Actor Park Ji-hoon forays into the film industry with the historical film The King’s Warden. He plays the character of King Danjong, one of the most tragic figures of the Joseon Dynasty. At just 11, Danjong ascended the throne, only to lose his life seven years later. Director Jang Hang-jun reimagines his life by mixing both historical facts and fiction. It is the first film to explore the tale of the Joseon king.
The Tale of King Danjong
He was born in 1441 during the reign of his paternal grandfather, King Sejong. His mother, Queen Hyeondeok, died shortly after giving birth to him. His father, King Munjong, died in 1452. Danjong became the sixth king of the Joseon Dynasty and directly succeeded his father at the age of 11. However, his reign was short-lived. His uncle Suyang, the second son of Sejong and brother of Munjong, staged a coup to depose his young nephew and seize power. This event is known as the Gyeyujeongnan. Suyang then took the throne as King Sejo in 1455, marking the end of Danjong’s nominal reign.
King Sejo immediately demoted Danjong from royal status to the title of Nosangun (a prince). After subsequent unrest, his uncle exiled him to Yeongwol County, a remote area. Not long after his exile, loyal ministers—later known as the Six Martyred Ministers—conspired to assassinate King Sejo. However, the plan failed, and the king ordered the execution of all six ministers involved. There are multiple theories regarding Danjong’s death. Some accounts say he hanged himself after learning of the execution of his father-in-law, while others suggest he was poisoned by King Sejo, who saw him as a threat. Denied an honourable burial and posthumous rites, he was classified as a commoner and a traitor.
The King’s Warden
The film follows the king’s exile to the remote mountain valley of Cheongnyeongpo in Yeongwol after the coup. During his confinement, he develops a bond with Eom Heung-do, the village chief assigned to watch over him. Actor Park Ji-hoon plays the dethroned king, Danjong. A former member of the group Wanna One, he rose to fame through his portrayal of Yeon Si-eun in the hit series Weak Hero.
This role earned him widespread recognition and multiple acting awards. Reflecting on his approach to the character, Park emphasized that he wanted to portray Danjong as a dignified figure rather than a victim. To embody the character, he lost 15 kg, often eating just half an apple daily and avoiding water to keep his voice parched. In addition to Park’s performance, the film is further strengthened by veteran actor Yoo Hae-jin, who plays the village chief. The film has become the second most-watched film in Korean cinema history and the highest-grossing, earning 156.9 billion won.
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