Untold Scandal is a 2003 South Korean film directed by E J-yong, based on the 1782 French novel Les Liaisons Dangereuses by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos. The film is set in the late 18th century during the Joseon Dynasty period in Korea. It tells the story of a manipulative and scheming aristocrat Lady Cho, who sets out to deflower a young and innocent girl named Soh-ok, who is to become her husband's concubine.
Lady Cho enlists the help of her younger cousin, Jo-won, a notorious playboy who is always looking for his next conquest. Jo-won initially agrees to help his cousin, but his attention soon shifts to a more challenging target, the graceful and aloof Lady Sook. Lady Sook is a devout Catholic who has remained celibate for nine years since her husband's death, and Jo-won becomes obsessed with seducing her.
Throughout the film, Jo-won and Lady Cho engage in a heated game of seduction and manipulation, as they plot to fulfill their own desires and destroy the lives of those around them. However, their plans ultimately come crashing down as they find themselves outplayed by Lady Sook, who proves to be a formidable opponent.
Untold Scandal is a beautifully shot film, with stunning period costumes and lavish sets that transport the viewer to a bygone era. The performances by the cast are exceptional, particularly Bae Yong-joon, who portrays Jo-won with a perfect mix of charm and arrogance. The film is a masterful adaptation of a classic novel, and a must-see for fans of historical dramas and period pieces.
