Han Ji-hye Shines as 'Lady Hong' in 'Beloved Bandit', Leading a Revolutionary Plot

Actress Han Ji-hye, born in 1984 and married to a prosecutor in 2010, captivates audiences in 'Beloved Bandit' as 'Lady Hong', the mastermind behind a revolutionary plot. She shares the screen with Moon Sang-min, born in 2000, who is also under the same agency, Awesome ENT.

In episodes 13 and 14 of the KBS 2TV weekend mini-series 'Beloved Bandit' (written by Lee Sun, directed by Ham Young-geol, produced by Studio Dragon), aired on the 14th and 15th, Han Ji-hye's character, Lady Hong, forms a powerful alliance with Lee Yeol (played by Moon Sang-min), who has had a change of heart, to bring about a monumental change in the era.

Lady Hong demonstrates her leadership by uniting the scattered public sentiment. Transforming her grief over the loss of her son due to the tyrant Lee Gyu (played by Ha Seok-jin) into a driving force for revolution, she proves herself not as a secluded nun but as the central figure in designing a new Joseon.

While aiding Hong Eun-jo (played by Nam Ji-hyun), Han Ji-hye perfectly portrays the duality of a kingmaker who remains coldly rational in the face of a greater cause. After confirming the affection between Lee Yeol and Hong Eun-jo, Lady Hong states, "I must assess whether this affection will be useful or a hindrance to our cause. Watch over them as Gil-dong," showcasing her chilling restraint and insight that heightens the tension.

In the 'Scroll of Mission' scene led by Lady Hong, Han Ji-hye's commanding presence reaches its peak. As ministers and scholars gather at the meeting place to resolutely inscribe their names under her direction, Han Ji-hye dominates the scene with her restrained movements and profound gaze, cementing her authority as the de facto commander.

Han Ji-hye demonstrates her unparalleled acting prowess by seamlessly transitioning between the serene calm of a benevolent monk and the determined resolve to overturn the world. Her leadership, steering the grand scheme towards its goal, is expected to be the most potent driving force in the latter part of the narrative.

'Beloved Bandit' is nearing its conclusion with only two episodes remaining, set to air on the 21st and 22nd at 9:20 PM, bringing the series to a grand finale.

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