Netizens are discussing the popularity and success of the SBS drama 'The Haunted Palace.'

As reported, the viewer ratings for the new drama starring BTOB's Sungjae and Cosmic Girls (WJSN)'s Bona (Kim Ji Yeon) have remained consistently high, topping Netflix charts and maintaining strong nationwide numbers in the 8 to 9% range since its premiere.

Episode 6, which aired on May 3 KST, recorded a steady 8.8% rating, showing consistent performance for what is slated to be a 16-episode series.

According to netizens, the drama’s strong ratings can be attributed to several key factors. First, competing dramas airing in the same time slot on other networks have drawn minimal attention, with viewer ratings as low as 0 to 1%.

Others pointed out that fantasy dramas often perform well, especially when mixed with horror elements, as is the case here. Many also noted that the lead actors—both of whom are idol-turned-actors—have shown commendable performances, with acting skills that meet expectations.

However, the most commonly cited reason for the drama's success is the storyline, which viewers say is "even better than the visual production." Netizens have described it as "extremely fascinating, fun, and original," and praised the experienced writer behind it. 

Some also mentioned that the drama appears to be especially popular among older audiences.

While some continue to express "disappointment with the leads' acting," the majority seem to agree that the storyline is strong enough to keep them watching.

Reactions include:

"The competing shows are at like 0% or 1% ratings..."

"This is one of the dramas I’m really enjoying these days—must have a solid base of regular viewers."

"I like historical dramas and fantasy, so I’ve been watching it."

"The acting is actually really good;; but I think it’s judged more harshly because they’re an idol-turned-actor."

"It’s seriously so good. I thought the acting was decent too."

"The acting is solid and the script is fun, but the directing is always a bit lacking."

"The leads’ acting is underwhelming, but the story is interesting. It’s kind of clumsy, but I keep watching it, lol."

"Historical dramas usually have good solid base ratings."

"The female lead’s acting is inconsistent—sometimes it’s okay, but when she has to act intense scenes, she’s really bad ㅠㅠ"

"Crazy fun!!!! Best thing since 'The Devil Judge.' I’m rewatching it over and over again, lol."

"The actors in this drama may not be amazing, but they’re not bad enough to be distracting. It’s the directing that’s really terrible. It feels unfair to criticize the acting when the direction is this bad. The story’s good though."

"It’s so fun. The concept is great and the acting is decent too."

"Seems to be a historical drama aimed at older viewers. Based on the posts, its ratings are better than other weekend dramas."

"My mom watches this too."

"The directing is a bit disappointing, but the story keeps me watching."

"It’s super fun!!! Considering both male and female leads are idols, they’re doing pretty well...  Sungjae is too cute."

"The story must be good, at least."

"Give the writer an award. The writer is doing the best job, lol."

"My mom watches it all the time, lol. Every time I walk into the living room, she’s watching this."

"My mom really likes it, lol."

"The story is fun, but there’s something kind of off about it. Even with the ghosts, it’s not scary—it’s the kind of drama you can watch without stress."

"Judging by the comments, the directing must be seriously bad. Now I’m curious what it’s like."

"The directing isn’t great, but it’s still fun, lol. Feels like a drama from ten years ago, but entertaining."

"The directing is a bit weak, but it’s easy to binge and time flies while watching."

"The story’s really interesting and fun."

Are you also watching the drama? What are your thoughts?

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