Gu Deok Becomes Ok Tae-young
Tale of Lady Ok = 옥씨부인전(Okssi Buin Jeon)
In the second episode, Gu Deok (played by Lim Ji-yeon), who was born a slave, finds herself living as Ok Tae-young, the noble daughter of the Ok family. Lady Han, recognizing Gu Deok’s literacy skills and her role in avenging the death of the real Tae-young, opens her heart to the young woman. Respecting Tae-young’s final wish to protect Gu Deok, Lady Han insists she take on Tae-young’s identity.
Though Gu Deok once dreamed of a simple life by the seaside with her father, she now faces an extraordinary opportunity—to live as a respected noblewoman instead of enduring a life of servitude.
Two Years Later: Cheon Seung-hwi’s Rise to Stardom
Meanwhile, Song Seo-in (played by Choo Young-woo), now performing under the stage name Cheon Seung-hwi, becomes a celebrated storyteller and performer in Joseon. Inspired by a conversation with Gu Deok in Episode 1, Seo-in realized the power of stories that bring hope and happiness to the downtrodden. His performances, blending stunning visuals and emotional storytelling, captivate audiences nationwide.
However, their paths remain intertwined. Gu Deok and Seo-in’s complicated relationship is overshadowed by Seo-in’s arranged engagement with Kim So-hye (played by Ha Yul-ri). When So-hye discovers Gu Deok hiding behind a screen in Seo-in’s room, she accuses Gu Deok of inappropriate behavior, leading to a brutal punishment.
Justice and Betrayal
Gu Deok barely survives the ordeal and eventually confronts Kim So-hye’s father, exacting revenge for her mother’s suffering. With her father’s help, she escapes, leaving behind the torment of her past.
As Seo-in uncovers the truth about his own birth, he seeks solace in the gisaeng house where his biological mother once lived. Learning of her death, he resolves to honor her memory, further fueling his rise as an artist and storyteller.
Ok Tae-young’s New Purpose
Living as Ok Tae-young, Gu Deok takes on the role of a compassionate noblewoman, treating her servant Baek-i as an equal and confidante. However, tragedy strikes when Baek-i is killed, seemingly at the hands of Baek Do-gwang, the son of Lady Song. Determined to seek justice, Gu Deok reports the crime to local authorities.
In a poignant moment, Gu Deok realizes her calling: to become an oejibu—a type of legal advocate in Joseon. She vows to dedicate her life to helping those wronged by society, marking a powerful turning point in her journey.
What is an Oejibu?
During the Joseon dynasty, oejibu served as legal consultants, often working as part-time officials or private individuals who assisted with legal documentation for a fee. While historical records highlight some unethical practices, the concept of a noble advocate for the powerless offers a refreshing and inspiring angle for this fictional drama.
Gu Deok’s words from Episode 1, “People love stories about the poor and downtrodden finding happiness. They imagine better days and feel a sense of vicarious joy,” resonate deeply as she steps into this role of justice and hope.
Episode 2 of Tale of Lady Ok masterfully weaves themes of redemption, resilience, and justice, leaving viewers eager to follow Gu Deok’s transformation into a beacon of hope for the oppressed.
