在 late 18th century, during the era of Joseon's Graceful Empresses, a vibrant and beautiful young woman named Seo-Yeong (played by Li Xiao Jing) bloomed as Spring Fragrance. During the Duanwu Festival, the dashing Vice Consul Lee Mong-Ryong ( portrayed by Cao Cheng Yu ) crossed paths with the girl joyfully swinging on a swing, leaving him enchanted. A nobleman and a beauty, their hearts intertwined almost instantly, vowing to spend a lifetime together secretly. However, good times do not last forever, and Mong-Ryong's father, due to his outstanding achievements in politics, was promoted to the capital, forcing Mong-Ryong to part ways with his beloved Spring Fragrance, accompanying his father to Han City. Before leaving, Mong-Ryong promised he would return after passing the palace exam to marry her.
After assuming office as the Southern Ambassador, the greedy Dong Nyeong takes advantage of Spring Fragrance's predicament and coerces her into becoming his concubine. Tough-spirited Spring Fragrance refuses at all costs, waiting faithfully for Mong-Ryong's return...
Adapted from a Korean folklore, this film won the Grand Prize of the Jury, Best Asian Film, and the Asia Pacific Award at the 2000 Taipei International Film Festival, Best Picture at the 2000 Hawaii International Film Festival, the Asia Promotion Award at the 2000 Busan International Film Festival, and the Silver Screen Award for Best Asian Director (Lin Hongzhao) at the 2001 Singapore International Film Festival.
