Kang Tae-oh Becomes a Secret Royal Inspector for Kim Se-jeong in 'Moon River'

Kang Tae-oh takes on the role of a secret royal inspector solely for Kim Se-jeong in the MBC drama 'Moon River'.

In the second episode, aired on Saturday, the Crown Prince Lee Kang, played by Kang Tae-oh, rescues Park Dal-i, portrayed by Kim Se-jeong, from a perilous situation, rekindling their fated connection. The episode garnered a nationwide viewership rating of 3.7% and 3.4% in the metropolitan area, with the ending scene where Lee Kang flirts with Park Dal-i over soup reaching a peak of 4.4%, according to Nielsen Korea. Previously, MBC's dramas like 'Crushology 101', 'Mary Kills People', and 'To the Moon' struggled with ratings in the 1-2% range.

Five years ago, Crown Princess Kang Yeon-wol, also played by Kim Se-jeong, was dethroned due to a scheme by Left State Councilor Kim Han-cheol, portrayed by Jin Goo, and was presumed dead after jumping into the river. However, with the help of Park Hong-nan, played by Park Ah-in, she survived but lost her memory and lived as a servant named Park Dal-i, fleeing from Hanyang.

Unaware of these events, Crown Prince Lee Kang is haunted by Park Dal-i's resemblance to his presumed-dead wife. Her similar words and actions further confuse him.

Lee Kang becomes Park Dal-i's protector, appearing whenever she is in trouble. Notably, he saves her from being forced into suicide due to a widow's chastity monument, taking on the role of a secret royal inspector to rescue her, providing a sense of satisfaction.

After receiving Park Dal-i's gratitude, Lee Kang reflects on his inability to save his loved one. As he reminisces about his past with Kang Yeon-wol while watching the gently falling snow, tears stream down his face. Park Dal-i, observing his sorrow, instinctively wipes his tears and offers a comforting gesture, asking, "Shall I buy you soup?"

Despite knowing in his mind that Park Dal-i is not his wife, Lee Kang accepts her invitation for a soup date. He arrives early at the meeting place but is puzzled when she doesn't show up.

Meanwhile, Park Dal-i is falsely accused of theft by a fallen noblewoman and faces severe punishment. Despite her pleas of innocence, the judge does not believe her and sentences her to a brutal punishment.

Just as Park Dal-i is about to be beaten, the doors burst open, and Lee Kang enters, capturing everyone's attention. Seeing her tied up, he recalls his wife's last moments and, defying all opposition, rescues her. He tenderly offers his hand, saying, "Let's go, for some soup," sparking excitement. As they gaze at each other, the thread of fate draws them closer, leaving viewers wondering if their connection will be restored.

Reported by Lee So-jung, TenAsia forusojung@tenasia.co.kr