What if you could cross a magical gate into another world? A world where time runs differently, identities shift, and fate takes an entirely new shape? In this article, The King Eternal Monarch full review, I am going to tell you about a place like that. The King: Eternal Monarch, a 2020 fantasy-romance K-Drama that dares to explore this question with grandeur and heart. Starring Lee Min Ho in his highly anticipated comeback role and written by Kim Eun Sook (the creative mind behind Goblin and Mr. Sunshine), this drama had all the ingredients of a masterpiece: parallel universes, timeless love, royal intrigue, and soul-stirring OSTs.
From the very first episode, The King: Eternal Monarch sparked intense debates among fans and critics alike. While some found the plot complex and confusing, others praised its ambition, visuals, and emotional depth. In this review, we’ll unpack every layer of this polarizing drama from its storyline and characters to its symbolism, soundtrack, and global reception. Whether you’ve already seen it or are wondering if it’s worth your time, this review is your royal guide to everything that makes The King: Eternal Monarch unforgettable.
Plot Summary Without Major Spoilers
At the heart of The King: Eternal Monarch lies a tale of two worlds and one destiny that binds them. The story begins in the Kingdom of Corea, a fictional monarchy where King Lee Gon (played by Lee Min-ho) rules with wisdom and grace. But his life takes a mysterious turn when he stumbles upon a magical portal that leads to a parallel universe: modern-day South Korea, a democratic nation that mirrors his world in structure but not in fate.
In this alternate universe, he meets Detective Jung Tae Eul (played by Kim Go Eun), a pragmatic and fearless investigator. Though she doesn’t believe his outlandish claims at first, their fates begin to intertwine in ways neither of them can explain. As secrets unravel and timelines blur, Lee Gon realizes that the two worlds are more connected than they seem, by a legendary flute, a tragic family history, and a dark conspiracy that threatens both realities.
The drama weaves together romance, fantasy, mystery, and political intrigue, all wrapped in a complex narrative of time travel, identity shifts, and parallel realities. While the storytelling requires close attention, it rewards viewers with emotional depth and a growing sense of wonder as each episode uncovers more of the puzzle.
Main Characters and Performances
The emotional weight and success of The King: Eternal Monarch relies heavily on its rich character portrayals and the strength of its cast. Each lead and supporting role adds a unique layer to the drama’s multidimensional narrative and that makes the journey between worlds even more compelling.
Lee Min Ho as King Lee Gon
Lee Min Ho returns to the small screen with poise and gravitas in his role as King Lee Gon, the young monarch of the Kingdom of Corea. Intelligent, composed, and deeply principled, Lee Gon is a character caught between royal duty and personal longing. Min Ho beautifully balances the charm of a romantic lead with the authority of a ruler. His quiet moments of vulnerability, especially in scenes involving childhood trauma and fate add depth to his otherwise noble persona. His chemistry with Kim Go Eun is both regal and tender which makes their love story believable across dimensions.
Kim Go Eun as Jung Tae Eul / Luna
In dual roles as Jung Tae Eul (a strong, no-nonsense detective in the Republic of Korea) and Luna (a mysterious and troubled woman from the Kingdom of Corea), Kim Go Eun delivers a powerhouse performance. As Tae Eul, she is rational, brave, and surprisingly grounded for someone suddenly thrown into a science-fiction-level love story. Her portrayal of Luna contrasts sharply, showing a darker, more unpredictable energy. The contrast between the two characters showcases Kim Go Eun’s impressive acting range, and she did not let one role overshadow the other.
Woo Do Hwan as Jo Yeong / Jo Eun Seob
A true scene-stealer, Woo Do Hwan plays the dual roles of Jo Yeong, the king’s loyal and stoic bodyguard, and Jo Eun-seob, a goofy and lovable public service worker in South Korea. His transformation between the two is so seamless and exaggerated in the best way, that adds both humor and heart to the story. His bromance with Lee Min Ho’s character also became one of the most talked-about dynamics in the series, it also successfully won the hearts of fans worldwide.
Supporting Characters That Add Depth and Emotion
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Lee Jung Jin as Lee Rim (Yi Rim):
Lee Rim is King Lee Gon’s traitorous uncle and the drama’s central antagonist. Years ago, he murdered the king, his own brother, in an attempt to steal the Manpasikjeok, a magical flute that opens a portal between worlds. Though presumed dead, he secretly survived and began orchestrating a master plan across both universes.
Lee Jung-jin’s chilling performance turns Lee Rim into a memorable villain whose calm demeanor only adds to his danger.
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Jung Eun Chae as Goo Seo Ryeong
The stylish and ambitious Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Corea, Goo Seo Ryeong is a fascinating mix of charm, intelligence, and political calculation. She’s determined to climb the ranks of power, even if that means using her flirtation with King Lee Gon to advance her image. But make no mistake: Seo Ryeong isn’t just a power-hungry figure. She represents the complexities of women in power in a patriarchal monarchy. Jung Eun Chae portrays her with both elegance and edge, making her a compelling rival to the King, not in war, but in political mind games.
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Kim Kyung Nam as Kang Shin Jae
Detective Kang Shin Jae is Jung Tae Eul’s loyal partner in the Republic of Korea. Quiet, thoughtful, and emotionally guarded, Shin Jae appears to be a man haunted by something deeper than what he shows. As the story progresses, it’s revealed that he’s actually from the Kingdom of Corea and is brought over illegally by Lee Rim and raised in Korea without knowing his true origins.
Themes Explored in the Drama
The King: Eternal Monarch isn’t just a fantasy romance, it’s a layered story packed with philosophical, emotional, and societal themes. Beneath the time portals and royal palaces, the drama explores powerful ideas that stay with you long after the final episode. Now let’s thoroughly explore the themes of the drama The King: Eternal Monarch.
Fate vs. Free Will
One of the drama’s strongest themes is the battle between destiny and choice. King Lee Gon and Jung Tae Eul are destined to meet, but their connection is also shaped by the choices they make across time and space. The drama constantly asks: Are we bound by fate, or can we rewrite our story? This theme becomes even more potent as characters confront their parallel selves, who might live completely different lives because of just one changed decision.
Parallel Worlds and Identity
The existence of two universes raises deep questions about identity, reality, and duality. How different would you be in another life? Would your heart still love the same person? These questions are explored through characters like Jo Yeong and Jo Eun Seob, or Tae Eul and Luna, whose opposite personalities highlight how environment, memory, and circumstance shape who we become. This theme is especially impactful when characters must confront their counterparts or take their place. It challenges the idea of a “fixed” self and suggests we are many versions of ourselves, shaped by different timelines and choices.
Timeless Love
At its core, The King: Eternal Monarch is a love story that defies logic, space, and time. The romance between Lee Gon and Tae Eul unfolds slowly, filled with longing and impossibility. Their connection goes beyond a typical K-Drama couple. It’s about finding someone who understands your soul in a completely different world. Their love endures not because it’s easy, but because it’s worth every sacrifice.
Power, Corruption, and Morality
Through characters like Lee Rim and Goo Seo Ryeong, the drama explores how ambition can turn dangerous when untethered by morality. Lee Rim seeks control over life, death, and time, manipulating people as pawns. Seo Ryeong’s obsession with image and status shows how political power can be both intoxicating and isolating. These characters raise tough questions: How far would you go for control? At what point do you lose yourself in the pursuit of power?
Trauma, Healing, and Sacrifice
Every major character in the drama carries emotional scars. Whether it’s the trauma of a royal coup, the grief of losing a parent, or the confusion of living in the wrong world. The story gives space to emotional healing, often through acts of love, friendship, or sacrifice. Court Lady Noh’s silent pain, Shin Jae’s identity crisis, and Lee Gon’s childhood trauma all contribute to this quietly powerful theme.
These themes are what elevate The King: Eternal Monarch beyond a typical fantasy series. While the portals and parallel timelines create excitement, it’s the emotional depth, philosophical questions, and universal truths that give the drama its soul.
Visuals, Direction, and Cinematography
From its opening scene to its breathtaking finale, The King: Eternal Monarch is a visual masterpiece. The direction and cinematography don’t just enhance the story, rather they elevate it into an epic fantasy experience. With two parallel worlds, time travel, royal palaces, and shifting realities, the production had a lot to juggle and it did so with stunning precision. Let’s talk further about it.
Kim Eun Sook’s Vision and Baek Sang Hoon’s Direction
Written by renowned screenwriter Kim Eun Sook and directed by Baek Sang Hoon, the drama blends romance and sci-fi with a grand, cinematic flair. The director makes use of wide shots, overhead angles, and symbolic framing to reflect the characters’ emotional isolation or connection across worlds. The tone is consistent throughout: elegant, mysterious, and dramatic. The transitions between Corea and the Republic are handled smoothly, ever jarring, but always visually distinct.
Set Design and World-Building
One of the most praised aspects of the drama is the intricate world-building of the Kingdom of Corea. The royal palace interiors are majestic and detailed which reflects the regal tone of the story. From golden hallways to vast libraries and historical courtyards, everything about Corea feels otherworldly, yet grounded. In contrast, the Republic of Korea is shot in more familiar urban settings, like bustling streets, crowded subways, and gritty police stations. These visual differences subtly reinforce the idea of two distinct yet parallel universes.
Cinematography and Symbolism
The cinematography in The King: Eternal Monarch is filled with symbolic imagery such as mirrors, gates, clocks, water, and reflections are used repeatedly to highlight themes of duality, time, and identity. The frequent use of slow-motion, dim lighting, and soft-focus lenses helps create a dreamlike atmosphere that suits the drama’s fantasy tone. Special effects, while not overused, are well-crafted, especially the time-freeze scenes, where the world pauses and only certain characters can move. These sequences are visually captivating and enhance the supernatural elements of the plot.
Color Palette and Mood
The drama’s color palette is symbolic and controlled:
- Warm golds and deep reds dominate the royal scenes, representing power, fate, and legacy.
- Cool blues and greys are used in modern-day Korea, signaling normalcy, melancholy, and emotional restraint.
This contrast not only helps differentiate the two worlds visually but also emotionally.
Costume Design
The costumes are nothing short of iconic, especially King Lee Gon’s royal military uniforms and Goo Seo Ryeong’s sleek political outfits. Even the smallest details in the wardrobe choices reflect each character’s role, status, and personality. Jung Tae Eul’s simple and practical fashion reflects her grounded nature, while Luna’s dark, leather-heavy attire signifies her inner turmoil and mystery.
In summary, The King: Eternal Monarch delivers an aesthetic feast that complements its ambitious storytelling. Every shot feels intentional, and every visual element whether it’s a floating flower or a frozen clock, adds to the atmosphere of a love story that’s literally out of this world.
OSTs – A Soundtrack to Remember
When it comes to emotional storytelling, The King: Eternal Monarch doesn’t rely only on visuals and performances alone; the music also plays a vital role in shaping the entire experience. The drama boasts a rich and expansive original soundtrack (OST) with 35 official tracks, including 13 vocal songs and 22 instrumental scores. This carefully curated musical collection enhances everything from intense plot twists to heart-fluttering romantic moments, making every scene more immersive and memorable. And let me give you the full list of the OSTs.
CD 1: Vocal Tracks (13 Songs)
- Orbit by Hwasa (MAMAMOO)
- I Just Want To Stay With You by Zion.T
- I Fall In Love by Ha Sung Woon
- My Love by Gummy
- Gravity by Kim Jong Wan (NELL)
- Dream by Paul Kim
- Maze by Yongzoo
- My Day Is Full Of You by Zico & Wendy
- Quiet Night by Hwang Chi Yeul
- You’re My End and My Beginning by Im Han Byul & Kim Jae Hwan
- Please Don’t Cry by Davichi
- You Can’t Stop It From Blooming by Sunwoo Jung Ah
- Heartbreak by Gaeko & Kim Na Young
CD 2: Instrumental Scores (22 Tracks)
- Title of The King by Gae Mi & Park Jung Hwan
- The King by Park Yoon Seo
- The Fantasia of Another Dimension by Park Jung Hwan
- Not Dead by Park Yoon Seo
- My Love and… by Gae Mi & Park Jung Hwan
- Progress by Lee Sung Gu
- The Day by Gae Mi & Lee Geon Young
- Where Has She Been? by Park Jung Hwan
- Empire Theme by Lee Sung Gu
- Prime Minister by Park Mi Sun
- Hydrangea by Lee Geon Young
- Fury by Park Jung Hwan
- Hold On by Park Yoon Seo
- King’s Story by Gae Mi & Park Jung Hwan
- Into the Fantasy by Park Jung Hwan
- Empire by Lee Sung Gu
- Luna by Lee Sung Gu
- Parallel World by Park Mi Sun
- The War Is Over by Park Jung Hwan & Gae Mi
- Another World by Yoo Min Ho
- The King Slayer by Park Yoon Seo
- Imperial by Park Mi Sun
Whether it’s a sorrowful ballad echoing through a lonely palace or a soft tune capturing quiet moments between worlds, the OST is an emotional compass that guides the audience through the drama’s highs and lows. Each song is not just background music—it’s an extension of the story’s soul.
Strengths and Weaknesses – An Honest Breakdown
Even the most ambitious dramas have their shining moments and their stumbles. The King: Eternal Monarch is no exception. It dares to dream big, and while it soars in many areas, it also faces a few narrative hiccups along the way. Let’s break it down.
Strengths
- A Bold and Unique Concept:
One of the biggest strengths of The King: Eternal Monarch lies in its ambitious plotline. The idea of parallel worlds, time travel, and a monarch caught between dimensions is refreshing in the world of K-dramas. It sets the series apart from more conventional romance or fantasy dramas and hooks viewers with its originality.
- Stunning Visuals and World-Building:
The production quality is top-tier. From the regal Kingdom of Corea to the modern streets of the Republic of Korea, every scene is visually crafted with cinematic care. The palace architecture, costume design, and differentiated color palettes between worlds elevate the viewing experience and make the fantasy believable.
- Memorable OST and Emotional Score:
With 13 vocal tracks and 22 instrumental scores, the OST for this drama is nothing short of spectacular. Songs by artists like Hwasa, Zion.T, Paul Kim, and Gummy bring depth to the emotional moments. The music becomes a key storytelling tool, one that lingers with the viewer long after the final episode.
- Star Power and Acting Performances:
Lee Min-ho as King Lee Gon and Kim Go Eun as Jung Tae Eul both deliver strong performances. Lee Min Ho exudes royal charisma, while Kim Go Eun brings emotional depth and duality with her portrayal of both Tae Eul and Luna. The supporting cast Woo Do-hwan in particular adds more humor, intensity, and warmth to the show.
- Complex Themes and Symbolism:
The drama touches on philosophical themes like fate vs. choice, good vs. evil, justice, and sacrifice. The recurring motifs like mirrors, clocks and parallel gates give the story a symbolic richness that invites deeper interpretation.
Weaknesses
- Overly Complicated Plot:
While the concept is impressive, the execution of the plot can be confusing. Especially for viewers who are new to sci-fi or time travel narratives. Some episodes require careful attention, and without it, it’s easy to get lost in timelines and character swaps.
- Underused Characters and Arcs:
Several interesting characters, like Prime Minister Goo Seo Ryeong or Lee Lim’s deeper motivations don’t get enough screen time or narrative development. Some subplots feel rushed or unresolved by the finale.
- Heavy Reliance on Exposition:
At times, the script leans too heavily on characters explaining the rules of the world or what’s happening. This slows the drama down and takes away from organic storytelling. Viewers may wish for more “showing” instead of “telling.”
- Uneven Pacing
The drama sometimes struggles with pacing. Certain episodes feel slow or overly focused on exposition, while others are packed with rapid developments. This imbalance can affect emotional impact and narrative clarity.
Despite its flaws, The King: Eternal Monarch is a visually arresting, emotionally charged, and narratively daring drama. It asks you to pay close attention, suspend disbelief, and embrace its complexity. For viewers who love layered stories and grand world-building, it’s a rewarding experience. For others, the drama’s depth might feel overwhelming. However, it for sure leaves a lasting impression.
To sum up, The King: Eternal Monarch isn’t just a drama, trust me it’s an experience. With its majestic visuals, emotionally rich soundtrack, and mind-bending storyline, it dares to be different in a world of predictable romances. Yes, the plot may demand patience, and yes, it may falter in clarity at times but for those who stay until the end, it offers a love story that defies time, space, and reason. Again, more than just parallel universes and royal destinies, it’s about finding your person in a world full of unknowns. If you’re someone who loves to lose yourself in a blend of mystery, magic, and meaning, The King: Eternal Monarch is a story you’ll carry in your heart long after the gates between worlds close. Personally, I’d give this drama a solid 10 out of 10 but I couldn’t help wishing for a more fulfilling ending for this beloved couple. Of course, the ending still gives you a reason to smile, but maybe I’m just a little greedy when it comes to love stories like theirs
Despite its complexity, The King: Eternal Monarch has a way of lingering in your thoughts like a dream you’re not quite ready to wake up from. It’s the kind of drama that invites multiple re-watches, each time it will reveal a new layer or hidden detail. Whether it’s the soft glow of a parallel sunset, the ticking of time that runs differently in two worlds, or the quiet ache of a love that transcends dimensions, this drama leaves behind feelings that are hard to explain but impossible to forget.
