Betrayals and Power Plays Resurface in tvN STORY’s ‘Romance of the Three Kingdoms’

In the latest episode of tvN STORY’s historical variety show Romance of the Three Kingdoms, airing Tuesday at 8 PM (KST), viewers are drawn deep into a turbulent era of betrayal, ambition, and cunning alliances. Titled “The Enemy is Closer Than You Think,” Episode 2 explores the psychological warfare and politicking among legendary figures from the iconic Chinese epic.

Following the infamous “Rebellion of the Ten Attendants,” the imperial court is thrown into chaos. Amidst this disorder, Dong Zhuo emerges as a central villain, seizing control over the Han dynasty. With an insatiable thirst for power, Dong attempts to strengthen his grip on authority by luring the formidable borderland warrior Lü Bu into a dark alliance, sealed through temptations and blood-bound pledges.

But Dong Zhuo’s tyranny sets in motion a chain reaction. His trusted associate Cao Cao contemplates an assassination attempt, leading to a razor-sharp moment of tension as he draws his sword while alone with Dong—a heart-pounding scene that defines the tone of the episode.

The episode also recounts the famous encounter between Guan Yu and Dong’s fierce general, Hua Tuo. Guan Yu delivers the iconic line, “I will return before this cup of wine cools,” just before battle—a moment met with thunderous admiration from the studio audience.

Adding depth and humor, renowned Korean history communicator Choi Tae-sung offers captivating insights, while YouTuber Chimchakman breaks down the cunning politics of Dong Zhuo, calling bribery practices “bribery magic.” Chimchakman humorously brands Lü Bu as the fashion icon of the Three Kingdoms, while painting Cao Cao as a calculating opportunist.

Actors Yeo Jin-goo and Kang Han-na also delight fans by immersing themselves in character, with Yeo notably predicting Lü Bu’s betrayal with uncanny insight, prompting Chimchakman to quip, “Only a Yeo understands Yeo.” Meanwhile, Kang Han-na channels Dong Zhuo so convincingly she earns the playful nickname “Kang Zhuo.”

Through reenactments, quizzes, and dynamic commentary, Romance of the Three Kingdoms brings historical intrigue to modern audiences in an entertaining yet educational format. The show continues to air every Tuesday night on tvN STORY.