I must say Jo Jung Suk's portrayal as the king was impressive. On the other hand, Shin Sae Kyeong's was below his level. There was no chemistry between the two leads. I don't think the FL fully embraced her role as the king's beloved. Her acting was not credible enough to make one feel that she actually was in love with the king. It felt forced. Even the moments where they kissed felt awkward. To have picked her as the FL was a mistake. She just didn't fit.