Gwigung Episode 15: Possession, Tragedy, and the Final Showdown—Viewers React to the Most Intense Episode Yet

The Calm Before the Storm: Setting the Stage for Episode 15

Did you know? Gwigung’s 15th episode aired on June 7, 2025, setting the stage for the series’ climactic finale. The previous episode ended with Palcheokgui’s spirit possessing King Ijeong, plunging the royal court into chaos. Cheol and Yeori, our main protagonists, find themselves on the run as the possessed king turns against his own people. The tension is palpable, with all eyes on how these characters will survive the wrath of an enraged spirit.

Possession and Despair: The Tragic Fall of King Ijeong

The heart of episode 15 revolves around the devastating possession of King Ijeong by Palcheokgui. The spirit, fueled by centuries-old resentment against the royal bloodline, uses the king’s body to exact revenge. This leads to a shocking sequence where the queen is fatally attacked, and the king’s loyal retainers are exiled. The episode’s emotional core is Kim Ji-hoon’s performance as Ijeong, seamlessly shifting between a tormented ruler and a merciless vessel for Palcheokgui. Viewers were particularly moved by scenes of Ijeong grieving over the queen, his anguish palpable and raw.

Cheol and Yeori’s Desperate Struggle

Cheol (Yook Sung-jae) and Yeori (Kim Ji-yeon) are forced into hiding, relying on their wits and the help of a few loyal allies. The episode highlights their determination to protect each other and the royal heir, who narrowly escapes an assassination attempt thanks to the queen mother’s quick thinking. Cheol’s internal conflict is further complicated by his dual nature as both a human and an imugi (mythical serpent), while Yeori prepares for a dangerous exorcism ritual that could cost her everything. The stakes have never been higher for these two, and fans are left anxiously awaiting their next move.

Palcheokgui’s Wrath: The Kingdom in Peril

With the king under Palcheokgui’s control, the kingdom teeters on the edge of destruction. The spirit’s fury is not limited to the royal family; it seeks to annihilate all those connected to its ancient grudge. This episode delves into the backstory of Palcheokgui, revealing the tragic massacre of Yongdamgol and the spirit’s twisted sense of justice. The narrative explores themes of inherited guilt, vengeance, and the cycle of violence—elements that resonate deeply with Korean historical and shamanistic traditions.

Viewer Reactions: Praise, Frustration, and Cultural Insight

Community reactions to episode 15 have been intense and varied. On platforms like Theqoo, Instiz, and DC Inside, fans praised Kim Ji-hoon’s chilling dual performance and the emotional depth of the cast. Many commented on the episode’s dark, oppressive atmosphere, with some expressing frustration at the slow pacing and repetitive plot beats. Others noted the queen mother’s unexpected heroism and the clever use of traditional Korean exorcism rituals. International viewers, especially on Rakuten Viki and social media, lauded the drama’s unique blend of fantasy and historical elements, with some drawing parallels to Korean shamanistic beliefs and the concept of han (deep-seated sorrow or resentment). The episode’s ratings soared, peaking at 10.5% and securing Gwigung’s place as the top weekend drama for eight consecutive weeks.

The Build-Up to the Final Battle: What’s Next?

With only one episode left, anticipation is at an all-time high. The preview for episode 16 hints at a final exorcism ritual—Yeori’s last stand against Palcheokgui. Cheol, having consumed the mystical flower goltamcho to strengthen himself, prepares for a showdown that could determine not only his fate but the future of the entire kingdom. Fans are speculating whether the ending will be tragic or offer a glimmer of hope, with many hoping for Cheol and Yeori’s happiness after so much suffering.

Cultural Context: Why Gwigung Resonates with Korean and Global Audiences

Gwigung stands out for its innovative fusion of Korean occult traditions, historical drama, and modern fantasy. The drama’s use of shamanistic rituals, ancestral grudges, and the motif of possession taps into deep-rooted themes in Korean culture. For international fans, understanding the concept of han and the significance of exorcism rituals adds a new layer of appreciation. The drama’s success on global platforms like Netflix and Rakuten Viki, where it holds top spots in over 80 countries, shows the growing appeal of K-dramas that blend cultural specificity with universal themes of love, loss, and redemption.

Fan Community Buzz: Positive and Negative Reactions

Online communities have been buzzing with discussion. On Daum and Naver, positive comments highlight the cast’s performances, especially Kim Ji-hoon’s portrayal of a king torn between good and evil. Negative reactions focus on the pacing, with some viewers wishing the series had wrapped up in 14 episodes instead of 16. Representative comments include: 'Kim Ji-hoon carried the show to the end,' 'The possession scenes gave me chills,' and 'The pacing dragged, but I can’t wait for the finale.' Despite some criticism, the overwhelming sentiment is one of excitement and emotional investment.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment for K-Drama Fantasy

Episode 15 of Gwigung marks a turning point, pushing its characters to their limits and setting the stage for a potentially unforgettable finale. The episode’s blend of tragedy, supernatural horror, and emotional depth has captivated both Korean and international audiences. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to K-dramas, Gwigung offers a masterclass in how traditional folklore and modern storytelling can come together to create something truly special. Stay tuned for the final episode—everyone is hoping for a hard-earned happy ending for Cheol and Yeori.