"Captivating The King" Conundrums – Will Yi In and Kang HeeSoo Achieve Their Happy Ending?

Yi In’s existence gives new meaning to the proverb “When vultures surround you, try not to die.” He not only managed to return from his forced pilgrimage (hostage-situation?) to the Qing Dynasty, but was compelled to take the throne following the untimely death of his brother, Yi Sun (Choi Dae-Hoon).

Compounded by Sun’s last words to In – that he should trust no one – it quickly becomes apparent that even those within the King’s faction who are happy with his new title, will do whatever is necessary to secure their own power. The presence of Yoo Hyun-Bo, masterfully played by Yang Kyung-Won, is an ever-growing threat to the happiness of his Majesty, particularly given the hatred he holds towards Kang Mong-woo, Hee-soo’s baduk playing alter-ego.

Jang Young-nam’s Queen Dowager Park is also an imposing figure on the politics of the court, with the nature of her relationship with Court Lady Dong (Park Ye-Young) still largely unexplained. Regardless, the callous disregard displayed by Yi In towards Mong-woo following the false confession is confronting. No one can fault Kang Hee-soo for desiring revenge for her father, Hong-Jang and ultimately, herself. Will she be able to overlook Yi In’s past digressions, when he was very obviously trying to survive for the sake of the Kingdom?

The other very problematic element is Hee-soo’s own meddling in matters of the court. For a renown, undefeated baduk player, it is hard to fathom how she has been able to get herself into so much trouble, so consistently. Hee-soo’s constant deceit in the face of Yi In’s affection will surely erode the connection that exists between them. In that case, it is hard to not sympathise with Yi In – how would you be able to trust Hee-soo, after so much betrayal?

Despite all the turmoil, episodes 9 and 10 gave us a glimmer of hope that perhaps Yi In and Kang Hee-soo would have an opportunity to reciprocate their feelings for each other. The discovery of Hee-soo’s gender and confessions that follow, along with the tender scenes between In and Hee-soo are so welcomed.

But with sickly Queen Oh (Ha Seo-yoon) still married to King Yi In and Hee-soo the daughter of ‘criminal’ of the Kingdom, it is difficult to see a path forward. Captivating the King has been so very adept at weaving a rich plot supported by impeccable performances that leave viewers on the edge of their seats - will we see a happy ending for Yi In and Hee-soo, despite the obstacles? What do you think?