RReframe← All stories
Historical Drama Film

The Treacherous (2015 Film)

The Treacherous (Korean: 간신; RR: Ganshin) is a 2015 South Korean historical drama film directed by Min Kyu-dong. Set during the 15th century, the narrative centers on the volatile reign of Prince Yeonsan and the actions of his retainers, specifically Im Soong-jae and his father, who are tasked with gathering women from across the country to serve the monarch.

The Treacherous film poster
Promotional poster for The Treacherous.

Plot

Following the death of his mother, Prince Yeonsan descends into madness and paranoia. Seeking to indulge his desires, he appoints his childhood friend Im Soong-jae and his father, Im Sa-hong, as his primary retainers. They are ordered to collect beautiful women from all social classes and marital statuses to serve the prince, an act that incites widespread public anger. The story follows the complex dynamics between the prince, his retainers, and Dan-hee, a woman from the lowest social class who seeks entry into the palace.

Ju Ji-hoon as Im Soong-jae
Ju Ji-hoon portrays Im Soong-jae.
Kim Kang-woo as Prince Yeonsan
Kim Kang-woo portrays Prince Yeonsan.

Production

The film was produced by Park Ja-myung and Min Jin-soo. Principal photography for the project commenced on September 1, 2014, and concluded on December 30, 2014.

Lim Ji-yeon as Dan-hee
Lim Ji-yeon portrays Dan-hee.
Lee Yoo-young as Seol Joong-mae
Lee Yoo-young portrays Seol Joong-mae.
Cheon Ho-jin as Im Sa-hong
Cheon Ho-jin portrays Im Sa-hong.

Reception and Awards

The Treacherous held its international premiere at the 50th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in July 2015. At the 36th Blue Dragon Film Awards held on November 26, 2015, Lee Yoo-young received the award for Best New Actress for her performance in the film.

Cha Ji-yeon as Jang Nok-soo
Cha Ji-yeon portrays Jang Nok-soo.
Song Young-chang as Yoo Ja-gwang
Song Young-chang portrays Yoo Ja-gwang.
Jo Han-chul as Park Won-jong
Jo Han-chul portrays Park Won-jong.
Jang Gwang as Prime Minister
Jang Gwang portrays the Prime Minister.
Ki Joo-bong as Butcher Kim
Ki Joo-bong portrays Butcher Kim.
Jung In-gi as Officer at Sungkyunkwan
Jung In-gi portrays an officer at Sungkyunkwan.
Still from The Treacherous
A scene from the film.

End of story