The SBS Friday-Saturday drama 'The Haunted Palace' (written by Yoon Soo-jung, directed by Yoon Sung-sik) is a fantasy romantic comedy that twists the fate of a shaman, Yeori, who refuses her destiny as a medium, and Kangcheol, a dragon trapped in the body of Yeori's first love, Yoon-gap, as they confront a vengeful eight-foot-tall spirit entangling both body and soul. With its fresh concept and spectacular narrative, the drama, anchored by the possessed character play of Yook Sung-jae (as Kangcheol/Yoon-gap), Kim Ji-yeon (as Yeori), and Kim Ji-hoon (as Lee Jung), has become the top drama for weekend viewers.
In the latest episode, Kangcheol, Yeori, and Lee Jung finally grasp the key to unveiling the identity of the eight-cheok-tall spirit, climaxing with the spirit expelling Yoon-gap's soul, ramping up anticipation for the drama's climax. Amidst this, the all-around passionate performances of the cast have injected an impeccable level of engagement.
Among them, the villainous performances of Kim Sang-ho (as Poongsan) and Son Byung-ho (as Kim Bong-in) were particularly striking. Hiding malevolence behind ordinary faces, they have been at the heart of the drama's twists, elevating the tension with their weighty acting. Notably, in the last episode, Son Byung-ho's cold laughter, unfazed by Kim Ji-hoon's tears, and Kim Sang-ho's chilling portrayal of a murder committed while possessed by the eight-foot-tall spirit, left viewers breathless.
On the other hand, Cha Chung-hwa (as Young-geum) and Kim In-kwon (as Kim Eung-soon) masterfully navigated between humor and poignancy, enhancing the unique humanism of 'The Haunted Palace'. As warm supporters who teach the dragon Kangcheol what human affection is, their nuanced performances have been a breath of fresh air amidst the cold palace mysteries.
The irreplaceable presence of Lee Won-jong (as Monk Gaseop) and Ahn Nae-sang (as Choi Won-woo) also cannot be overlooked. With their profound acting skills, even brief appearances have significantly impacted the drama's flow, adding depth. Moreover, Jo Han-chul (as Bibi), showcasing unprecedented chemistry as 'dragon brothers' with Yook Sung-jae, has captivated audiences with his multifaceted portrayal, leaving a lasting impression with his transformation into a tragic figure after losing the luminous pearl to the eight-foot-tall spirit.
Additionally, Gil Hae-yeon (as Neopdeok), Han Soo-yeon (as the Queen Dowager), Han So-eun (as the Queen Consort), Shin Seul-gi (as Choi In-sun), Song Soo-i (as the Arrow Spirit Ok-lim), Ki Eun-se (as Makgeum), Park Jae-jun (as Prince Lee Gwang), and Park Da-on (as the Luminous Spirit) among others in 'The Haunted Palace' have showcased their ability to bring their characters to life, garnering viewer support regardless of being human or spirit.
With only four episodes left until the finale, an explosive acting showdown is anticipated in the spectacular climax, raising curiosity about how far the unstoppable momentum of 'The Haunted Palace' will reach.
'The Haunted Palace' airs its 13th episode on Friday night at 9:50 PM.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)