The beginning was intense, the middle was captivating and the ending, highly surprising! A real masterpiece of its genre. Story: Richly-eventful.If there is an aspect here that is really outstanding, it's the story. The story was crafted in such a way that the audience will feel in somewhat roller-coaster ride while watching this show. There are a lot of unexpected twist and turns, I was captivated by the show's concepts of survival, betrayal, success, failure, devotion, love, patience, friendship, family and political hierarchy. A lot of events really shocked me but those kept me interested throughout. As I saw every episode, I want to go on, not to see what will happen or how it will end but because I want to answer a lot of questions on my mind. Conflicts within conflicts- that was the story was made in my opinion. Maybe complicated for some but that's what a really substantial story is about; that is for me. Plot-wise, this is an eye-opener, for most of the events did occur in the korean history. The romance was so great--it has the feeling of "love against all odds". A love story wherein the guy fell in love with the girl and the girl loved him too but the family doesn't approve-- I tell you, it's not only that. The ending was as I said earlier, really surprising, but it's happy okay? So watch it! :)) Acting/ Cast: Park Shi Hoo has always been my favorite but his performance here was amazing. This was the first drama I've seen him in historicals and he looked so dashing--as a member of royal clan or as a revolutionist survivor, he looked good! His portrayal as a main cast was done at its best, a lot of emotions had to be used, he showed them all splendidly. This was first drama that I've seen Moon Chae Won, and I can say that she's in great chemistry with the main guy. Her acting skills were also good,no complaints she's the main girl lead as her role portrayal had the same level as PSH. Don't belittle the supporting cast because a lot of my emotions were highly used to them, mostly was hate, there are a lot of antagonists here. I was mostly sad for PSH and MCW. Omo! Again, this is a happy ending,okie okie? hehe:) Music: Powerful. Watch the first episode and you'll know. The story and the music- a perfect match, it's so good. Rewatch value: Most of the time I don't rewatch but maybe sometime I'll try to do so.. :) Overall: A great show which will leave you a really strong impression, if you haven't watched, you can try this one now. :)