| Native Title | 동궁 |
| Also Know as | Donggung |
| Director | Choi Jeong-Gyu |
| Writer | Kwon So-Ra, Seo Jae-Won |
| Distributor | Netflix |
| Content Rating | 15+ - Teens 15 or older |
| Runtime | 8 episodes |
| Genre | Action, Mystery, Horror, Thriller, Historical, Supernatural, Fantasy, Occult |
| Language | Korean |
| Country | South Korea |
| Release Date | 2026-07-17 |
"The East Palace" is an upcoming Netflix Korean drama set to captivate audiences with its blend of historical intrigue, supernatural horror, and dark fantasy elements.
"The East Palace" (native title: "동궁") is a pre-produced 8-episode series premiering on July 17, 2026. This occult historical drama combines action, mystery, horror, thriller, and fantasy genres. Directed by Choi Jung-gyu, known for works like "The Devil Judge," and written by Kwon So-ra and Seo Jae-won (screenwriters behind "Bulgasal: Immortal Souls"), the drama explores a cursed palace filled with strange incidents and supernatural secrets. Each episode runs approximately 60 minutes, rated for viewers 15 and older.
Strange incidents plague the palace. The King secretly summons Gu Cheon and Court Lady Saeng Gang to uncover the curse haunting the East Palace, home to the Crown Prince. Gu Cheon possesses the ability to traverse between the human world and the spirit realm, using his sword to defeat evil ghosts. Court Lady Saeng Gang was born with the power to hear the voices of spirits, which she has long viewed as a curse. Together, they delve into the palace's dark secrets, facing an unimaginable world of darkness and the supernatural.
As a pre-release title, "The East Palace" has generated significant anticipation among fans of supernatural historical dramas. Its unique premise blending royal intrigue with ghost-hunting elements, combined with a strong lead cast, positions it as a standout in Netflix's 2026 Korean lineup.
The drama features a striking first poster showing Gu Cheon in a dark pond, bound by ropes with peach tree branches on his back and surrounded by a red aura. The tagline reads: "Beyond the boundaries of the Real World, Into the Spirit Realm."
Nam Joo-hyuk traveled to London for promotional content related to Netflix's global lineup.
The series marks Cho Seung-woo's first Netflix original series appearance.
It is a fully pre-produced series, with filming wrapping up in 2025.
The story draws on dark fantasy themes, including spirits, curses, and royal secrets in a historical setting.
"The East Palace" promises a thrilling journey into a haunted royal world where the living and the dead collide. With compelling leads, atmospheric visuals, and a fresh take on sageuk tropes mixed with occult horror, it is poised to deliver suspense, action, and emotional depth. Fans of supernatural mysteries and historical fantasies will likely find much to enjoy in this Netflix original.
"The East Palace" will be available exclusively on Netflix starting July 17, 2026.
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