A Royal Archivist, a Reluctant Shaman, and a Vengeful Spirit
Imagine this: a palace haunted by vengeful spirits, a nobleman possessed by an ancient creature, and a shaman who wants nothing to do with her destiny. That’s the premise of The Haunted Palace, SBS’s latest historical fantasy drama that premiered on April 18, 2025. With a stellar cast including Yook Sungjae, Kim Jiyeon (Bona), and Kim Jihoon, this drama has quickly captured the hearts of viewers, earning a 9.2% rating on its debut episode .
Yook Sungjae’s Dual Role: Nobleman and Imugi
Yook Sungjae takes on the challenging role of Yoon Gab, a respected royal archivist whose life takes a dark turn when he’s possessed by an Imugi—a mythical serpent-like creature from Korean folklore that aspires to become a dragon . This possession introduces a duality in Yoon Gab’s character, showcasing Sungjae’s versatility as he oscillates between the nobleman’s original demeanor and the Imugi’s sinister influence.
Bona’s Yeo Ri: The Shaman Who Said No
Kim Jiyeon, known as Bona from WJSN, portrays Yeo Ri, the only granddaughter of a renowned shaman. Despite her innate spiritual abilities, Yeo Ri rejects her predestined path, choosing instead to live a quiet life as a master eyeglass artisan . Her world is upended when the Imugi, seeking to ascend to heaven, targets her body for possession. The situation becomes even more complicated when the Imugi takes over Yoon Gab, her first love, forcing Yeo Ri to confront her past and her powers.
A Palace Plagued by Spirits
Set in the Joseon era, the drama unfolds within a palace besieged by malevolent female spirits harboring grudges against the royal family. King Lee Sung, portrayed by Kim Jihoon, is a reformist monarch striving to strengthen his nation. As supernatural occurrences escalate, he joins forces with Yoon Gab and Yeo Ri to uncover the secrets behind the hauntings and restore peace to the kingdom.
Cultural Richness and Visual Splendor
The Haunted Palace stands out for its rich incorporation of Korean mythology and traditional rituals. The drama delves into the lore of the Imugi and showcases shamanistic ceremonies, complete with traditional dances and chants, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative . The meticulous attention to cultural detail enhances the viewing experience, immersing audiences in a world where history and fantasy intertwine.
Where to Watch The Haunted Palace
The Haunted Palace airs every Friday and Saturday at 9:50 PM KST on SBS and is available for streaming on Netflix and Viki . With its compelling storyline, strong performances, and cultural depth, this drama is a must-watch for fans of historical fantasy.
So, are you ready to enter The Haunted Palace? Trust me, it’s a journey worth taking.