Tragic Death of Ambition

Heo-Don marries So-Yeon, who saved his life, and aims for success in Han Yang with his father-in-law's support. However, his ambitious nature leads him to remarry Kil-Rae, a magistrate's daughter, causing him to sever ties with So-Yeon and her servant, Pal-Bok. Both are falsely accused of adultery and meet tragic ends.

The narrative intensifies as So-Yeon's brother, Jang-Hyeon, becomes the new magistrate after the previous one dies of fear from So-Yeon's ghost. Determined to uncover the truth behind his sister's death, Jang-Hyeon investigates the false accusations. The story culminates in a dark climax where Heo-Don, consumed by guilt, takes the lives of his wife and himself before Jang-Hyeon.