Under the Queen's Umbrella

Unlike the crown prince, who thrives in his studies, Im Hwa-ryeong’s other sons arrive late to class — stoking the queen dowager’s disapproval.

Hwa-ryeong urges her sons to join the race to become the cohort of the crown prince. She gets a volunteer, but soon learns of his scandalous secret.

At the selection exam, the king challenges the candidates by posing an unexpected question. The queen dowager closes in on Grand Prince Gyeseong.

The three finalists debate over a topic that’s plaguing the nation. Grand Prince Seongnam risks his life to meet a doctor who could heal his brother.

When the news of the crown prince's ill-health spreads through the palace, members of the royal council pressure the king to appoint a new successor.

Hwang Won-hyeong spearheads an official investigation of the disturbing rumors. The crown princess comes to Hwa-ryeong in distress.

Seongnam seeks to take responsibility for the tragedy, hoping to shake his guilt. The royal physician makes a surprising confession before the king.

When other princes and concubines lie, cheat and scheme to get ahead in the competition, Hwa-ryeong finds a way to slow them down.

The queen dowager shifts her support to another prince, which makes her former allies nervous. Prince Simso returns home to a hostile welcome.

Gyeseong tries to stop a criminal from entering the palace. Two princes investigate a suspicious blind man. Seongnam’s royal roots are questioned.