In the wake of a violent political coup that shakes the Joseon dynasty, King Yi Hong-wi is dethroned and sent into exile.
Meanwhile, in the remote mountain village of Gwangchungol in Yeongwol, village chief Eom Heung-do struggles to provide for his people. Hoping to revive the village, he volunteers Cheongnyeongpo as a place of exile, believing it will bring great fortune. However, the man he welcomes is not a powerful noble, but the young, dethroned king, Yi Hong-wi.
Tasked as the warden responsible for the exile, Eom Heung-do must watch Yi Hong-wi’s every move. As days pass, however, he grows increasingly concerned by the boy who has lost the will to live.