The beloved Korean horror rom-com film Spellbound is getting a massive television upgrade. Starring Park Eun-bin, Yang Se-jong, and Ong Seong-wu, the upcoming series promises to beat the summer heat with a chilling yet heartwarming mix of ghosts and romance.
This television adaptation takes a bold approach to the original material. Aside from the core premise of a female lead who can see ghosts, almost everything else has been reinvented. The heroine is now a wealthy hotel CEO, while the male lead shifts from a magician to a hot-headed prosecutor.
The drama also introduces a unique supernatural twist: anyone who touches the female lead’s hand instantly gains the ability to see ghosts, paving the way for far more chaotic situations and complex relationships than the original movie.
From a Two-Hour Film to a 12-Episode Supernatural Ride
"We took a two-hour movie and expanded it into a 12-episode series," lead actress Park Eun-bin shared during the press conference on July 14 at the Eliena Hotel in Seoul. "We added over six times the original lore and world-building, so viewers can expect a much richer story."
Park steps into the shoes of Cheon Yeo-ri, the elegant heiress and CEO of South Korea’s top luxury hotel. While she projects a cold, calculating exterior to the world, she secretly harbors a deeply protective and empathetic heart.
Marking her return to the romance genre after three years, Park expressed her excitement for the multi-genre project. "I love stories that blend different styles. I was instantly drawn to how this script weaves romance together with occult horror, procedural investigations, and action."
To match her chaebol character, Park paid close attention to her wardrobe. "Because my character can accidentally transfer her ghost-seeing curse through touch, she wears gloves all day. To make up for that, we went all out with diverse hairstyles and high-fashion outfits."
A Frightened Prosecutor and a Chilling New Villain
Yang Se-jong plays Ma Gang-ook, an elite ace prosecutor known for his sharp intellect and athletic build. His perfectly structured life spins out of control after a chance encounter with Cheon Yeo-ri.
"In real life, I am absolutely terrified of ghosts," Yang admitted with a laugh. "But the idea of facing all kinds of spirits on set felt like a fun challenge, which is why I took the role."
Yang focused on bringing a playful, puppy-like charm to the screen to differentiate this project from his previous romance roles, noting that he went through countless rehearsals to nail the character's comedic timing.
Pop icon and actor Ong Seong-wu rounds out the main trio as Kang Min-hwan, a rival hotel executive who triggers a tense love triangle.
Marking his first-ever villainous role, Ong shared, "People often tell me I have a very straight-laced, friendly look. I really wanted to break away from that image and show a completely different side of myself."
According to co-star Park Eun-bin, Ong successfully pulled off the transformation. "He would call me 'Noona' and act so cute before the cameras rolled, but the second we started shooting, his eyes completely changed. Audiences will see a very chilling side to him."
Spellbound premieres on tvN on July 18.
https://www.dispatch.co.kr/2345232
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