[Edaily Starin Reporter YUN GI BACK ] The Netflix Original series “Donggung” premieres today (the 17th). Combining Korean folklore, fantasy, and mystery into a unique universe—and featuring a star-studded cast including Nam Joo-hyuk, Noh Yoon-seo, and Jo Seung-woo—the series is garnering attention as one of the most anticipated releases of the second half of the year.

“Donggung” tells the story of Gu Cheon (Nam Joo-hyuk), who possesses the ability to traverse the world of ghosts, and Saeng-gang (Noh Yoon-seo), a palace maid harboring a secret, as they investigate the true nature of a curse haunting the East Palace at the king’s (Jo Seung-woo) command. It is a mystery narrative that moves between the real world and the world of ghosts, blending action and fantasy.
The biggest highlight is the on-screen chemistry between the three lead actors. Nam Joo-hyuk takes on the role of Gu Cheon, a swordsman who slays ghosts, promising intense action and a new acting transformation. Noh Yoon-seo plays Saeng-gang, a palace maid who can hear the voices of ghosts, and she teams up with Gu Cheon to solve the mystery. Jo Seung-woo plays the king, a character who rarely reveals his true feelings, driving the drama’s tension. Joined by a cast of talented actors—including Kwak Dong-yeon, Jang Young-nam, Tae In-ho, Hwang Young-hee, Hong Seo-jun, and Lee Hong-nae—the production’s quality is further elevated.
The production team’s collaboration is also generating high expectations. Director Choi Jeong-gyu, known for *Devil Judge* and *Red Moon, Blue Sun*, has teamed up with writers Kwon So-ra and Seo Jae-won, creators of *The Guest* and *Bulgasa*. Drawing on Korean folktales and folk traditions, they have reimagined various entities—such as *gwi-mae* and *won-gwi*—to build a unique worldview that sets the series apart from conventional genre works.
The production values are another major strength of the series. The production team maximized visual immersion by contrasting the real world with the spirit world through color palettes and spatial design. Combined with meticulous production design, visual effects (VFX), and spectacular action sequences, the series captures both Korean aesthetics and the appeal of the fantasy genre.
Netflix stated, “‘Donggung’ is a work that organically blends mystery, fantasy, and action,” adding, “We expect it to offer a fresh and exciting experience to global viewers through its unique worldview and the synergy among the cast.”
“Donggung” will premiere on Netflix at 5:00 p.m. on the 17th.