Post by ajk on Dec 10, 2021 3:15:54 GMT -5
Unfortunately many of the character names that are provided in Hangul during these episodes aren't subtitled in English. I'll do the best I can here but there may be a few misspellings.
The AsianWiki page for this series has photos of all of the actors playing significant roles and I found it helpful. For some reason the link refuses to post correctly here, but just go to AsianWiki and search for "King of Tears" and you'll find the page.
LEE SEONGGYE'S FAMILY
Lee Seonggye (1) - Bangwon's father. First seen in a dream of Bangwon's in Ep1. From the Jeonju Lee clan. Commanding general of the Goryeo army. Named Right Prime Minister by King Woo in Ep2 (as demanded by Lee after the rebellion). Has himself appointed Right Prime Minister in Ep3. Named Commander of Three Military Forces in Ep5. Appointed Supreme General by King Gongyang in Ep7. Becomes king in Ep9. Abdicates in favor of Prince Banggwa in Ep18. Dies of old age in Ep27.
Lady Han (1) - LSG's first wife; Bangwon's mother. Dies suddenly in Ep6.
Lee Bangu (1) - First son of LSG and Lady Han. In Ep10 is named Grand Prince Jinan.
Lee Banggwa (1) - Second son of LSG and Lady Han. First seen in a dream of Bangwon's in Ep1. Named Assistant Royal Secretary by LSG in Ep3. In Ep10 is named Grand Prince Youngan. In Ep11 his father names him a commander in the Royal Guard. In Ep18 is named crown prince, and then later in Ep18 is given the royal seal by his father, who abdicates and makes his son king. Adopts Bangwon in Ep20 as a son so that he can name Bangwon crown prince and abide Bangwon's wish to "maintain the rule of rightful succession." Gives up the throne in Ep21 so that Bangwon can take it.
Lady Kim (10) – Lee Banggwa’s wife. After Banggwa takes the throne in Ep18 she's known as Queen Jeongan of the Kim Clan. Dies of apparent natural causes in Ep28.
Bul No (18) - Son of Banggwa and his mistress. Named crown prince in Ep18 immediately after Banggwa becomes king.
Lee Bangui (1) - Third son of LSG and Lady Han. In Ep10 is named Grand Prince Ikan. In Ep11 his father gives him a commander-level assignment in the military.
Lee Banggan (1) - Fourth son of LSG and Lady Han. In Ep10 is named Grand Prince Hoian. In Ep11 his father gives him a commander-level assignment in the military. Exiled by Bangwon in Ep20 after losing a fight with him to become crown prince.
Lee Maengjong (17) - Son of Lee Banggan. Exiled with his father in Ep20 after participating in his father's challenge to Bangwon.
Lee Bangwon / King Taejong (1) - King of Joseon, first seen as king prior to a massive flashback that begins after the first scene in Ep1 and continues throughout the series. Fifth son of LSG and Lady Han. (In Ep3 we learn that there was a sixth son, Bangyeon, who died at a young age.) Has a civil-servant job in a government agency. In Ep2 we learn that he passed his official state examination. Named Right Assistant Transmitter by his father (involves delivering royal orders) in Ep3. In Ep10 is named Grand Prince Jeongan. In Ep11 his father gives him commanding authority over 500 House Guard soldiers; he later asks and is allowed to decline the soldiers. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Bwngwon Supreme General of the Three Offices. Named crown prince in Ep20. Becomes king in Ep21. Abdicates in Ep31 and gives the royal seal to Prince Choongnyeong, but decides to retain power over military affairs for the time being. Dies of natural causes in Ep32.
Lady Kang (1) - LSG's second wife; Bangwon's stepmother. In Ep10 she's installed as queen and is named Royal Consort Hyung. Dies in Ep13.
Lee Bangbeon (1) - First son of LSG and Lady Kang. In Ep10 we learn that he was named Grand Prince Muan. In Ep11 we learn that he's been given a "commanding position" in the military. In Ep17 he's exiled from the palace (and presumably reduced to commoner status) following Bangwon's coup. As he leaves into exile, he's murdered by private soldiers at Lee Banggon's order.
Bangbeon's wife (8) - Seen only in a family gathering in Ep8. Name not provided.
Lee Bangseok (1) - Second son of LSG and Lady Kang. In Ep10 he's named Grand Prince Uian and Crown Prince. In Ep17 following Bangwon's coup, Bangseok is demoted to commoner and exiled from the palace. As he leaves, he shouts an insult to Bangwon and is killed by a soldier; not clear if this was premeditated.
Lady Ryu (named 10, first seen in Ep8) – Bangseok’s wife. In Ep10, after not being named crown princess, she says that it's because she comes “from a minor family.” In Ep12 she's caught having an affair with a eunuch and is taken away to be executed (but we don't actually see it happen).
Lee Ongwa (3) - Military officer first seen training soldiers in Ep3 with Lee Jiran. In Ep4 we learn that he's LSG's brother.
Lee Jae / Je (7) – Son-in-law of LSG and Lady Kang (married to their eldest daughter). In Ep11 we learn that he's been given the title of Count Heungan and given a a "commanding position" in the military. Executed at Bangwon's order in Ep16.
Lee Hwa (8) – LSG’s half-brother. In Ep17, though, he's referred to as LGS's stepbrother. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Lee Supreme General and Head of Three Armies Command. We also learn he has the title of Lord Uian.
Princess Kyungsoon (8) - Daughters of LSG and Lady Kang. Married to Lee Jae. In Ep18 LSG takes her to the palace temple and has her head shaved; apparently she's to become a monk in order to preserve her life after her brothers Bangbeon and Bangseok are killed.
BANGWON'S FAMILY
Lady Min / Princess Jeongyeong / Queen Wongyeong (1) - Bangwon's wife. From the Yeoheung Min clan. In Ep2 we learn that she lost her first two children as infants. In Ep10 we learn that she's the second daughter. In Ep11 we first hear of her princess name and title. Named crown princess in Ep21. Installed as queen in Ep22. Dies of malaria in Ep32.
Prince Choongneyong / King Sejong (1) - Future King Sejong, third surviving son of Taejong and Queen Wongyeong; first seen as crown prince prior to a massive flashback in Ep1. He's born in Ep13 (not a prince at that time). Given the name Do and the formal name Choongnyeong by his father in Ep24. Named crown prince in Ep31. Becomes king in Ep31, although his father retains power over military affairs.
Lady Shim / Queen Soheon (29) - Prince Choongnyeong's wife.
Prince Choongnyeong's son (30) - Name not given.
Prince Choongnyeong's daughter (31) - Name not given.
Crown prince / Prince Yangnyeong (13) - Oldest surviving son of Taejong and Lady Min. In Ep31 he writes a letter to his father stepping down from the crown prince position, at the same time that Taejong and his court approve his replacement with Choongnyeong. Taejong renames him Yangnyeong and exiles him to Gyeonggi Province.
Lady Kim (31) - Prince Yangnyeong's wife. Holds the title of Dame of the Three Han States.
Prince Yangnyeong's wife and daughter (31) - Names not given.
Prince Hyoryeong (13) - Second surviving son of Taejong and Lady Min.
Lee Bangwon's two young daughters (1) - Names not given (yet). Seen as older girls in Ep21, with their three younger brothers.
Son of Lee Bangwon and Lady Min (2) - Name not given yet. Dies in infancy in Ep10.
Min Mujil (1) - Lady Min's brother. Civil official. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Min Taxation Officer. Fired and exiled by Taejong in Ep26 for alleged disloyalty to the king. In Ep28 Taejong orders him and his brother to commit suicide by poison, and we visit Jeju Island (their place of exile) and see them do so.
Min Mugu (1) - Lady Min's brother. Civil official. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Min Right General. Fired and exiled by Taejong in Ep26 for alleged disloyalty to the king. In Ep28 Taejong orders him and his brother to commit suicide by poison, and we visit Jeju Island (their place of exile) and see them do so.
Min Jae / Je (1) - Lady Min's father. Minister of Protocol (Rites) under King Woo. Scholar of the Office of Royal Scribes under King Gongyang. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Min Left Secretary of the Three Offices. In Ep22 he's referred to with the title Internal Prince Yeoheung. In Ep23, after being arrested for allegedly being behind an effort to intrude into the king's personal affairs (which he did do), he offers to withdraw from government permanently and stay home. Dies of old age in Ep27.
Lady Song (1) - Lady Min's mother. Wife of Min Je.
First surviving son of Bangwon and Lady Min (13) - The future Prince Yangnyeong. First met as a small boy in Ep13. Raised primarily by his grandmother as a young boy. Given the name Je by his father in Ep24.
Second surviving son of Bangwon and Lady Min (13) - The future Prince Hyoryeong. First met as a one-year-old in Ep13. Raised primarily by his aunt as a young boy. Given the name Ho and the formal name Hyoryeong by his father in Ep24.
Min Muhyul (27) - One of the queen's younger brothers. Appointed by Taejong to be Second Commander General of the Right Army in Ep28. Exiled in Ep29 by Taejong, partly for being held responsible for Lady Hyobin's cruel treatment during her pregnancy (which he had nothing to do with) and partly for allegedly speaking a disloyal opinion against Taejong.
Min Muhoe (27) - One of the queen's younger brothers. Appointed by Taejong to be Magistrate of Hanseong (noted as "a second-rank position in charge of governing the capital) in Ep28. Exiled in Ep29 by Taejong, partly for being held responsible for Lady Hyobin's cruel treatment during her pregnancy (which he had nothing to do with) and partly for allegedly speaking a disloyal opinion against Taejong.
OTHER ROYALS
King Woo (1) - 32nd king of Goryeo. Son of King Gongmin and a concubine (although paternity was eventually questioned). Dethroned and exiled to Ganghwa Island in Ep2 after attempting to kill LSG and other leaders of the rebellion. In Ep3 LSG revives an old controversy about Woo's paternity, and has nim demoted to commoner status and exiled. Executed in Ep4 under King Gongyang's order (pressured by Gongyang's political opposition).
King Chang (2) - Nine-year-old son of King Woo; elevated to the throne in Ep2 after his father was dethroned and exiled. In Ep3 LSG revives an old controversy about the paternity of Chang's father, and has Chang demoted to commoner status and exiled. Executed in Ep4 under King Gongyang's order (pressured by Gongyang's political opposition).
Royal Consort Jeong (3) - Widow of King Gongmin. From the Ahn clan.
Wang Yo / Prince Jeongchan / King Gongyang (3) – Related to LSG by marriage (to his first wife). Placed on the throne as 34th king of Goryeo by LSG in Ep3. Removed from the throne and exiled by LSG's allies in Ep9.
Wang Seok (7) – Crown prince of Goryeo; son of King Gongyang. Removed from his position and exiled by LSG's allies in Ep9.
MILITARY
Choi Yeong (1) - Goryeo's Regional Military Commander of Eight Provinces. Exiled to Gobonghyeon by King Woo in Ep2 (as demanded by Lee Seonggye after the rebellion) for war crimes.
Jo Minsu (1) - Regional Military Commander of the Left Flank. Named Left Prime Minister by King Woo in Ep2 (as demanded by LSG's after the rebellion). Executed in Ep2 after being accused of corruption (and after becoming LSG's political opponent).
Jo Yeongmu (1) - Subordinate officer under Lee Seonggye. In Ep11 he's put in charge of the 500 House Guard soldiers that are assigned by LSG to Bangwon (Bangwon later declines the command but Jo is still in charge of the soldiers). In Ep14 he's still leading the House Guard and has the title of General (not sure if the title is new or not; seemed like it might be new). In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Jo State Chancellery Officer. In Ep21 he loses his position and is exiled to Hwangju for momentarily having a tantrum upon learning he's lose his private army. In Ep23 Taejong forgives him and names him Supreme General of the First Rank, a position described as "a ranking officer who receives and disburses the king’s orders. And also manages military affairs." In Ep25 he's referred to as the Right State Councilor. He retires and leaves the palace in Ep29.
Lee Jiran (1) - Sworn brother of Lee Seonggye. Army general. Identified in Ep3 as "Royal Guard Officer." Dies of natural causes in Ep23. In Ep23 we learn that his title was Lord Cheonghae.
Jo Yeonggyu (2) - Officer in Lee Seonggye's army; commands roughly 50 officers and soldiers. Friendly with Bangwon. Described in Ep7 as LSG's "confidant."
Kwak Chungbo (2) - Appears to be the head of King Woo's personal guards.
Kim Jeo (2) - Goryeo military officer loyal to King Woo. Captured in Ep3 and presumably executed (although we never saw this) for attempting to assassinate LSG.
Park Wi (16) – General in charge of the Palace Guards. Killed by Lee Seok Beon in Ep16, during the invasion of Bangwon and his army.
Jo Saeui (21) – Apparently a soldier, and a subordinate of LSG's. First seen in Ep21 as LSG asks him to gather troops for an attempted rebellion against Bangwon's ascension to the throne. In Ep23 it's implied that his position is in the Dongbukmyeon region and not in the capital. In Ep24 we learn that he's related by marriage to the late Lady Kang/Queen Hyung. In Ep25 he's identified as the magistrate of Anbyeon Prefecture. Executed in Ep25 for his role in organizing and leading Taejo's rebellion effort.
Lee Geoyi (21) – Military commander first seen meeting with Taejong regarding dissolution of private armies in Ep21. Apparently had been fired and exiled with Jo Yeongmu in Ep21; we learn this in Ep24 when he's brought back and given a second chance by Taejong. In Ep25 we learn he's the Supreme Commander of the Left Provinces. In 25 Taejong orders Lee and his sons demoted to commoner status and exiled, all because he expressed dissatisfaction to Jo Yeongmu about Taejong's elimination of private armies.
Lee Cheon Woo (24) - Chiief army commander of the Anju region. LSG's nephew.
Lee Chonu (24) - Military commander and head of Wansan County.
CIVIL OFFICIALS
Jeong Rang !1) - High official. Bangwon's boss at the government agency he works at.
Jeong Dojeon ("Sambong") (2) - Adviser to Lee Seonggye after the capital invasion. Appointed Cashier and Accounting Officer in Ep3. Exiled in Ep6 By King Gongyang for allegedly seeking to have political prisoners killed. Removed from his position and ordered tortured and exiled by King Gongyang in Ep7 (at Jeong Mongju's instruction) for allegedly being a slave's descendant and seeking multiple murders to cover this up. In Ep10 LSG/King Taejo appoints him second-rank Assistant Chancellor of the State Chancellory and Commander of the Royal Guard, and gives him the title Count Bonghwa. In Ep13 he's referred to as the Supreme General of the Three Offices. Murdered by Bangwon in Ep16.
Jeong Mongju ("Poeun") (2) - Adviser to Lee Seonggye after the capital invasion. Appointed Junior Prime Minister in Ep3. Appointed Chancellor of the State Chancellory by King Gongyang in Ep7. Assassinated by soldiers loyal to the Lee family, at Bangwon's order, in Ep8.
Jeong Deukhu (2) - Goryeo aristocrat loyal to King Woo. Commits suicide in Ep3 as he's cornered by guards after his failed assassination attempt on Lee Seonggye.
Nam Eun (3) - High official. Ally of Lee Seonggye. In Ep11 we learn that he has a commander rank in the Royal Guard (like Jeong Dojeon has) and it's strongly implied that he has the title of Count Euiryeong. Executed at Bangwon’s order in Ep17 for collaborating with Jeong Dojeon.
Lee Saek ("Mokeun") (3) - Referred to as "master" by two of LSG's sons. Named First Prime Minister by King Gongyang in Ep3. In Ep4 Gongyang fires him and orders him exiled. Appointed "Great Lord of Hansan" by King Gongyang in Ep7.
Jo Jun (3) - First scene in a council meeting at which he's appointed Supreme Administrative Officer and Inspector General. Ally of LSG> Removed from his position and ordered tortured and exiled by King Gongyang in Ep7 (at Jeong Mongju's instruction) for allegedly conspiring with Jeong Dojeon in crimes. In Ep10 LSG/King Taejo appoints him Chancellor of the State Chancellory and gives him the title Count Pyongyang. In Ep17 his title is Left State Councilor.
Byeon Anyeol (3) - Appointed Grand Prime Minister (the #2 post) by King Gongyang in Ep3. In Ep4 Gongyang fires him and orders him exiled. In Ep5 King Gongyang is pressured into ordering Byeon's execution--we don't actually see it happen.
Yun Sojong (4) - High official first seen protesting Byeon Anyeol's appointment before King Gongyang. Ally of LSG.
Removed from his position and ordered tortured and exiled by King Gongyang in Ep7 (at Jeong Mongju's instruction) for allegedly conspiring with Jeong Dojeon in crimes.
Gwon Geun ("Yangchon") (5) – Apparently a scholar; one of many officials arrested for questioning under a manufactured premise of slandering the king and LSG. Returns to court in Ep12 with Min Jae.
Kim Jinyang (5) – One of several court officials still loyal to King Gongyang as of Ep5. In Ep6 his title is given: Remonstration Officer.
Ha Ryun (10) – Former minister first encountered in retirement. Returns to court in Ep12 with Min Jae. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Ha an official political scholar for the government. In Ep22 Taejong orders him to organize and lead a marriage office, to find a new queen. In Ep23 Taejong orders him to close the office. In Ep30 we learn that he holds the office of head of Jinsan county. Resigns from office in Ep30, remorseful over unethical actions that he took to enrich himself.
Nam Jae (11) – Senior official. In Ep17 he's referred to as "Junior Second Rank" and it's implied that he's Nam Eun's brother.
Park Eun (13) - Magistrate of Chunju County. Early supporter of Bangwon. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Park Inspection Officer. In Ep25 Bangwon refers to him as Lord Yeoseong. As of Ep32 he's the Left State Councilor.
Park Po (13) - Magistrate of Hwangju County. Early supporter of Bangwon. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Po Secondary Officer of Military Administration. In Ep19 Park is stripped of his position by Bangwon for loudly expressing dissatisfaction that his position isn't higher (having been one of Bangwon's key supporters). In Ep20 Bangwon has Park executed to make him the scapegoat for the conflict between Bangwon and Banggan (rather than executing Banggan).
Lee Sook Beon (12) – Scholar first seen entering the capital city to take the state examinations. In Ep13 we learn that he's the magistrate of Ansan County. Early supporter of Bangwon. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Lee Right Secretary. In Ep26 he's referred to as Lord Anseong (head of Anseong county). Stripped of his office and title and exiled to Hamyang in Ep30 by Taejong for offenses committed in office.
Gong Jo (sp?) (14) – Official from Ansan, first seen in Hanyang to oversee maintenance of the queen’s tomb.
Lord Lee Geo Eui (21) - Apparently a high civil official (although possibly military); one of the officials with his own private army. First seen meeting with Taejong in Ep21 and opposing dissolution of private armies. Later in Ep21 Taejong strips him of his "commander" title and demotes him to County Head of Gyerim (a position that forces him to leave the capital).
Jeon Gasik (22) - Confucian scholar, associate of Min Je. Submitted a petition to the king at Min Je's request in Ep22.
Yu Chongheon / Jeonghyeon (25) - Official appointed by Taejong to head the Office of the Abdicated King in Ep25. In Ep28 (after Taejo has passed away) we see him working in the position of Minister of Punishments.
Hwang Hui (25) - Official first seen reporting to Taejong, apparently in some sort of Royal Secretary role. In Ep26 Bangwon identifies him as the Chief Royal Secretary, and that he was previously the Fourth Royal Secretary. In Ep28 he's identified as Inspector General. Stripped of his position and sent into exile by Taejong in Ep31 for refusing to go along with the change of crown prince.
Gu Chongsu (26) - Younger official who works in the palace. Related by marriage to the Min clan (specifically to Muju and Mujil). Offers his support to the crown prince in Ep27 and becomes his drinking buddy.
Shim On (29) – Prince Choongnyeong’s father-in-law. Named Chief State Councilor by Sejong in Ep31. Dies by drinking poison Ep32 at Taejong's order, after being falsely accused of a conspiracy against Taejong.
Kang Sangin (31) - Vice Minister of War under Sejong. Stripped of his title (he may have resigned, this isn't clear) for submitting military reports to Sejong instead of Taejong. Executed in Ep32 after giving a false confession under torture that his submission error was part of a larger conspiracy against Taejong.
Councilor Choi (31) - Full name not given. High official; possibly Hwang Hui's replacement?
OTHERS
Lee Hwasang (1) - Son of Lee Jiran. He may be in the military but it's not yet for certain. In Ep25 Taejong names him Officer of Construction and Engineering and adds him to the royal court (against Hwasang's wishes).
Eunuch Kim (9) – Works for King Taejo in the palace. Stayed with Taejo after abdication. Executed in Ep25 for being part of Taejo's rebellion effort.
Zhu Yuanzhang (12) – Ming emperor.
Lady Choi (12) – Jeong Dojeon’s wife.
Sim Hyo Saeng (16) – Crown Prince’s Bangseok's father-in-law. Killed in Ep16 during the assault by Bangwon and his army.
Joo Ah (19) – A young girl who's one of several commoners we see getting killed during the fighting between Bangwon's and Banggan’s armies in Ep19.
Eunuch Hwang (22) - One of Taejong's eunuchs; most likely a higher-ranking eunuch based on Taejong giving him a special assignment in Ep22.
servant Kim / the future Lady Hyobin (22, name (Kim) 25) - Servant of the Min household who was serving Lady Min when Taejong slept with her and (as we find out in Ep25) impregnated her. She gives birth to the child in Ep25.
Eunuch Park (24) - One of Taejong's eunuchs; most likely a higher-ranking eunuch based on Taejong giving him a special assignment in Ep24.
Eunuch Song (26) - Eunuch who's attending to Crown Prince Yangnyeong.
Court Lady Jung (named 27, seen much earlier) - The queen's lead attendant.
son of Kwak Seon (29) - KS is apparently an older man and may be an official; his home is rather large.
Eo Ri (29) – The mistress of Kwak Seon. Prince Yangnyeong abducts and rapes her in Ep29.
Kim Hanlo (30) - Prince Yangnyeong's father-in-law.
Shim On’s wife (31) - Name not given. In Ep32 after her husband's execution, she and her family and servants are all sentenced to become government slaves.
Eunuch Yoon (32) - Trusted eunuch serving King Sejong.
The AsianWiki page for this series has photos of all of the actors playing significant roles and I found it helpful. For some reason the link refuses to post correctly here, but just go to AsianWiki and search for "King of Tears" and you'll find the page.
LEE SEONGGYE'S FAMILY
Lee Seonggye (1) - Bangwon's father. First seen in a dream of Bangwon's in Ep1. From the Jeonju Lee clan. Commanding general of the Goryeo army. Named Right Prime Minister by King Woo in Ep2 (as demanded by Lee after the rebellion). Has himself appointed Right Prime Minister in Ep3. Named Commander of Three Military Forces in Ep5. Appointed Supreme General by King Gongyang in Ep7. Becomes king in Ep9. Abdicates in favor of Prince Banggwa in Ep18. Dies of old age in Ep27.
Lady Han (1) - LSG's first wife; Bangwon's mother. Dies suddenly in Ep6.
Lee Bangu (1) - First son of LSG and Lady Han. In Ep10 is named Grand Prince Jinan.
Lee Banggwa (1) - Second son of LSG and Lady Han. First seen in a dream of Bangwon's in Ep1. Named Assistant Royal Secretary by LSG in Ep3. In Ep10 is named Grand Prince Youngan. In Ep11 his father names him a commander in the Royal Guard. In Ep18 is named crown prince, and then later in Ep18 is given the royal seal by his father, who abdicates and makes his son king. Adopts Bangwon in Ep20 as a son so that he can name Bangwon crown prince and abide Bangwon's wish to "maintain the rule of rightful succession." Gives up the throne in Ep21 so that Bangwon can take it.
Lady Kim (10) – Lee Banggwa’s wife. After Banggwa takes the throne in Ep18 she's known as Queen Jeongan of the Kim Clan. Dies of apparent natural causes in Ep28.
Bul No (18) - Son of Banggwa and his mistress. Named crown prince in Ep18 immediately after Banggwa becomes king.
Lee Bangui (1) - Third son of LSG and Lady Han. In Ep10 is named Grand Prince Ikan. In Ep11 his father gives him a commander-level assignment in the military.
Lee Banggan (1) - Fourth son of LSG and Lady Han. In Ep10 is named Grand Prince Hoian. In Ep11 his father gives him a commander-level assignment in the military. Exiled by Bangwon in Ep20 after losing a fight with him to become crown prince.
Lee Maengjong (17) - Son of Lee Banggan. Exiled with his father in Ep20 after participating in his father's challenge to Bangwon.
Lee Bangwon / King Taejong (1) - King of Joseon, first seen as king prior to a massive flashback that begins after the first scene in Ep1 and continues throughout the series. Fifth son of LSG and Lady Han. (In Ep3 we learn that there was a sixth son, Bangyeon, who died at a young age.) Has a civil-servant job in a government agency. In Ep2 we learn that he passed his official state examination. Named Right Assistant Transmitter by his father (involves delivering royal orders) in Ep3. In Ep10 is named Grand Prince Jeongan. In Ep11 his father gives him commanding authority over 500 House Guard soldiers; he later asks and is allowed to decline the soldiers. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Bwngwon Supreme General of the Three Offices. Named crown prince in Ep20. Becomes king in Ep21. Abdicates in Ep31 and gives the royal seal to Prince Choongnyeong, but decides to retain power over military affairs for the time being. Dies of natural causes in Ep32.
Lady Kang (1) - LSG's second wife; Bangwon's stepmother. In Ep10 she's installed as queen and is named Royal Consort Hyung. Dies in Ep13.
Lee Bangbeon (1) - First son of LSG and Lady Kang. In Ep10 we learn that he was named Grand Prince Muan. In Ep11 we learn that he's been given a "commanding position" in the military. In Ep17 he's exiled from the palace (and presumably reduced to commoner status) following Bangwon's coup. As he leaves into exile, he's murdered by private soldiers at Lee Banggon's order.
Bangbeon's wife (8) - Seen only in a family gathering in Ep8. Name not provided.
Lee Bangseok (1) - Second son of LSG and Lady Kang. In Ep10 he's named Grand Prince Uian and Crown Prince. In Ep17 following Bangwon's coup, Bangseok is demoted to commoner and exiled from the palace. As he leaves, he shouts an insult to Bangwon and is killed by a soldier; not clear if this was premeditated.
Lady Ryu (named 10, first seen in Ep8) – Bangseok’s wife. In Ep10, after not being named crown princess, she says that it's because she comes “from a minor family.” In Ep12 she's caught having an affair with a eunuch and is taken away to be executed (but we don't actually see it happen).
Lee Ongwa (3) - Military officer first seen training soldiers in Ep3 with Lee Jiran. In Ep4 we learn that he's LSG's brother.
Lee Jae / Je (7) – Son-in-law of LSG and Lady Kang (married to their eldest daughter). In Ep11 we learn that he's been given the title of Count Heungan and given a a "commanding position" in the military. Executed at Bangwon's order in Ep16.
Lee Hwa (8) – LSG’s half-brother. In Ep17, though, he's referred to as LGS's stepbrother. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Lee Supreme General and Head of Three Armies Command. We also learn he has the title of Lord Uian.
Princess Kyungsoon (8) - Daughters of LSG and Lady Kang. Married to Lee Jae. In Ep18 LSG takes her to the palace temple and has her head shaved; apparently she's to become a monk in order to preserve her life after her brothers Bangbeon and Bangseok are killed.
BANGWON'S FAMILY
Lady Min / Princess Jeongyeong / Queen Wongyeong (1) - Bangwon's wife. From the Yeoheung Min clan. In Ep2 we learn that she lost her first two children as infants. In Ep10 we learn that she's the second daughter. In Ep11 we first hear of her princess name and title. Named crown princess in Ep21. Installed as queen in Ep22. Dies of malaria in Ep32.
Prince Choongneyong / King Sejong (1) - Future King Sejong, third surviving son of Taejong and Queen Wongyeong; first seen as crown prince prior to a massive flashback in Ep1. He's born in Ep13 (not a prince at that time). Given the name Do and the formal name Choongnyeong by his father in Ep24. Named crown prince in Ep31. Becomes king in Ep31, although his father retains power over military affairs.
Lady Shim / Queen Soheon (29) - Prince Choongnyeong's wife.
Prince Choongnyeong's son (30) - Name not given.
Prince Choongnyeong's daughter (31) - Name not given.
Crown prince / Prince Yangnyeong (13) - Oldest surviving son of Taejong and Lady Min. In Ep31 he writes a letter to his father stepping down from the crown prince position, at the same time that Taejong and his court approve his replacement with Choongnyeong. Taejong renames him Yangnyeong and exiles him to Gyeonggi Province.
Lady Kim (31) - Prince Yangnyeong's wife. Holds the title of Dame of the Three Han States.
Prince Yangnyeong's wife and daughter (31) - Names not given.
Prince Hyoryeong (13) - Second surviving son of Taejong and Lady Min.
Lee Bangwon's two young daughters (1) - Names not given (yet). Seen as older girls in Ep21, with their three younger brothers.
Son of Lee Bangwon and Lady Min (2) - Name not given yet. Dies in infancy in Ep10.
Min Mujil (1) - Lady Min's brother. Civil official. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Min Taxation Officer. Fired and exiled by Taejong in Ep26 for alleged disloyalty to the king. In Ep28 Taejong orders him and his brother to commit suicide by poison, and we visit Jeju Island (their place of exile) and see them do so.
Min Mugu (1) - Lady Min's brother. Civil official. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Min Right General. Fired and exiled by Taejong in Ep26 for alleged disloyalty to the king. In Ep28 Taejong orders him and his brother to commit suicide by poison, and we visit Jeju Island (their place of exile) and see them do so.
Min Jae / Je (1) - Lady Min's father. Minister of Protocol (Rites) under King Woo. Scholar of the Office of Royal Scribes under King Gongyang. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Min Left Secretary of the Three Offices. In Ep22 he's referred to with the title Internal Prince Yeoheung. In Ep23, after being arrested for allegedly being behind an effort to intrude into the king's personal affairs (which he did do), he offers to withdraw from government permanently and stay home. Dies of old age in Ep27.
Lady Song (1) - Lady Min's mother. Wife of Min Je.
First surviving son of Bangwon and Lady Min (13) - The future Prince Yangnyeong. First met as a small boy in Ep13. Raised primarily by his grandmother as a young boy. Given the name Je by his father in Ep24.
Second surviving son of Bangwon and Lady Min (13) - The future Prince Hyoryeong. First met as a one-year-old in Ep13. Raised primarily by his aunt as a young boy. Given the name Ho and the formal name Hyoryeong by his father in Ep24.
Min Muhyul (27) - One of the queen's younger brothers. Appointed by Taejong to be Second Commander General of the Right Army in Ep28. Exiled in Ep29 by Taejong, partly for being held responsible for Lady Hyobin's cruel treatment during her pregnancy (which he had nothing to do with) and partly for allegedly speaking a disloyal opinion against Taejong.
Min Muhoe (27) - One of the queen's younger brothers. Appointed by Taejong to be Magistrate of Hanseong (noted as "a second-rank position in charge of governing the capital) in Ep28. Exiled in Ep29 by Taejong, partly for being held responsible for Lady Hyobin's cruel treatment during her pregnancy (which he had nothing to do with) and partly for allegedly speaking a disloyal opinion against Taejong.
OTHER ROYALS
King Woo (1) - 32nd king of Goryeo. Son of King Gongmin and a concubine (although paternity was eventually questioned). Dethroned and exiled to Ganghwa Island in Ep2 after attempting to kill LSG and other leaders of the rebellion. In Ep3 LSG revives an old controversy about Woo's paternity, and has nim demoted to commoner status and exiled. Executed in Ep4 under King Gongyang's order (pressured by Gongyang's political opposition).
King Chang (2) - Nine-year-old son of King Woo; elevated to the throne in Ep2 after his father was dethroned and exiled. In Ep3 LSG revives an old controversy about the paternity of Chang's father, and has Chang demoted to commoner status and exiled. Executed in Ep4 under King Gongyang's order (pressured by Gongyang's political opposition).
Royal Consort Jeong (3) - Widow of King Gongmin. From the Ahn clan.
Wang Yo / Prince Jeongchan / King Gongyang (3) – Related to LSG by marriage (to his first wife). Placed on the throne as 34th king of Goryeo by LSG in Ep3. Removed from the throne and exiled by LSG's allies in Ep9.
Wang Seok (7) – Crown prince of Goryeo; son of King Gongyang. Removed from his position and exiled by LSG's allies in Ep9.
MILITARY
Choi Yeong (1) - Goryeo's Regional Military Commander of Eight Provinces. Exiled to Gobonghyeon by King Woo in Ep2 (as demanded by Lee Seonggye after the rebellion) for war crimes.
Jo Minsu (1) - Regional Military Commander of the Left Flank. Named Left Prime Minister by King Woo in Ep2 (as demanded by LSG's after the rebellion). Executed in Ep2 after being accused of corruption (and after becoming LSG's political opponent).
Jo Yeongmu (1) - Subordinate officer under Lee Seonggye. In Ep11 he's put in charge of the 500 House Guard soldiers that are assigned by LSG to Bangwon (Bangwon later declines the command but Jo is still in charge of the soldiers). In Ep14 he's still leading the House Guard and has the title of General (not sure if the title is new or not; seemed like it might be new). In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Jo State Chancellery Officer. In Ep21 he loses his position and is exiled to Hwangju for momentarily having a tantrum upon learning he's lose his private army. In Ep23 Taejong forgives him and names him Supreme General of the First Rank, a position described as "a ranking officer who receives and disburses the king’s orders. And also manages military affairs." In Ep25 he's referred to as the Right State Councilor. He retires and leaves the palace in Ep29.
Lee Jiran (1) - Sworn brother of Lee Seonggye. Army general. Identified in Ep3 as "Royal Guard Officer." Dies of natural causes in Ep23. In Ep23 we learn that his title was Lord Cheonghae.
Jo Yeonggyu (2) - Officer in Lee Seonggye's army; commands roughly 50 officers and soldiers. Friendly with Bangwon. Described in Ep7 as LSG's "confidant."
Kwak Chungbo (2) - Appears to be the head of King Woo's personal guards.
Kim Jeo (2) - Goryeo military officer loyal to King Woo. Captured in Ep3 and presumably executed (although we never saw this) for attempting to assassinate LSG.
Park Wi (16) – General in charge of the Palace Guards. Killed by Lee Seok Beon in Ep16, during the invasion of Bangwon and his army.
Jo Saeui (21) – Apparently a soldier, and a subordinate of LSG's. First seen in Ep21 as LSG asks him to gather troops for an attempted rebellion against Bangwon's ascension to the throne. In Ep23 it's implied that his position is in the Dongbukmyeon region and not in the capital. In Ep24 we learn that he's related by marriage to the late Lady Kang/Queen Hyung. In Ep25 he's identified as the magistrate of Anbyeon Prefecture. Executed in Ep25 for his role in organizing and leading Taejo's rebellion effort.
Lee Geoyi (21) – Military commander first seen meeting with Taejong regarding dissolution of private armies in Ep21. Apparently had been fired and exiled with Jo Yeongmu in Ep21; we learn this in Ep24 when he's brought back and given a second chance by Taejong. In Ep25 we learn he's the Supreme Commander of the Left Provinces. In 25 Taejong orders Lee and his sons demoted to commoner status and exiled, all because he expressed dissatisfaction to Jo Yeongmu about Taejong's elimination of private armies.
Lee Cheon Woo (24) - Chiief army commander of the Anju region. LSG's nephew.
Lee Chonu (24) - Military commander and head of Wansan County.
CIVIL OFFICIALS
Jeong Rang !1) - High official. Bangwon's boss at the government agency he works at.
Jeong Dojeon ("Sambong") (2) - Adviser to Lee Seonggye after the capital invasion. Appointed Cashier and Accounting Officer in Ep3. Exiled in Ep6 By King Gongyang for allegedly seeking to have political prisoners killed. Removed from his position and ordered tortured and exiled by King Gongyang in Ep7 (at Jeong Mongju's instruction) for allegedly being a slave's descendant and seeking multiple murders to cover this up. In Ep10 LSG/King Taejo appoints him second-rank Assistant Chancellor of the State Chancellory and Commander of the Royal Guard, and gives him the title Count Bonghwa. In Ep13 he's referred to as the Supreme General of the Three Offices. Murdered by Bangwon in Ep16.
Jeong Mongju ("Poeun") (2) - Adviser to Lee Seonggye after the capital invasion. Appointed Junior Prime Minister in Ep3. Appointed Chancellor of the State Chancellory by King Gongyang in Ep7. Assassinated by soldiers loyal to the Lee family, at Bangwon's order, in Ep8.
Jeong Deukhu (2) - Goryeo aristocrat loyal to King Woo. Commits suicide in Ep3 as he's cornered by guards after his failed assassination attempt on Lee Seonggye.
Nam Eun (3) - High official. Ally of Lee Seonggye. In Ep11 we learn that he has a commander rank in the Royal Guard (like Jeong Dojeon has) and it's strongly implied that he has the title of Count Euiryeong. Executed at Bangwon’s order in Ep17 for collaborating with Jeong Dojeon.
Lee Saek ("Mokeun") (3) - Referred to as "master" by two of LSG's sons. Named First Prime Minister by King Gongyang in Ep3. In Ep4 Gongyang fires him and orders him exiled. Appointed "Great Lord of Hansan" by King Gongyang in Ep7.
Jo Jun (3) - First scene in a council meeting at which he's appointed Supreme Administrative Officer and Inspector General. Ally of LSG> Removed from his position and ordered tortured and exiled by King Gongyang in Ep7 (at Jeong Mongju's instruction) for allegedly conspiring with Jeong Dojeon in crimes. In Ep10 LSG/King Taejo appoints him Chancellor of the State Chancellory and gives him the title Count Pyongyang. In Ep17 his title is Left State Councilor.
Byeon Anyeol (3) - Appointed Grand Prime Minister (the #2 post) by King Gongyang in Ep3. In Ep4 Gongyang fires him and orders him exiled. In Ep5 King Gongyang is pressured into ordering Byeon's execution--we don't actually see it happen.
Yun Sojong (4) - High official first seen protesting Byeon Anyeol's appointment before King Gongyang. Ally of LSG.
Removed from his position and ordered tortured and exiled by King Gongyang in Ep7 (at Jeong Mongju's instruction) for allegedly conspiring with Jeong Dojeon in crimes.
Gwon Geun ("Yangchon") (5) – Apparently a scholar; one of many officials arrested for questioning under a manufactured premise of slandering the king and LSG. Returns to court in Ep12 with Min Jae.
Kim Jinyang (5) – One of several court officials still loyal to King Gongyang as of Ep5. In Ep6 his title is given: Remonstration Officer.
Ha Ryun (10) – Former minister first encountered in retirement. Returns to court in Ep12 with Min Jae. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Ha an official political scholar for the government. In Ep22 Taejong orders him to organize and lead a marriage office, to find a new queen. In Ep23 Taejong orders him to close the office. In Ep30 we learn that he holds the office of head of Jinsan county. Resigns from office in Ep30, remorseful over unethical actions that he took to enrich himself.
Nam Jae (11) – Senior official. In Ep17 he's referred to as "Junior Second Rank" and it's implied that he's Nam Eun's brother.
Park Eun (13) - Magistrate of Chunju County. Early supporter of Bangwon. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Park Inspection Officer. In Ep25 Bangwon refers to him as Lord Yeoseong. As of Ep32 he's the Left State Councilor.
Park Po (13) - Magistrate of Hwangju County. Early supporter of Bangwon. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Po Secondary Officer of Military Administration. In Ep19 Park is stripped of his position by Bangwon for loudly expressing dissatisfaction that his position isn't higher (having been one of Bangwon's key supporters). In Ep20 Bangwon has Park executed to make him the scapegoat for the conflict between Bangwon and Banggan (rather than executing Banggan).
Lee Sook Beon (12) – Scholar first seen entering the capital city to take the state examinations. In Ep13 we learn that he's the magistrate of Ansan County. Early supporter of Bangwon. In Ep19 when Banggwa becomes king, he names Lee Right Secretary. In Ep26 he's referred to as Lord Anseong (head of Anseong county). Stripped of his office and title and exiled to Hamyang in Ep30 by Taejong for offenses committed in office.
Gong Jo (sp?) (14) – Official from Ansan, first seen in Hanyang to oversee maintenance of the queen’s tomb.
Lord Lee Geo Eui (21) - Apparently a high civil official (although possibly military); one of the officials with his own private army. First seen meeting with Taejong in Ep21 and opposing dissolution of private armies. Later in Ep21 Taejong strips him of his "commander" title and demotes him to County Head of Gyerim (a position that forces him to leave the capital).
Jeon Gasik (22) - Confucian scholar, associate of Min Je. Submitted a petition to the king at Min Je's request in Ep22.
Yu Chongheon / Jeonghyeon (25) - Official appointed by Taejong to head the Office of the Abdicated King in Ep25. In Ep28 (after Taejo has passed away) we see him working in the position of Minister of Punishments.
Hwang Hui (25) - Official first seen reporting to Taejong, apparently in some sort of Royal Secretary role. In Ep26 Bangwon identifies him as the Chief Royal Secretary, and that he was previously the Fourth Royal Secretary. In Ep28 he's identified as Inspector General. Stripped of his position and sent into exile by Taejong in Ep31 for refusing to go along with the change of crown prince.
Gu Chongsu (26) - Younger official who works in the palace. Related by marriage to the Min clan (specifically to Muju and Mujil). Offers his support to the crown prince in Ep27 and becomes his drinking buddy.
Shim On (29) – Prince Choongnyeong’s father-in-law. Named Chief State Councilor by Sejong in Ep31. Dies by drinking poison Ep32 at Taejong's order, after being falsely accused of a conspiracy against Taejong.
Kang Sangin (31) - Vice Minister of War under Sejong. Stripped of his title (he may have resigned, this isn't clear) for submitting military reports to Sejong instead of Taejong. Executed in Ep32 after giving a false confession under torture that his submission error was part of a larger conspiracy against Taejong.
Councilor Choi (31) - Full name not given. High official; possibly Hwang Hui's replacement?
OTHERS
Lee Hwasang (1) - Son of Lee Jiran. He may be in the military but it's not yet for certain. In Ep25 Taejong names him Officer of Construction and Engineering and adds him to the royal court (against Hwasang's wishes).
Eunuch Kim (9) – Works for King Taejo in the palace. Stayed with Taejo after abdication. Executed in Ep25 for being part of Taejo's rebellion effort.
Zhu Yuanzhang (12) – Ming emperor.
Lady Choi (12) – Jeong Dojeon’s wife.
Sim Hyo Saeng (16) – Crown Prince’s Bangseok's father-in-law. Killed in Ep16 during the assault by Bangwon and his army.
Joo Ah (19) – A young girl who's one of several commoners we see getting killed during the fighting between Bangwon's and Banggan’s armies in Ep19.
Eunuch Hwang (22) - One of Taejong's eunuchs; most likely a higher-ranking eunuch based on Taejong giving him a special assignment in Ep22.
servant Kim / the future Lady Hyobin (22, name (Kim) 25) - Servant of the Min household who was serving Lady Min when Taejong slept with her and (as we find out in Ep25) impregnated her. She gives birth to the child in Ep25.
Eunuch Park (24) - One of Taejong's eunuchs; most likely a higher-ranking eunuch based on Taejong giving him a special assignment in Ep24.
Eunuch Song (26) - Eunuch who's attending to Crown Prince Yangnyeong.
Court Lady Jung (named 27, seen much earlier) - The queen's lead attendant.
son of Kwak Seon (29) - KS is apparently an older man and may be an official; his home is rather large.
Eo Ri (29) – The mistress of Kwak Seon. Prince Yangnyeong abducts and rapes her in Ep29.
Kim Hanlo (30) - Prince Yangnyeong's father-in-law.
Shim On’s wife (31) - Name not given. In Ep32 after her husband's execution, she and her family and servants are all sentenced to become government slaves.
Eunuch Yoon (32) - Trusted eunuch serving King Sejong.