[Review] The King's Warden/ The Man Who Lives with the King (Dir. Jang Hang-jun, 2026) – Beyond the Tragedy of a Deposed King
Director Jang Hang-jun is perhaps best known to the public as the husband of star writer Kim Eun-hee, a witty raconteur, and a frequent face on entertainment shows. While he has a long career as a screenwriter and director, it might be difficult for some to immediately point to a single "signature" masterpiece. However, Jang’s talent extends far beyond comedy. From his debut script The Adventures of Mrs. Park to his previous thriller Open the Door, he has consistently shown a sharp eye for human drama. His latest film, The King's Warden (왕과 사는 남자= The Man Who Lives with the King), reveals his true depth as a storyteller, showcasing a profound perspective on history and character. The film tackles one of the most enduring stories in the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty: the tragedy of King Danjong and his uncle, Grand Prince Suyang. In 1457, Lee Hong-wi (Danjong) is ousted from the throne and exiled to Cheongnyeongpo, a remote mountain village in Yeongwol. Amidst the looming ...