The lead stars of SBS new series, The Haunted Palace are officially introduced in the latest teasers.
The Haunted Palace follows Yeo-ri, a shaman who refuses to accept her psychic destiny, and Kang Chul-yi, an Imoogi trapped in the body of Yeo-ri’s first love, Yoon Gap. As they face off against an eight-faced ghost harboring a grudge against the royal family, their fates become entangled in both body and soul.
The drama is helmed by acclaimed director Yoon Sung-sik (Mr. Queen, Bridal Mask) and writer Yoon Soo-jung (The King’s Face, Cheer Up), promising a thrilling blend of romance, comedy, and supernatural intrigue.
The Captivating Shaman Yeori
Kim Ji Yeon takes on the role of Yeori, the only granddaughter of a legendary god of war. Despite her extraordinary magical abilities, she rejects her shamanic destiny and instead chooses a quiet life as an artisan specializing in crafting glasses. However, her world is upended when the malevolent Imoogi—an evil god who failed to ascend as a dragon—targets her body as a vessel for its heavenly ambitions. Seeing Imoogi Kang Chul-yi as her sworn enemy, Yeori fights to resist him. But when the Imoogi possesses the body of her first love, Yoon Gap (played by Yook Sung Jae), their fates intertwine in an unprecedented and thrilling romance.
In the released stills, Kim Ji Yeon exudes a graceful and mysterious aura, dressed in an elegant hanbok. Her poised yet intense expression captures the depth of Yeori’s emotions—her lingering feelings for Yoon Gap, the danger posed by the Imoogi, and her relentless determination to forge her own path. Her unwavering gaze and firm stance reflect the strong will of a woman who refuses to be bound by fate, drawing admiration from viewers.
One particular image stands out: Yeori performing a ritual, tightly wrapped in cotton while gripping a bamboo stick. As a born medium, she devotes herself to appeasing vengeful spirits and resolving eerie incidents across the city. This glimpse into her spiritual battles raises anticipation for Kim Ji-yeon’s portrayal of a healer who mends the lingering sorrows of wandering souls. Meanwhile, the chemistry between Yeori and the enigmatic ‘Imoogi of Love and Hate,’ who covets her pure soul, is expected to bring a compelling mix of tension and romance.
The production team of Gwigung expressed their excitement for Kim Ji-yeon’s performance, stating, “Kim Ji-yeon has already proven her exceptional ability to bring characters to life with her stable acting skills, firmly establishing herself as a talented actress. Through her portrayal of Yeori, she will showcase an even more layered and compelling performance. Not only did she fully immerse herself in the role, giving her all in physically demanding scenes, but she also displayed remarkable chemistry with her co-star Yook Sung-jae, perfectly embodying the dynamic of a same-age couple. We hope viewers will look forward to and support their captivating on-screen synergy.”
Yook Sung Jae in Dual Roles
Portraying Yoon Gap, a distinguished prosecutor, and Kang Cheol-yi, the cunning Imoogi who possesses him, Yook Sung Jae challenges dual roles in The Haunted Palace. Yoon Gap is a man of both intellect and charm, winning over many with his kind heart and exceptional looks. Even the king recognizes his brilliance, making him a rising star. However, his life takes a dramatic turn when he unexpectedly becomes the vessel for Kang Cheol-yi, the very entity his first love, Yeo-ri (played by Kim Ji-yeon), has sworn to destroy. This twist raises anticipation for the unfolding story.
In the unveiled first stills of Yook Sung Jae as Yoon Gap before his possession, he captivates with his ethereal beauty, effortlessly embodying the “flower-like young master” who has stolen countless hearts. His deep gaze and soft expression exude irresistible charm, while his perfectly tailored hanbok—despite it being his first historical drama—earns admiration.
In another still, Yook Sung Jae showcases a different side of Yoon Gap, appearing sharp and resolute as a forensic officer. His impeccable attire and composed demeanor reflect the character’s refined and intellectual nature, sparking curiosity about the contrast between his gentle first-love persona and his transformation after being possessed.
The production team shared their enthusiasm, stating, “Despite this being his first historical drama, Yook Sung-jae flawlessly embodies both the affectionate and brilliant Yoon Gap, as well as the god-like arrogance and cunning of the Imoogi Kang Cheol-yi. His wide acting range brings this dual role to life in an exciting way, so we hope viewers will look forward to it.”
Yook Sung Jae himself added, “This drama is filled with a variety of intriguing elements, and I think viewers will be surprised by how my portrayal shifts between the restrained and classic Yoon Gap to the unpredictable and charismatic Kang Cheol-yi.” His words only heighten anticipation for his compelling performance in The Haunted Palace.
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