To My Beloved Thief Ep. 15

The 15th episode of To My Beloved Thief depicted the end of King Lee Gyu’s (Lee Gyu) madness fueled by hallucinations and poisonous herbs. It showcased the successful bloodless entry of Lee Yeol (Lee Yeol) and Eun-jo (Eun-jo) into the palace, driven by the people’s desires. However, just as peace seemed within reach, the escape of Im Sa-hyeong reignited the tension.

1. Public Sentiment Unified by the Butcher’s Mask

Even in the face of sharp blades meant to capture Gildong, the common people did not back down. The Butcher’s Masks hung throughout the marketplace became symbols of resistance, signifying that "anyone can be Gildong." With the support of Lady Suk-ui, the people of the slums, and countless citizens, Lee Yeol and Eun-jo opened the palace gates not with swords and spears, but through the power of public sentiment. This "bloodless entry" proved that the new Joseon belongs to its people.

2. The Downfall of Lee Gyu and the Abdication

King Lee Gyu, addicted to the poisonous herb "Yeonsukhwan" and plagued by hallucinations of tigers, finally collapsed before Lee Yeol and Eun-jo. Eun-jo struck him with the truth: "What you chased was nothing but vanity." With Inspector Kang bringing forward Im Sa-hyeong’s own son, Im Jae-i, as a witness, the villain’s position crumbled. Ultimately, Lee Gyu abdicated the throne to Lee Yeol.

3. "The King’s Malady is Lovesickness": King Lee Yeol and Physician Eun-jo

Ascending the throne, Lee Yeol devoted himself day and night to state affairs to ease the burdens of the people. However, the only one who could truly provide him rest was Eun-jo. When Eun-jo appeared elegantly dressed, saying, "To a woman, clothing is her battle armor," Lee Yeol confessed his deep yearning: "I missed you, Hong Eun-jo." The two severed their "Connection Bracelets," promising never again to risk the danger of soul-swapping.

4. [Shocking Ending] "You Ruined Everything": Im Sa-hyeong’s Escape

Just as everything seemed to find its place, the core of evil, Im Sa-hyeong, refused to give up. Escaping from prison and harboring the secret that Eun-jo is Gildong, he sharpened his blade of revenge, muttering, "You ruined everything, Gildong." His mad vow to kill Eun-jo cast an ominous shadow over the newly established kingdom.