'Bon Appétit, Your Majesty' is maintaining its strong ratings.
In the 9th episode of tvN's weekend drama 'Bon Appétit, Your Majesty' (directed by Jang Tae-yoo, written by fGRD, planned by Studio Dragon, produced by Filmgrid and Jung Universe), which aired on the 20th, Yeon Ji-young (played by Im Yoon-ah) and Lee Heon (played by Lee Chae-min) faced another crisis after enjoying a brief moment of peace following an intense cooking competition.
The episode achieved an average rating of 14.2% and a peak of 15.9% in the Seoul metropolitan area, and an average of 13.5% and a peak of 14.8% nationwide, securing the top spot across all channels, including terrestrial networks, during its time slot. Among tvN's target demographic of viewers aged 20-49, it recorded an average of 5.5% and a peak of 6.4% in the metropolitan area, and an average of 5.6% and a peak of 6.3% nationwide, maintaining its lead across all channels during the same time slot. (Based on paid platforms including cable, IPTV, and satellite / Nielsen Korea)
After completing the second cooking competition with the Ming Dynasty, Yeon Ji-young was summoned by Lee Heon to a pavilion under the moonlight. Lee Heon prepared warm tea to comfort and praise Yeon Ji-young for her hard work. The atmosphere between the two was different, with a new tension in their gazes.
Particularly, Lee Heon's plea for Yeon Ji-young to never get hurt again hinted at the depth of his affection. Despite his royal status, Lee Heon's willingness to bow for Yeon Ji-young's sake was met with her reassuring promise, "I'll win no matter what," easing his burden and creating a heartwarming moment.
Empowered by Lee Heon's support, Yeon Ji-young secured the final victory in the last cooking competition. The master chefs from both nations expressed gratitude, concluding the event warmly. Additionally, Lee Heon's headbutt attack and a letter from Queen Dowager Inju (played by Seo Yi-sook) swiftly quelled Woo Gon's insistence on taking Yeon Ji-young as a tribute woman, delivering a thrilling catharsis.
Lee Heon gifted Yeon Ji-young a new chef's uniform, saying, "It's a good place for just the two of us to enjoy a royal meal," hinting at his desire for a private dining experience. His gentle smile at Yeon Ji-young's delight over the unexpected gift sparked excitement.
As Yeon Ji-young and Lee Heon's relationship grew closer through the competition, another storm loomed over them. Kang Mok-joo (played by Kang Han-na) and Prince Jesan (played by Choi Gwi-hwa), having failed in their previous schemes, plotted to harm the young Prince Jinmyeong using an unknown herb and frame Yeon Ji-young for the crime, inciting viewers' anger.
When Prince Jinmyeong collapsed after eating the black chicken roast prepared by Yeon Ji-young, tension filled the palace. Queen Dowager Jahyeon (played by Shin Eun-jung), facing the potential loss of her only son, vowed to personally interrogate Yeon Ji-young, shocking viewers. As harming a royal is an unforgivable crime, all eyes are on how Yeon Ji-young will overcome this unprecedented crisis.
Meanwhile, unaware of these events, Lee Heon eagerly awaited Yeon Ji-young at the Jangwonseo with chili powder and paste, heightening the sense of tragedy. Viewers are curious about how Lee Heon will react upon learning of Yeon Ji-young's interrogation.
The 10th episode of tvN's 'Bon Appétit, Your Majesty' will air on the 21st at 9:10 PM.
Reporter Kim Ji-won, TenAsia one@tenasia.co.kr