Nam Joo-hyuk reveals why he took on Netflix series after military service

Nam Joo-hyuk is set to make his long-awaited comeback through Netflix's "The East Palace," his first project since completing military service. The actor revealed that he was first introduced to the series while still serving in the army, and the story immediately captured his attention.

On Wednesday, July 8, a press conference for the upcoming series was held at the Fairmont Ambassador in Seoul, attended by director Choi Jung-kyu, Nam Joo-hyuk, and other cast members.

The series marks Nam’s first screen appearance following his three-year break. Although he was discharged in September 2024, this marks his first project since Disney+'s action series "Vigilante," which was released in November 2023.

As reported by The Korea Times, the actor recalled receiving the script while he was still enlisted, explaining that his time in the military allowed him to fully immerse himself in the story. Reading the script strengthened his desire to take on the role, and he added, “I was also intensely curious about how a space like the spirit realm would actually be expressed.”

Looking back on returning to work after his discharge, Nam shared his excitement ahead of the series’ release. Nam shared that the mystery surrounding the palace immediately drew him into the story. 

The 32-year-old explained that the script’s compelling mystery and engaging storytelling left a strong impression on him, adding that he was prepared to pour everything into crafting the character of Gu-cheon, which became the biggest reason he accepted the role.

He explained that he approached the project with a strong sense of responsibility, focusing on doing his best and contributing positively to the set.

Speaking about the physically demanding action scenes, Nam said practice was key. According to Chosun Daily, Nam shared that he attended action school “before and during filming” to prepare and coordinate the fight scenes.

Directed by Choi Jung-kyu, known for "The Devil Judge,” The East Palace follows Gu-cheon (Nam Joo-hyuk), a mysterious ghost-slaying swordsman with the supernatural ability to cross into the spirit realm, and palace maid Saeng-gang (Roh Yoon-seo), who possesses the hidden ability to hear the voices of the dead. 

Tasked by the king (Cho Seung-woo), the pair investigates mysterious incidents within the East Palace, uncovering dark secrets, long-buried histories, and a curse lurking deep inside the royal palace.

"The East Palace" will premiere on Netflix on July 17.