tvN and TVING’s historical drama The Queen Who Crowns Episode 7, the complex relationships and political struggles of early Joseon come to the forefront. Lee Bang-won (played by Lee Hyun-wook) faces immense pressure from his subjects and foreign envoys, leading him to declare a shocking decision: he will abdicate the throne. This moment not only highlights the weight of leadership but also introduces a series of dramatic conflicts.
During this episode, Lee Bang-won convenes his loyal subjects, including Won-gyeong (Cha Joo-young) and Prince Yangnyeong (Kim Gun-woo). He announces, “I intend to pass on my throne to the crown prince.” His reasoning stems from growing mistrust within the palace and tensions over military authority. However, his decision creates a rift between him and Won-gyeong.
Won-gyeong’s Plea to Change His Mind
Won-gyeong, loyal yet determined, confronts Lee Bang-won about his decision to step down. She learns that the royal seal has already been sent to the crown prince and urges him to reconsider. In a heated exchange, Lee Bang-won responds, “The queen should take control of the government.” This sparks an intense debate, showcasing the shifting power dynamics within the palace.
Foreign Demands and Personal Promises
Another layer of tension emerges when a Ming Dynasty envoy, Hwang Eom, visits Joseon. He demands tribute in the form of 10,000 horses and at least fifty princesses to serve as concubines. Lee Bang-won, caught off guard, negotiates with Hwang Eom, asking, “What kind of return gift will the Ming give me?”
When Won-gyeong hears about the demand for princesses, she takes a firm stand. She reminds Lee Bang-won of his earlier promise to avoid concubines, stating, “Before ascending to the throne, you clearly said there would be no more concubines. That promise must be kept.” Her persistence highlights her moral conviction and the delicate balance of diplomacy and personal values during the Joseon era.
Despite the pressure, Lee Bang-won struggles to satisfy both his court and the Ming Dynasty. Hwang Eom eventually agrees to delay the discussion on concubines, signaling a temporary resolution.

Historical Intrigue and Familial Struggles
The episode also delves deeper into Lee Bang-won’s inner conflict. A flashback reveals a conversation with his father, Lee Seong-gye (played by Lee Seong-min), where Lee Bang-won vows to move the capital to Hanyang and cut off existing power structures. When asked if he could make such sacrifices, including distancing himself from his family, he hesitantly replies, “I can.” This moment underscores his internal battle between loyalty to his loved ones and his ambition to establish a stable Joseon.
Long-Tail Keyword: Historical K-drama Lee Bang-won conflict
This episode of Won-gyeong offers a nuanced portrayal of leadership, loyalty, and moral dilemmas in historical Joseon. The intense drama and layered storytelling bring history to life, making it a must-watch for fans of historical K-dramas.
By weaving personal struggles with political intrigue, The Queen Who Crowns Episode 7 captures the challenges faced by those at the center of power. As the series unfolds, viewers will witness how these conflicts shape Lee Bang-won and those around him.
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Kavita Mishra is a dynamic writer and passionate Korean entertainment enthusiast, combining her love for K-pop and K-drama with a flair for storytelling. With a keen eye for the latest trends, Kavita crafts articles that capture the pulse of K-pop idols, chart-topping hits, and the most buzz-worthy dramas taking over screens worldwide.