From The Haunted Palace to Dear Hongrang: Watch these 5 Joseon-era K-dramas if you like Netflix's The East Palace

Netflix's latest K-drama obsession, The East Palace, is having a major moment. Ever since it premiered on July 17, the supernatural period drama, starring Nam Joo Hyuk and Roh Yeon Seo, has climbed Netflix's charts, sparked fan theories across social media, and become one of the most talked-about K-dramas of the summer. Blending ghost-hunting and palace drama with supernatural elements and breathtaking Joseon-era visuals, it's the kind of series that's impossible to stop watching.


If you are, just like us, craving more such dramas with elaborate costumes, Joseon-era politics, and breathtaking visuals, here are five dramas that you should check out.

Set in a fictional Joseon-era kingdom, The East Palace follows Gu Cheon (Nam Joo Hyuk), a spirit slayer who can move between the world of the living and the realm of ghosts, and Saeng Gang (Rooh Yeon Seo), a court lady with the rare ability to hear the dead.

Summoned by the king, the unlikely duo must uncover the truth behind a deadly curse haunting the East Palace while navigating restless spirits and palace secrets.

About the Joseon era

Before we jump into the recommendation mode, it's important to understand what the Joseon era is and why it has such a profound impact on the K-drama community.

So, the Joseon era was Korea's longest-ruling dynasty, lasting from 1392 to 1910, and is known for its grand palaces, royal courts, and rich cultural traditions. Many historical K-dramas are set during this period, using its political intrigue, strict social hierarchy, and stunning architecture as the backdrop for stories of romance and power struggles. Over the years, we have seen many Joseon-era dramas dominate the K-drama space; below, we have shared our top 5 picks:



Starring: Ju Ji Hoon, Bae Doona, Ryu Seung Ryong, Kim Sung Kyu

If the creepy supernatural elements were your favourite part of The East Palace, Kingdom is a no-brainer. The Joseon-era thriller swaps ghosts for zombies but keeps the palace politics, royal betrayals, and edge-of-your-seat suspense. Crown Prince Lee Chang races against time to stop a mysterious plague while exposing corruption within the royal court.

Starring: Yook Sung Jae, Bona (Kim Ji Yeon), Kim Ji Hoon

Ever since The East Palace dropped, fans have been comparing it to The Haunted Palace, thanks to the supernatural mystery connection. The Haunted Palace follows a royal family caught in terrifying paranormal events as spirits and hidden secrets collide, much like The East Palace. If you loved the eerie atmosphere and haunted corridors of The East Palace, this drama delivers a similar spooky vibe while balancing romance and palace intrigue.

Starring: Park Eun Bin, Rowoon, Nam Yoon Su, Choi Byung Chan

Not every Joseon drama needs ghosts to keep you hooked. The King's Affection tells the story of a princess forced to secretly live as the crown prince after her twin brother dies. Packed with forbidden romance and palace power struggles, it's perfect for anyone who couldn't get enough of The East Palace's royal intrigue.


Starring: Lee Jun Ho, Lee Se Young, Kang Hoon, Lee Deok Hwa

If the emotional moments between Gu Cheon and Saeng Gang were your favourite scenes, The Red Sleeve deserves to be next on your watchlist. Based on real historical figures, the series explores the heartbreaking romance between Crown Prince Yi San and court lady Seong Deok Im. Just like The East Palace, this 2021 drama is known for its gorgeous cinematography, unforgettable performances, and plenty of emotional moments.

Starring: Lee Jae Wook, Jo Bo Ah, Jung Ga Ram, Uhm Ji Won, Park Byung Eun

If 2026 summer is reserved for The East Palace, Dear Hongrang dominated that space last year. For viewers who enjoy historical mysteries wrapped in family secrets, Dear Hongrang is an easy recommendation. Set during the Joseon Dynasty, the drama follows the mysterious return of a long-lost heir whose identity raises more questions than answers. With lavish period visuals, suspense, and emotional twists, it scratches the same itch as The East Palace, even without its heavy supernatural focus.

So, whether it was the haunted palace, the ghost lore, or the slow-burn chemistry that pulled you into The East Palace, these Joseon-era K-dramas offer plenty of reasons to stay in the historical drama rabbit hole.