"The Haunted Palace" Stars Yook Sungjae And Kim Ji Yeon Charm Fans With Adorable Behind-The-Scenes Photos

May 07, 2025

SBS’s “The Haunted Palace” has released new behind-the-scenes photos of BTOB’s Yook Sungjae and WJSN’s Kim Ji Yeon (Bona)!

“The Haunted Palace” is a fantasy historical rom-com that delves into the tale of the Eight Feet Tall spirit that bears a grudge against the king, a female shaman who opposes it, and an evil spirit known as Imugi. Yook Sungjae stars as Yoon Gap, a royal archivist and Yeo Ri’s first love who becomes possessed by an Imugi named Gang Cheol. Kim Ji Yeon stars as Yeo Ri, the granddaughter of a powerful shaman who rejects her spiritual powers and destined path.

Spoilers

“The Haunted Palace” has been receiving widespread praise, thanks to its gripping blend of captivating performances, a suspenseful palace mystery, chilling Korean folklore elements such as Imugi possession, and the growing romance between Gang Cheol and Yeo Ri. In the previous episode of the drama, Gang Cheol, who had been confused about his feelings—describing how his heart raced whenever he saw Yeo Ri, couldn’t look away from her, and even felt an urge to devour her—finally realized he was in love.

On May 7, the production team released behind-the-scenes photos of Yook Sungjae and Kim Ji Yeon, capturing the two actors enjoying their time on set between takes.

The heartwarming shots of the two actors sitting across from each other, chatting and reviewing footage shoulder to shoulder, highlights the strong real-life bond between the leads. Yook Sungjae and Kim Ji Yeon’s chemistry also shines through as they playfully pose for photos together.

Director Yoon Sung Sik remarked, “The two actors are longtime friends in real life, so they easily shared ideas with one another as they acted together. Their natural chemistry really stands out on screen.”

He also said, “I believe the mix of love-hate comedy and sweet romance they bring is the secret weapon of ‘The Haunted Palace.’”

Writer Yoon Soo Jung echoed the sentiment, saying, “The chemistry between the two actors is amazing. I just want to keep seeing them together on screen. They’re so lovable.”