The Haunted Palace: Behind-the-Scenes Chemistry Between Yook Sungjae and Kim Jiyeon Ignites Excitement
The American audience is buzzing over the latest sensation from Korea—The Haunted Palace, SBS’s (Seoul Broadcasting System) standout fantasy historical drama airing every Friday and Saturday. With an intense mixture of supernatural intrigue, courtly tension, and budding romance, the show continues to capture global attention. But it’s the steamy chemistry between stars Yook Sungjae and Kim Jiyeon that’s pushing the excitement into overdrive.
In recent behind-the-scenes stills released by the production, the palpable connection between the two leads is on full display. Caught between moments of playfulness and intense focus, the pair project the kind of magnetic chemistry that fans can’t get enough of – both on and off screen.
In the series, Yook Sungjae portrays Kang Cheol, a mythical serpent being (Imoogi) trapped in the body of Yeori’s first love, Yoon Gap. Kim Jiyeon plays Yeori, a shaman rejecting her fate, and their paths intertwine amidst supernatural conspiracies and intense spiritual battles. Their relationship begins with chaos and confusion, but things start to change.
Episode 6 marked a turning point as Kang Cheol acknowledged his tangled emotions for Yeori weren’t just mystical consequences – they were pure, red-blooded love. This revelation sparked a frenzy among viewers, already hooked on the rich story and dynamic performances.
The drama – heralded as SBS’s only 2025 entry in the fantasy sageuk genre – masterfully blends a unique premise of body possession, mysterious palace curses, and Korean folkloric creatures known as ‘K-ghouls’. The backdrop adds dimension to a complex love story where the line between human, spirit, and monster blurs dangerously close.
Director Yoon Sung-shik recently shared, “The lead actors are real-life longtime friends, so their trust allows them to exchange ideas comfortably on set. Their chemistry is powerful and natural, which translates exceptionally well on screen.” Writer Yoon Soo-jung echoed similar sentiments, praising their synergy as “delightful and addictive.”
Whether laughing together during monitor reviews or playfully posing with couple-heart gestures, their bond brings authenticity to their characters’ deepening romantic arc. As the narrative heats up, fans are eagerly anticipating what’s next in this romantic, ghost-filled rollercoaster.
Tune in for Episode 7 of The Haunted Palace, airing Friday at 9:55 PM KST on SBS, and prepare to fall even deeper into the entrancing world of spirit warfare, royal revenge, and soul-stirring love.
