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RECORD OF CHO'S SCANDALOUS AFFAIR
Most of the characters in these illustrations
are promiscuous and immoral.
So much so that one is led to doubt whether they had indeed existed.
It is widely known that Chosun was founded on Confucianism,
whereby men must be virtuous gentlemen,
and women to be modest ladies.
So these characters are more unlikely to be Chosun.
Even though the contents here
have been proven to be based on a true story,
the names of the characters may be pseudonyms.
So be advised not to raise issue with anyone, or within the family.
If you have weak self-control, or feel nervous about this,
do close it and erase it from your mind.
Written in the year 1792 and published in 1803.
BASED ON THE NOVEL "DANGEROUS LIAISONS"
Master, the ritual is almost over.
You should be getting to the main quarters.
How is the construction of Hwa Castle coming along?
The hardest part is mostly done,
but I best keep my eye on it.
I will return to work after breakfast.
But you've been away for months.
Leaving so soon after one night?
Should I prepare the wedding as planned, my Lord?
The construction shall be complete by November,
so make the wedding early December.
I will see to it thoroughly.
I heard the girl has just turned 16.
She's so pure and innocent,
like a flower just about to blossom.
My Lady, I hope you do understand the wish of the elders
to continue the family line.
As it has already been decided,
I think it would be wise to bring her here soon.
She may come from wealth, but she was born middle-class.
I shall teach her the noble ways
so that she can please the elders.
Thank you, my Lady.
By the way, you've been alone for so long.
Will you go on living so as a widower?
You should find yourself a wife soon and have children.
If you not mind my saying so,
there is room for only one person in my heart.
I'm sorry.
I suppose you loved your wife very dearly.
Room for only one, you say?
I don't know about women,
but for men there is only one room.
It may be one room,
but a dozen women go in and out of it each day, am I right?
Well, one lady at a time.
I was out walking and the flowers were lovely.
I picked these for you, Cousin.
You haven't changed.
So why did you summon me this time?
So-oak.
So-oak?
That girl who's like a flower about to blossom.
I want you to impregnate her.
I don't understand.
Your brother-in-law has found a concubine,
so shouldn't you get him a wedding gift?
You do have a point, but…
So how about my idea for a wedding gift?
If you make her conceive a child…
You are out of hand, madam.
She cannot hear nor speak.
Should've known.
She's the perfect servant for me.
So he undresses a virgin girl, but finds her pregnant?
It must be a boy.
If anyone finds out…
Revenge is more amusing when the victim is unaware.
I wonder how his face will look when we tell him on his deathbed.
I know you resent him for stealing your first love.
You, for your revenge.
And I, for my revenge.
Seduction and revenge…
Two things that always give us great joy.
But, I don't want to.
Why not?
That girl is only 16, and extremely curious.
A few sweet words will be enough to have her on the floor.
It's too easy for someone like me.
Think I've come this far just to see your memorial rite?
Then, what?
Lady Jung, Sir Yoon Kil-jin's daughter-in-law.
That widow of nine years,
who is known as the Gate of Chastity?
She is my next target.
Isn't she in Ganghwa with her parents-in-law?
She's at her aunt's home next door to avoid the plague.
You are going to seduce
that pathetic widow with your charms?
I feel a duty to teach that poor woman
the workings of yin and yang.
So you want to open a door closed shut for 27 years?
Wouldn't be surprised if it's a wall by now.
Want to make a bet?
Meaning you want something from me.
If you deflower her,
I will give you what you want.
What my cousin has always wanted,
but could never attain.
If you lose?
I will give you my life.
You must become a monk.
It's a deal.
I will be here soon for my reward.
But before your brother-in-law returns.
And if she indeed is a virgin, I want proof.
The blood of a 27-year-old virgin.
Find out anything?
Each night after 11:00, like a cat in heat,
she quietly leaves the house.
Indeed, did it look like she's meeting a man?
Not just one, but a crowd of men.
What?
Actually, she attends a Catholic mass.
It was really creepy there.
Do they summon ghosts?
Men, women, of all statuses are in this dark room,
mumbling this gibberish…
A Catholic…
I will give you some money.
Donate it as if I'm a secret supporter.
They are careful and suspicious,
and will want to know who sent it.
Then, slip my name as if you couldn't refuse their plea.
And, for that girl, what was her name?
Lady Jung's maid.
You mean Eun-shil?
I've already taken care of her.
Just give me the order.
I can almost see the fragrance of the flowers from here.
Isn't it marvelous?
China has so many interesting things.
Thank you for this chance to enjoy one.
My husband has just returned from China's capital, Beijing.
He says the city is like a whole new world.
People with blue eyes walk the streets,
and there are all kinds of modern things around.
You must have another guest.
It's my youngest son.
Maid, go tell In-ho to come here.
Yes, madam.
He just returned from his studies in the countryside.
Introduce yourself.
Ladies, I am Kwon In-ho.
This is Lady Huh, wife of the Home Minister.
This is Lady Oh, wife of the Finance Minister.
And over there is Lady Cho, wife of Lord Yu,
who lives next door.
You made Lady Cho's acquaintance as a child?
Yes, Mother.
My, how he has grown.
You are handsome, like your father.
I know of my lady's nobility and scholarship,
especially, in literature and military science.
Please teach me some day.
It will be my honor.
Please excuse me.
Why don't you visit my home with your niece soon?
My garden is in full bloom now.
Ah, and do send your son to my house sometime.
I have a few books to help him study for the state civil exam.
You are so kind.
Madam.
The young master has come to visit.
Dear sister-in-law, I have come.
I was put in charge of guarding Chinese diplomats.
So I will be staying in Seoul until the year ends.
Have you been well?
Yes.
Eun-shil, have a room arranged for him.
Yes, Madam.
I have a matter to discuss.
Why don't you do so in the morning?
Yes, ma'am.
It's a beautiful day out, so I'll use a rose scent.
Master.
Lady Jung and her aunt just went to the Lotus Pavilion.
You look so beautiful, as always.
But my niece here doesn't know how to make herself up.
For men,
the chastity of your niece is a more precious dress than my own.
Dress needs only be sufficient to observe good form.
But I do envy my lady's sophistication and taste.
Madam.
Goodness, there is a man in the inner quarters.
Please do not mind him.
He is only my cousin.
I am Cho Won from Gangkyoung.
This is the Vice Minister's Lady from next door and her niece.
Oh, then you must be Sir Cho Won.
The one who declines high posts,
enjoys literature and art, and lives free and independent.
It's not much to boast of, madam.
I heard that you remain a widower
for the love of your late wife.
Being faithful
is as much a virtue for men as for women.
So what brings you here?
I have gone through some trouble
to bring you some exquisite tea.
And it seems that fate
demands I give some to these lovely ladies.
If I may be so bold at our first meeting,
I'd like to offer you both some tea.
Oh, you mustn't…
Never was there such a sweet man.
How can I accept this?
Please take it.
Do you like tea, madam?
My dear.
The gentleman is making a kind offer.
We must accept his kindness.
I am only grateful that you do.
Please excuse me.
Wait.
Since we have made each other's acquaintance,
I invite you to my rear garden.
We can float a boat on the lake,
and have some musicians perform for us on this lovely day.
The gentlemen in my house are all out,
and I can order the servants away.
Auntie,
I had better get going.
If you don't join us, it will spoil our fun.
Then I'll forget it all.
Please excuse me.
So soon?
If it's because of me…
Well then, I hope to see you again.
I had a good time.
Do enjoy yourselves.
Master.
The Ladies have left these on the boat.
Ah.
-Give that to the Vice Minister's Lady. -Yes, Master.
Please excuse me.
How forgetful of me.
Madam.
You've left this behind.
Eun-shil.
Tell the gentleman that I greatly appreciated his gift.
Sir, my lady says that your gift was greatly…
Madam.
How could you speak through her when I'm right in front of you?
Tell him that it is improper
for men and women to speak directly.
-My lady says it is… -Madam.
How is it that you show such tender smiles
in front of all those men at nightly masses,
but in broad daylight you shun me,
who has only the very best intentions?
Please tell him
I'm much offended that such a gentleman would follow a lady.
-My lady is much offended… -Silence.
Go stand over there.
I've admired my lady's kindness and grace for some time,
and wish to know you, although I know it's improper.
So please allow me a moment of your company.
This scene
does not please the eyes of others, sir.
How others see us is not important.
Are you not an enlightened person who's willing to do good,
unfettered by customs and prejudices?
I doubt that you really know me,
but I do not wish to break any customs.
Working in the service of others,
and socializing here with an unacquainted man are different.
I am led to suspect that you are trying to insult me.
Insult you?
Not in the least!
Sir Cho Won,
do you not realize that such actions
can be more than enough to insult a woman?
Eun-shil, let's go.
Yes, madam.
Give this to your lady.
Sister-in-law,
here you are.
What's going on?
Did you not see?
You came just now, and Lady Jung has just left.
And I was standing here.
Let's go inside.
Master.
Don't you remember that girl So-oak's mother?
Do I know her?
Some time ago…
At the water mill…
Your attempts at flirting were quite childish.
I've just started, so don't be so critical.
It is said that a woman's heart may be shut,
but her bosom is always open to men.
Do you think you can gain pleasure
from such an obstinate woman?
As much as her dress,
the way she spoke was dull and plain.
I heard you saw So-oak?
Having seen her, were you not tempted?
How could I be attracted
to a baby fox when I'm chasing after a tiger?
Have it your way.
I've thought up a more interesting plan.
You look most beautiful
when you are jealous.
Jealous?
You must be kidding.
Why don't you return to your chamber?
I must take a rest.
Thank you, ma'am.
We meet again, sir.
De Deo Verax Disputatio
Are you by any chance Sir Cho Won?
Am I right?
Yes, but…
You have finally come.
My name is Kim Heung-yeon.
We truly appreciated your generous contribution.
Please, speak softly.
You're embarrassing me.
Your donation could not have been more timely.
I wished to do good in secret, so please hide my name.
Yes, I understand.
I am moved by your modesty.
"A woman's husband is her Heaven.
She must serve and respect her husband with decorum,
as she would her own father.
She must lower herself and be humble.
Must not be absurd, be virtuous always,
and not make herself important.
Must be obedient.
and should never contradict or betray him."
Why don't we stop here for today?
Tomorrow we'll study Stories of Virtuous Women.
My Lady.
The Vice Premier's young master is here.
Is that so?
Show him in.
No, ask him to wait for a moment.
Lady Cho told me
to give you this book once my master arrives.
Please do take it.
Yes.
Oh, my gosh!
I'm out of luck.
I'm going to lose again.
Oh, let's stop here.
It's no fun.
Why is the weather so hot?
Summer has already gone.
I hear that you still attend those masses at the drug store.
I know that your heart is with the poor,
but practicing Catholicism has been outlawed.
I promise to be careful.
By the way, what did you think of Sir Cho Won?
You know, Lady Cho's cousin who we saw the other day.
Isn't he a handsome one?
Tall and built.
What is it that you want to say?
I have no interest.
I may not believe every rumor,
but his reputation is not so good.
What things you hear!
But he seemed to fancy you.
He tried hard to make you notice him.
Auntie!
It's all right.
Today, things like that are nothing to be ashamed of.
I am happy the way I am.
You should get some sleep.
Yes, I should.
Eun-shil, are you there?
See the lady to her room!
She was feeling ill, so I told her to rest.
What's wrong?
-Am I disturbing you? -Master.
Found yourself a wife without telling me?
-No, you see, sir… -Excuse us.
Yes, sir.
I should've come a little later.
Does your lady know what you are doing here?
There's no need to be afraid.
Incidents like this can form a bond
between two people who share a secret.
Not bad.
But sharing a girl with my servant
wouldn't make much of a secret.
Sir?
Then…
This is the book I've been looking for.
"One who has seen the ocean is not surprised by the river,
and is not impressed by pretty sights
once he has seen the green forest.
Having seen a lady,
no other can enter my heart.
So what shall I do?"
I can't believe this.
What a strange coincidence!
It is my long sigh that has drawn you here.
Please let me through.
Madam, please listen to me!
All my life I did not know that such joy
lies in doing good for others.
By following your footsteps,
I've found joy and blessing everywhere.
You have shown me Heaven.
How can I repay you?
Please do not speak so.
What did you gain from me, and why must you reward me?
I do not understand.
No, madam!
I truly feel reborn.
If you felt joy for doing good,
then it must be a reward for your own virtuous deeds.
What are you doing?
Please permit me to love you!
You are no gentleman for me.
Is this how you've seduced so many women?
I do not know what you heard about me,
but I'm telling you, you've made me a new man.
The whole world may turn their back on me,
but you, who've opened my eyes to true happiness, must not.
Please do not ever speak such nonsense to me.
And I pray that we never meet again.
What's a noble lady like you
walking all by herself for?
She's quite an elegant one.
Let me through.
Let you through?
Let you just walk by?
Then we can't have any fun.
I will scream.
Oh no, you scare me.
You mustn't be so unkind.
We haven't had much fun lately.
Yeah, and it's about time that we did.
What are you doing, you rascals?
You still haven't gotten your acts together.
Are you all right, my lady?
Thank you, sir.
Thank you so much.
It was a good thing I walked this way.
You could've been hurt.
You must be careful, madam.
Thank you.
Well, I must go now.
Sir, wait!
It's just that I've lost my way.
My goodness.
Why, certainly!
If you will allow me, I will escort you home.
Isn't it lovely?
Do you feel better now?
Yes, thanks to you.
The world is a dangerous place,
and men are such beasts.
On looking back,
my life has been weak,
with nothing to be praised, nor criticized for.
I knew all along that I would be so unhappy,
but have lived reluctantly so.
If I may,
I suspect that human nature is innately flawed.
The virtuous have their faults,
and so do the wicked have their virtues.
All my life I've been a captive of physical pleasure,
and did not know what it was to suffer from love.
I apologize for embarrassing you in the bookstore.
However…
Can you please take back about me insulting you?
I was only trying to become as good a person as you.
What little good I do for others,
it is not intended to earn respect,
but to achieve my own inner peace.
So I, too, am only a selfish person.
"I am worried that those men
might have left you with an unhealthy shock.
It is too dreadful to imagine what would've happened to you
had I not run into Eun-shil, looking for my lady.
It might not be enough to excuse my behavior at the bookstore,
but I send this book you were reading with a small gift from my heart.
Though I am a son of the old faction,
I'm very interested in Western studies and Catholicism.
I deeply wish to learn from your good example,
and hope we can exchange letters to discuss books and life.
Please do not reject my pleas.
If you will forgive me,
please sit towards the house I am staying at,
and stroke your hair twice as a sign."
"Thank you for the book.
And I will never forget that day
when you saved my life.
But while my helping the poor through the Catholic meetings
is a part of the happiness I pursue,
breaking tradition and customs by exchanging letters with you
is not included in my idea of seeking happiness.
I wish to avoid further contact by post or in person, sir.
Do understand my truest intentions."
Yes, she surely is a fun challenge.
Not so hard!
"Madam, you still seemed to think
my respect and love for you is a mere insult.
But if it indeed is a sin,
do not forget that you are its origin,
and the very person who can forgive it.
Being caught between undue happiness and undue despair
is an anxiety that I cannot bear.
Will you not save me from this suffering?"
"What you have referred to as happiness
sounds like dangerous pleasure
to an ordinary woman like me.
Again, I beg you
not to send me any more letters."
"To know you and not love you…
To love you yet turn my heart away…
These two things are impossible."
"I have courteously stated that I will not hear from you again.
If you continue
to disrespect my wishes,
you shall not see me anywhere, not even at mass.
I write in earnest for the last time."
Looking at the way you strike
tells me things aren't going so well.
A swift victory is no fun.
When I write line by line with her on my mind,
I almost feel like I actually miss her.
But of course,
I still have time to think about you, too.
Don't forget
that I, too, am anticipating the day
I can give you your reward.
Is your little scheme going well?
Why, most certainly.
At 16, she has a long future ahead.
She must be dreaming of innocent love.
She'll soon be the concubine of an old man.
Where's the love in that?
To us, of course, falling in love is a shame.
But you never know.
She may look forward to loving my brother-in-law.
You too had many dreams at her age.
I still remember your young face, with eyes filled with
a hope for true love.
Hope for true love?
Never have I heard of such stupidity.
Even if it is easy to obtain desirable things,
do not let even your fingertips touch it.
Once you feel it,
you will fall far as if from a high cliff.
What brings you here?
I have brought a good book,
which just came out, my lady.
Why, you are so kind.
What is it that you're looking for?
Frankly ma'am, I saw a young lady the other day at your house.
Why?
Did the young lady do something wrong?
Oh, no.
It's just that she was so beautiful.
I want so much to know who she is.
Who could she be?
So many young ladies from our family visit us.
Could it have been my niece?
Anyway, Master Kwon you are so helpless.
I don't understand.
If you fancy a lady, you should at least talk to her,
rather than come and ask me like this.
But it would not be proper.
The bee and butterfly look for their flowers by nature.
A vigorous young man like you shouldn't talk about propriety.
You could at least wait by the wall,
and give her a letter once she comes near it.
"My Dearest Lady So-oak,
I write again longing for my lady."
As I read your third letter,
my mind and body was so entranced
I did not know what to do.
To hear that you such a noble
would risk trespassing just to see a trivial girl,
makes me happy, but very worried at the same time.
But if I could only
see the young master up close,
it would not be too costly to give up my life.
I will wait for you tomorrow at dawn.
Oh, will the sun rise tomorrow?"
The young son of Lord Kwon, I presume?
I am Cho Won.
You are Sir Cho Won?
Please, after you.
Then perhaps I will.
Oh, whatever.
Lady So-oak!
Do not be alarmed, madam.
It's me.
Cho Won.
What on earth are you doing here?
You've gone too far this time.
I would've been content if you'd allowed the letters.
But you have rejected my plea,
so what else can I do?
Didn't I say, sir, that I had no choice?
When you sleep in comfort,
it is to me a lifetime of pain.
I beg you to stop this, sir.
You and I in this world
are not meant to be.
I am already the wife of another man,
and will be faithful to him,
whether he be alive or dead.
So now a ghost stands between us.
You were separated by his death before you were even wed.
So why must you be so faithful?
I cannot help that.
Why did Heaven send you to this world,
and not make me the first man to know you?
Not having made me the first man,
why did it make me know you so late to torment me so?
How I despise the will of Heaven.
Why do you humiliate me so?
I've come here to avoid the raging plague at my home,
but I'd rather go die from it
than stay here to be shamed from gossip.
Do you despise me so much?
You'd rather die from the plague
than see me?
Born a man,
I found my first love after my life of 29 years,
but only to hear that I am worse than a plague.
My life is utterly meaningless.
-Where is she going so early? -To watch the sunrise.
What do we do?
This way.
No, not that way.
This way.
Is it you, Maid?
Are we ready to leave?
I thought I heard something.
Goodness, who's this?
Sister…
I mean, my lady.
Sister?
-What's the meaning of this? -It's not…
I was in the garden, and he appeared out of nowhere.
Back to your room at once!
Yes, ma'am.
Madam, I…
Is she the young lady?
Yes, madam, but…
Madam, have you awoken?
We mustn't let the servants see this.
Hide in here for now.
Hurry!
Madam, you are up so early.
It's all right.
Step inside, madam.
I'm taking some luggage today, so it will be a bit heavy.
Let's go toward the North Gate.
Yes, ma'am.
Let's go!
If you let out a single breath,
we will both be disgraced.
Madam!
Thank you for the hard work.
Madam, please, there's no need.
Go have a drink down at the pub.
Please be back in about an hour.
Yes, ma'am.
By any chance…
Yes?
Did you mess with that girl?
No, of course not.
That is outrageous.
It was our first time meeting in person.
Well, it is an embarrassing situation.
The young lady who you are so fond of
is to be my husband's concubine.
I had no idea.
If only I had known…
What I mean
is that I sympathize with you, Master In-ho.
A young man in his prime years has found his first love,
but it turns out that it can never be.
Poor So-oak.
She's only a young girl.
Who'd want to become a concubine without ever falling in love?
Thinking about what I was like at her age.
I truly feel for her.
Madam.
Your heart certainly has no bounds.
I'm moved at your compassion for a mere concubine.
All women
long to be happy.
A woman knows what a woman feels.
I'd been thinking
about whether it is right
to let innocent So-oak live as a concubine
for the rest of her life.
Let us think of a way
to save two young people from getting hurt.
But Madam,
I think I must leave this carriage now.
It is very painful for me.
Painful?
Well, you see…
Oh, dear!
When did this get so big?
I'm very sorry, ma'am.
What shall we do?
The porters will be back any minute.
Master, we have a problem.
Lady Jung packed her things at dawn,
and left for her home in Ganghwa.
I will write a letter and deliver it to her at once.
Madam, you could order me hanged and I'd have nothing to say.
Keep this a secret between us.
I, too, loved someone before I married my husband.
It was a puppy love and my first,
but I couldn't even let it show.
He was someone I wasn't supposed to love.
So I ended up in a marriage I did not want.
I tried to forget about him, thinking it wasn't fate.
But to this day I regret it.
So how could I not know how you feel?
Madam…
I deeply sympathize with you,
coming here so young to live forever in this confinement.
So if you wish
to continue exchanging letters with Master Kwon,
I will keep it a secret.
Do you really mean it, ma'am?
Let us keep it between us women.
Yes, of course.
She didn't accept the letter,
let alone read it.
Servants say she meets no one, and seldom walks.
In her free time,
she embroiders and reads books.
But I've discovered some new information.
A while ago, a woman visited Lady Jung,
and spoke very badly of you,
calling you a woman-chaser, and warned her to be careful.
Who the hell was that woman?
Lady So-oak's mother.
Well, it seems I'm going on an unexpected foxhunt.
Do not be alarmed.
You know who I am?
Yes, sir.
You are Lady Cho's cousin.
My cousin has spoken very highly of you.
But why are you here with such a sad look on your face?
It's nothing, sir.
Shall I guess what it is?
Let me see your palm.
Give it.
KWON IN-HO
Goodness, how did you know?
I heard from my cousin.
She told me to give you some help.
Lady Cho…
And I too am on your side.
Our evil custom of women forced to be concubines must end.
To clear any misunderstanding,
I will help you write a letter.
Oh, will you really, sir?
Yes, of course.
Come quietly to my room tonight.
There may be watchful eyes, so bring your shoes inside.
Promise.
Did anyone see you?
Of course not, sir.
Well, shall we begin?
I have written something on my own.
Would you like to see it?
This won't do.
How can I put it?
You're too apologetic.
But it was my fault.
A woman must not apologize even if the fault was her own.
Men don't like that.
Then, how should I…
I will dictate to you what to write.
But, sir…
What?
Is there a problem?
I have a bad habit from childhood,
and must lie on my belly to write.
That's no problem.
It doesn't matter to me, so write however you'd like.
Now, first let's make your predicament a bit more dramatic.
Say you'd rather die than become a concubine,
but your parents forced you.
Men his age are naturally rebellious to their parents,
so he will easily side with you.
Let's see.
Start from this line.
And then,
I took your first image into my heart.
I knew it must not be,
but as falling rain fills the lake,
so was my heart filled.
I really like this part.
Falling rain fills the lake…
Do you?
Continue.
We mustn't let the flow stop.
Though I should have emptied my heart,
I could not help myself.
You see, you blamed everything on this poor guy,
but you don't apologize for it.
If for this incident…
Uh, sir…
Keep writing.
If for this incident, I cannot see you ever,
I will bear no resentment.
Because in my heart, Master Kwon will always be
the way he was at our first meeting.
Why are you doing this?
I will scream if you don't stop.
Look over there.
Who will blame me when they see those?
Whether you scream or not,
do whatever you'd like.
Master, you amaze me.
Whether it's great or small,
if a man has set a goal,
he must take equal care in order to fulfill it.
It surely is tough to enter the Gate of Chastity.
So-oak.
What is the matter this morning?
Did you have a bad dream?
Oh, no, ma'am.
I just feel a bit ill.
Is it because of Master Kwon?
No, ma'am.
Look here.
What is there that you and I cannot share between us?
Nothing's really the matter, ma'am.
But,
you look so uncomfortable the way you're sitting.
My cousin wished to see you yesterday, so did you?
Of course not.
I mean, yes, I have, but nothing happened.
Did something happen between you two?
He said he'd help with my letter, and told me to come to his room.
To his room?
Then…
Then he…
Oh, no.
So he did more than just help you with the letter.
What shall I do, my lady?
Oh, goodness.
Why didn't you fight back?
I didn't know what was happening.
And it was my decision to go there.
This is a catastrophe.
Your heart is with Master Kwon, your body with Cho Won,
but you'll be marrying Lord Yu.
Madam.
Servants will hear us.
Will I now be banished?
Banished? Why?
Someone has to know to banish you.
But I'm the only one who does.
My lady.
Since you are to be a concubine anyway,
and you already have a man to love,
then why not another man to sleep with?
Is it really all right?
You are so helpless, my dear.
No one knows, so who's going to blame you?
Had I not met you, madam,
I don't know how I'd ever live in this world.
Common people do not know this,
but all the ladies of nobility
have a secret lover or two of their own.
Is that true?
Then what about women's duties told from the books?
Books are books, but reality is different.
Just as a woman's reality is to wed a man she doesn't love.
Everyone does it, and everyone knows it,
but no one speaks of it.
Oh, my.
Do you have a lover, madam?
Shush! What nonsense!
And from now on, call me Sister.
Can I really?
Oh, how will I ever repay your generous love?
I searched the whole mountain for these.
Thank you so much.
But you've never tinted your nails before.
And summer is almost over.
I just want to look pretty.
Oh, my lady.
It's done.
I hope it lasts until the first snow and brings me love.
Sir Cho Won.
Ah, yes, you are…
Lady So-oak has told me in her letter
that you will be our strong supporter.
It is really nothing.
I don't know how I can repay you.
I look forward to your guidance, sir.
Come to me any time you need help.
I will, sir, and…
May I ask you to give this letter to Lady So-oak?
Surely.
You are quite a fast learner.
Really?
Am I doing that well?
I'm sure Lord Yu will be very happy.
That you are so well trained.
It's all because of you, sir.
Indeed.
Practice is always important.
By the way,
just how old is Lord Yu?
I suppose he must be nearly 40.
Then he's an old man.
He's older than my father.
So you must learn well, and make him happy.
Isn't it far better than to live with your mother's nagging?
Well, it is, but…
Since my cute little bird seems a bit sad,
shall I tell her a fun story?
What story?
What is it?
Your mother once had a lover.
Really?
It was when your father was in China.
She was so taken with her lover
that when your father returned, she still clung on to him.
But her lover eventually left her.
It's all over when a woman starts clinging to a man.
Never do such a thing.
Understand?
But how do you know this story, sir?
Because that lover was me.
Oh, my!
My goodness.
I don't believe it.
What a coincidence this is!
You're quite right.
I guess this is what you'd call a strange karma.
I got it!
I've caught it,
but what can you say about today's fortune?
Yellow means good luck,
and white means bad luck, am I right?
Then, this means that we'll have both good and bad luck today?
So that's Ganghwa.
Raindrops are falling, sir.
-Let's hurry. -Yes, sir.
Madam.
You have a guest.
I do not know what his business may be,
but since I'm alone here, bid the gentleman away.
But,
the master has traveled so long in rain,
and he is drenched all over.
So…
You are dismissed.
Yes, ma'am.
Madam.
Why are you so thoughtless?
You come here knowing my parents-in-law are away
to avoid the plague.
What can I do to make you stop?
I will stop.
I've come only to say good-bye.
Though I'm the eldest in a wealthy family,
I am nothing but a scoundrel.
I have done nothing meaningful to this day.
And it is an outrage that a low-life such as me
should seek your love.
You know that is not the point.
I know I do not deserve your heart,
but thinking you are my last love,
I've committed such disgrace.
I will leave tomorrow.
In the vast lands of China,
I will lay down my loneliness and pain.
And you will from now on
never suffer on my account.
If by any chance,
you do have any last words for me,
I will be staying at a temple nearby.
No! No!
Is there a man as weak as I?
I mustn't.
Master, why don't we leave now?
I'm telling you, Lady Jung will not come.
Be patient!
She will come.
You are here!
You have come!
I have come to tell you something.
I have come because…
Let's go over there.
Where are you taking me?
Where people can't see us.
Madam!
Please do not get me wrong.
I have come here
because on account of a mere woman,
you will jeopardize your…
My boy, come here!
Escort Lady Jung to her home.
We're going back to Seoul.
Has something happened to you?
He let me…
He just let me go and left.
It shows that he did not think of me merely for fun.
I knew all along that I'd feel this way.
Why did I not take better precautions?
Why was I so confident
that I could control such feelings?
Even if you do succumb to them,
do not lose pride in yourself.
You did try with all your might to keep your chastity.
Never forget that.
I'm a fool.
I knew so little about love.
I can't…
I can't erase him from my heart.
What should I do?
Tonight I am sleepless thinking about you.
No, sounds too desperate.
What took you so long?
Master Cho is here, madam.
Go to your room.
Yes, ma'am.
Haven't you gone too far for your revenge?
That girl is so exhausted all the time.
I'm only doing my best as always.
She should easily conceive a child at her age.
I think I should visit Ganghwa again.
Victory is within my reach.
Congratulations.
A trapped tiger is bound to be fierce,
so be careful.
Just prepare a fitting reward for me.
I prefer a lot of perfume.
Madam, So-oak's mother is here.
Don't be so surprised.
It is only my cousin.
I've heard so much about you, madam.
So you will become in-laws now.
Pleased to meet you.
I shall get going.
Ah, by the way.
Your daughter is very clever.
She must take after her mother.
How have you been, my lady?
Madam, I am very sorry.
I tried to stop him, but he just barged in.
Leave us alone for a while.
Are you still not glad to see me?
I've rushed all the way here hoping to see you again.
"The proud woman, who believed she could resist me,
has finally been conquered.
She gave me all that she has.
That gate that was so firmly shut opened at my fine touch.
She was like ice on the outside,
but inside she felt so good.
With other women I used many techniques to maximize pleasure.
But with her, I felt like I was flying through the clouds.
It was a strange experience even for myself.
I reached the peak so many times. I felt true ecstasy time and time again.
What I experienced
was a complete oneness.
The joy of lovemaking outlasted the sensual pleasure.
It was for me, the first time.
And so I concluded for now by vowing eternal love to her.
In fact, for awhile, I even felt I was sincere.
Can such irresistible pleasure like this be possible?
But there is one sad piece of news.
Although I should be hurrying to you to receive my reward,
I shall be a few days late.
I don't think the pleasure with this woman will last very long,
but as you yourself well know,
pleasure is most precious when we are immersed in it,
and for now I can't help myself.
Sincerely,
with everlasting longing for my cousin,
Cho Won."
She just never had a man before.
Chastity, please.
Have you been to Beijing?
Why do you ask?
I've read Yonam's My Journal to China.
It says Yenjing's biggest market spans 27,000 units of land.
I wish I could go there some day.
There,
we could say we're married, and no one will say anything.
How can a delicate woman travel such a long distance?
There are two kinds of meetings in the world.
One is that of the king and his men.
The other is that of a man and a woman.
Now that I have that precious experience of meeting you,
what is there that I cannot do?
Why do you look at me so?
All right, we shall go.
Master, you have stayed so long this time.
Have I? How long has it been?
You even forgot the days going by.
It's already been ten days.
So aren't you going to paint your affair this time?
I don't want to, for some unknown reason.
No doubt, you've finally met your woman.
A match made in heaven.
What?
Do I look like such a fool?
Nah, you're a different kind.
Watch it!
The poet Sudongpo said he is sad with the end of each spring,
but that spring pays no attention and leaves.
Many autumns have passed me by,
but never have I had an autumn
I might dearly miss.
But this fall,
being with you has taught me
what it is to miss fall.
Is your lady in?
Tell her that I have come to collect my debt.
Hurry!
Sir.
My lady is with a very important guest,
and asks you come another day.
She has given me this letter instead.
"In your letter, it seems you've fallen in love,
whether or not you refuse to acknowledge it.
Scrambling desperately in that swamp
doesn't quite become you, does it?
People don't change.
"But once a philanderer does, he can never return.
I had waited for our rendezvous, but have grown exhausted.
I also am now enjoying myself with a new lover,
so I shall see you later.
By the way, I am not quite certain
that the bloodstain you have sent me is indeed her own.
Could be the blood of a pig, or a rabbit."
I guess you haven't heard after being here for days now.
Did a goat give birth to a giraffe this time?
There are Royal Inspectors in the next room.
I heard them say
that they will crack down on Catholics upsetting the custom.
Upsetting the custom…
Did they want only to sleep with each other?
Goodness, how did you know?
They say that the Catholics treat people of all status equal,
don't separate men from the women,
and all are allowed to have sex at will.
I heard even a noble lady in the group
had an affair with some man.
A noble lady?
Who did they say she was?
You know, that Lady Jung who lives in Ganghwa.
Madam, Sir Cho Won wishes to see you.
Show him in.
You have stooped too low this time.
Your brother-in-law will be back soon.
And good news, So-oak is pregnant.
Slandering Lady Jung was not part of our game.
Satisfied with the wedding gift you've prepared with So-oak?
I want you
to leave her out of this.
Still talking about that pathetic woman?
Nothing will happen to you, so don't worry.
Just what are you up to?
You've fallen deep indeed!
Forget that one person who lived in your heart all your life?
Is the faithfulness of a nobleman so weak?
Who are you to speak of faithfulness?
It was quite fun to see you last night.
You can play around all you want,
but you're saying that I can't?
I have never been unfaithful to you.
Go on and try me, and behead Kwon In-ho.
Do you think I'd bat an eye?
We are going to Beijing.
We?
Did you say "we"?
You mean, you and I?
How unfortunate? I have no wish to go.
What if I say you can't?
I won't just sit and do nothing.
What can you do?
Think anyone would believe what you say?
You know full well you are nothing
but a notorious womanizer.
All right.
Let Lady Jung go to China.
Yes, but you must remain here.
It'll prove that you're uninvolved with those people.
I don't suppose
you have fallen in love with her, have you?
No, of course not.
That's what I thought.
Of course, you shouldn't.
Now go.
I know my clever cousin knows very well
what to tell that woman and how to do it.
Farewell, my cousin.
In Seoul,
rumors say that Catholics will be investigated.
So be careful and stay out of sight.
Though I should accompany you,
you'd better leave for Beijing first.
I will explain to you my reasons later.
Madam, he does not wish to see anyone just now.
That can't possibly be.
Did you tell him it was I who have come?
My lord, are you not there?
It is I, Hee-yeon.
Oh, you are here.
I wish to speak to you about something.
What is it?
Why is it that you want me to leave first?
I have some business to attend to.
If you do not mean to reject me,
could I not wait for you and leave together?
No.
What do you mean?
It means
that I cannot help it.
I don't understand.
Are you sure
you will come join me in Beijing?
We've been seeing each other for two seasons now.
That's too long for me.
I'm not usually like that.
So I cannot help it.
Then,
allow me to ask one more thing.
Were all the things you said to me,
were they all untrue?
I thought I had changed,
but I guess it's not in human nature to do so.
The moment I knew you loved me,
my love changed.
Why did you?
You should not have loved me.
I'm sorry, this is what I am.
Even I cannot help myself.
Why are you doing this to me?
What have I done wrong?
If you really wish to know, I can tell you.
Your first mistake was that you met me.
Your second mistake was that you listened to me.
And your third mistake
was that you did not leave me
when I gave you the chance.
And so I tell you, I cannot help it.
Stop! Please, stop!
How could you turn into a different person so quickly?
If it's some cruel joke, please stop.
My heart aches so much
I can hardly breathe.
You must have another reason.
It's a long way to Yenjing, so you should go now.
Sir.
Have you always
seduced and made so many women your victims like this?
That is enough, madam.
Such behavior does not befit a noble lady!
How can you be so insensitive?
What are you waiting for?
Escort the lady out!
Madam!
You sure are merciless.
So how does this story end?
That pathetically faithful woman,
like the queen of self-pity she is,
did not go to China,
but returned to her plagued home,
treating the sick while repenting her shameful mistake.
But for some reason,
she neither eats nor drinks,
and lives like a living corpse.
So the man has accomplished what he set out to do.
It is a more definite proof of conquest
than the bloodstain of a virgin.
And having accomplished all his tasks,
he shall receive his reward.
With it we will both
have a very happy ending.
You are a real mystery.
I thought I knew you well,
but it seems now I know nothing.
The will to possess and the will to destroy.
A woman ruled by only two things.
So?
Which way do you want to go?
I will not come see you again.
While knowing what will happen in pursuing what you can't have?
Isn't it the same either way?
Farewell.
I was afraid.
To imagine that I would feel the pain
that I had always given to the other person.
It was frightening.
Madam.
Sir Cho Won has given me this letter for you to read.
I do not know him.
Please go away.
Madam! Madam!
"I have failed my state official's exam.
I must return to the country to concentrate on my studies.
But I wish to see you one last time."
"I must confess that I have deceived you for some time.
Soon after coming to this home,
it so happened that I fell into the arms of Sir Cho Won.
But after I saw you, I had a change of heart.
Having accepted him first, my body had become used to him,
and my suffering has grown ever since.
And so,
I was going to confess to you, and stop our letters,
but Sir Cho Won found it amusing,
and made me keep writing to you.
I knew it was wrong, but I could not refuse
the command of the one I love.
Only recently,
I discovered that Sir Cho Won had been sleeping with Lady Jung.
And so in my grief I write this letter in tears."
If it's not the plague,
what is wrong with my lady?
I better bring Sir Cho Won here.
"Do not try to find out who I am.
Lady Jung has been sleeping with Cho Won,
who's staying at Lord Yu's home.
Just ask him.
He knows everything.
Lady Jung has fallen ill
from the shock she received from his deceit."
Seems like it'll be fun today.
Drinking again so early?
I heard that a dance troupe is here to perform.
Why don't you come with us?
Who is it?
Tell your master to send someone quicker next time.
Are you not the persimmon warrior?
What the hell do you mean?
You lay under the persimmon tree,
waiting for the fruit to fall into your mouth.
Do you not?
Is it true that you slept with my sister-in-law?
Yes, but the sin was my own.
It was all my doing.
Having done it,
did you forsake her?
That was not my fault.
I just asked to end it.
You bastard.
I will punish you for disgracing my family and my sister-in-law!
Just say that you're jealous.
Shut up, you bastard!
You will really kill someone.
It will become nothing once time passes.
Now leave.
I have someone I must go to meet.
Madam!
Are you okay now?
Master!
Oh, master!
What has happened?
Master, shouldn't you go to a doctor?
Take…
Take me to her…
I was only pretending to be true,
but it ended up
being the truth after all.
Didn't I tell you that you've met your match?
Why were you afraid to keep her?
When I could not trust myself,
that's when I was most frightened.
I still
do not know who I am.
But still…
All I want is to see her…
Can you really make it there?
Master?
Master! Master!
This is awful.
Master! Master!
I dream of starting anew with my love.
But it matters not, even if I do not have the chance.
Because through you,
I have finally learned how to love.
Even with my eyes closed,
I can feel your breath.
If it is not too late,
will you forgive me?
Madam!
Master Cho has…
He has…
No! This can't be!
Go back to your work.
There's nothing here for you to see!
I told you we were not meant to be in this world.
But up there,
we could say we are a married couple,
and no one will say anything.
Lord Yu's brother-in-law was stabbed to death.
He had it coming.
They say that it was his servant who killed him.
Record of Scandalalous Affair
That is said to be Lady Cho.
Is it true?
Who would have thought.
Though it is an immoral world we live in,
we are a nation of propriety.
As a gentleman I cannot let this go by.
This is unimaginable,
considering how proper my daughter-in-law
has conducted herself till now.
Since we've obtained most of the illustration books,
why don't we keep silent about this incident?
Silence is no solution for such an outrage.
But if we were to do something about it,
it will bring the family shame.
This is quite a dilemma.