Netflix's latest South Korean offering, 'The East Palace', has quickly captivated audiences and critics alike, securing a rare 100% perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes. The dark fantasy limited series, directed by Choi Jung-kyu, premiered on 17 July 2026 and has already accumulated nearly 5 million views and 32.9 million hours of viewership, placing it second among the streamer's most-watched non-English language shows for the week of 13 July.
Set during a fictionalised period of Korea’s Joseon Dynasty, 'The East Palace' is an eight-episode series starring Nam Joo-hyuk, Roh Yoon-seo, and Cho Seung-woo. The plot follows an irreverent spirit slayer, portrayed by Nam, who is compelled to hunt a dangerous ghost threatening the ruling dynasty. Aiding him is a court lady, played by Roh, who possesses the ability to sense the deceased. Together, they navigate a cursed palace, risking their lives for the king while unearthing deep-seated secrets.
The initial critical reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with nine reviews contributing to its flawless Rotten Tomatoes score. Critics have praised the series for its "stunning cinematography" and immersive "world-building," noting its ability to "hook viewers on the first episode." While the audience score currently stands at a strong 92%, some viewer feedback suggests a desire for greater emotional depth in the storytelling, though many still recommend it as a worthwhile watch for fans of historical fantasy and supernatural dramas.
The success of 'The East Palace' comes as Netflix continues to significantly bolster its investment in South Korean entertainment. Following the global phenomenon of 'Squid Game', which became Netflix's most-watched TV show of all time with 2.2 billion hours viewed, the platform's co-CEO Ted Sarandos announced in 2023 a substantial commitment of $2.5 billion over four years towards creating diverse Korean content, including TV series, movies, and unscripted shows. This strategic investment aims to deepen partnerships within the Korean creative industry and share its unique storytelling with a global audience.
This ongoing commitment highlights Netflix's recognition of the immense global appeal of K-dramas and other Korean productions. The consistent delivery of high-quality, engaging content from South Korea has become a significant driver for subscriber engagement and retention worldwide, including within the UK. The diverse range of genres, from dark fantasy to thrillers and historical dramas, ensures broad appeal across different demographics, solidifying South Korea's position as a major cultural exporter.