The extraordinary company dinner culture and drinking episodes of King Jeongjo, the 22nd monarch of Joseon, are revealed through TV CHOSUN's 'What Did the King Eat?'

On the broadcast, special anecdotes from drinking sessions King Jeongjo shared with his officials and the company dinner dishes that surprised them are introduced one by one.

■ "Working Even on Holidays"... The Grueling Workload of Gyujanggak Officials

King Jeongjo established the Gyujanggak royal library and actively encouraged his officials' academic research, but the workload was reportedly quite intense. Cast member Choi Tae-sung explained, "He made them work even during their time off," prompting Shin Kiri and Ji Ye-eun to humorously call it "workplace harassment." However, Choi added that while King Jeongjo was strict during work, he created a very relaxed atmosphere at company dinners.

■ The Toast 'Bulchwimugwi' and Dasan Jeong Yak-yong's Lament

Regarding the toast 'Bulchwimugwi' (不醉無歸) that King Jeongjo frequently recited, Ji Ye-eun accurately interpreted it, saying, "It means if you don't get drunk, don't even think about going home. I studied a lot of Hanja." The broadcast also shared an anecdote in which King Jeongjo made Dasan Jeong Yak-yong drink by filling his brush holder to the brim with alcohol. It is said that Jeong Yak-yong cried out, "I'm going to die today," leaving Yang Sang-guk and Shin Kiri astounded by King Jeongjo's demanding attitude.

■ Drinking Game Penalty is 'Exile'... "Is He a Dictator?"

At drinking gatherings, King Jeongjo had his officials play drinking games and imposed penalties on those who failed to succeed within the time limit. The fact that the penalty was none other than 'exile' drew surprise from the Gung-in Trio and Ji Ye-eun, with Ji Ye-eun reacting, "Is he a dictator?" Choi Tae-sung explained that the actual penalty was not exile to a distant place like Jeju Island, but rather a lighthearted form of taking a boat ride to the artificial island on Changdeokgung Palace's Buyongji pond.

■ King Jeongjo's Special Company Dinner Dish to Relieve Fatigue

King Jeongjo's own special company dinner dish, which melted away his officials' fatigue, was also revealed. Shin Kiri evaluated it, saying, "It's the perfect food for sharing and building rapport. It covers everything from the meal to hangover relief," and Choi Tae-sung expressed agreement, saying, "I feel like I can get a sense of the taste of Joseon."

Detailed information about King Jeongjo's unique company dinner culture and cuisine can be found on TV CHOSUN's 'What Did the King Eat?'