Fans are currently obsessing over a new K-drama, which has already taken over the internet in its first week, and for all the right reasons. Bon Appétit, Your Majesty, a romantic fantasy series with a historical twist, is winning over viewers not only in South Korea but across the globe. Featuring a mix of time travel, palace intrigue, and sizzling chemistry between its leads, the drama has captured attention with just four episodes out so far. But, do you know the web series is loosely inspired by the real-life events?
Real story behind Bon Appetit, Your Majesty
Starring Girls’ Generation’s YoonA and rising star Lee Chae Min, Bon Appétit, Your Majesty follows the story of Yeon Jiyoung, a modern-day award-winning chef who suddenly finds herself transported back to the Joseon era. There, she meets King Yi Heon, a feared and temperamental monarch known for his refined palate and unpredictable behaviour.
Using her culinary skills as a survival tool, Jiyoung begins preparing fusion dishes that not only impress the king but also begin to melt his icy heart. What starts as a tense relationship slowly develops into a charming and heartwarming romance, with a side of royal politics, comedy, and plenty of mouth-watering food scenes.
The show is loosely inspired by the real-life King Yeonsangun, who is remembered in Korean history as one of Joseon’s most notorious tyrants. To distance itself from the darker aspects of that legacy, the drama changes the character’s name to King Yi Heon while still borrowing traits that hint at Yeonsangun’s historical rule, including his initial cruelty, suspicion, and lavish tastes.
In reality, King Yeonsangun (born Yi Yung) ruled from 1495 to 1506 and is infamous for violent purges of scholars, censorship of speech, and turning academic institutions into sites of personal entertainment. His reign ended in a coup, and his reputation as the “worst tyrant” in Joseon history remains to this day.
Despite this dark inspiration, Bon Appetit, Your Majesty focuses on a lighter, more offbeat storyline. The fantasy elements and budding romance help balance out the more serious historical undertones, making it accessible and entertaining to a wide audience.
The series is based on a 2022 web novel titled Yeonsankunui Chefro Salanamki by Park Kuk Jae, which also explored the idea of a modern chef going through the world of a royal court.
Bon Appetit, Your Majesty leads the list
The show’s growing popularity is backed by numbers. On September 7, it achieved its highest viewership ratings yet. According to Nielsen Korea report, the latest episode pulled in an average nationwide rating of 12.7%, taking the top spot in its time slot across all channels, including major public broadcasters.
Among viewers aged 20 to 49, the most sought-after demographic, the drama scored a solid 4.9%.
Bon Appétit, Your Majesty is currently streaming on Netflix in India, with Episodes 5 and 6, which have been dropped on September 6 and 7, respectively. As the show heads into its second half, fans can expect more drama, deeper emotions, and of course, plenty of delicious dishes.
Stay tuned for more updates!
Real story behind Bon Appetit, Your Majesty
Starring Girls’ Generation’s YoonA and rising star Lee Chae Min, Bon Appétit, Your Majesty follows the story of Yeon Jiyoung, a modern-day award-winning chef who suddenly finds herself transported back to the Joseon era. There, she meets King Yi Heon, a feared and temperamental monarch known for his refined palate and unpredictable behaviour.
Using her culinary skills as a survival tool, Jiyoung begins preparing fusion dishes that not only impress the king but also begin to melt his icy heart. What starts as a tense relationship slowly develops into a charming and heartwarming romance, with a side of royal politics, comedy, and plenty of mouth-watering food scenes.
The show is loosely inspired by the real-life King Yeonsangun, who is remembered in Korean history as one of Joseon’s most notorious tyrants. To distance itself from the darker aspects of that legacy, the drama changes the character’s name to King Yi Heon while still borrowing traits that hint at Yeonsangun’s historical rule, including his initial cruelty, suspicion, and lavish tastes.
In reality, King Yeonsangun (born Yi Yung) ruled from 1495 to 1506 and is infamous for violent purges of scholars, censorship of speech, and turning academic institutions into sites of personal entertainment. His reign ended in a coup, and his reputation as the “worst tyrant” in Joseon history remains to this day.
Despite this dark inspiration, Bon Appetit, Your Majesty focuses on a lighter, more offbeat storyline. The fantasy elements and budding romance help balance out the more serious historical undertones, making it accessible and entertaining to a wide audience.
The series is based on a 2022 web novel titled Yeonsankunui Chefro Salanamki by Park Kuk Jae, which also explored the idea of a modern chef going through the world of a royal court.
Bon Appetit, Your Majesty leads the list
The show’s growing popularity is backed by numbers. On September 7, it achieved its highest viewership ratings yet. According to Nielsen Korea report, the latest episode pulled in an average nationwide rating of 12.7%, taking the top spot in its time slot across all channels, including major public broadcasters.
Among viewers aged 20 to 49, the most sought-after demographic, the drama scored a solid 4.9%.
Bon Appétit, Your Majesty is currently streaming on Netflix in India, with Episodes 5 and 6, which have been dropped on September 6 and 7, respectively. As the show heads into its second half, fans can expect more drama, deeper emotions, and of course, plenty of delicious dishes.
Stay tuned for more updates!
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