The Haunted Palace Episode 7: Gangcheol Falls into a Trap While Trying to Lure the Water Ghost

The Emotional Piggyback Scene That Captured Viewers' Hearts

Episode 7 of 'The Haunted Palace' (귀궁) delivered one of the most emotionally charged moments in the series so far when Gangcheol (played by Yook Sung-jae) offered a piggyback ride to Yeo-ri (Kim Ji-yeon/Bona) after she lost her shoe during their encounter with the water ghost. This seemingly simple gesture became a pivotal moment in their relationship as Yeo-ri finally confronted her conflicted feelings.

"Why do you keep making my heart flutter when you're not even Yoon Gap?" she asked, expressing the confusion of seeing her first love's face but knowing a different soul resides within. Gangcheol, touched by her admission, couldn't help but smile slightly at her emotional outburst. The scene perfectly captured the unique complexity of their relationship – a woman torn between her 13-year love for a man and her growing feelings for the supernatural being inhabiting his body.

The chemistry between Yook Sung-jae and Kim Ji-yeon has been praised across social media, with many viewers noting how their emotional connection transcends the supernatural elements of the story. This piggyback scene, in particular, has become one of the most discussed moments of the episode, showcasing both actors' ability to convey deep emotion through subtle expressions and dialogue.

The Water Ghost's Deadly Trap Unfolds

The central conflict of Episode 7 revolves around the increasingly dangerous water ghost (Sugwi) that has cursed both the Queen and Yeo-ri. As the Queen's condition worsens, King Lee Jeong (Kim Ji-hoon) grows desperate to save her. Gangcheol proposes a daring plan – using royal blood to lure the water ghost into a trap.

In a surprising turn of events, the King agrees to Gangcheol's plan despite the obvious risks, even after Gangcheol threatens to use Prince Gwang as bait if necessary. This unlikely alliance between the King and Gangcheol demonstrates how dire the situation has become, with both men willing to set aside their differences to protect the women they care about.

The plan takes them to the river at night, where tensions flare as the King punches Gangcheol, reminding him that he's inhabiting Yoon Gap's respected body and shouldn't disgrace it. Despite this confrontation, they proceed with the ritual, with the King cutting his palm to drop blood into the river.

The episode's climactic moment comes when Yeo-ri arrives breathless, having realized the truth – it's all a trap. The water ghost cursed both her and the Queen because it needed royal blood to bind itself to the mortal realm. As Poong San (Kim Sang-ho) had revealed earlier, the water ghost needs a royal vessel, and the King has unwittingly offered himself. The episode ends with the chilling image of the water ghost dragging the King under the river's surface as Yeo-ri screams in horror.

Palace Intrigue and Supernatural Mystery

Beyond the central ghost story, Episode 7 deepens the political intrigue within the palace. The Queen Dowager continues her manipulative games, cleverly questioning the King's morality by bringing up Young-in's death – a veiled accusation that visibly stuns him. Her fake apology coupled with a smug smile reveals her true nature and hints at darker secrets yet to be uncovered.

A maid's revelation about the Queen having terrifying dreams of a ghost before her symptoms began adds another layer to the mystery. The connection between the Queen's pregnancy and the water ghost's intentions becomes clearer, suggesting that the unborn royal child might be the vessel the spirit seeks.

The episode also explores the relationship between Poong San, the blind shaman, and his disciple, revealing that after being injured by the Eight-Foot Ghost (Palcheokgwi), Poong San is using the water ghost Makdol to target the Queen's unborn child. These interconnected supernatural threats create a complex web of danger surrounding the royal family.

The visual storytelling in these palace scenes is particularly noteworthy, with director Yoon Sung-shik using traditional Korean architecture, lighting, and costume design to create an atmosphere that balances historical authenticity with supernatural dread.

Ratings Success and Global Recognition

Episode 7 of 'The Haunted Palace' continued the drama's impressive ratings streak, achieving its highest viewership yet with 9.8% nationwide and peaking at 10.9% according to Nielsen Korea. This marks the fifth consecutive week the show has topped its time slot and secured the position of #1 weekly miniseries.

The drama has also gained significant international attention. According to recent reports, 'The Haunted Palace' has topped various global OTT platforms, including Japan's Lemino (NTT Docomo), Taiwan's Hami Video, Vietnam's VieON and FPT Play, and Indonesia's Vidio, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal.

International media outlets have praised the show's unique blend of genres. Hong Kong's South China Morning Post journalist Pierce Conran highlighted how the drama "perfectly combines dense plotting with an interesting mix of genres," while entertainment site Leisurebyte noted that it "delivers both laughter and warmth amid the chaotic supernatural elements."

The show's success can be attributed to its innovative approach to the fantasy sageuk (historical drama) genre, combining traditional Korean ghost stories with romance, palace intrigue, and character-driven storytelling. The chemistry between the lead actors and the high production values have also contributed to its growing international fanbase.

Character Development and Emotional Depth

Episode 7 stands out for its significant character development, particularly for Gangcheol and King Lee Jeong. Despite their initial animosity, the two men find common ground in their desire to protect their loved ones. Their riverside conversation reveals vulnerable sides to both characters – the King speaks of his deep affection for the Queen, who has stood by him since childhood, while Gangcheol acknowledges Yeo-ri's strength and struggles.

Yeo-ri's character also evolves as she confronts her feelings for Gangcheol. Her emotional outburst during the piggyback scene – "I'm a person too, I'm a woman too" – highlights her internal conflict between holding onto her past love for Yoon Gap and acknowledging her growing feelings for Gangcheol. This emotional honesty adds depth to her character beyond her supernatural abilities.

The episode also provides glimpses into the complex motivations of secondary characters. Poong San's actions reveal him to be more calculating and dangerous than previously thought, while the Queen Dowager's manipulative nature becomes more apparent through her interactions with the King.

These character developments are enhanced by the actors' performances. Yook Sung-jae continues to impress with his ability to balance Gangcheol's supernatural nature with very human emotions, while Kim Ji-yeon brings vulnerability and strength to Yeo-ri. Kim Ji-hoon's portrayal of the King adds gravitas to the political elements of the story, making the palace intrigue as compelling as the supernatural elements.

Viewer Reactions and Community Response

Audience response to Episode 7 has been overwhelmingly positive across various online platforms. On Korean community sites like DCInside, Instiz, and Nate Pann, viewers have been particularly vocal about the chemistry between Yook Sung-jae and Kim Ji-yeon, with many praising their emotional piggyback scene as a highlight of the series so far.

International viewers on social media platforms have expressed appreciation for the show's balance of horror, romance, and historical elements. Many have noted how the drama successfully incorporates traditional Korean ghost stories into a compelling narrative that remains accessible to international audiences.

The cliffhanger ending, with the King being dragged underwater by the ghost, generated significant online discussion, with viewers speculating about his fate and how Yeo-ri and Gangcheol might save him. This engagement demonstrates how effectively the episode built tension throughout its runtime.

Critics have also praised the production values of Episode 7, particularly the underwater sequences and the visual effects used to portray the water ghost. The traditional Korean settings and costumes have received positive attention for their authenticity and visual appeal.

Overall, Episode 7 has cemented 'The Haunted Palace' as one of the most discussed K-dramas of 2025, with its unique premise and strong execution continuing to attract new viewers while satisfying existing fans.

What to Expect in Episode 8

The cliffhanger ending of Episode 7 sets up high expectations for Episode 8, which will air on May 10, 2025. Viewers can anticipate the immediate aftermath of the King being dragged underwater by the water ghost. Will Yeo-ri and Gangcheol be able to save him in time? And what consequences will this encounter have on the King's physical and mental state?

The curse affecting both Yeo-ri and the Queen is likely to progress, creating urgency for finding a solution. With Poong San's true intentions now clearer, we can expect more confrontations between him and our protagonists. The revelation about the water ghost needing a royal vessel suggests that the Queen's unborn child remains in danger, adding another layer of tension to the story.

The emotional development between Gangcheol and Yeo-ri will likely continue to evolve following their heartfelt conversation. Yeo-ri's "10-step distance rule" imposed at the end of their piggyback scene creates an interesting dynamic that the next episode will surely explore.

Palace politics will also remain a significant element, with the Queen Dowager's manipulations potentially creating more obstacles for the King and our protagonists. Her veiled reference to Young-in's death hints at past secrets that may be further revealed in upcoming episodes.

As 'The Haunted Palace' reaches its midpoint with Episode 8, viewers can expect the various storylines to begin converging, with the supernatural threats, palace intrigue, and personal relationships all interconnecting in increasingly complex ways.