Netflix upcoming supernatural historical drama The East Palace is gaining attention not only for its mysterious storyline but also for its impressive cast. During the series’ production presentation, actors Jo Seung-woo and Roh Yoon-seo shared their thoughts on joining the project, their characters, and the challenges they faced while bringing the story to life.

Held on July 8 at the Fairmont Ambassador Seoul in Yeouido, Seoul, the event introduced the cast and creative team behind the highly anticipated series, which blends royal intrigue, fantasy, horror, and Korean occult elements.

Jo Seung-woo Chose The East Palace for Its Unique Story

In The East Palace, Jo Seung-woo takes on the role of the King, a ruler who secretly summons Gucheon (played by Nam Joo-hyuk) and palace maid Saengang (played by Roh Yoon-seo) to investigate a mysterious curse threatening the royal palace.

Unlike typical portrayals of kings in historical dramas, Jo Seung-woo’s character carries hidden complexities. While appearing to be a compassionate and wise ruler, the King also struggles with darker secrets and the heavy burden of protecting his kingdom.

Explaining why he accepted the role, Jo Seung-woo said that the character’s unusual introduction immediately caught his attention.“The character was the king. He didn’t have a name. The script just said ‘king,’ and I thought, ‘I can play this.’”

The actor was especially drawn to how the script combined multiple genres naturally, including drama, occult mystery, action, fantasy, and character relationships.“The script blended diverse elements seamlessly—the relationships between the king and other characters, drama, occult, action, and fantasy,” he explained.

Although he was the final actor to join the cast, Jo Seung-woo said the opportunity to work alongside talented performers such as Nam Joo-hyuk, Roh Yoon-seo, and Jang Young-nam made the decision even more appealing.“There was no reason to decline. I thought blending in with these top actors would be a good experience.”

Roh Yoon-seo Takes on Her First Historical Fantasy Role

For Roh Yoon-seo, The East Palace represents a major new challenge as it marks her first historical drama project.

She plays Saengang, a palace maid who possesses the ability to hear spirits. Once viewed as a burden, her supernatural ability becomes the key to uncovering the hidden secrets behind the palace’s curse.

Known for her performances in Our Blues, The Sound of Magic, 20th Century Girl, and Hear Me, Roh Yoon-seo has earned praise for her natural acting style and emotional depth. Through Saengang, she takes on a darker and more complex character unlike her previous roles.

The actress admitted that both historical and fantasy genres were unfamiliar territory, but the script immediately sparked her curiosity.“Historical dramas and fantasy were unfamiliar genres to me, but the story alone made me curious about how it would be visualized. It stimulated my imagination and was intriguing.”

She was also attracted to Saengang’s independent and ambitious personality.“I admired the proactive and ambitious nature of the character and wondered how I could portray her.”

Despite her excitement, Roh Yoon-seo acknowledged that the role came with significant difficulties, especially as her first historical drama.“Honestly, it was difficult as my first historical drama. Maintaining proper vocal projection and posture was tough. My body stiffened at first because I wasn’t used to it, but it became more natural over time.”

However, she also found the experience rewarding and enjoyable, especially through her character’s evolving relationship with Gucheon.

A Powerful Partnership Between Gucheon and Saengang

One of the key elements of The East Palace is the relationship between Gucheon and Saengang. Initially coming from completely different worlds and facing each other with distrust, the two characters gradually become essential partners as they uncover the truth behind the palace’s supernatural mystery.

Roh Yoon-seo highlighted the importance of this transformation.“When we first meet, our characters come from different worlds and have a hostile relationship, but over time, they grow to need each other.”

She hopes viewers will pay close attention to how the bond between the two characters develops throughout the series.

A Strong Creative Team Behind the Supernatural Mystery

The East Palace is written by Kwon So-ra and Seo Jae-won, known for their work in the Korean occult genre, including Bulgasal: Immortal Souls and The Guest. The series is directed by Choi Jung-kyu, whose previous works include The Devil Judge and Children of Nobody.

The story follows Gucheon and Saengang as they enter the mysterious East Palace to uncover a curse that threatens the royal family. Combining historical drama, supernatural horror, action, and emotional storytelling, the series aims to offer a fresh and darker perspective on the palace genre.

Netflix The East Palace Arrives July 17

With a unique premise, an acclaimed creative team, and a talented ensemble cast, The East Palace has become one of Netflix most anticipated Korean dramas of 2026.

For Jo Seung-woo, Roh Yoon-seo, and the rest of the cast, the series represents an opportunity to explore new genres and create a memorable supernatural story.

Netflix The East Palace will premiere globally on July 17, inviting viewers into a mysterious kingdom where spirits, secrets, and hidden royal truths await.