The Longest Promise

In the realm of Kong Sang, The Longest Promise centers on the forbidden affection between Princess Zhu Yan of the Chi Yi Tribe and Shi Ying, the royal heir. A scheme from the Queen leads to Shi Ying's banishment to Jiu Yi Mountain to cultivate, removing him from courtly life. The exile inadvertently softens his rigid focus as he crosses paths with Zhu Yan, his student and close ally, and feelings bloom. Yet society forbids their closeness because of their teacher pupil bond and the roles they occupy. As rival factions clash in a brutal political power struggle, their loyalties are tested and their choices ripple through the land. In the end they vow to defend Kong Sang together.

Directed by Jiang Jia Jun, The Longest Promise is brought to life by creators Wu Yingying and Cang Yue. The 2023 series stars Xiao Zhan as Shi Ying and Ren Min as Zhu Yan.

Critics highlight the show for its rich world building and the tension between love and duty. Central themes include forbidden romance, factional conflict, and the cost of loyalty when personal bonds meet political ambition.