Many viewers are missing key details about IU's divorce decision and Byun Woo-seok's regency crisis in episode 9. In 'The King's Affection 2026,' the wedding contract leak intensifies pressure, revealing heartfelt emotions and IU's true intentions, raising the stakes. The episode also unveils Noh Sang-hyun's dark turn and the truth behind a royal incident from three years ago, building anticipation for future plot developments.
Why Did IU's Character Decide to Divorce in 'The King's Affection 2026'?
In episode 9, Sung Hee-ju (IU) decides to divorce Lee Wan (Byun Woo-seok) to protect him from royal pressure following the wedding contract leak. She expresses her genuine feelings for him, aiming to resolve the complicated situation involving Min Jung-woo (Noh Sang-hyun). Lee Wan, despite their contract-based relationship, emphasizes his true feelings. However, Hee-ju's silence hints at her resolve to divorce. Meanwhile, Queen Dowager Lee Rang (Gong Seung-yeon) pressures Lee Wan, and the attacks extend to Hee-ju, placing both in jeopardy. Lee Wan, angered by the manipulation surrounding Hee-ju's collapse, prepares a public statement. He asserts that while their relationship began as a contract, their public image was genuine. Responding to rumors about Jung-woo's claim to the throne, Lee Wan declares that a king without public support is unnecessary, demanding an end to his regency. This decision stems from Lee Wan's internal struggle to protect Hee-ju and the escalating political conflict over his regency.
What's Behind the Wedding Contract Leak and Min Jung-woo's Dark Turn?
Before the wedding contract was leaked, Min Jung-woo (Noh Sang-hyun) investigated Lee Ah-reum and discovered that the incident involving Lee Wan's drink was orchestrated by Lord Yun Seong-won. However, Jung-woo did not immediately report this to Lee Wan. Instead, he sought out Queen Dowager Lee Rang (Gong Seung-yeon). Rang denied the evidence, attempting to buy time, while Yun Seong-won claimed his actions were to protect his family and the King. The scene shows Yun Seong-won pressuring his daughter, the young Queen Dowager, to order the end of Lee Wan's regency, stating that people wouldn't believe she burned the royal decree and accidentally killed the former King. Rang, exploiting Jung-woo's wavering loyalty, offers him the wedding contract, proposing a deal. Lee Wan wants to retrieve the untainted contract but doesn't want Hee-ju harmed, leading him to believe he must dismantle Lee Wan's power. This fuels Min Jung-woo's dark turn, driven by complex feelings for Hee-ju and the power struggles within the royal court, pushing him further down a darker path.
What is the Truth Behind the Royal Incident from Three Years Ago Involving Lee Yoon and Lee Wan?
It's revealed that Lee Yoon and Lee Wan overheard everything during the fire three years ago, including discussions about abdication and orders for Lee Yoon's husband to be killed. Lee Wan comforted the young Lee Yoon, telling him to come to him anytime he felt scared, and Lee Yoon found solace in Lee Wan's presence. This explains why Lee Wan is particularly fond of his young nephew, Lee Yoon, and why Lee Yoon relies on him. Yun Seong-won, attempting to coerce the young King into ordering the end of Lee Wan's regency, is discovered by Lee Wan and nearly killed. Lee Wan spares Yun Seong-won, warning him.
