The episode, aired on the 4th, saw a thrilling reunion between the thief Hong Eun-jo (played by Nam Ji-hyun) and the nobleman Lee Yeol (played by Moon Sang-min), who is on a quest to find her. The show's ratings climbed to 4.5% nationwide, with peak viewership reaching 5.2%, according to Nielsen Korea. This marks a promising start for 'To My Beloved Thief,' following a series of unsuccessful KBS weekend mini-series.
The unexpected kiss under a shower of flower petals left both Hong Eun-jo and Lee Yeol in a state of emotional turmoil. Lee Yeol, while fulfilling his duties as a nobleman, is determined to find the owner of the flower shoes, Hong Eun-jo, who finds herself constantly pursued by him.
Both characters reflect on the kiss in their own ways. Hong Eun-jo shares her story with her mother, Chun-seom (played by Seo Young-hee), as if it were a tale from a book, only to be told that her feelings are those of love, leaving her flustered. Meanwhile, Lee Yeol gathers his attendants to speculate on the intentions of the woman who fled after the kiss.
In another twist, Lee Yeol investigates a theft by the thief Gil-dong and summons witness Dong-ju (played by Lee Jin-hee) to the police bureau, suspecting her connection to the thief. At the same time, Dong-ju faces humiliation from a nobleman despite her malnourished state, prompting Hong Eun-jo to advocate for her treatment, only to be met with harsh words.
Hong Eun-jo dons a disguise to help Dong-ju, but is unexpectedly confronted by Lee Yeol, who blocks her path, claiming his role as a nobleman. Despite her initial intent to flee, Hong Eun-jo is stopped by Lee Yeol's assurance that he won't pursue her, expressing gratitude on behalf of Dong-ju and leaving her flustered once more.
Just as Hong Eun-jo's defenses begin to lower, a group of soldiers arrives, reigniting the chase. Injured by an arrow, Lee Yeol stumbles into a lit clinic, drawn to a familiar presence. He poses a cryptic question to a nurse who turns away, "Is it you?" heightening the tension. Lee Yeol's mention of the kiss and the flower shoes leaves everyone stunned.
Meanwhile, an awkward first encounter between Hong Eun-jo and the influential Im Jae-i (played by Hong Min-ki) unfolds. Her brother, Hong Dae-il (played by Song Ji-ho), brings her to an archery contest to secure a win. Im Jae-i, irked by Hong Eun-jo's presence, challenges her to hit an apple atop her brother's head. Despite her trembling hands, Hong Eun-jo's arrow strikes a flying sparrow, marking a perfect victory and leaving a lasting impression on Im Jae-i.
Reporter: Jung Se-yoon, TENASIA yoon@tenasia.co.kr