"The criminal impersonating a royal official is not taking money. Your Majesty, he is stealing the hearts and minds of your people." In the Joseon Dynasty, there existed a polarizing character who was a hero to the people but an adversary to the system. Hong Gil Dong was his surname. King Yeonsangun had royal blood but was despised by his subjects, whereas Hong Gil Dong was born a slave but managed to win the hearts of the common people. The conflict between these two individuals exemplifies the attributes required of a genuine leader. This TV series depicts the life of Hong Gil Dong, who fought against the dominant elites in a hostile and repressive nation.