Netflix’s The East Palace has climbed to No. 2 on the streamer’s global non-English TV chart just three days after its release.
The mystery fantasy follows Gu Cheon (played by Nam Joo Hyuk), who can cross into the spirit world, and palace maid Saeng Gang (Roh Yoon Seo), who hides a secret, as they investigate a curse haunting the crown prince’s residence at the king’s (Cho Seung Woo) request.
Since premiering July 17, the series has drawn 4.9 million views. It also ranked No. 1 on Netflix Korea’s Top 10 list and entered the Top 10 in 27 countries, including Hong Kong, Thailand, the Philippines and India.
The drama has also earned praise overseas for its mysterious plot, striking visuals and immersive worldbuilding. Decider wrote that the series “has enough intrigue, stunning cinematography, and committed worldbuilding to hook viewers on the first episode and immerse you in its twisting tale.”
Collider declared, “Netflix Has Quietly Released the Most Spellbinding Fantasy Epic of 2026,” while TIME singled out its carefully constructed universe, writing, “The rich worldbuilding realized in ‘The East Palace’ is arguably the K-drama’s strongest element.”
Viewers have been equally enthusiastic.
“The direction is incredible. The way the two worlds clash gave me chills,” one viewer wrote on X. Another said, “My mom and I sat down and watched all eight episodes in one go.”
Others praised the show’s eerie atmosphere, with one viewer writing, “The cherry blossoms around the East Palace pond are beautiful, but people are dying, rituals are taking place and everyone is crossing into the spirit realm. That contrast makes it even better.”
Cho Seung Woo’s performance also drew attention, with one fan urging, “Please watch Cho Seung Woo play the unhinged king”
International viewers were just as impressed. One IMDb user wrote, “The story is gripping, the visual effects are excellent and the leads have such great chemistry that I was sad when it ended.” Another called it “one of the best Korean horror dramas I’ve seen,” while a third praised the direction, acting, cinematography and soundtrack as “excellent from beginning to end.”
The East Palace is now streaming on Netflix.
In the meantime, watch trending K-dramas for free on Amasian TV.
Source: Netflix
