The King’s Case Note
The King’s Case Note is a witty and fast-paced Korean historical mystery comedy that follows an unlikely detective duo in the Joseon Dynasty. The film stars acclaimed actor Lee Sun Kyun as King Ye Jong, a sharp-minded monarch known for his unconventional problem-solving and deep curiosity. Opposite him is Ahn Jae Hong as Yoon Yi Seo, a rookie historian who becomes the king’s loyal sidekick. When a series of strange crimes threaten the peace of the kingdom—including rumors of a secret rebellion and mysterious symbols found across the royal court—King Ye Jong takes it upon himself to uncover the truth. With Yoon Yi Seo by his side, the king disguises himself, infiltrates underground networks, and even cracks ancient codes, all while maintaining his royal duties and wit. As the plot thickens, they uncover a conspiracy that links high-ranking officials, dark magic, and forbidden history. The duo’s humorous banter, combined with thrilling chase scenes and clever deductions, makes the film a rare blend of historical drama, buddy comedy, and mystery thriller. Supporting actors like Kim Hee Won, Joo Jin Mo, and Kyung Soo Jin add further charm and intrigue to the unfolding case. The King’s Case Note is perfect for fans of Korean historical detective stories, royal conspiracies, and comedic period films. With stylish cinematography, intelligent humor, and charismatic performances, it delivers a refreshing take on traditional Joseon-era storytelling. Whether you're a K-drama lover or new to Korean cinema, this film offers mystery, laughter, and royal cleverness in equal measure.
Details
🙂 Native Title: 임금님의 사건수첩
🌎 Also Known As: The King’s Casebook, The King’s Detective, King’s Investigation
🎭 Genres: Historical, Mystery, Comedy, Action
🏷 Tags: Joseon Dynasty, King as Main Character, Political Intrigue, Smart Male Lead, Detective Duo
✍ Screenwriters: Jang Min Seok
🎬 Directors: Moon Hyun Sung
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Release Date: April 26, 2017
📺 Original Network: Theatrical Release
⏰ Duration: 114 minutes
🔞 Content Rating: 12+ – Suitable for 12 and older
Best Scenes
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The scene where King Ye Jong (Lee Sun Kyun) disguises himself to investigate a suspicious merchant’s shop is both clever and hilarious.
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The witty back-and-forth between the King and Yoon Yi Seo (Ahn Jae Hong) during a chaotic courtroom scene provides comic relief and insight into their chemistry.
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The rooftop chase through the palace at night showcases well-choreographed action mixed with suspense and humor.
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The King’s intense interrogation of a royal official reveals his sharp mind and commitment to justice.
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The final scene, where the duo solves the central mystery in front of the court, is satisfying and ties together clues built throughout the film.
Filming Locations
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Shot primarily in Namyangju Studio Complex, known for its authentic Joseon-era palace sets.
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Additional outdoor scenes filmed at Mungyeong Saejae Open Set, famous for historical Korean productions.
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Market and alleyway scenes were created using real locations blended with constructed backdrops for immersion.
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Palace libraries and courtrooms were filmed on elaborate sound stages designed to reflect royal detail.
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Many nighttime sequences use real architectural lighting to enhance authenticity and mood.
Visual Design and Costumes
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The King’s robes reflect his intelligence and status—crafted in royal blues with detailed embroidery.
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Yoon Yi Seo’s modest scholar attire contrasts the King’s wardrobe, emphasizing their social and intellectual differences.
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Use of bright, symbolic colors—especially reds and golds—enhances scenes set in political or ceremonial environments.
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Props such as scrolls, ancient maps, and royal seals add depth to the detective storyline.
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The art direction balances realism with slight stylization, allowing the comedy to flow without losing period accuracy.
Themes and Messages
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Wisdom over power is a central theme, with the King relying on intellect rather than brute authority.
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The importance of recording truth and history, symbolized through Yoon Yi Seo’s role as a historian, is emphasized throughout.
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Teamwork and trust evolve between the King and Yi Seo, showing that status can be transcended by shared goals.
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The film lightly critiques government corruption through mystery, showing how those in power may manipulate information.
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Humor is used to explore serious ideas about justice, truth, and social hierarchy, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Interesting Facts
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Lee Sun Kyun is widely known for his serious roles (like in Parasite), but shines here in a rare comedic royal performance.
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The film was a box office success and helped boost Ahn Jae Hong’s mainstream popularity.
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Inspired by real-life Joseon-era chronicles and records, the movie blends fact with fictional crime-solving.
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The director Moon Hyun Sung intentionally styled the King as a “Joseon Sherlock Holmes.”
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The film’s production team consulted with Korean history experts to ensure accurate terminology, props, and costumes.
Awards
Awards & Nominations
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2017 Grand Bell Awards (54th Daejong Film Awards)
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Best Costume Design – Nominated
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Real-Life Loves on Set
There are no confirmed real-life romantic relationships that developed between the cast members of the Korean film The King’s Case Note (2017). While the movie features entertaining chemistry—especially between Lee Sun Kyun and Ahn Jae Hong in their humorous king-scholar dynamic—there has been no official news or reports suggesting that any romance from the set continued off-screen.
Trailer
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