

Empress Ki
- Cast entries
- 21
- Episodes
- 51
- Locations
- 5
- Food stops
- 1
Synopsis
A concise overview of the premise, tone, and dramatic setup.
Empress Ki is a Korean drama that delves into the complex and tumultuous world of power, war, and politics during the Goryeo Dynasty. The story focuses on the life of a woman who rises from humble beginnings to become a powerful figure in the Yuan Dynasty as the Empress. As she navigates the treacherous waters of court intrigue and personal sacrifice, her journey is marked by resilience and determination. The drama explores themes of love, betrayal, and the struggle for power, set against the backdrop of historical events that shaped the fate of nations. With a blend of romance and political maneuvering, Empress Ki captivates audiences with its rich storytelling and compelling characters.
Why Empress Ki remains a captivating watch
If you’re looking for a drama that marries the intricacies of court politics with a compelling personal journey, Empress Ki offers a unique mix that’s hard to resist. Set during the Goryeo Dynasty, this series pulls you into a world of power struggles and emotional weights, centering on Ki Seung Nyang, played brilliantly by Ha Ji-won. From her humble beginnings to becoming the Empress of Yuan, her resilience and determination shine through in every episode.
What makes this show particularly engaging is the sheer complexity of its characters. Ha Ji-won excels in her role, delivering a performance filled with depth and emotion. You really feel for her character as she navigates betrayal, ambition, and love amid a backdrop of historical chaos. The balancing act she performs between vulnerability and unyielding strength is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Then there's Ji Chang-wook as Ta Hwan, the Emperor of Yuan. His portrayal of a man caught in a web of power and personal conflict adds another layer to the series. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, making their interactions both tense and romantic, enhancing the series' emotional stakes. Ju Jin-mo as Wang Yoo also deserves a shout-out; the love triangle that unfolds around him and Ki Seung Nyang adds a satisfying dose of drama.
The drama’s pacing is something to note as well. At 51 episodes, it allows for a rich exploration of themes like loyalty and the price of power, but there are moments that might feel drawn out if you prefer tighter storytelling. Nonetheless, those willing to invest time will find themselves deeply engrossed in the evolving dynamics of the characters.
The historical context is woven into the narrative expertly, giving viewers a taste of Goryeo and Yuan’s tumultuous interactions. While the series doesn't delve into specific filming locations, the sets and costumes help create a vivid atmosphere that immerses you in the era. The series also plays with shades of light and dark, reflecting the moral complexities of its characters and their choices.
For those who appreciate dramas that explore strong female leads and the nuances of power, Empress Ki is likely to resonate. It’s a mix of romance, strategy, and heart, wrapped in a historical tapestry that draws you in from the start. If you keep an eye out for character-driven stories that don’t shy away from emotional depth, this series will undoubtedly deliver an experience that’s as rich in storytelling as it is in character development.
Final verdict: a gripping historical saga worth the binge
Empress Ki pulls you into a whirlwind of political intrigue and personal sacrifice, all while showcasing the incredible journey of Ki Seung Nyang, played by the talented Ha Ji-won. Spanning 51 episodes, this drama is a lengthy but rewarding ride through the Goryeo Dynasty's tumultuous landscape as our protagonist transforms from a lowly woman into a formidable empress in the Yuan Dynasty.
What stands out is the depth of the characters and the intricate web of relationships that develop as Ki navigates love, betrayal, and the ruthless power struggles at court. The chemistry between Ha Ji-won and Ji Chang-wook, who plays Emperor Huizong of Yuan, adds a layer of emotional resonance that keeps viewers invested. While the narrative can sometimes feel stretched, it rarely loses momentum, thanks to compelling performances from the entire cast, including the antagonistic Tanashiri portrayed by Baek Jin-hee.
For fans of historical dramas and epic storytelling, this series is a solid choice, especially if you enjoy strong female leads. However, those who prefer lighthearted romance or concise plots might find it less appealing. With a TMDB rating of 7.269, Empress Ki successfully combines romance and politics, making it a captivating watch that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll.
Filming locations
Places connected to scenes, checked against source links before they appear publicly.
- 01
Masan Marine Drama Set
마산 해양드라마세트장Seokgok-ri 772-1, Gusan-myeon, Masan-Happo-gu, Changwon-si, Gyeongsangnam-do경남 창원시 마산합포구 구산면 석곡리 772-1The Masan Marine Drama Set is known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful sea views, making it a popular spot for tourists. It has been used as a filming location for many historical dramas, including 'Empress Ki'. / The Haeyang Drama Set is a popular filming location for various dramas, including 'Empress Ki'. It features a scenic coastal area that is perfect for walks and relaxation. / The Changwon Marine Drama Set is a filming location for various dramas, including 'Empress Ki'. It offers a quiet atmosphere with beautiful sea views, making it a great place for a leisurely walk.
It seems that after completing renovations, the place is welcoming visitors again, known for its filming locations of numerous historical dramas such as Kim Su-ro, Gi Hwang-hu, and Six Flying Dragons. The tranquil atmosphere and beautiful sea views make it a popular destination for tourists.blog.naver.com - 02
Suncheon Bay National Garden
순천만 국가정원47 Gukgajeongwon 1-ho-gil, Suncheon-si, Gwangju Jeonnam전남광주통합특별시 순천시 국가정원1호길 47This beautiful garden was featured in the drama.
4. Suncheonman National Garden Location: 162-1 Gukgajeongwon 1-ho-gil, Suncheon-si, Jeollanam-dohigashi7338.tistory.com - 03
Dae Jang Geum Park
대장금파크730 Yongcheon-ri, Baegam-myeon, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do경기 용인시 처인구 백암면 용천리 730Dae Jang Geum Park is known for being a major filming location for historical dramas in Korea, including 'Empress Ki'. It features a vast open set that has been used for numerous productions.
I was curious about where the filming location of "환혼" was, and it turns out it was at Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park.linguist79.tistory.com - 04
Wando Tower
완도타워330 Jangbogo-daero, Wando-eup, Wando-gun, Gwangju, Jeollanam-do전남광주통합특별시 완도군 완도읍 장보고대로 330Wando Tower serves as a notable landmark in the drama, contributing to the visual storytelling.
Wando (Myeongsasipri Beach, Wando Tower, Wando Arboretum), etc.publicfr.tistory.com - 05
Wando Arboretum
완도수목원156 Chopyeong 1-gil, Gunoe-myeon, Wando-gun, Gwangju, Jeollanam-do전남광주통합특별시 완도군 군외면 초평1길 156The Wando Arboretum is featured in the drama, providing a beautiful natural setting for key scenes.
Wando (Myeongsasipri Beach, Wando Tower, Wando Arboretum), etc.publicfr.tistory.com
Food & places
Restaurants, cafes, markets, and dishes tied to the drama or the reader's visit path.
- 01Restaurant
Wonjo Hosu Samgyetang
Samgyetang276 Dorim-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Yeongdeungpo, Seoul, Seoul서울 영등포구 도림로 276This restaurant is known for its rich and thick samgyetang, made with perilla powder, and is a favorite of the character Jin Han.
The three major samgyetang restaurants in Seoul, Yeongdeungpo, Singil-dong 🍽️ 'Wonjo Hosu Samgyetang Main Branch' located at 274-1 Dorim-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (about a 7-minute walk from Sinpung Station, Exit 4)blog.naver.com
More to explore
Step beyond this drama — explore filming sites, food spots, and related titles across the catalog.
Production
Broadcast details, runtime, language, and key production credits.
MBC
Victory Contents
- Creators
- Han Hee
- Directors
- Han HeeKang Sook강숙
- Writers
- Jang Young-cheolJung Gyeong-sun
Source: TMDB
Cast & characters
Key roles, performers, and character context for quick scanning.
Ki Seung Nyang (Empress Ki)Ha Ji-won하지원
Wang Yoo (King Choong Hye of Goryeo)Ju Jin-mo주진모
Ta Hwan (Emperor Huizong of Yuan)Ji Chang-wook지창욱
Tal TalJin Yi-han진이한
Tanashiri (Empress Tanashiri)Baek Jin-hee백진희
El TemurJeon Kuk-hwan전국환
Bayan KhutughIm Joo-eun임주은
DokmanLee Won-jong이원종
Lady ParkHan Hye-rin
BayanKim Young-ho김영호
Budashiri (Empress Dowager)Kim Seo-hyung김서형
Yeon BisuYoo In-young유인영
TangqishiKim Jeong-hyeon김정현
Lady SeoSeo Yi-sook서이숙
Wang GoLee Jae-yong이재용
Choi Moo-songKwon Oh-joong권오중
Source: TMDB
Lead actors
Lead performer biographies and notable credits.

Ha Ji-wonas Ki Seung Nyang (Empress Ki)
Ha Ji-won, born Jeon Hae-rim on June 28, 1978, in Seoul, South Korea, is a prominent actress celebrated for her versatility across multiple genres. She gained fame through her performances in a variety of acclaimed films and television dramas, establishing herself as one of South Korea's most respected actresses. Ha Ji-won is particularly known for her roles in hit films such as "Phone" (2002), "Sex Is Zero" (2002), and "Closer to Heaven" (2009), as well as popular television series including "Damo" (2003), "Secret Garden" (2010-2011), and "Empress Ki" (2013-2014). Throughout her career, Ha Ji-won has displayed a remarkable ability to tackle diverse roles, seamlessly transitioning from action and comedy to drama and horror. Her performances have earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the South Korean entertainment industry. With a career spanning over two decades, Ha Ji-won continues to captivate audiences with her talent and dedication to her craft.

Ju Jin-moas Wang Yoo (King Choong Hye of Goryeo)
Joo Jin-mo, born Park Jin-tae on August 11, 1974, is a prominent South Korean actor known for his significant contributions to film. He gained widespread recognition for his performances in popular movies such as "200 Pounds Beauty" (2006) and "A Frozen Flower" (2008), both of which showcased his versatility and depth as an actor. With a career that spans various genres, Joo Jin-mo has established himself as a leading figure in the South Korean film industry. His ability to portray complex characters with emotional authenticity has earned him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim. As he continues to take on challenging roles, Joo Jin-mo remains a notable presence in contemporary cinema.

Ji Chang-wookas Ta Hwan (Emperor Huizong of Yuan)
Ji Chang-wook is a South Korean actor and singer, born on July 5, 1987. He first gained widespread recognition for his lead role as Dong-hae in the daily drama series Smile Again, which aired from 2010 to 2011. This breakthrough performance set the stage for a successful acting career, and he quickly became known for his versatility across various genres. Over the years, Ji Chang-wook has taken on notable lead roles in acclaimed television series such as Warrior Baek Dong-soo, Empress Ki, Healer, The K2, and Suspicious Partner. His recent works include The Worst of Evil and Welcome to Samdal-ri, showcasing his ability to engage audiences in both contemporary and historical narratives. In addition to his television success, he starred in the film Fabricated City in 2017, further establishing his presence in the entertainment industry. With a diverse portfolio, Ji Chang-wook continues to captivate viewers with his performances, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in South Korean drama.


Baek Jin-heeas Tanashiri (Empress Tanashiri)
Baek Jin-hee is a talented South Korean actress known for her versatile performances across various genres. She begins her acting career in 2008 with the independent film "Finding Mr. Destiny," which marks the start of her journey in the entertainment industry. Baek gains significant attention for her role in the popular television series "High Kick: Revenge of the Short Legged," aired from 2011 to 2012, establishing her as a promising talent in the field. Her rise to prominence continues with her standout performance in the historical drama "Empress Ki" in 2013, where she showcases her ability to portray complex characters. Throughout her career, Baek has taken on diverse roles that highlight her range as an actress. Most recently, she stars in the television drama "The Real Has Come!" in 2023, further cementing her place in the competitive landscape of K-drama. With a career spanning over a decade, Baek Jin-hee remains a notable figure in South Korea's film and television industry.
Where to watch
Availability is grouped by country and provider type.
Asia Premium Amazon Channel
Channel K Amazon Channel
Cinefil Wow Plus Amazon Channel
FOD Channel Amazon Channel
FOD
Amazon Video
Google Play Movies
wavve
Watcha
Rakuten Viki
OnDemandKorea
Kocowa Amazon Channel
Kocowa
Streaming data via JustWatch through TMDB.
Episodes
Episode stills, air dates, runtimes, and summaries.
Ep 1The Jackal and the Prince2013-10-28 · 59 minSungnyang disguises herself as a man and works to free women who were sent to be Yuan concubines. King Wang Ko orders Sungnyang to get close to Wang Yu to lure him into an ambush.
Ep 2The Timid Prince2013-10-29 · 59 minSungnyang reveals to the Crown Prince that there is a spy among them. Prince Togon is exiled to Koryo.
Ep 3Protecting the Future Crown Prince2013-11-04 · 59 minSungnyang mistakes the Yuan Prince for a Yuan soldier. For the prince's protection, the Koryo King barricades the prince within the Koryo palace.
Ep 4In Hot Pursuit2013-11-05 · 59 minThe Yaun Prince asks Sungnyang to teach him how to defend himself. El Temur plans a full-on attack on Daechong Island in order to kill the prince.
Ep 5Survival in the Forest2013-11-11 · 59 minSungnyang and Prince Togon continue their way to Kaegyong to find the Koryo King. Meanwhile, El Temur takes Koryo's palace under his command.
Ep 6Confrontation and a Sad Goodbye2013-11-12 · 59 minYom falls for Sungnyangs trick and brings in Prince Togon's body into the palace. Prince Togon becomes conflicted about choosing to tell the truth or becoming emperor of Yuan.
Ep 7Separation of Lovers2013-11-18 · 59 minThe King of Koryo finds out that Sungnyang is a woman and tires to protect her from Tangqishi. Meanwhile, at the capital of Yuan, Tanasiri is taking lessons to be empress.
Ep 8The Life of a Servant2013-11-19 · 59 minSungnyang plots to take revenge on Emperor Togon during his wedding ceremony. The King of Koryo and Yom Byongsu are to duel to see who will be commander.
Ep 9Meeting the Emperor2013-11-25 · 59 minThe Koryo King defeats Yom and takes command, but is given poor resources to prepare for battle. El Temur is enraged when he finds out that the Emperor has taken in a concubine.
Ep 10Curious2013-11-26 · 59 minThe Koryo King leads his men to their first victory against the Turks. The Emperor makes Sungnyang a part of his retinue.
Ep 11Spies in the Palace2013-12-02 · 59 minThe Empress orders Sungnyang to feed Lady Pak a powder that will cause her a miscarriage. The Emperor further suspects Nyang of being Sungnyang.
Ep 12The Brilliant Plan2013-12-03 · 59 minNyang is ordered to spread rumors that Lady Pak is faking her pregnancy. General Bayan disguises himself as Batolu, but runs into unexpected trouble on the battlefield.
Ep 13Personal Maid2013-12-09 · 59 minLady Pak is brought in front of the inquisition to be re-examined. Sungnyang receives a written promise to be let out of the palace, but gets caught by the Emperor.
Ep 14He Returns2013-12-10 · 59 minWang Yu brings victory with him to the Yuan Palace. The previous Yuan Emperor is said to have written a blood vow before his death and all are scrambling to find it.
Ep 15The Fake Blood Vow2013-12-16 · 58 minWang Yu comes up with a plan to infuriate El Temur, but needs Sungnyang to accomplish it. The Emperor challenges Wang Yu to a soccer match.
Ep 16The Soluble Vows2013-12-17 · 58 minEl Temur tries to find the one who sent the appeal. Wang Yu finds out that Sungnyang was the one to help and decides to not see her again.
Ep 17Curse Phase 22013-12-23 · 59 minThe Emperor and the Queen Dowager ask Wang Yu if he is interested in marrying one of the princesses. The Emperor opens a shadow play for Yang but uninvited guests decide to join them.
Ep 18Tangqishi's Plan2013-12-24 · 59 minThe palace fills with rats and begin the curse of the late Khan. The emperor decides to actively search for the Blood Vow.
Ep 19Fake or Real2014-01-06 · 59 minWangyu and Yeonchul comes up with a plan to fake Yeonchul's death to find out who are loyal to him. Nyang tell the emperor that she does not want him to speak to her again.
Ep 20Removing El Temur2014-01-07 · 59 minWangyu meets with the Dowager and wins her trust. Wangyu asks Nyang if she wants to be his Queen once he goes back to Koryo.
Ep 21The Truth About Jok Ho2014-01-13 · 59 minWangYu receives permission from the Regent to return to Koguryo to visit his "sick" father. Nyang and two others stay behind to look for Jukho to find the blood vow.
Ep 22Pregnant Sung Nyang2014-01-14 · 59 minThe emperor decides to hide injured Nyang in the pavilion so the regent's men cannot find her. Nyang's party is attacked by thieves while they were trying to help Nyang escape.
Ep 23Byul or Maha2014-01-20 · 59 minNyang gives birth to a son with a unique dot on his feet. The emperor and Wang yu finds out about Nyang and plans their revenge against the empress.
Ep 24Preparation for War2014-01-21 · 59 minNyang is found by Bayan in Liaoyang province while she is being sold as a slave. Nyang discovers the blood vow and shows it to Bayan.
Ep 25The Imperial Consort2014-01-27 · 61 minNyang begins the selection process for the consorts as she fights through the obstacles the empress sets up. Wang Yu continues to find who is behind the counterfeit money.
Ep 26Finally Meeting the Blood Vow2014-01-28 · 59 minNyang becomes a consort and begins to fight with the empress with the support of other people from Koryo. Wangyu is fighting to stop counterfeit money from entering Liaoyang.
Ep 27The Jealous Empress2014-02-03 · 59 minNyang begins to teach the Emperor how to read and write every night by disguising it as a party. The empress decides to lock Nyang in the archives and give her an impossible task to finish.
Ep 28Poisoned Sung Nyang2014-02-04 · 59 minNyang begins her plan to take the empress' power away from her. Wangyu meets with Hukso to get Musong back by telling Hukso that he is the husband of El Temur's niece.
Ep 29The Poisonous Dates2014-02-10 · 59 minWangYu finds out about Nyang's situation from Tal Tal after they arrest Huksu. Nyang continues her revenge on the Empress.
Ep 30Abdication Decree2014-02-17 · 59 minNyang and Wangyu finally meet together and go their own ways. Feisu finally completes deciphering the book they found in Huksu's house.
Ep 31A Win for the Emperor2014-02-18 · 59 minThe Emperor speaks in front of El Temur and also shows him that he can read. Tal Tal brings the spies from Eagle House in front of the governors.
Ep 32Out to Kill2014-02-24 · 58 minNyang avoids the bullet from El Temur and makes another governer the culprit of the attempted assassination of the Prince. The Empress calls in Wang Yu and Nyang together for a drink.
Ep 33The Dramatic Royal Hunt2014-02-25 · 58 minNyang and the Emperor survive the coup but the Emperor is shot by a poison arrow. Wang Yu gets stabbed in the process of helping Nyang run away from the guards.
Ep 34The Curse2014-03-03 · 59 minThe Emperor comes to save Nyang and her servants from being punished for the Emperor's injury. The Empress decides to use a curse to try and kill Nyang.
Ep 35Ayushiridara2014-03-04 · 59 minAfter Nyang recovered the talisman and broke the curse, El Temur begins to have nightmares. Wangyu begins to train the bums Wongjin brought as new recruits.
Ep 36Eagle Group and the Blood Vow2014-03-10 · 59 minBayan begins his plan to go to war with El Temur and marches to the capitol. El Temur receives word from his men that his son is bringing Bayan and won the war.
Ep 37The Downfall2014-03-11 · 59 minNyang is in the Ice Palace and calls everyone in to start planning to defend the Emperor while Bayan takes the palace. Wangyu complete's his job by opening the gate for Bayan's soldiers to enter.
Ep 38A New Enemy Rising2014-03-17 · 59 minThe Dowager opposes Nayng becoming the empress and makes Bayan bring his niece to run Nyang out. The former empress was hanged from the square for the public to see.
Ep 39Bayan Hudu2014-03-18 · 59 minBayan Hudu becomes the new empress and Nyang continues the search for the secret funds. Wang Yu is also searching for the secret funds to help Nyang become the empress.
Ep 40Finding the Secret Treasure2014-03-24 · 59 minNyang finally finds out about the secret funds El Temur has been collecting. Bayan announces to the Emperor that he wants to go to war and conquer surrounding countries.
Ep 41Sung Nyang's Victory2014-03-25 · 59 minNyang and Wangyu begins their plan to remove the money from El Temur's house. Tal Tal finds out that he has been tricked by Nyang and rushes back to see the secret room empty.
Ep 42Economic Downfall2014-03-31 · 59 minWang Yu returns to Koryo and takes command by refusing to provide for Yuan any longer. Bayan takes his men to war with surrounding countries and tries to take them over.
Ep 43Worse Times2014-04-01 · 59 minThe Dowager and Bayan frames Wang Yu of selling explosives to enemy states of Yuan. Wang Yu is stripped of his title and dragged to Yuan by the prince and Tanguishi.
Ep 44Where Your Loyalties Lie2014-04-07 · 59 minKim Sunju comes right on time to save Wang Yu and his servants from being executed. The Emperor breaks the promise with Nyang and start to drink again.
Ep 45The Truth About Maha2014-04-08 · 59 minThe Empress finds out about Maha's secret about his birth by threatening Yon Hwa. Nyang tells the Dowager and Maha that she will reveal all the secrets soon.
Ep 46The Princes' Fate2014-04-14 · 59 minNyang runs to save Maha's life after finding out that he is her real son. Maha's true identity is revealed and he is kicked out of the palace.
Ep 47The Eagle House Leader2014-04-15 · 59 minWang Yu visits Maha and decides that he is going to take him to Koyro and tell him everything. The Eagle House wants Yom Byung Soo to go see Bayan.
Ep 48The Fake Coup2014-04-21 · 58 minNyang keeps the Emperor locked up in her room so that no one will know that he is awake. Bayan is sent to prison for trying to kill Nyang and her son Ayu.
Ep 49The Fall of Tangqishi2014-04-22 · 58 minNyang is sent to the temple to repent for her sins and ask for forgiveness. Wang Yu sends all the grains he bought to the palace to distribute to the people.
Ep 50Poisoned2014-04-28 · 58 minNyang finally becomes the Empress of Yuan and Wang Yu gains his throne. Nyang is trying to find out about the Eagle House and confiscate their assets.
Ep 51A Not-So-Happy Ending2014-04-29 · 58 minThe Emperor continues to drink Kolta's poison knowing that Kolta is the head of the Eagle House. The Dowager kills herself in front of Nyang by drinking poison.
Source: TMDB
Videos
Trailers, OST, interviews, making clips, reviews, and recommendations.
Trailers & teasers
OST
Interviews & making-of
Reviews & recommendations
Source: YouTube
Gallery
Posters, backdrops, and stills from the drama.
Source: TMDB








