'Bon Appétit, Your Majesty' Continues to Dominate Ratings with Intense Drama

'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