Netflix has released a brand-new trailer and poster for The East Palace, an upcoming Korean supernatural period drama that blends royal intrigue, chilling mysteries, and the haunting realm of spirits. Starring Nam Joo-hyuk, Roh Yoon-seo, and Cho Seung-woo, the highly anticipated series premieres exclusively on July 17.

Set against the backdrop of a majestic royal palace and the mysterious spirit world known as the Gwi Realm, The East Palace follows three individuals brought together by a terrifying curse that has haunted the palace for three decades.

At the center of the story is Gu-cheon (Nam Joo-hyuk), a gifted spirit hunter who possesses the rare ability to travel freely between the human world and the Gwi Realm. Summoned by the king (Cho Seung-woo), Gu-cheon joins forces with Saeng-gang (Roh Yoon-seo), a palace maid gifted with the ability to hear the voices of wandering spirits.

Tasked with uncovering the truth behind the deadly curse lurking within the East Palace, the pair embark on a dangerous journey across the boundaries of life and death. As they investigate under the king’s secret orders, they gradually unravel long-buried secrets and ancient grudges tied to the royal bloodline.

The series reunites director Choi Jung-kyu, known for The Devil Judge and Children of Nobody, with writers Kwon So-ra and Seo Jea-won, the creative minds behind Bulgasal: Immortal Souls and The Guest. Together, they promise an atmospheric blend of supernatural horror, palace politics, and suspenseful storytelling.

A Haunting First Look

The newly released trailer immerses viewers in the eerie world of the East Palace, where breathtaking beauty hides unimaginable terror.

As unsettling whispers from restless spirits echo through the palace halls, the king faces an ominous prophecy: the royal bloodline will be wiped out. Convinced that the tragedy from 30 years ago is about to repeat itself, he summons Gu-cheon and secretly assigns Saeng-gang to watch over him.

Together, they venture between the living world and the Gwi Realm, confronting vengeful spirits whose appearances reveal hidden betrayals, long-forgotten tragedies, and shocking truths buried deep within the royal family. As the mystery unfolds, the palace descends into chaos.

A Poster Filled with Symbolism

The newly unveiled poster offers another glimpse into the series’ dark mythology.

Standing together in a crimson-colored pond infused with the ominous energy of the Gwi Realm, Gu-cheon is bound by a rough rope tightly held by Saeng-gang. The striking visual symbolizes the fragile yet powerful bond between the two as they navigate supernatural dangers and expose the palace’s deepest secrets under the king’s command.

Director Praises His Cast

Director Choi Jung-kyu shared why he believed Nam Joo-hyuk was the perfect choice to lead the series.

“From the very first time I saw Nam Joo-hyuk, I knew he was the actor who could step into the Gwi Realm and confront his destiny,” Choi said. “The East Palace is a story that needed him at its center. I believe he has tremendous passion for acting and a strong sense of responsibility.”

Speaking about Roh Yoon-seo, the director praised her natural talent and fearless approach to acting.

“Whenever I watched her previous work, she always found a way to surprise me,” he said. “Her natural charm and strength fit Saeng-gang perfectly. Working with her, I realized she is an incredibly courageous actress, and I was deeply moved by the honesty and authenticity of her performance.”

Choi also expressed his excitement about reuniting with veteran actor Cho Seung-woo.

“I’ve wanted to work with Cho Seung-woo again ever since our previous collaboration, and The East Palace finally made that dream come true,” he said. “He pays extraordinary attention to every detail while building a character. Once the cameras start rolling, all of that preparation transforms into an incredibly powerful performance. Watching that transformation is truly cathartic.”

With its captivating mix of supernatural horror, palace intrigue, and emotional storytelling, The East Palace is shaping up to be one of Netflix’s most anticipated Korean dramas of the year.

The East Palace premieres July 17, exclusively on Netflix.