Episode 1 of "The Queen Who Crowns" kicks off with a series of rebellions that culminate in the ascension of Lady Min as Queen Won-gyeong, hailed as the architect behind King Yi Bang-won's ascent to power. She metaphorically clad him in armor, urging him to defy his father's decision to crown his brother as successor. This bold rebellion, however, resulted in Bang-won slaying his own brother, earning him the undying enmity of his father, who now harbors a vengeful plot.
As the coronation ceremony concludes, the palace resonates with the melodies of music and the rhythm of dance. The King inadvertently eavesdrops on his brothers-in-law mocking his reliance on Won-gyeong, suggesting she would have been a more capable ruler if born a man. Their derisive laughter stings Bang-won's fragile ego.
Elsewhere in the kingdom, Won-gyeong's spies uncover whispers of skepticism among the common folk, questioning the legitimacy of Bang-won's reign. Amidst Bang-won's anxiety, Won-gyeong offers reassurance, reminding him of their joint victory in seizing the throne. Meanwhile, former King Tae-jo plots his revenge with sinister intent.
A subplot unfolds, revealing a servant girl who once served the Queen Dowager and now nurtures the King's child and heir in secret. She meets with the official Ha-ryun to convey this critical information, adding another twist to the intricate web of intrigue.
On the night of their royal consummation, assassins lay in wait to strike the King and Queen. Instead of relying on Bang-won, Won-gyeong fiercely defends them, saving Bang-won's life multiple times with her valor. The following day, Bang-won reflects on his strained relationship with his father, particularly the betrayal that fueled their rebellion. He also begins to feel the oppressive weight of his indebtedness to Won-gyeong's family and becomes increasingly aware of her strong-willed assertiveness.
Later, Won-gyeong confronts the prince and insists on personally handling the situation involving the former king. However, Bang-won undermines her authority by unilaterally deciding to bring Yeong-sil into the palace, effectively diminishing her role as Queen Consort. When Won-gyeong challenges him, Bang-won coldly reminds her that she is now his subject, stripping her of their former equality and reducing her to a mere pawn in his royal game.
On the eve of another royal wedding night, Bang-won deliberately deserts the chamber, abandoning Won-gyeong in a stark display of disregard. The narrative reaches its climax with the King deliberately choosing Won-gyeong's trusted servant as his concubine for the night, a calculated move intended to inflict profound emotional and social humiliation.
