Selecting a Joseon Queen

Eul stands as the most sought-after bachelor in all of Joseon, yet his prestigious reputation brings him an unexpected royal mandate. The king has tasked him with a delicate mission: to investigate five noble young women who conspicuously failed to submit their names for the royal selection process. Rather than simply punishing their defiance, the crown demands that Eul evaluate these candidates firsthand and determine which among them possesses the qualities necessary to become the next queen. To navigate this complex undertaking, Eul requires an ally intimately familiar with the inner workings of the court. He strikes a bargain with Seo-gyeong, the most talented apa—a female merchant entrusted with supplying goods directly to the royal palace. Her sharp instincts and unparalleled access make her the perfect partner for uncovering the hidden truths behind each candidate's reluctance. Together, they embark on a perilous journey across the kingdom, bound by a shared secret. To avoid arousing suspicion while observing the noblewomen, Eul and Seo-gyeong must disguise themselves as a married couple. As they delve deeper into the lives of the elusive candidates, their fabricated union is tested by the mounting pressures of royal intrigue, forcing them to balance their dangerous mission with the fragile trust growing between them.