Actor Lee Young-ae, whose most iconic work is considered by many to be the drama “Jewel in the Palace,” paid tribute to her more than 20-year bond with Han Bok-ryeo, the Korean royal court cuisine researcher who participated in the drama. The actor posted several photos of herself visiting the Institute of Korean Royal Cuisine on social media Thursday. In the photos, she was seen wearing a blouse paired with a long skirt, strolling around the institute and smiling while holding hands with Han. “My mentor, royal court cuisine researcher Han Bok-ryeo. Thank you, and please always stay healthy,” she wrote. She also added the hashtags “Jewel in the Palace” and “My mentor.” Lee played the title character, Seo Jang-geum, in the MBC drama, which became a nationwide sensation in 2003. Han, a researcher specializing in royal court cuisine from the Joseon Dynasty, is known for creating the dishes featured in “Jewel in the Palace” by drawing on historical documents about traditional Korean cuisine. In 2007, she was officially recognized as a holder of the skills associated with R