On April 18, 2025, the new SBS romance series “The Haunted Palace” premiered and achieved the highest ratings among all shows. The series, which is a fantasy romance, captivated audiences immediately, achieving a nationwide average rating of 9.2%. This remarkable debut made it the top series premiere of the week, outshining its predecessor, “Buried Hearts.” According to Nielsen Korea, the opening episode of “The Haunted Palace” recorded an impressive rating, making it a standout in the competitive Friday-Saturday time slot.
Set against a backdrop of Korean folklore, “The Haunted Palace” weaves a tale that incorporates the legendary creature known as the “Imugi” and features a towering spirit that stands eight feet tall. The show stars BTOB's Yook Sung-jae, WJSN's Kim Ji-yeon (Bona), and Kim Ji-hoon, who bring their characters to life with remarkable performances. The combination of strong storytelling and skilled acting has resonated well with viewers, establishing the series as a must-watch.
Not to be overshadowed, MBC's “Crushology 101,” which airs in the same time slot, has also garnered attention. This series achieved its highest ratings since its premiere, reaching an average of 1.5% viewership during its third episode. The success of both shows highlights the growing popularity of Korean dramas, particularly in the fantasy and romance genres.
Meanwhile, the rising star Liu Xueyi from China is also making headlines. Known for his versatility and captivating performances, Liu has quickly become a favorite among fans across Asia. His latest project, “A Moment But Forever,” pairs him with actress Tang Yan in a fantasy period drama that has taken the audience by storm.
The narrative of “A Moment But Forever” unfolds amidst a grand war between gods and demons, where mystical artifacts mysteriously vanish. The goddess Wu Suang embarks on a quest to retrieve these lost treasures, believing they are in the possession of Yuan Zhang, a high priest from the fox tribe. As the story progresses, an unexpected romance blossoms between the two characters, adding depth to the plot.
With stunning visuals and a high-quality production team, “A Moment But Forever” has quickly risen to the top of the charts, showcasing Liu Xueyi's impressive range as an actor. The series is available for streaming on iQIYI, where fans can catch up on his previous works.
Among his notable performances is “Destined,” where he stars alongside Song Yi and Bai Jingting. The series tells the story of Liu Yuru, a young woman facing adversity due to her cruel stepmother, and Gu Jiu Si, a carefree young man who helps her navigate her challenges. Their journey together leads to a heartwarming narrative of love and resilience.
Another series featuring Liu Xueyi, “Love At Night,” revolves around the character Sui Qingyou, a successful woman who faces heartbreak when she discovers her long-term boyfriend's infidelity. In her moment of despair, she meets Mo Lingzhe, a young executive who gradually breaks down her emotional barriers. This unexpected relationship brings forth genuine feelings that neither can deny, making it a compelling watch.
As the landscape of Asian dramas continues to evolve, both “The Haunted Palace” and Liu Xueyi's projects exemplify the rich storytelling and diverse characters that resonate with viewers. The success of these series highlights the growing influence of Asian entertainment globally, captivating audiences with their unique narratives and engaging performances.
In conclusion, the premiere of “The Haunted Palace” and the rise of Liu Xueyi in the drama scene showcase the vibrant and dynamic nature of Asian television. With captivating stories and talented actors, these series are set to leave a lasting impact on viewers around the world.
