Plot

Based on the legend of Hong Gil Dong in the Joseon era, the story revolves around Hong Gil Dong, the bastard son of Interior Minister Hong. As a child, Gil Dong was told by his father that he was unable to do anything productive in this world, though he was gifted in fighting and Taoist magic. Gil Dong begins to live a meaningless life, unable to call his father "father". Gil Dong comes across Heo Yi Nok one day, a shameless innocent girl who knows nothing about her true identity. She lives her life as a medicine peddler with her grandfather. Gil Dong befriends her and their relationship thickens.

At the same time, the story also introduces Chang Hwe, the true heir to the throne. Apparantly, Kang Hwe, Chang Hwe's bastard older brother, attempted to kill his own brother and the dowager Queen to assume the throne. Thinking that Chang Hwe is dead, Kang Hwe has become crazy and a bad king, leading to bad living conditions for his people. Chang Hwe is back with the help of Madam Noh to reclaim his rightful position as the King.

Gil Dong, along with his band of thieves, steal from the rich to give to the poor. He earns the respect and love of the common class, and he supports Chang Hwe as a good choice to be king instead of Kang Hwe. Chang Hwe also begins to develop feelings for Yi Nok as she sees him for more than just the King, and he feels easy around her. As the love triangle develops, what becomes of the three characters?

Hong Gil Dong is an amazing drama, filled with suspense and humor.