The Korean historical drama Dong Yi is one of the most loved period series ever made. With 60 episodes, it tells the story of a young woman who rises from poverty to become a royal consort in the Joseon Dynasty. Along the way, she faces struggles, rivalries, love, and betrayal. Because of its rich storytelling, beautiful costumes, and powerful performances, many viewers find it hard to pick favorite moments. But some episodes stand out more than others because of their emotional depth and impact on the story. Here is a detailed look at the top 10 best episodes of Dong Yi.
Episode 1 is unforgettable because it sets the foundation of the entire story. Viewers see the tragic beginning of Dong Yi’s life. Her father, who is a noble and kind man, is accused of being part of a secret group against the government. He is executed, and Dong Yi is left as an orphan. This heartbreaking moment shows us the injustice of the time and the deep pain she carries with her. It also highlights her strength because instead of giving up, she learns to survive on her own. From this first episode, the audience is pulled into her world and roots for her to rise above the hardships.
Episode 8 marks the moment when Dong Yi officially enters the palace as a maid in the music department. This is one of the most important turning points in her journey. Life inside the palace is very different from the outside world. It is full of rules, hierarchy, and dangers. But Dong Yi uses her intelligence and kind personality to adjust quickly. Her talent in music and observation skills make her stand out among the other maids. Even though she is still at the bottom of the ladder, we can already see her destiny unfolding.
Episode 15 is especially loved because it shows the first meaningful interaction between Dong Yi and King Sukjong. Their meeting is filled with warmth and humor, which makes it different from the usual cold palace environment. The king is charmed by her honesty and innocence, while Dong Yi sees him as a kind man rather than just a ruler. This scene plants the seeds of their future relationship. The chemistry between them is natural, and many viewers consider this episode the start of one of the most touching love stories in historical dramas.
Episode 23 is a thrilling one where Dong Yi solves an important mystery inside the palace. Her sharp mind and ability to observe details help uncover the truth and prevent greater harm. By solving this case, Dong Yi proves that she is not just an ordinary maid but someone with intelligence and courage. This earns her respect from officials and, more importantly, from the king. From this episode, viewers can see that her role in the palace is no longer small—she is now someone who can influence major events.
Episode 30 is both emotional and inspiring because Dong Yi is finally promoted to the position of royal consort. For a woman who once lived as a poor orphan, this is a huge achievement. But with her new status comes greater responsibility and many challenges. She must now face rivals like Jang Ok-jung, who will do everything possible to maintain power. This episode is a reminder that success in the palace is never without sacrifice. Still, Dong Yi’s promotion marks her transformation from a simple palace maid into a woman of real influence.
Episode 36 is one of the most intense episodes because it focuses on the growing conflict between Dong Yi and Jang Ok-jung. Jang is powerful and ambitious, but Dong Yi’s honesty and intelligence threaten her position. Their rivalry is not only about power but also about their different values. Jang represents greed and manipulation, while Dong Yi stands for truth and kindness. The scenes between the two women are filled with tension, making this episode a favorite among fans who enjoy drama and confrontation.
Episode 45 is heartbreaking yet powerful. In this episode, Dong Yi shows her strength as a mother. Her young son faces danger, and she does everything she can to protect him. This episode reveals her softer side as a parent and her fierce determination to defend her family. For many viewers, it is one of the most emotional parts of the series because it shows that no matter how high Dong Yi rises, she is still a mother who deeply loves her child.
Episode 52 highlights the deep trust between Dong Yi and King Sukjong. The king, who faces pressure from different political groups, relies heavily on Dong Yi’s wisdom. Unlike many around him, she speaks the truth without fear. Their relationship is not just romantic but also built on respect and loyalty. This episode makes it clear that Dong Yi is not just a consort; she is a true partner to the king. The bond they share gives the audience one of the most beautiful portrayals of love in historical dramas.
Episode 57 is a turning point because it shows the fall of Jang Ok-jung. After years of manipulation and cruelty, her downfall finally comes. This episode is dramatic, filled with both sadness and relief. Viewers see that no matter how powerful someone becomes, greed and lies eventually lead to destruction. For Dong Yi, it is a moment of justice and a reward for her patience and perseverance. This episode gives fans one of the most satisfying moments in the series.
Episode 60, the finale, ties everything together and leaves a lasting impression. In the final moments, viewers see the legacy of Dong Yi and her son, who later becomes King Yeongjo, one of the greatest kings in Korean history. The ending is bittersweet because while Dong Yi achieves great success, the journey is filled with struggles and sacrifices. The final episode shows the strength of her character and the impact of her life on the future of Joseon. It leaves the audience both proud and emotional, proving why Dong Yi remains a timeless masterpiece.
These top 10 episodes stand out because they show the different sides of Dong Yi’s journey: her pain, courage, intelligence, love, and strength as a mother. Together, they capture the heart of the series and explain why so many people still watch and love Dong Yi years after its release.