Netflix’s new historical Korean horror series, The East Palace, demands a weekend binge for fans of supernatural thrillers. The show, directed by Choi Jung-kyu, blends familiar horror tropes with Korean folklore to create a bloody, opulent spectacle.
Plot and Characters
The story follows Gu-cheon (Nam Joo-hyuk), a feng shui master who can see spirits. He is kidnapped by the King (Cho Seung-woo) and forced to investigate why all the royal heirs are dying mysteriously. Gu-cheon reluctantly works with court lady Saeng-gang (Roh Yoon-seo), who can hear the dead. Despite their initial friction, they develop a mutual trust, with Saeng-gang playing an equal role in saving Gu-cheon.
Horror and Folklore
The show is set in a single location—the palace—but is filled with ghouls drawn from Korean folklore, such as gwi-ma and ak-gwi. Each supernatural threat has a unique look and motivation, tied to the palace’s corrupt history. The scares are not outright terrifying but rely on creepy character designs and traditional attire twisted into monstrous forms.
Visuals and Production
Filmed in Yeoncheon County, Gyeonggi Province, the architecture and scenery are breathtaking. The visuals are opulent, with vibrant sunlight contrasting the rotting dead. The special effects shine, even in darker scenes like Gu-cheon descending into a lake at night. The show’s period detail and visual splendor evoke historical romances like Perfect Crown and My Royal Nemesis, but its horror heart aligns with Kingdom and Sweet Home.
Performances
Nam Joo-hyuk delivers a world-weary performance, carrying the tormented charm from his previous roles in Vigilante and The School Nurse Files. This is his first role since completing mandatory military service. Roh Yoon-seo plays off his irritation with a bristly exterior that hides warmth. Cho Seung-woo and Jang Young-nam (Queen Dowager) round out the cast with gravitas, though a cutesy spirit character feels out of place and detracts from the horror.
Conclusion
Despite some distracting elements, The East Palace offers a royal treat for horror fans. The show’s specific folklore and visual richness set it apart, making it a fast-paced, engaging watch. The East Palace is available to stream on Netflix.
