On the 11th episode of KBS2TV's 'Beloved Bandit' (directed by Ham Young-gul, Lee Garam/written by Lee Sun), which aired on the 7th at 9:20 PM, the storyline unfolded with the soul-swapping of Hong Eun-jo (played by Nam Ji-hyun) and Lee Yeol (played by Moon Sang-min), leading to a tense situation.
In this episode, Lee Yeol, now in Hong Eun-jo's body, made his first appearance at the Hyeminseo, awkwardly handling medicinal bowls but earnestly caring for orphans suffering from high fevers, striving to fulfill his duties as a medical woman. Meanwhile, Hong Eun-jo, in Lee Yeol's body, continued her precarious double life in the palace, confessing the secret of their soul swap to Shin Hae-rim (played by Han So-eun), who noticed something amiss, heightening the drama's tension.
The romance was short-lived as the tragic legacy of their families loomed over them. Lee Yeol confronted the threat to Hong Eun-jo's family, breaking past promises to protect them. Witnessing the hardships of the common people, Lee Yeol stood up to Lee Gyu, declaring, "The beginning of all tragedies started with you." After the situation settled, the two returned to their bodies, realizing their feelings for each other while resting by a valley. However, upon returning to the palace, Lee Yeol faced ominous signs as he reunited with Sook-ui (played by Han Ji-hye), who sought revenge for her lost son.
Towards the end of the episode, Lee Yeol learned of Hong Eun-jo's impending role as the leader of the rebellion, 'Gildong.' In desperation, he urged her to flee to a place where the world wouldn't know them, but Hong Eun-jo firmly refused, leaving Lee Yeol in shock. Realizing her resolve to join the rebellion, Lee Yeol lamented, "You've made your decision; you were already standing with them," casting a sorrowful gaze. The contrasting choices of the prince trying to protect his beloved and the medical woman standing on the edge for revenge evoked viewers' sympathy.
Reporter: Im Chae-ryeong, TenAsia syjj426@tenasia.co.kr