Set to premiere in April, SBS' new Friday-Saturday drama 'Haunted Palace' (written by Yoon Soo-jung and directed by Yoon Sung-sik) is a fantasy romantic comedy about a shaman named Yeori, and an Imugi named Kang Cheol, trapped in the body of Yeori's first love, Yoon Gap.
Director Yoon Sung-sik, known for dramas like 'Mr. Queen', 'You Are the Best!', and 'Bridal Mask', collaborates with writer Yoon Soo-jung, who penned 'The King's Face' and 'Cheer Up!'. The cast includes Yook Sung-jae (playing Yoon Gap/Kang Cheol), Kim Ji-yeon (as Yeori), and Kim Ji-hoon (as Lee Seong), generating high expectations.
Among the highlights, the photos of Kim Ji-yeon as Yeori were released on March 12, capturing attention. Yeori, portrayed by Kim Ji-yeon, is the only granddaughter of a renowned shaman, possessing exceptional spiritual abilities but choosing to live as a craftsman of eyeglasses instead of embracing her destiny.
The Imugi, unable to become a dragon, seeks to ascend by borrowing Yeori's body, leading her to view Kang Cheol as a bitter enemy. However, as the Imugi possesses Yoon Gap's body, their fates become tangled, embroiling them in an unprecedented romance filled with complex emotions.
In the released photos, Kim Ji-yeon captivates with her elegant hanbok and an ethereal, mysterious aura. She is set to portray a character who not only navigates her complicated feelings towards her first love Yoon Gap and the Imugi but also takes charge of her own destiny. Her determined expression and unwavering demeanor in the photos convey Yeori's strong will, leaving a lasting impression.
Additionally, an intriguing scene shows her bound in cloth, holding bamboo while performing a mysterious ritual. As a shaman with innate abilities, Yeori dedicates her spiritual powers to soothe the grievances and souls of restless spirits causing strange incidents throughout the capital. Viewers are eager to see Kim Ji-yeon shine as a healer who heals the deep-rooted resentments of these spirits. There is also rising anticipation for the 'love-hate chemistry' she will share with Yook Sung-jae, who covets her pure soul.
The production team of 'Haunted Palace' stated, "Kim Ji-yeon has proven her exceptional character portrayal and stable acting skills, solidifying her position as an actress. Through her role as Yeori, we believe she will deliver even more nuanced and impactful performances. Not only has she shown dedication on set, but her chemistry with co-star Yook Sung-jae, who is also her age, has impressed us. We ask for your great interest and support."
'Haunted Palace' is set to air in April as the follow-up to the currently airing 'Buried Hearts'.
Kang Sun-ae, reporter sakang@sbs.co.kr
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)