Reminded me of Love Song for Illusion
I had high hopes for The Haunted Palace, especially after seeing Yook Sung-Jae in a favorite drama of mine, The Golden Spoon. Playing the dual role of King’s Archivist Yoon Gap and the divine Imugi Gang Cheori, he is the best part of this “spooky” series. (I still laugh thinking about the scene where he switches back and forth between the two characters!)But I can’t help comparing the drama to last year’s Love Song for Illusion, another supernatural fantasy with the male lead in a dual role. Though Love Song for Illusion has its share of problems (like the over-the-top shaman storyline) there are a number of things the series got right - like casting Park Ji-hoon as the lead. Plus, the beautiful costumes, cinematography and original soundtrack.
On the other hand, while The Haunted Palace production values are standard Kdrama fare, the shaman/spirits storyline is much more interesting, the emotional moments genuine, and the humor - actually humorous. Trimming off a few of the 16 episodes to tighten up the plot would have been nice, as well as an original song by one of the talented K-pop leads. But I do like the upbeat "You Better Run" by Jung Dong Ha and K. Will's "Be Your Shade".
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We need a second season!
Great casting, acting and writing makes The Haunted Palace a bingefest for the fantasy fans.Kim Ji-yeon's soulful eyes really expresses the sorrow Yeo-ri's lived with all her life. Her serious demeanor and firm attitude is a great responsible-adult contrast to the ever playful and childish Gangcheori.
Having veterans Kim In-kwon and Cha Chung hwa as part of this project guaranteed the watchability and they didn't fail. KIK's voice change for his eunuch character is an appreciated attention to detail that should be an obvious physical attribute of eunuchs but is often neglected by other actors' depictions. His comedic timing and deadpan delivery is flawless. CCH is steadfast in her portrayal of a grieving mother whom viewers never really know whether she knows who's who in Yun Gap's body. She shows glimpses of insight in different interactions with Gangcheori and her final realisation that her son is truly gone was profound. Like the fantastical elements and gifts of the female lead, Yung Geum also displays her own gifts in the ever mystical "motherly instinct" she displays.
The story weaves through many myths and fables and leaves one hungry for more. Perhaps it's human nature but final seems so FINAL—is there no way to revive Bibi? Can there not be a second season that explores this and also the different elemental reapers? The fire reaper arc was too rushed and could have used with exploration. This story could've easily gone onto 20 episodes. There was no clarity on the warrior deity's witnessing of Gangcheori's downfall. Did Gangcheori really cause young Yoon Gap's fall from the tree? Could Yoon Gap not have spent more time with his mother who have waited for his return for so long?!? And was Yung Geum able to sense or hear imugis, perhaps, as hinted by her reaction to Bibi's personal musing.
16 episodes is too short, imho. I hope the producers and directors will make up for this disappointment with a second season.
The Korean market doesn't pump out a lot of fantasy stuff, but when they do they really hit the ball out of the park. Really hope to see more soon.
If you like creativity and fantastic acting you can't go past The Haunted Palace.
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This review may contain spoilers
There are very few historicals that start out strong and still manage to maintain the momentum until the end; this show is one of those exceptions!The show’s success could be attributed to the main lead’s, their chemistry and camaraderie shines through the first episode and it only gets better with time. I’m a huge fan of Yook Sung Jae, but he mostly prefers taking on serious roles. His Gang Cheol is a far cry from any of the characters he has played before. Being an immortal deity, he is arrogant, insolent and obeys no one; not even the King, because clearly he believes that his position is higher than that of the King. Frankly, I think their friendship was one of the main highlights in this show. The King who is aggrieved because of a haunting presence in the Palace and the fallen deity who is anything but malevolent. Apart from the subtle romance between Gang Cheol and his dear disciple, Yeo Ri; his budding friendship with the King was delightful.
Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2025/06/09/the-haunted-palace-series-review/
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Let down by ep15 and a cop-out ending
June 2025I have loved almost every episode, and the weekly wait was excruciating! The leads were so good together, their characters complimenting one another.
Actress Bo Na gave an understated performance, fitting of Shaman Yeo Ri. Her childhood made her quiet, reserved and thoughtful ~ you could almost hear the cogs turning. However, she was also strong, brave, caring and could be feisty too.
Kim Young Kwang made a great Imugi; one that wasn't forgotten by me throughout the drama.
Yook Sung-jae's performance was very good.
As Yun Gap he was driven (too driven), focussed, and unyielding. Later, he was vulnerable, scared and I pitied him.
As Gang Cheol, his expressions and manner were spot on, and balanced the character's cheek, arrogance and coldness just right, so I could never dislike him. I felt for both Yun Gap, and Gang Cheol, in specific scenes.
Kim Sang-ho was very good ~ he really made me loathe Pung San, such a repulsive character. I just couldn't feel any deep sympathy for him, although I understood what drove him.
Kim Ji-hoon's King was very likeable; not the norm at all, which made a great change. The King's scenes with Imugi were very entertaining.
I loved the Imugi brothers' relationship. Typical of many siblings. Rivalry, ribbing, arguing, but ultimately love and care for each other. I had no problem with nasty humans feeding a charming Imugi.
A great cast overall and varied characters, even though many were the usual for a sageuk. A personal favourite was Kim In-kwon as the King's personal eunuch, Eung-seon, who was nicknamed Grilled Abalone, much to his annoyance ~ there was rarely a scene with him in, where I didn't laugh at some point.
In fact the humour in this drama is great, rarely childish or slapstick, which I dislike. I even loved the animated parts when food hit the spot 😉
I didn't find this drama at all scary, and would not consider it a horror; but then once I started watching, never felt it was actually written as one. For me it was about recognising diversity, consequences, the frailties of being human, owning up to bloody histories (which exist), and how we can be better.
A good balance of tension, thrills, shocks, laughs, and a few tears. The romance wasn't full-on, more a slow-burn; sweet rather than steamy.
On the big minus side, hoemwever, were weak final episodes, which really let the writing, pace and direction, down. A lot. It's why I can't give a 10/10.
Ep15 in particular, had some mind blowingly weak and stupid scenes. It stood out because I never felt that, so strongly, until this point. The writer should kick, and poke themselves in the eye, in shame. The reasons....
What Gang Cheol and Yeo Ri chose to do, following incidents that happened right before, was totally inappropriate. It didn't fit what they'd just been through and what was still going in. It didn't flow, and felt so disjointed.
Then don't get me started on all the signs of a possessed person, that have been experienced several times before by most present, coupled with actions TOTALLY out of character ~ all being completely ignored, and stupid comments made, like "what's wrong with ****?". Criminal.
I also felt that in comparison with all earlier episodes, the drama was wrapped up in ep16 too quickly, and something of a cop-out. Instead of giving so much screen time to Pakcheok-gwi's past (some scenes revisited several times), I'd rather have seen more about Gang Cheol's outcome. Scenes living that period, which were instead just talked about, would have been a perfect 10/10. Maybe if the quality up to that point hadn't been good, the weak final episodes wouldn't have stood out. A real shame. Having said that, still a very enjoyable watch.
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Great watch
Great drama that kept me entertained till the end. It had a good mix of mystery, suspense, romance and comedy. All the actors played their roles well but Yook Sung Jae was fantastic and so funny. The story line was good despite occasional dragging of the story line but still kept me interested. Overall a good watch.Was this review helpful to you?
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Between Shadows and Desire: A Journey Through the Haunted Palace
I just finished watching The Haunted Palace, and I have to say — it was surprisingly fun at times, though not without its flaws. For me, the male lead (ML) absolutely stole the show. He delivered his role with so much depth and charisma that it felt like he put far more into his performance than most of the other actors. Every scene with him had an extra spark — you could tell he fully embodied his character.The drama itself was good overall, but it dragged on a little too long before finally revealing the truth behind the main spirit causing chaos within the royal family. The pacing could’ve been tighter; I think they could have started resolving things as early as episode 10 instead of rushing the ending into the last two episodes. Still, despite the slow build-up, the final reveal was satisfying enough.
What really kept me watching was the relationship between the ML and FL. Their chemistry was lively, fun, and refreshing — a nice balance to all the darker supernatural themes. Those lighter moments made the show more enjoyable and kept it from feeling too heavy.
Overall, The Haunted Palace mixes historical fantasy, romance, and supernatural suspense beautifully — even if the pacing falters at times. If you enjoy palace intrigue, tragic ghosts, and a touch of forbidden romance, it’s worth watching. Just be prepared for a slow burn… and an ending that might leave you wishing for a little more breathing room.
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10/10: comedy, romance and happy ending.
Such a nice and easy going King. I have watched a few dramas with Kim Ji Hoon and to be honest, I didn't know he played Yi Seong (no I didn't watch any trailers or anything) I loved his very mature character and voice in this one.Okay!!! This is one of the funniest historical fantasy Kdrama I have seen in 2025. Gang Cheol is such a character LOL oh my gosh. Like it's so funny to see him enjoying some things for the first time being in a human body.
I really love how Yeo Ri and Gang Cheo relationship developed from being enemies to friends to lovers. At one point, I thought she was going to end up with Yun Gap but ummmm well that story ended way too soon. I really didn't expect him to "go" like that.
I won't talk much on Pung San the character because he was like pain in everyone's life.....
I gave this a 10/10 because I got what I was looking for: comedy, romance and happy ending.
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A Must-Watch Mix of Mystery, Bromance, and Fun
Among all the currently airing dramas of 2025, this one easily stands out as one of the best. The Haunted Palace offers a strong, engaging storyline packed with a perfect blend of mystery, emotional depth, and well-timed comedy. The writing keeps you curious, and the pacing—while occasionally dragging around a few episodes—is mostly solid and builds toward a satisfying overall arc.The acting is another major highlight. The cast delivers impressive performances, and the bromance between the male leads feels genuine and heartwarming. Their dynamic brings both humor and emotional weight, making their bond one of the drama’s biggest strengths.
However, the only area where the show slightly falters is the romantic chemistry between the leads. While both actors are individually strong, their romantic connection lacks that extra spark or intensity, which might leave viewers wanting more from those moments.
Still, despite minor flaws, this drama is absolutely worth your time. If you're into a well-written supernatural tale with great acting, strong characters, and some genuine laughs, this one should be high on your watchlist. No spoilers—but you’re in for a ride!
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This review will be more about emotions than the movie itself.
I looked at this drama with different eyes after reading the article in which some statements by actor Kim Ji Hoon were captured.Although actor Kim Young Kwang only appeared in episode 1 and very briefly in the second episode, I loved his role as Gang Cheol. Despite the fact that he didn't seem like a positive character, I just couldn't see him as bad one. I loved him and I enjoyed every second of the scenes he appeared in.
Gang Cheol's transition into Yun Gap's body, actor Yook Sung Jae did an excellent job. Things have changed along the way and therefore the acting has also changed from the initial one. Gang Cheol became softer, more clumsy, more human.
Gang Cheol lost more and more of his identity as a deity, in front of the human one, which he increasingly adopted. From here, I loved Gang Cheol for his struggle between the desire to be with his loved one and the goal he actually had initially.
The king, portrayed by actor Kim Ji Hoon, I watched closely to feel the actor's efforts, being put in the shoes of a king who had to shoulder the burdens of king, father and husband, responsible for the people, while also being caught up in supernatural chaos.
I watched the efforts he put into the intensity of his voice, to give weight to his emotions. Actually this is due to the article I read, where the actor talked about this.
I liked the king and I adored Kim Ji Hoon.
The actress in the main role, whom I have never seen in a series before (or maybe I just didn't notice her), gives value to the character and dresses it with a lot of wisdom, skill and dedication.
I like Yeo Ri's character because, despite her prejudices, she succumbs to the love that vibrates strongly towards the one she thought she hated and, although at first she is confused, believing that everything is due to the body that the deity is using, she realizes that her feelings are actually for Gang Cheol. I liked this and I'm curious what the ending will be, since I'm on episode 11.
Actor Kim Sang Ho puts on a wonderful performance, with as much vocal effort as the king. Although his role is a supporting character, as a blind fortune-teller, he captured quite a bit of attention through the authenticity he offered to the character, an opportunist, seeking only his own good - to gain power - betraying absolutely everyone.
Although I like historical films, I'm not really into fantasy ones. I've enjoyed this drama so far, although I wouldn't necessarily watch it again, and I hope the ending is a good one.
For the interpretation of the roles, for the respect I have for these actors who work harder than we can imagine, I will rate the film 8,5/10.
EDIT: I saw negative reviews and I really don't know why, because the idea was very good. I really liked the idea that the accumulated grudges of those who died turned them into evil spirits who couldn't leave the earth, and forgiveness set them free. And Yun Gap highlighted this by resisting the resentment that was beginning to accumulate in his soul, saying: "By accumulating resentment, I allowed my heart to become contemptuous." It seemed profound to me.
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uneventful
another "too slow" plot that doesn't really need 12epsThe scene where she was a kid and the dragon was a man is indeed super creepy...
Atleast he could’ve fallen as a boy
for a story about ghosts, dragons, snakes wanting to be dragons, 8ft long ghosts, and grudges, it's so dull
Anyway so the queen mama is killing his offsprings cuz her kids didn’t become kings ?
And she’s jealous he actually loves his first wife, we don’t know if he has side chicks
and queens dad is also involved
honestly the ghosts are all so mellow, and they don't leave but they don't do anything much too
That was underwhelming, I’ve said it since ep2, this didn’t need this many eps, 4eps max
There are also two things I hate, everyone getting unfortunate events but everything else works out just fine even after 10eps of “dread”
The second thing I hate is the fl wanting to sacrifice herself to stop the guy from sacrificing himself for her, when the two idiots could’ve just used their two powers together and finished it off
“I can’t live without you”😴 how dare you sacrifice yourself and want to leave me in a world without you”
Even my mom was like just marry the king and move on and we were waiting for atleast the old guys daughter to marry the king
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Give it a try, you might Enjoy it!!
The start is really amazing. Storyline is pretty simple and all characters were neatly presented. This show really has some charm.Since it has 16 episodes like usual kdrama but I don't think why it need 16 episodes. Hope this will not disappoint in future because I'm really looking forward to the upcoming episodes.
Brilliant screenwriting with that added advantage of main leads fantastic chemistry,they really are enjoying acting together, totally liked them.
Horror part is also handled very well as of now.
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Romantic, rom-com fantasy with palace intrigue? YES!
Romantic, rom-com fantasy with palace intrigue? YES! This drama sat in my to watch pile for a while when I went looking for something different. At boy, did this satisfy! A tad reminiscent of The Master's Sun, this ghost story had a few good jump scares to balance out the amazing antics of our BTOB ML. He was amazing. Great, different plot, no dragging. Antagonists you will love to hate and protagonists you will root for with your whole heart. Unplug your brain, this in un-apologetically fantasy based, and enjoy. This is a must watch. You will not be disappointed!Was this review helpful to you?
