'The Tale of Lady Ok' has come to an end, leaving viewers reflecting on its emotional and dramatic journey following the story of Ok Tae Young/ Goo Deok (played by Lim Ji Yeon)
[Warning: Spoiler Ahead]
In the final episodes, Yun Gyeom's backstory comes to light, revealing that Minister Bak had targeted his community, Devoted Hearts, leading to a devastating massacre. Stricken by trauma and a terminal illness that rendered him voiceless, Yun Gyeom distanced himself from loved ones to shield them from harm.
The residents of Cheongsu County, recognizing the injustices faced by Tae Young and Seung Hwi, rallied in their defense. Led by Scholar Cha, they petition the King for clemency, highlighting the couple's contributions to the community. Despite facing punishment, the supporters remain steadfast in their advocacy.
It's uncovered that Minister Bak orchestrated a plan to spread a virus using a toxic herb-laced painkiller, aiming to hoard the cure and essential supplies to sell at exorbitant prices during the ensuing crisis. Tae-young and her allies, including Do Gyeom and Heo Soon, work together to identify the cause and potential treatment of the illness.
Aligning herself with Minister Bak, So Hye proposes aiding his scheme in exchange for becoming his official wife and eliminating Tae Young. She suggests burning down the quarantine shelter with Tae Young in it to destroy evidence and its inhabitants, to which Bak agrees.
Fortunately, Yun Gyeom exposes Minister Bak's toxic but non-contagious medicine and alerts Governor Heo. Bak is arrested, branded, and abandoned by his benefactors, while So-hye is made a government slave. Despite worsening health, Yun Gyeom sacrifices himself to save his family, taking Seung Hwi's place in prison to fulfill a promise and shield his loved ones. Yun Gyeom’s death is mourned, but his redemption leaves a lasting impact.
Tae Young advocates for enslaved volunteers, earning their protection and the King’s recognition. Her own slave status is revoked, and she is warmly welcomed back into the community.
Three years later, Cheongsu thrives, known for its aloe trade. Tae-young’s law firm flourishes, and Kkeutdong advances as a lawyer. Seung Hwi completes his novel, and Tae Young raises her son, Man Seok, named after Man Seok, who died from being tortured in episode 15, at their seaside home. The final scene brings all the characters together, reflecting on their growth and redemption.
Many viewers and fans have praised the drama for bringing closure to all the characters, even the sub-characters such as Man Seok. They are deeming 'The Tale of Lady Ok' as one of the most well-made dramas of this year and commented:
"Can’t we get a director’s cut where Man Seok doesn’t die?"
"Man Seok... Man Seok is dead, so how can this be a happy ending?"
"Choo Young Woo’s acting is so good. He played Chun Seung Hwi’s character so incredibly well."
"This is my first time seeing Choo Young Woo, and he’s amazing! He also acted very well in 'The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call.' I’m now a million-percent fan. He’s truly impressive!"
"I enjoyed the last episode. The actors worked so hard. It’s bittersweet that it’s over."
"I liked the ending. The characters stayed consistent, the story wasn’t forced, and the happy ending was well-written. While some characters felt underdeveloped, the plot made sense, so I’m satisfied. This isn’t the kind of drama that fizzles out at the end."
"I’m satisfied with the ending. Man Seok’s farewell scene really got to me. Looking forward to the writer’s next project."
"This drama was excellent until the very end."
"It was fun and ended well, but Man Seok’s death is really heartbreaking..."
"Other than Man Seok dying, I’m satisfied. Man-seok’s death is such a shame."
"It doesn’t feel like one of those dramas that fall apart in the end. It would’ve been better if Man-seok had survived, but that’s just sad. Overall, it ended well with lingering emotions. Though it was short, that rushed feeling was inevitable."
"I just finished watching it, and the ending was so good. I’ll definitely binge-watch it again soon."
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