You came to kill me.
Kill you?
We were just preparing your medicine.
Get out.
I'm sure I heard his voice.
We doubled the security as you ordered.
Nobody will harm you.
You're the most powerful man in this country.
I don't have power anymore.
There's nothing left.
My wife and daughter are dead.
I've nothing left.
Still the king gave you the medicine
that chair, and the cane.
That's why I have to defend myself.
The medicine's no use if I'm going to be beheaded.
Beheaded? How could say such a thing?
He told me that's how I'll die.
He said it's on my face.
Who said something like that?
The face reader.
Physiognomy? Isn't that superstition?
That's because you never met him.
He knew everything.
He figured out everything
just by looking at a face.
He was the greatest face reader in Joseon.
SONG Kang-ho
LEE Jung-jae
Where could this house be?
I heard it's near here.
BAEK Yoon-sik
JO Chung-suk
I can't walk anymore.
LEE Jong-suk
KIM Hye-soo
What's that?
We're here.
Gosh, she's heavy.
Nice atmosphere.
Good view.
Who are you?
Is this the house of the famous face reader?
What?
Oh didn't I tell you?
They're here to buy my brushes.
You're looking for weasel fur?
Something like that.
I'm going to the market.
Enjoy your day.
Don't rush!
My nephew hates face reading.
This way, please.
Let's get inside.
This is the weasel tail.
Very expensive.
Not interested?
Gosh, he's practically naked.
Nae-kyeong, get up.
Get up.
- Uhm, yummy... - Alright, wake up.
He talks in his sleep.
He may look pitiful but he's a professional.
Nae-kyeong! You have clients!
They're waiting.
I drank too much.
They want to know if it's
a good business to import silk from China.
Go away.
What?
I don't talk to liars.
Mister...
your eyes say you're not good with money.
Your eyebrows and round eyes are not for a businessman.
More for a eunuch or a secretary.
Madame is good in business
but too good to be selling just silk.
Peachy face and red lips say you could be a shaman.
But highly unlikely.
Why did you lie?
I don't know what you want but leave if you're going to lie.
You take me for a fool? Lying to me like that?
Where are you from?
Are you laughing?
Don't lie to my brother-in-law.
How dare you lie to his face so blatantly.
Good. I'm glad I came.
Do you know Yeonhong the courtesan house?
You think I'm stupid?
High officials go there for face readings and stuff.
She's the madame.
You're a face reader?
You don't look like one.
I'm an amateur.
My experiences have taught me
a little bit about reading people.
Hey, watch your hand!
Why don't you work for me?
You'll get to use your talents to the fullest.
I'm the business partner.
He only does the reading.
We will pay for your service.
Take the offer when it's there.
Life's too short to waste it away.
Do you want to live like this forever?
Weasel? Yeah, right.
My back!
Is he any good?
Not just good. He can rock the world.
Rat whiskers?
Give me more.
You know those are rare.
Wait here.
My family haven't had anything to eat.
Get him out!
Since you can't pay the tax I'll take her instead.
Sir!
Please don't!
- I have a husband, please! - Alright, stay calm!
That bastard!
Are you nuts? He's an inspector.
- Let me go! - Please don't.
So, you just sit by and watch?
If you do, we'll all die.
It'll irritate him more.
Smells good!
You have to turn it over.
Go away!
You've no idea how to cook meat.
Jin-hyeong!
Did you eat yet?
We're eating chicken today.
We have chicken!
It's chicken day!
What's with him?
Have plenty.
How did you buy a chicken?
Those people you saw earlier
they bought our brushes.
The brushes are still there.
Did you read their faces?
Read their faces?
They were quite persistent.
- Am I not allowed? - You promised.
How can a scholar do such a crude thing?
Should I study and take up a public office then?
Why not?
You're asking me why?
A traitor's family can't serve in the government.
I saw books in your room.
Don't even think about it.
Like your grandpa
you'll be harmed if you work for the government.
No, I'll work for the government.
Even if that means I'd be killed like my grandfather.
How dare you?
You even drink?
I'm not a kid anymore. I'm over 17 now.
Jin-hyeong finish eating!
What's the matter? He drinks with me sometimes.
You were too harsh.
I want him to give up.
Give up?
Back when you were following around peddlers
I tried to drink myself to death.
When I hung myself on the girder
I saw him looking at me and crying.
He was about five.
All skin and bones.
'Daddy, save me...'
I started to support him by begging.
I think he limps because he didn't eat properly.
He's got the intelligence and writing skills like me
but not being able to use them filled him with resentment.
My poor sister married to a doomed family.
Do you know how rich we were in the past?
All the ladies wanted to see me from a distance and...
What's in the past doesn't count.
I'm going to Yeonhong.
What?
We can't live like this forever.
I learned face reading because I had nothing to do.
It's no use here.
Maybe I can make big bucks in Hanyang.
I'll support my family with my talent.
We'll eat meat and rice. Buy new clothes.
We'll live proudly.
What do we say to Jin-hyeong?
We'll leave him a note saying we went to sell the brushes.
You can come back here now and then.
Tomorrow you wake me up early, okay?
Nae-kyeong!
Jin-hyeong!
We shouldn't have drunk so much.
Jin-hyeong!
I'm going to study at a quiet temple.
When becoming a government official
I'll take you two.
Take care of yourselves.
Please forgive me.
That, that little...
I'll take him.
Just let him go.
We'll be leaving soon, too.
Jin-hyeong!
He writes well like his grandpa unlike his dad.
His leg...
Take care.
My son.
Come on.
I think they're staring at us.
It's because I look good with grooming.
All dressed up.
I think they're looking at me.
Look at them.
Fish out of water!
I know how to deal with country bumpkins.
Prepare a big feast.
Yes, ma'am.
Hanyang is the best!
Pass me that meat.
We were just tasting.
Just a tiny bit.
- Girls. - Yes, ma'am.
What are you doing?
- Where are you...? - Hey, hey!
What's going on?
He's the best face reader in town.
Treat him like one.
Sit here, sir.
Pour me a glass.
Can you read my face?
He's the face reader. I read hearts.
Hearts?
Yes, here.
How about me? Men don't like me.
There you go.
What's this?
You have pretty round face but it's too plain.
Put this on and men will find you more attractive.
Is that so?
You look much better.
I have a question.
There are two big powers in this country: Lee and Kim.
They fight everyday
killing people here and there. It's quite terrifying.
Who do you think will win in the end?
I heard the rumors early on.
Lee is Prince Su-yang and Kim is Kim Jong-seo.
Yes.
But I can't tell because I haven't seen their faces.
People say Lee looks like a wolf
and Kim resembles a tiger.
A wolf and a tiger.
Let me think.
Aha!
How would I know?
Stronger one will win.
It's time for the contract.
Contract?
I wouldn't know even if I read...
Don't bore us with this stuff.
Yeah, don't make the ladies wait!
It's time to read hearts.
Good gracious. What a mess.
Hey, get up. Rise and shine!
Who are you?
It's me. You don't remember?
- Get ready for the clients! - Clients?
Don't you remember the contract?
Do you know how much you drank?
'I agree to see clients from sun rise to sun down...'
Had fun with the girls last night?
'...flogging?' What's this?
Hey, this isn't fair.
You think you can rip us off?
You are so wrong!
Hey, let go!
You little rat!
Let me go!
I'm sorry, sir.
Line up!
How long do we have to do this?
This is good. Making easy bucks!
It's so easy!
My wits are better than face reading.
Come quickly.
You still have twenty more to carry.
Can't believe this.
We shouldn't have drunk that day.
I told you we should stop!
'Reading hearts?', if I recall.
Oh my gosh!
That's does it!
- I've had it! - Hey!
I told you to give up your temper.
You can't live like the old days.
Then you'll just sit here and let them do this?
We can't undo the contract even if you go beat them up.
You'll get flogged.
I told you your temper will ruin you.
Nothing's solved by foul temper.
Where are you going?
I've been observing for a few days this room is quite suspicious.
It might be a room for special clients.
To succeed, you need to meet big shots.
You see?
Come in.
You two can wait here.
- Was I right? - Yes.
Look at that flabby ass.
I told you to keep your muscles tight at all times.
That's better!
I'm worried I look fat because of my big breasts.
Take it down!
Do you want me to pop them like a pig's bladder?
No thanks!
Let me see.
She's blocking again.
Looks like you'll bear a son.
Sir Jang nyeong from the Inspection Board is here.
- Isn't he Kim Jong-seo's man? - Yes.
There's been a murder case.
He wants you to find the murderer.
How would I know that just by looking at faces?
That's crazy.
Sir Jang nyeong!
It's an honor to serve you at my humble place.
I'm sorry for visiting you like this.
No problem.
Inspection Board official's involved in this case.
It's quite urgent. I heard you're very good.
That's right.
I've heard the gist of it
I know it's inconvenient but I'm refraining from...
Sir Jang nyeong!
Who's this?
I'm Kim Nae-kyeong her business partner.
Why were you in there?
Precious view in there.
'Private' readings, huh? I want referrals.
Madame here told me to assist you in your investigation, sir.
Is that so?
You knew I'd come!
These three were at the site.
But they won't admit even after tortures.
I'm sure it's one of them.
The murder was committed this morning.
You probably still have the body.
I'd like to see it.
If you look at the face of the victim
broad forehead and high ear bones
meaning she's destined to live a long life.
It's clearly a murder case.
Are you the husband?
Why did you kill your wife?
What?
My reading tells me you weren't compatible with each other.
It must have been difficult.
Faces of weasel and chicken. They can't hit it off together.
- Hey - Yes, sir.
- Take him into custody. - Yes, sir.
Meeting a right match is more important than good face.
If it weren't for you, we could've condemned an innocent man.
It's my pleasure to help the innocent.
This is way more than what we made before!
We gotta get out of here.
How do we trick that vile woman?
Kim Nae-gyeong, are you the best face reader in town?
Who are you?
Paeng-heon!
Is this him?
The man who found the murderer by reading faces?
Yes, he's unbelievable.
What should we do?
He could be a problem. Kill him.
You have to go.
- Take care of him. - Yes, sir.
Let's go.
They dropped something here.
What are you doing?
I was in a dust storm in my dream.
And now I have real sand in my mouth.
That's from the muddy well.
I had sandy mouth, too.
So the murderer I caught was one of Su-yang's men?
That's why they tried to kill us.
Correct.
If not for Kim Jong-seo's men
we'd be dead by now.
That's what I heard.
He could be a problem. Kill him.
Let's leave.
What?
Money's not worth our lives.
- Where are you going? - Gosh!
Sir Jang Nyeong.
I am a simple face reader doing simple work
I think it best to stay out of politics.
I'm sorry about that.
No need.
We'll be off then.
Before you go
there's someone who wants to see you.
Why don't you come say hello?
- Perhaps another time. - Yes, later.
- There's no later. - No, thank you.
He's a busy man.
We're fine!
That's weird.
Never seen anyone refuse to see Lord Kim Jong-seo.
Did you say Lord Kim Jong-seo?
Indeed.
He was curious about you.
But since you're too busy...
Wait, wait!
It's part of our job to get into trouble.
It's what happens when we tell the truth.
It happens quite often.
- All the time. - Every time.
Let's go.
Where is he?
Is he the one who caught the murderer by reading faces?
His name is Kim Nae-kyeong.
Bold.
Stubborn.
Principled.
He's exactly as they say.
What a remarkable face!
A face of a tiger.
Why are you staring at me?
Do I have a good face?
Yes.
You've got a distinguished face as people say.
Do they say I look like a tiger?
Yes.
You're brave and strong like a tiger.
You're a tiger.
A tiger himself.
He asked you to hire people at the Inspection Board?
Yes.
So you're an official now?
It's not really a job since I'm just there to give advice.
But it's pretty important work.
You're an official!
Don't laugh! People will talk.
Act calm.
One has to be modest.
Civil service, here. Military service, there.
Human face is the embodiment of nature and its order.
Head shall be round like the sky.
Eyes shall shine like the sun and the moon.
Mouth is the sea philtrum is the river.
It should be long and impressive.
Nose, cheekbones, and chin shall be high like mountains.
Hair must be fine and abundant like trees and grass.
If you take these into account
you won't make huge mistakes.
This candidate is handsome and is from a good family.
I'd like to hire him.
How many times do I have to tell you?
Scribes need to record all the time.
It's not good to change scribes often.
But this one likes to drink.
He might develop dementia later.
Also, he's unstable and likes to change jobs often.
Are you the candidate's cousin?
Does he like to drink?
Yes, he drinks like a fish and then some.
You should hire him as a wine taster.
Who's that?
Why do you ask?
- He looks... - What?
Rotten, completely.
52 bags of whole grain.
43 bags of refined grain.
34 rolls of silk and 40 ounces of silver.
He gathered all these illegally?
How did you know? He looked so naive.
His eyes are charming but his mouth is sly.
That's a bad sign.
He'd have ripped off everything if I had not caught him.
Isn't she the one who had men troubles?
After you put watermelon seed on her she's been the talk of the town.
What? She still keeps the seed on the face?
No, Yeon-hong made her a mole with pig blood.
Amazing. Changing one's fate, huh?
Please change mine, too.
This isn't gonna work.
He'll come soon. Wait here.
What's this?
It's precious ginseng.
- Ginseng? - Yes.
Come to the front.
Please line up straight.
What's this?
Dried persimmons.
You need to wait.
Put them here.
Why are you on the line?
You're funny.
They're all here to see you.
They want you to read faces and pick out corrupted officials.
Look what they brought. Black peppers and ice!
That's cold!
Mr. Kim!
Don't look surprised.
Ice and peppers are silly.
Why are you on the line?
I'm here to see
the greatest face reader called Mr. Kim.
Follow me.
Where are we going?
I have prepared a nice place for you near here.
You should come.
I also prepared a palanquin.
A palanquin?
We're partners, aren't we?
Paeng-heon.
Don't you feel like we're walking on the cloud?
I feel like the world is mine.
Do you want a ride?
Maybe next time?
Is it my fault that there are so many corrupted officials?
There were always corrupted officials
under any king Your Majesty.
But why so many now?
I hired an amazing face reader as an inspector, Your Majesty.
He's at the Inspection Board.
He's excellent at finding people who's got anything to hide.
I am Your Majesty's
most humble and obedient servant.
You can
see through people?
I don't intend to. It's just...
my humble talent.
That's very intriguing.
However
despite being able to read people's past
you probably can't read the future, right?
Isn't that for the gods?
Actually...
if you take a good look at the past
you can predict the future quite accurately.
Of course, you can't know everything
- but the general direction... - Nonsense!
You should use your skill to encourage people
not to make them worry.
If that's the case you better shut your mouth.
I'll keep a close eye on you.
If I see anything suspicious you will be removed.
Did I do anything wrong?
Why is he angry at me?
He's the one who wanted to see me.
Where did he get this mutt?
He's out now. He'll be late.
Come back tomorrow.
Who do you think you're talking to?
What's going on?
Don't mind here.
If you come late at night like this
you gotta bring something, you know.
Bring something tomorrow
other than those swords.
Your Majesty! Your Majesty!
Come on, are you kidding me?
You're the king?
- Hey, hey - The king!
The king.
I came here unofficially
because I don't want this in the record.
Some people want to take over the throne.
Figure out who they are
so I can prepare for a possible coup.
My king!
I've never seen the faces of important men.
I'm not fit for...
Find those who are willing to step on others
and those who are willing to kill for what they want.
As my condition gets worse
it's hard to tell what's going to happen in the future.
I want to depend on you.
You can disguise as my attendant and look at those people.
It's best to look at them at places they're familiar with.
Do you have any good idea?
The man who killed his brothers to become a king.
Lee Bang-won.
A traitor's face.
You think he'll reward us when you succeed?
What?
The king appointed you personally!
I think he'll give you an important position.
Yes, yes.
Wasn't sure what to make of it
but my time has come this is it.
Is that so?
- Lord Nae-kyeong! - Hey, stop it.
What?
His Majesty bestowed this painting upon me?
The first one I read was Premier Hwang Bo-in.
He's a typical nobleman.
He's lazy and is happy with the status quo.
How about my brother An-pyeong?
Prince An-pyeong.
An honest man.
Excellent eyes for beauty.
He doesn't consider his noble birth special.
He's too delicate to become a killer.
When he saw bugs he drew them instead of killing.
Shin Suk-ju is a very smart man.
He has reached his position easily.
That's why he's more interested in
women than power.
You will read Prince Su-yang next.
He's the most ambitious one among my brothers.
Please look into his soul.
He gave me a painting?
Is he Prince Su-yang?
He's afraid of you.
He doesn't have the guts to steal the throne.
He is easily pleased with small things.
Your Majesty has nothing to worry about.
You sure?
I'm sure.
Do you have children?
I have a son.
It doesn't matter when I die.
But I worry about the Crown Prince.
How would that young thing survive in this menacing world?
I cannot fathom.
They've passed the state exam.
I see.
Do you know him?
No.
He looked familiar.
It's nothing.
He changed his name.
Let me ask you a question.
You got the highest score. What was the hardest task?
It was not giving in to destiny.
Father!
Destiny? Give in?
I won't allow this.
I told you I'll become an official.
I couldn't use my name so I borrowed other's.
But, why are you here?
Because Lord Kim Jong-seo...
That's not the point, is it?
You already sensed he took the top place?
I'm sorry, father.
Alright, go.
Pardon?
Since you took the job do your best.
I knew it!
I knew he'd pass.
He could become a minister!
Nonsense.
Right now he has a small position
but if he keeps lying
it'll be hard to become even a small town official.
Are you Kim Nae-kyeong?
Yes?
The king left a special order for you.
Kim Nae-kyeong
accept the king's letter.
Your majesty!
By the time you read this I will be in the afterlife.
It is painful to think that my son will be alone.
It'll be hard for him to hold on to his throne alone.
I want you and Kim Jong-seo to help him.
You know what it is like to have a son.
Please treat my son like your own.
His Majesty knew all along.
But nobody had the face of a traitor.
How about Su-yang?
The king had ordered me to inspect him closely.
And since he's your enemy I paid more attention.
But he was of no importance.
Nonsense!
I may know nothing, but he's got a look of a traitor.
What?
Follow me. Check it out yourself.
Prince Su-yang is coming!
Find those who are willing to step on others
and those who are willing to kill for what they want.
He's a vicious wolf.
He will rip your throat out.
He has
a traitor's face.
Hunting during a wake?
People won't take kindly.
It was just an archery practice with friends.
Don't fret over it.
Who's that with you?
He's my aide.
Aren't you the famous face reader?
My instinct's right!
Lord, you believe in face reading
like the late king?
What can you say about my face?
My grandma used to say I have handsome ears.
Is that true?
They're perfect.
I'm having a party soon.
You should come.
I was a fool.
I read the wrong man.
This man won't be afraid of blood for the throne.
But how did they know I was coming?
Kim Nae-kyeong!
Hey, face reader.
How have you been?
He could be a problem. Kill him.
Why don't you read my face too?
Face reader Kim.
You work hard these days.
Have you been following me?
You have an interesting talent.
I've warned Su-yang about you.
That's how I got you and your king fooled.
I have an offer.
Let us change the world together.
Nothing difficult.
All you have to do is tell this to the king.
Late king had told you to find a potential traitor and
that person you found was Kim Jong-seo.
Tell him Kim is plotting for a coup and he should be stopped.
What say you?
Get rid of Kim and put Su-yang on the throne?
Never in my life will I help you commit treason.
Do you think I'll kill you that easily?
I'll gouge your eyes out
so you can't read faces anymore.
Not only that.
I'll cut off both legs of your brother-in-law.
You devil!
And I'll find your one and only son.
I'll find him and butcher him.
Don't you dare!
Mr. Kim Nae-kyeong
I know you want to restore your family's honor.
If Su-yang becomes king
Your family will prosper for generations to come.
Chance of a lifetime.
Think about it.
They vetted you.
They'll find us wherever we go.
Let's do as they say.
I heard Su-yang is very generous
and loyal to his men.
How can you ask so easily to commit treason?
Think about it!
Think about your son Jin-hyeong.
He's hiding his name to keep a small position.
That kid could become a minister!
Isn't success what you wanted?
This is the only way!
Just think of Jin-hyeong.
Who's that?
Why are you here?
Vice Premier Kim ordered us to come.
He wants you to report the number and names of
every illegal soldier you have.
Tell him to focus on educating the young king.
What is the point of this?
These are all the soldiers you have?
Three's more than enough to hunt a cub.
How dare you.
That's very rude.
It's a perfect shot.
You hit the tiger!
I thought I saw something.
It was a tiger you caught earlier.
Please let me catch it next time?
Of course!
Wait!
Let's give this tiger to Lord Kim as a present.
Should I skin it first?
Or cut the head first?
That's a hard question.
MY lord!
Please be calm!
You don't have to hide.
I knew you'd be here.
Between a tiger and a wolf.
Haven't made up your mind yet?
Why are you here?
Every famous fortunetellers and face readers are here.
Of course I'm invited.
People are so fast.
They're attracted to power as moths are to light.
Who would stay with the young king?
This looks exactly like the palace.
Now
shall we talk about my fortune?
You will be the new leader of the eastern peninsula!
Oh my king!
Please lead us from ignorance!
Your face's five points resemble the king's mountain.
Is that true?
- Pardon me? - Are you telling the truth?
Of course.
Your expression says otherwise.
Tell me the truth.
- Your Highness... - Tell me!
Without a coup you won't be able to
become a king.
Please don't commit treason.
It'll be a tragedy for this country.
This country is founded by the Lees.
Why is a Kim trying to ruin everything?
The old tiger you work for could kill the young king.
I know you work for Kim.
Oh, it's you!
I'm glad to see you.
Things were getting boring.
Would you read my face?
Am I going to be the king?
Tell me.
Do I have a king's face?
Perhaps I have odd features.
Even the best face reader can't read my face.
Make up your mind quickly.
Because it'll be too late when I'm already the king.
You could've said what he wanted.
You could've been killed.
Are you doing well?
Huh?
I know what it's like.
It's difficult when you first start.
I'm happy when I help people in need.
If you hadn't born in our family
you could've kept your name and done much better.
You don't feel bitter?
I do feel bitter.
That's why I investigated grandfather's case.
He had committed many crimes.
Because of him many people died
and the country was harmed.
But rather than feeling bitter for myself
I decided to focus on my work.
Perhaps I'll be able to wash away some of his sins.
Thank you.
Huh?
Your face look a bit different.
My eyes are weaker.
I think it's because I read under dim light.
Eyes are the window to the soul.
You have to watch out your face changing in a bad way.
Okay.
I want to become a proud father to you.
I believe Su-yang is ready.
If you face a foe like him head-on
you will undoubtedly lose.
We have to start soon.
When?
I'll do it tomorrow after king's banquet.
Su-yang's only weakness
is having less experience than you.
But he has a secret schemer who's very helpful to him.
I have prepared a kid who looks like him.
The body of the real king
will be cut into 300 parts and dispersed in the mountains.
Preemptive strike is the only answer.
That's the only way.
This is my father's writing.
My father had told you
to find a traitor by face reading?
Isn't this Prince Su-yang?
Please look at that portrait of King Taejong.
Doesn't Su-yang look like him?
What are you implying?
Are you telling me just like my great-grandfather
my uncle will take the throne?
Your Majesty.
Take a look at Su-yang's face.
He has his grandfathers strong desire for power.
Face reading is a trivial matter.
My father really believed in this?
Your Majesty.
Lord Kim, are you that afraid of Su-yang?
It's not a matter of being afraid.
The whole country's at stake.
We're not just telling you based on face reading.
People can't stop talking about Su-yang's atrocious acts.
You have to stop him immediately.
My pawn is threatening your king.
Nine o'clock!
You're leaving early to China tomorrow.
Should we stop?
It'll be like a tour don't you worry.
Excuse me while I use the restroom.
Stick it in under the ear lobe.
Don't soil your hands, Prince
Today Vice Premier Kim and Nae-kyeong came.
They told me that you're trying to dethrone me.
Who can predict the future?
They only know how to read faces.
They don't know what's underneath.
Nobody knows what's underneath.
Don't listen to them.
I don't want to.
I remember the friendly uncle who took care of me.
I want to remember you like that.
If it is my destiny to commit treason
I will change it with my free will.
What is it?
There was an order to switch at nine o'clock.
- From whom? - Vice Premier Kim.
Since when is he in charge of security?
I asked him to do it.
I thought the guards would be tired without a shift change.
Please excuse me.
I'll be off to bed.
A traitor's face.
Before Su-yang leaves for China
his soldiers were on standby near palace.
He was with the king until late.
And I found this poison needle while searching the floor.
This prison kills the victim by inducing a 10-day fever.
He may be trying to divert the suspicion while he's in China.
He's getting bold.
It must be that schemer's idea.
We have to catch him while Su-yang's away.
But how? You said you only know his voice.
Give me some of your men.
I'll comb through the city if needed.
There are 3 suspicious figures under Su-yang.
Ahn Kyeong-son is Su-yang's personal guard.
Lee Mong-ga, a love child of a court scholar
staying day and night at courtesan houses.
Finally, a former royal guard whose details aren't clear.
He quit a long time ago.
Never visited again.
But why look for the neck cripple?
Has he done something?
Neck cripple?
He always does like this.
What's his name?
His name is Han Myeong-hwoe.
Han Myeong-hwoe.
The prince's not here. Get out!
The schemer's name is Han Myeong-hwoe.
He's been helping Su-yang for two years.
Except for Su-yang, not many have seen his face.
I may be able to find him by his voice alone.
So much garbage here!
Who's Han Myeong-hwoe?
There's no such person!
Find him if you can!
Say something.
Like what?
Like a cry?
Did someone die?
Maybe a chicken cry?
Cock-a-doodle-doo!
The king is angry for causing a scene at Su-yang's home.
When I heard he was reading a book on face reading
I thought there was hope.
But now he has sent all the doctors to Su-yang
because he got sick on the road.
Blood is thicker than water, indeed.
Lord.
What did you just say?
Su-yang contracted a disease in China
but it's nothing serious.
King is reading a book on face reading?
Yes.
It's the record of Han Dynasty when treason¡¯s prevailed.
This is it!
Fire! Fire!
Fire.
You must've been tired.
We heard your snoring from here.
Snoring?
Are you kidding me?
I hear you can make beautiful moles.
You want me to go with you
and put a mole on Su-yang's face?
You seriously think I'd help you?
- Yes. - Why?
You remember this?
It's our partnership contract.
So what?
If I get caught while messing up Su-yang's face
I could say my partner ordered me to do it.
What would happen then?
Is it hot in here?
Give it to me, you ass!
Please I beg you!
What are they doing?
Do you know Vice Premier Kim?
I respect him very much.
People with yellow tags are hired because it means
Kim Jong-seo recommended them.
You have to tell him to stop this nonsense with yellow tags.
If we do that, it'll only make Su-yang happy.
It's unavoidable to stop Su-yang!
The prince will be attended by outside doctors.
The royal physician may leave now.
Are you guys new?
Yes.
The security's tight.
You look perfect. You fit the part.
If this is my path to afterlife
I'll haunt you forever.
Ouch!
Once he inhales this
he'll feel no pain and remember nothing.
But it'll only last for a short time.
If we don't finish until this incense is burned
we'll all be killed.
Are you blind?
This part!
Hey, hey!
- We're finished! - All done!
I almost died.
I had to pee so badly.
I can't stop peeing.
I was raised in the courtesan house since the age of 5.
Tiniest mistake could lead to beatings
so I learned how to read people to survive.
That's how I became the owner of the biggest courtesan house.
You're better at face reading.
But I think I'm better at reading people.
Do you think this will stop the revolt?
It has to.
If it works out don't forget me.
If it doesn't forget me.
So...
Who is it?
Who wrote about the Vice Premier's yellow tag?
Alright.
Tell me more about it.
Earlier, I saw an official tagging himself.
Back when he was an inspector he extorted money from the locals
and stole people's wives.
Yellow tag could be useful if it's used right
but it also has many problems.
I'm glad someone came forward to tell me about this.
I believe something must be done.
About Vice Premier Kim.
He recommends people with yellow tags
and talks behind your back.
That's because you're too nice to him.
My father trusted him.
That's why I...
Are you okay?
It's nothing.
The sun was too strong.
Qin Xi of Zhao State took over the throne
by starting a coup
after 3 moles appeared on his forehead.
He has his grandfather's strong desire for power.
People can't stop talking about Su-yang's atrocious acts.
Sine when is he in charge of security?
Who ordered you to guard me?
It's...
Tell me now.
Prince Su-yang ordered me.
I was blind.
I'm surrounded by Su-yang's men.
I can't let his men watch over me.
Exile him.
We can't make a mistake.
Tomorrow when Su-yang's men escort the Chinese envoy
we will strike him.
He's giving a reception to the envoy right now.
Make sure this does not leak.
Nae-kyeong, Nae-kyeong.
Will he give you an important position?
Did he promise?
You didn't even ask?
Of course you didn't.
I'll ask when things die down.
I'm sure Lord Kim could give Jin-hyeong a good position.
You have to ask before you offer to help.
You never know what might happen.
It's ready.
Here.
Is this good for eyes?
I need mums from that mountain.
They work the best.
But I hurt my back and can't climb the mountain.
So I used the next best thing. It'll work pretty well.
When will your back improve?
After a couple of days.
What is this?
These are old matters.
You don't have to worry about it.
Say it now!
Who told the king about the yellow tags?
Mr. Kim from the Inspection Board left this for you.
Here.
I'm proud that you were promoted.
Take this. It's good for your eyes.
It'd have been nice to see him since we were there.
I didn't want him to feel uncomfortable.
I hope the medicine works well.
Where are you going?
Going to get some mums.
I want the best for him.
Let's go together.
No need.
How dare you talk about the Vice Premier like that?
Kid, you know nothing.
You'll shut your mouth when you can't see anything.
Is Mr. Kim here?
Mr. Kim?
He's out...
What's wrong?
A young man in Saganwon hurt his eyes badly.
He wants to see Mr. Kim.
A young man in Saganwon...
You mean Jin-hyeong?
Jin-hyeong hurt his eyes?
Right eye's gone.
The left one's bad too.
Will he lose his sight?
Yes.
Jin-hyeong!
What happened?
Uncle.
Yes, it's me. What happened?
Where's father? I want to see him.
Where are you, father!
Stay back!
Please.
Please fix his eyes!
What happened?
I heard Kim Jong-seo ordered this.
He got pissed that kid told the king about the yellow tags.
No way he'd harm a kid like that!
I heard them talking.
They said they were Kim's men.
And Kim will put his grandson in his position.
Jin-hyeong.
Get up early tomorrow before your father and leave for Hanyang.
What?
Go find the peddler I know.
He'll lend you a new name.
Study hard and get a job as you wish.
You can even become a minister.
You know that, right?
Who's there?
I came to see Prince Su-yang.
Kim Nae-kyeong's brother-in-law is here.
Why are you here?
Don't send your men away tomorrow.
What?
Don't escort the Chinese envoy.
Kim Jong-seo will kill you while your men are away.
Why are you telling me this?
I heard you made a promise to my brother.
Please...
Keep that promise.
Please restore our family's name
and offer a position to my brother-in-law
and my nephew.
That's all I ask.
Prince Su-yang.
Your highness, I beg you.
I promise.
We'd have fallen for their tricks.
How did you know he'd come if that kid was hurt?
Who could've predicted that?
I thought Kim Nae-kyeong would come.
What did you just say?
I said all we have to do is wait.
He will fix Jin-hyeong's eyes
and give him a good post.
Wake up!
Kim Jong-seo...
He doesn't care about people like us.
He put his grandson in Jin-hyeong's place!
We'll all die!
If Kim dies, we're all dead too!
I have to stop them. Or everyone will perish!
Lord Kim!
Vice Premier.
Welcome.
We have much to discuss let's go inside.
Vice Premier.
You have to run.
Run? What do you mean?
MY lord!
Where have you been?
Why are you here at this hour?
I lost my hat string on my way.
I was wondering if I could borrow one.
I think you could survive without a hat string for a night.
I need to go somewhere.
I don't think they will like my hat without a string.
Bring a hat string.
You look like you'd live a long life till seventy.
How old are you?
Seventy this year.
I have a wish this year.
What is it?
To become a king.
What is this?
Su-yang, you bastard!
Who do you think you are?
MY lord!
The tiger hunt is over.
Su-yang killed Kim Jong-seo!
Su-yang...
killed Kim Jong-seo!
Gather your men and arrest Su-yang.
If we're late we can't stop the revolt.
Who says that? Who are you?
Who else?
It's the famous face reader.
Kim Nae-kyeong.
How have you been?
Han Myeong-hwoe.
You all committed treason...
All thanks to you.
You bastards!
You'll be doomed.
Burn in hell!
I'll show you what hell is.
Premier Hwang Bo-in is here.
Who are you?
Have you enjoyed life?
Did you want me exiled?
If you have succeeded I'd be dead by now.
That's power.
Either I die.
Or my enemy dies.
Three premiers have been killed for manipulating the king.
From now on I will control the premiers
ministry of administration and ministry of justice.
I'll also take control of the army to protect the king.
If you support me
line up here.
If you don't you'll be executed.
We will not be able to undo this atrocious act.
But I beg you. Please be a good king
and rule your subjects kindly.
I have to report to the king
that I took care of all his enemy.
You can go back now.
Su-yang killed Kim Jong-seo!
The world has changed!
He's killing everyone who's against him.
All the officials are being arrested.
Jin-hyeong...
These are Su-yang's enemies.
Everyone will be executed.
Walk straight!
Jin-hyeong!
It's your father!
I'm here! Jin-hyeong!
Nae-kyeong!
Jin-hyeong!
Your highness!
Prince Su-yang!
Prince Su-yang...
please let him live!
That's my son. Please let him live.
Where is your son?
That one over there is my son.
He's just a kid.
Please save him your highness.
Jin-hyeong!
- Are you okay? - Father?
Don't worry.
Jin-hyeong.
Is he your son?
Yes, he is.
He was not on my side.
He's an idiot.
He's just a kid.
Then can I take your eyes
for forgiving your son?
Yes, you can.
Please take my eyes!
Father, no!
Father!
You heard him.
Gouge out his arrogant eyes!
No! Father, no!!
Leave it that.
Why would I need your eyes?
Instead, I want you to read my face.
So, am I fit to be a king?
Still can't tell?
No.
Your highness
will become a king.
You will become a great king
who will make this country stronger.
You will go down in history
as the greatest king your highness!
That makes me feel good.
Let's finish here.
Go now.
Are you okay, father?
It's okay, Jin-hyeong.
It's all over.
Let's go home now.
Back to where we came from.
Hey, face reader!
Actually it's weird.
I'm already the king. Why did you say I'll become one?
Aren't you a crook?
You should've said that before I became the king.
Anybody can say what you just said.
But since I asked I should pay.
Jin-hyeong!
No, no! Jin-hyeong!
Father, save me...
Jin-hyeong!
I should've killed you
but since you helped me I'm letting you live.
Jin-hyeong!
Did he know his son would die at a young age?
I sure didn't.
Hey!
How have you been?
I remember him being very talkative.
Because of guilt he cut his throat.
He survived but lost his voice.
I didn't want to tell him. But I didn't have a choice.
Step back!
It's nice.
The sea breeze is fine.
But isn't this a place for retirement?
It's too peaceful.
I don't think you fit here.
Have you recorded all the faces of those revolters?
Write them down.
It'll be useful to remember all the details
of those who enjoy wars.
You think all of you had special faces that day?
I saw faces of swindlers
faces of butchers
faces of scholars.
They were just normal faces.
What then?
I'm saying, Su-yang meant to be the king.
What?
I only saw faces.
I didn't see the changing era.
I only saw the waves.
I should have seen the wind.
Wind is what makes the waves.
You're saying nothing could have stopped our coup?
I'm saying you were on the big wave at that moment.
We were drifting away.
One day we'll go up again.
Eventually the big wave will break down.
Are you cursing me?
This is the first time I see your face clearly.
It's a weird face.
It looks shallow and yet noble.
But, you have a bad ending.
You.
Will be beheaded.
Time flies.
Everything seems like yesterday.
I'm so old now.
After that I did my best to
not make any enemies.
Maybe that's why.
Su-yang died 20 years ago.
And I've served four kings.
You were right.
Face reading is a superstition.
I didn't get beheaded.
He was wrong after all.
14 years after he became the king
Su-yang was sick with disease and guilt.
He converted to Buddhism and atoned for his crime.
After freeing hundreds of people he exiled or enslaved
he suddenly died a few days later.
17 years after his death Han Myeong-hwoe was accused of
being related to the death of the birthmother of King Yeonsan.
His body was dug up and he was beheaded posthumously.
What are you looking at?
The world.
How is the world?
The Face Reader