Born the illegitimate son of Hong Jeong Seung, Gildong rebels against the feudal social system and becomes a righteous outlaw. He then organizes the "Hwalbindang" (Party of the Poor), confiscates the wealth of corrupt officials, punishes them, and aids the impoverished. The royal court makes every effort to capture him, but to no avail. Finally, Gildong founds the kingdom of Yuldo and becomes its king.