In order to break the power of the nobles, who have grown accustomed to their privileges under the bone rank system, Ji So plans to create a new elite group, the Hwarang that will cut across the existing power factions, and to bind them to protect Sam maek jong and the throne. As this new elite group of male youths bond and grow,they are unaware that within their number is their future king, Sam maek jong, and Kim Seon-u, a commoner with a secret even he is not aware of.