In mid-19th Century Korea, the people of Joseon Dynasty embrace the new religion Donghak. After the founder is executed, Choi Si-hyeong becomes Donghak’s second-generation leader and successfully propagates the religion, but in doing so becomes the object of oppression by the royal court.

A sprawling story of one man's tumultuous life within the context of the South Korean political situation during the second half of the 20th century.

A story that follows the lives and interactions of two Buddhist monks living in South Korea.