Tale of Arang
Drama guideEnded

Tale of Arang

아랑사또전
Air date: 2012-08-15
Episodes: 20 ep
Network: MBC
Rating: 6.3 / 10
Cast entries
17
Episodes
20
Locations
4
Food stops
Not available for this drama
Story

Synopsis

A concise overview of the premise, tone, and dramatic setup.

Tale of Arang is a Korean sci-fi fantasy drama.

Why Tale of Arang stands out in the fantasy genre

Tale of Arang brings a unique blend of sci-fi and fantasy that can be quite captivating. At the heart of the drama is the intriguing character of Arang, played beautifully by Shin Min-a. Her role as a wandering spirit with unfinished business draws viewers into a world where the lines between life and death blur. Lee Joon-gi, who portrays Kim Eun Oh, complements her performance with a charm and depth that make their scenes electric. Their chemistry is palpable and drives much of the plot's emotional weight.

The show’s premise is fascinating, navigating themes of loss, justice, and the afterlife. It doesn't just rely on the typical tropes of fantasy; instead, it crafts an engaging narrative that often keeps you guessing. Kim Eun Oh's determination to uncover the truth about Arang’s death creates a compelling central tension that invites the audience to ponder deeper questions about fate and the choices we make. With characters like the enigmatic Yama, played by Park Jun-gyu, the series adds layers that elevate the storyline beyond mere romantic entanglements.

One of the aspects I found particularly appealing is the show’s atmosphere. The cinematography captures the eerie beauty of the supernatural elements. However, there are moments when the pacing can feel uneven. Some subplots drag on longer than necessary, which might test the patience of viewers looking for consistent momentum. Yet, for those who enjoy a mix of haunting visuals and emotional storytelling, this drama delivers.

The supporting cast, including Han Jung-soo as Mu-young and Yeon Woo-jin as Joo-wal, enriches the experience, even if they don't get as much screen time. Their performances add depth and texture to the story, making it a richly layered viewing experience.

With a vote average of 6.3 out of 10, the series may not have won over every critic, but it holds a special place for fans of the fantasy genre. It's a drama that asks you to consider the complexities of life and death, all while wrapped up in compelling character arcs and supernatural intrigue.

This drama is perfect for viewers who appreciate a blend of the mystical and the emotional. If you enjoy stories where the stakes involve both earthly desires and ethereal consequences, Tale of Arang deserves a spot on your watchlist. It’s a series that, while not flawless, offers enough charm and depth to linger in your thoughts long after the credits roll.

Final verdict: a unique blend of fantasy and mystery worth a watch

Tale of Arang, while not universally acclaimed, holding a modest TMDB score of 6.3, offers a captivating narrative of mystery and intrigue that might just resonate with fans of the genre. With 20 episodes to explore, the series, featuring Lee Joon-gi as Kim Eun Oh and Shin Min-a as the ethereal Arang, weaves together elements of fantasy and the supernatural in a tale that unfolds in a village haunted by ghosts.

What works here is the chemistry between the leads, particularly in how they navigate the themes of love, loss, and the unresolved mysteries of the afterlife. Lee Joon-gi delivers a compelling performance, effortlessly balancing humor and seriousness, while Shin Min-a portrays her character with an endearing vulnerability. The supporting cast, including Han Jung-soo as Mu-young, adds depth, creating an intriguing backdrop for the main storyline.

However, the pacing can feel uneven at times, and certain plot points may come off as predictable, which could deter viewers looking for something consistently groundbreaking. Still, for those who appreciate a good blend of fantasy with emotional storytelling, this drama is worth a shot. Fans of Lee Joon-gi's work will definitely find themselves enchanted.

In the end, while it's not perfect, the blend of romance and supernatural intrigue in Tale of Arang lingers in the mind, making it a decent choice for a weekend binge, especially for those who enjoy melodrama with a twist.

Filming locations

Filming locations

Places connected to scenes, checked against source links before they appear publicly.

  1. 01

    Banya Temple

    반야사
    104 Samjeon-gil, Gayagok-myeon, Nonsan-si, Chungcheongnam-do충남 논산시 가야곡면 삼전길 104

    Banya Temple is a unique temple built in an old limestone mine, featuring a mysterious cave hall. It has been used as a filming location for dramas such as 'Arang and the Magistrate'.

    In particular, the cave temple established in 2017 is located in a site developed as a limestone mine during the Japanese colonial period, preserving the appearance from when the mine was closed, which creates a unique atmosphere. Thanks to these characteristics, it has also been used as a filming location for dramas such as 'Ma-ui', 'Joseon Gunman', and 'Arang and the Magistrate'.
    richcat.tistory.com
  2. 02

    Byeokchoji Arboretum

    벽초지 수목원
    242 Buhung-ro, Gwangtan-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do경기 파주시 광탄면 부흥로 242

    Byeokchoji Arboretum is a popular filming location for various dramas and movies, making it a great spot for family outings, especially during the spring flower festival.

    Byeokchoji Arboretum is a great filming location for spring flower trips in May, especially to visit with children. It has been featured in many dramas, variety shows, commercials, and movies, so you might find some familiar spots.
    blog.naver.com
  3. 03

    Palgong Mountain Gabbawi

    팔공산갓바위
    229 Gatbawi-ro, Dong-gu, Daegu, South Korea

    Palgong Mountain Gabbawi is known for granting one wish if prayed for sincerely. It is a must-visit spot in Gyeongsan.

    Palgongsan is a high mountain located north of Gyeongsan City, with an elevation of 1,192.3 meters. During the Silla period, it was known as Jungak and Buak, and it is a famous mountain. This area is home to many ancient Silla temples and cultural heritage sites, including the Gwanbong Seokjo Yeorae Jwasang (Gatbawi), Wonhyo Temple, Cheonseong Temple, and Bulguk Temple.
    maruseason.tistory.com
  4. 04

    Bangokji

    반곡지
    246 Bankok-ri, Namsan-myeon, Gyeongsan-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do경북 경산시 남산면 반곡리 246

    Bangokji is a picturesque green spot ideal for photography, featuring a serene rural atmosphere and a tree tunnel. It is known for being a filming location for the drama 'Tale of Arang'. / Ban-gokji is a serene rural area known for its beautiful willow trees and is a popular spot for photography, featured in dramas like 'Tale of Arang'.

    In March 2011, it was selected as a "Photo-Friendly Green Spot" by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, and in October 2013, it was also chosen as one of the "Top 30 Local Resources in Our Village" by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. It is also famous as a filming location for dramas such as "Arang and the Magistrate" and "The King's Dream," as well as the movie "Huh Sam-gwan."
    ygkgyou.tistory.com
Discovery

More to explore

Step beyond this drama — explore filming sites, food spots, and related titles across the catalog.

Details

Production

Broadcast details, runtime, language, and key production credits.

Country
South Korea
Original language
Korean
Episode runtime
65 min
Spoken languages
Korean
Directors
Jung Dae-yoon정대윤
Kim Sang-ho
Kang Sook강숙
Writers
Jung Yoon-jung

Source: TMDB

Characters

Cast & characters

Key roles, performers, and character context for quick scanning.

Source: TMDB

Actors

Lead actors

Lead performer biographies and notable credits.

Lee Joon-gi

Lee Joon-gias Kim Eun Oh

이준기
1982-04-17 · Busan, South Korea

Lee Joon-gi is a prominent South Korean actor, singer, and dancer, born on April 17, 1982. He first gained significant attention for his leading role as a clown in the critically acclaimed film The King and the Clown in 2005. This breakthrough performance not only showcased his acting prowess but also paved the way for his subsequent success in the romantic comedy My Girl, which aired from 2005 to 2006. Over the years, Lee has expanded his repertoire by taking on diverse roles in various genres, including historical dramas and action thrillers. He is well-known for his performances in popular series such as Iljimae (2008), Two Weeks (2013), Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016), Lawless Lawyer (2018), and Flower of Evil (2020). His impressive body of work has garnered him a loyal fanbase both in South Korea and internationally, solidifying his status as a leading figure in the Hallyu wave.

Notable credits on this site
Shin Min-a

Shin Min-aas Arang / Lee Seo Rim

신민아
1984-04-05 · Seongnam, Gyeonggi, South Korea

Shin Min-a, born Yang Min-a on April 5, 1984, is a celebrated South Korean actress and model. She grew up in Seongnam, South Korea, as the second daughter in a family of five. Her journey into the entertainment industry began in middle school when a photo taken during a school picnic led to her selection as a model for the teen magazine KiKi. This early exposure opened doors for her, and she soon transitioned into commercials and music videos. Making her acting debut in 2001 with the SBS drama "A Beautiful Days" and the film "Volcano High," Shin quickly captivated audiences with her talent. Her breakout role came in the 2005 gangster film "A Bittersweet Life," where her character, Hee-soo, showcased a blend of innocence and maturity. Over the years, she has taken on a diverse array of roles in various genres, including the martial-arts comedy "My Mighty Princess" and the nostalgic film "Go Go 70s." More recently, she has starred in popular television dramas such as "Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha" and "Our Blues," further solidifying her status as a leading actress in the industry. In addition to her acting career, Shin Min-a has ventured into music and fashion, notably collaborating with the alternative band Loveholic and Calvin Klein for the project "Miracle Blue." Her multifaceted talents continue to resonate with audiences, making her one of the most prominent figures in South Korean entertainment today.

Hwang Bo-ra

Hwang Bo-raas Bang-wool

황보라
1983-10-02 · Busan, South Korea

Hwang Bo-ra is a talented South Korean actress known for her dynamic performances across film and television. She was born on October 2, 1983, and made her acting debut in 2003. Hwang gained significant attention when she appeared as the quirky "cup noodle girl" in a popular ramen commercial during the mid-2000s, which helped propel her into the spotlight. Her breakthrough in film came in 2007 with her role in the black comedy "Skeletons in the Closet," where she won Best New Actress awards at the Busan Film Critics Awards and the Director's Cut Awards. Since then, Hwang has taken on various supporting and leading roles in numerous popular dramas and movies, including "Love Rain" (2012), "Arang and the Magistrate" (2012), "Cunning Single Lady" (2014), and "Ms. Temper & Nam Jung Gi" (2016). With her engaging acting style and diverse roles, Hwang Bo-ra continues to be a prominent figure in the South Korean entertainment industry.

Yoo Seung-ho

Yoo Seung-hoas Jade Emperor

유승호
1993-08-17 · Incheon, South Korea

Yoo Seung-ho is a prominent South Korean actor, recognized for his extensive work in film and television. Born on August 17, 1993, in Incheon, he began his career at just seven years old, initially appearing in commercials. His breakthrough role came in 2002 with the film "The Way Home," which catapulted him to fame and earned him the affectionate title of "Korea's Younger Brother." Over the years, Yoo has showcased his talent in a variety of roles, solidifying his status as a leading actor. His notable works include popular dramas such as "Queen Seon Deok," "Master of Study," and "I Am Not a Robot." After a brief hiatus during his mandatory military service, he returned to the screen in 2015 with the drama "Remember" and the film "The Magician." Yoo Seung-ho continues to captivate audiences with his performances, demonstrating versatility and depth in his portrayals across genres.

Notable credits on this site
Streaming

Where to watch

Availability is grouped by country and provider type.

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Streaming data via JustWatch through TMDB.

Episode guide

Episodes

Episode stills, air dates, runtimes, and summaries.

  1. Episode 1
    Ep 1Episode 1
    2012-08-15 · 65 min
  2. Episode 2
    Ep 2Episode 2
    2012-08-16 · 65 min
  3. Episode 3
    Ep 3Episode 3
    2012-08-22 · 65 min
  4. Episode 4
    Ep 4Episode 4
    2012-08-23 · 65 min
  5. Episode 5
    Ep 5Episode 5
    2012-08-29 · 65 min
  6. Episode 6
    Ep 6Episode 6
    2012-08-30 · 65 min
  7. Episode 7
    Ep 7Episode 7
    2012-09-05 · 65 min
  8. Episode 8
    Ep 8Episode 8
    2012-09-06 · 65 min
  9. Episode 9
    Ep 9Episode 9
    2012-09-12 · 65 min
  10. Episode 10
    Ep 10Episode 10
    2012-09-13 · 65 min
  11. Episode 11
    Ep 11Episode 11
    2012-09-19 · 65 min
  12. Episode 12
    Ep 12Episode 12
    2012-09-20 · 65 min
  13. Episode 13
    Ep 13Episode 13
    2012-09-26 · 65 min
  14. Episode 14
    Ep 14Episode 14
    2012-09-27 · 65 min
  15. Episode 15
    Ep 15Episode 15
    2012-10-03 · 65 min
  16. Episode 16
    Ep 16Episode 16
    2012-10-04 · 65 min
  17. Episode 17
    Ep 17Episode 17
    2012-10-10 · 65 min
  18. Episode 18
    Ep 18Episode 18
    2012-10-11 · 65 min
  19. Episode 19
    Ep 19Episode 19
    2012-10-17 · 65 min
  20. Episode 20
    Ep 20Episode 20
    2012-10-18 · 65 min

Source: TMDB

Media

Videos

Trailers, OST, interviews, making clips, reviews, and recommendations.

Trailers & teasers

OST

Interviews & making-of

Reviews & recommendations

Source: YouTube

Discovery

Similar dramas

Related titles to continue browsing.

Source: TMDB