story that taught me about Siamdang. Better than its ratings. Love the ancient pics more than the present day. Really like the male lead in his ancient clothes a d character and his lovely well groomed beard and big expressive eyes. Never noticed him before this show. Song Seung Heon
May 10th, 2017 at 1:40 am
This drama is rather boring. It deserves its low rating.
May 12th, 2017 at 10:23 pm
This drama is excellent best korean drama in 2017.
There so many kdramas that boring to watch but the ratings so high one of them is Legend of the blue sea it is high ratings but story is boring.
May 12th, 2017 at 10:39 pm
And some dramas are low ratings but the story is good .
Dont judge this drama Saimdang lights diary by looking at the ratings. Look at the story not in ratings. But i think the ratings of this drama Saimdang is not bad.
I saw some ratings of some dramas so very poor like Mary stayed out all night, Radiant office etc.
May 12th, 2017 at 10:50 pm
Mga tanga hindi kayo marunong tumingin kung anong magandang drama. Saimdang Light’s Diary ang pinakamaganda sa lahat ngayong taon.Vote for Saimdang Light’s Diary for best kdrama 2017.
May 13th, 2017 at 2:04 am
I loved the drama, great casting and acting by leads. the reason it had low ratings I think because the drama had too many flash backs.
May 13th, 2017 at 9:50 am
i agree @bestdrama
also include Suspicious Partner poor ratings and the story is common.
Saimdang Light’s Diary is excellent drama and good quality and the ratings is good. Saimdang Light’s Diary is the best korean drama that i’ve ever watched so far this year 2017.
May 13th, 2017 at 10:48 am
why everyone says that Saimdang Light’s Diary is low ratings? are you idiots?
the kdramas that i posts above are much poor ratings and the stories are poor than this drama Saimdang Light’s Diary.
Shut your mouth if you Don’t Know What is LOW RATINGS.
May 13th, 2017 at 10:56 am
Masked Prosecutor Episode Ratings
Date Ep TNmS TNmS AGB AGB
Nationwide Seoul Nationwide Seoul
2015-05-20 1 5.9 6.7 6.8 (18th) 7.6 (15th)
2015-05-21 2 4.7 4.6 5.4 5.9
2015-05-27 3 5.6 6.3 5.3 5.7
2015-05-28 4 5.4 6.4 6.1 6.6
2015-06-03 5 5.0 5.2 5.9 6.2
2015-06-04 6 4.6 5.2 5.3 5.5
2015-06-10 7 5.7 5.8 5.6 5.7
2015-06-11 8 4.6 (<9.0) 5.4 5.3
2015-06-17 9 4.9 4.8 5.7 6.7
2015-06-18 10 4.9 4.7 4.8 5.5
2015-06-24 11 5.3 5.6 6.0 6.6
2015-06-25 12 5.1 5.6 5.9 6.1
2015-07-01 13 4.7 (<7.1) 5.6 5.9
2015-07-02 14 4.5 4.7 5.3 5.7
2015-07-08 15 5.0 5.3 5.9 6.4
2015-07-09 16 5.9 (<7.5) 6.9 7.2 (19th)
this drama Masked Prosecutor is poor ratings and poor story compare to Saimdang Light's Diary
May 13th, 2017 at 11:05 am
Hyde Jekyll and I RATINGS
2015-01-21 1 10.2 (13th) 13.2 (6th) 8.6 (20th) 9.6 (15th)
2015-01-22 2 8.8 (20th) 11.7 (10th) 8.0 8.3
2015-01-28 3 7.2 8.5 (19th) 7.4 8.6 (18th)
2015-01-29 4 7.7 (20th) 8.6 (19th) 6.6 7.1
2015-02-04 5 6.2 (<8.5) 5.9 6.3
2015-02-05 6 6.7 (<8.7) 5.3 5.4
2015-02-11 7 5.5 (<8.5) 5.1 5.2
2015-02-12 8 6.9 (<8.8) 6.2 7.0
2015-02-18 9 5.4 (<8.5) 4.7 5.0
2015-02-19 10 5.5 (<8.7) 5.4 5.3
2015-02-25 11 4.9 (<8.7) 5.6 6.4
2015-02-26 12 5.7 (<8.5) 5.2 5.6
2015-03-04 13 4.0 (<8.5) 3.8 4.1
2015-03-05 14 5.3 (<8.8) 4.7 4.6
2015-03-11 15 3.9 (<7.9) 3.8 3.2
2015-03-12 16 5.1 (<8.4) 3.9 3.5
2015-03-18 17 3.6 4.5 3.5 3.9
2015-03-19 18 4.5 5.3 4.4 4.1
2015-03-25 19 3.4 (<8.6) 3.4 3.6
2015-03-26 20 4.7 (<9.2) 4.3 (<7.9)
this drama HYDE JEKYLL AND I is poor ratings and poor story compare to Saimdang Light's Diary
May 14th, 2017 at 4:23 pm
Great drama . Lee young ae please come back with a another drama soon, we are with you.
May 15th, 2017 at 8:33 am
excellent drama and best kdrama
May 18th, 2017 at 10:49 pm
I love it !!! Lee young ae is awesome in saeguk drama.. I cried so many times bcz saimdang’s husband… I wanted to kill him 😤😤..
Lee gyom sooo handsome :*
Yah, i love this drama, but little dissappointed with the ending.. i thought in future lee gyom and ji yoon will be together, atleast meet face to face.. but no..
🙂 But love it
May 20th, 2017 at 9:52 am
Saimdang is the best drama i’ve watched… 10 stars for their excellent actors & actress…
May 21st, 2017 at 7:50 am
number 1 kdrama this 2017.
May 21st, 2017 at 11:01 am
Such a very inspirational drama….Highly recommend to watch…The best drama of 2017…i would hardly to find another drama as good as SLS..
May 22nd, 2017 at 9:53 am
I AGREE AT POSSITIVE COMMENTS.
SUPER BEST DRAMA 2017.
LOVE THE CAST.
LOVE THE STORY.
BRAVO! APPLAUSE!
May 24th, 2017 at 3:48 pm
is it happy ending?
May 25th, 2017 at 11:36 am
love it so much !
June 2nd, 2017 at 7:20 am
I loved this show and cried at the end. It was magnificently produced ahead of time and the fine details show. The performances were sublime, especially by the two leads but even right down to the children. I think the reason the ratings were poor was because the Korean people heard through their media that the story would be more fantasy based with the time travel, reincarnation angle instead of basing it strictly on the real woman’s life. But honestly sticking strictly to history can be boring, what are they going to do, have a whole show depicting how she taught her children how to read, draw, etc? Instead of dropping to 8% ratings they would have dropped to 1% ratings. They also had the problem of writing a romance in which the couple never got together physically — that bores the tears out of shallow people today but entrances those of us who are sick of the shows where the couples are all over each other, slobbing all over each other endlessly. I’m of the latter group: I thought a sincere depiction of a more spiritual relationship to be greatly gratifying. I think the Korean people lost out on a masterpiece, and I feel sorry for them and their poor judgment. Do they REALLY want their television shows to sink to the level of America’s junk? If so that will be a great pity because their shows will start suffering in quality.
June 3rd, 2017 at 11:16 am
the best this year !
June 12th, 2017 at 5:32 am
After I came to know that the rating for this drama is low I need to show my support for this drama.
Saimdang is best and valuable drama of 2017. Its so beautiful in term of art, story, photography and so on and I appriciate all the single casts they did very heart fully well. Every one in this drama never cheat the viewers their performance are first class.
This drama made me moved and wander what will happened next after every single episode, and I adore all the ancient paintings and story behind it.
June 17th, 2017 at 9:51 am
this drama is very unique. i love the story and cast.
Perfect !
June 18th, 2017 at 11:56 am
One of the best drama 2017.
June 19th, 2017 at 9:41 am
Good drama for all the time.
Love art. Love the story. Unique and interesting to watch.
Excellent and the best drama for this year 2017.
Highly recommended !!!
July 1st, 2017 at 1:35 pm
best historical 2017.
July 7th, 2017 at 10:20 pm
for the win !
July 7th, 2017 at 11:54 pm
I’m in EP 20 , but Saimdang attract me from the first Ep .. best drama , amazing & I can’t describe it ~ so sad & disappointed of Korean people , Why? tell me , why? Saimdang is No.1 & nothing can replace with it . I recommend it for all the people who likes arts . I laugh , cry & enjoy of every episode .. Best Historical Drama ~ ^_^
July 10th, 2017 at 2:39 pm
my favorite kdramas 2017 are
Saimdang Light’s Diary
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo
Defendant
Goblin
July 15th, 2017 at 11:39 am
best story and best korean drama this year.
July 17th, 2017 at 1:50 pm
saimdang light’s diary and weightlifting fairy kim bok joo are my favorite korean dramas this 2017.
July 23rd, 2017 at 10:31 am
the best drama for all the time
July 25th, 2017 at 11:34 am
I love the drama. I just dont like the ending. It’s okay if in the past they can be together, but how can in the present too.
July 29th, 2017 at 10:41 am
highest comment of all dramas this year.
August 3rd, 2017 at 10:44 am
number1 drama 2017
August 5th, 2017 at 10:58 am
this drama need more and more to understand so that you know how to understand the story. very unique story. the ratings are not very low/poor compare to others that the ratings are very poor. don’t look at the ratings because this drama Saimdang is much better ratings to Scarlet Heart : Moon Lovers, Healer, Inspiring Generations, Mary Stayed Out All Night that became number 1. and i think you don’t know who is/are Song Seong Heon and Lee Young Ae especially. congratulations Saimdang drama is the best of the best.
August 9th, 2017 at 1:31 am
Just managed to watch this movie.
Totally agree with some viewers, best korean drama for the year 2017
Highly recommended to watch.
September 9th, 2017 at 10:51 am
I really love this kdrama. I dreamt about being an artist and poet, both Lee Gyeom and Saimdang inspired me to pursue this dream. I just fell in love with them. I felt so much sadness in their selfless love story, it broke my heart that they really love each other but they can’t be together. All cast gave justice to every character. It’s not just an ordinary story. I learned so much things from the characters. I love Hyun Ryong as he gave so much importance in education not just for himself but for his family. I love them all! The OST are so heart breaking…
November 3rd, 2017 at 10:55 am
You wont find any other sad love story that feed you till youre full. This drama is beautiful, my heart ache for the two lovers. I keep on imagining if only theres an airport that saimdang can go and fly to lee geom haihhh no tech no love ???
November 3rd, 2017 at 10:57 am
The best Korean Drama!!!! Plsss do more projects of lee young ae and Song seung heon… They have a strong chemistry
November 3rd, 2017 at 11:02 am
LYA is the best actress in korea.
Her new drama next year 2018 is Different Dreams
November 11th, 2017 at 8:03 pm
lets vote for the win
November 11th, 2017 at 8:04 pm
vote this drama for the best korean drama 2017.
November 24th, 2017 at 10:08 pm
Vote Saimdang Light’s Diary for the best top 8 list korean drama 2017.