Surpassed the Debut Ratings of 'Buried Hearts': Why Viewers Are Flocking to This New K-Drama

There’s a drama that’s smashing its own ratings records just two weeks into airing—SBS’s new Friday-Saturday series, 'The Haunted Palace'.

This fantasy-romance drama follows Yeori (Kim Ji-yeon), a shaman who rejects her fate as a spiritual medium, and Kang Cheol-i, an ancient serpent spirit who becomes trapped in the body of Yeori’s first love, Yoon-gap. The story takes a twist when they encounter Palcheok-gwi, a vengeful spirit with a grudge against the royal family, leading to a chaotic battle for control of the body and soul.

As SBS's only fantasy historical drama in 2025, 'The Haunted Palace' drew major attention even before its premiere. From its first episode, it surpassed the debut ratings of both 'Love Scout' and 'Buried Hearts'.

In its second week, the show hit a new personal best with a nationwide viewership rating of 9.3% (according to Nielsen Korea), maintaining its No.1 spot among all mini-series dramas for two consecutive weeks—beating out strong competitors. Critics are praising the drama for its fresh premise, charismatic cast performances, intriguing palace mystery, and chilling episodes featuring ghostly Korean folklore—all woven together with fast-paced storytelling.

Particularly drawing buzz is actor Yook Sung-jae. He plays the dual role of Yoon-gap, a loyal subject favored by the king, and Kang Cheol-i, the malevolent spirit who possesses him. His seamless portrayal of both a devoted human and a prideful half-divine being has earned widespread acclaim.

Yook’s performance showcases the serpent spirit's arrogance—untamed by human rules—while also capturing his bewildered reaction to experiencing human emotions for the first time. It’s no wonder he’s known as the “undefeated prince of fantasy dramas.”

In episode 4, Kang Cheol-i begins to fall for Yeori. Clueless about his newfound feelings, he starts clinging to her like a lovestruck puppy, eventually stepping up as her protector in moments of danger. This new side of him—innocent yet deeply devoted—is captivating audiences and adding to Yook’s charm as a romantic male lead.

With Yook Sung-jae unleashing the thousand-year-old charm of his character, all eyes are on just how far 'The Haunted Palace' can go as it continues SBS’s winning streak in the Friday-Saturday drama slot.

By the way, 'The Haunted Palace' is not based on a webtoon but is an original script. It airs every Friday and Saturday at 9:55 PM KST, and more information about the characters and storyline can be found on its official website.

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