The King’s Warden has released two new official posters, offering a deeper look into the film’s historical atmosphere and central relationship. The project stands out as the first Korean film to focus on the lesser-known story of King Danjong, the sixth monarch of the Joseon Dynasty. Park Ji Hoon portrays the young king, while Yoo Hae Jin takes on the role of Eom Heung Do, the village chief of Cheongnyeongpo.
Set in the year 1457, the film revisits the fate of King Danjong, who ascended the throne at just 12 years old before being dethroned by his uncle, Grand Prince Suyang. Exiled to Cheongnyeongpo in Gangwon Province, Danjong’s life ended in tragedy. Rather than centering on palace intrigue, the film shifts its focus to the place of exile, where Eom Heung Do voluntarily transforms his village into an exile site in hopes of securing its prosperity—and unexpectedly forms a bond with the fallen king.
In the first poster, Eom Heung Do and Yi Hong Wi, King Danjong’s personal name, are seen riding a raft toward an unknown destination. Surrounded by cliffs and water, Cheongnyeongpo appears both isolated and foreboding, hinting at the inevitability of fate. While Eom Heung Do initially pursues material stability for his village, his encounter with the exiled king alters the course of his journey.
The second poster presents the two figures standing together at the exile site, their contrasting appearances clearly defined. Eom Heung Do’s approachable demeanor stands in contrast to Yi Hong Wi’s quiet dignity, suggesting a relationship shaped by difference rather than similarity. The caption, “Year 1457, Cheongnyeongpo, the story history tried to erase,” reinforces the film’s intention to illuminate an overlooked chapter of the past.
Scheduled for theatrical release on February 4, The King’s Warden appears poised to explore history through a human lens, using an unexpected friendship to reflect on power, loss, and the enduring traces left by those whom history sought to forget.
