The Haunted Palace Episode 5 Recap: The Ghost’s Wrath Grows Stronger

Episode 5 of The Haunted Palace kicks off with a chilling discovery—Yeong-in’s lifeless body is found in the palace, and the King is struck by the overwhelming presence of the 8-foot ghost. His memory of Yeo-ri’s warning about the ghost’s inevitable return is fresh. In the mountains, Gangcheori observes Yeo-ri from afar, while Ga-seop finds humor in the situation. A monk reveals that the only way to banish the ghost is with an enchanted dragon pearl, but Gangcheori, now demoted to an Imugi (a serpent-like creature), must sacrifice himself to fully drain his enchanted pearl.

Yeo-ri’s Determination to Press Forward with Gangcheori’s Help

Yeo-ri discovers her grandmother’s shamanic tools and convinces Gangcheori to become her patron. In return, she gives him a bracelet she crafted, catching him off guard. Meanwhile, in the palace, Queen Mother confronts the Blind Shaman, who hints that avenging Yeong-in’s death may buy them time. He claims to have been tricked by a powerful shaman allied with the King, raising suspicions from the Queen Mother.

A Ritual and New Alliances with Gangcheori and Yeo-ri

Later that night, Yeo-ri and Gangcheori perform a ritual where he officially becomes her patron. The atmosphere is tense, as Yeo-ri insists on saving Yoon Gap. Gangcheori agrees but warns that he will not release her until he ascends. Elsewhere, the King has a nightmare involving the 8-foot ghost, leading to a conversation with Minister Kim about the King’s deep care for Yeong-in.

Choi Won-u’s Arrival in the Capital and Tensions with the Scholars

Choi Won-u arrives in the capital for Yeong-in’s funeral, where he grows irritated by the scholars’ excessive attention. Meanwhile, before leaving for the capital, Ga-seop gives Yeo-ri a caragana plant. As they travel, Gangcheori is drawn to Yeo-ri, which he attributes to human senses, though the situation takes a turn when Guard Seo spots them together.

In-seon’s Unexpected Role in Protecting Yeo-ri and Gangcheori

In a twist of fate, In-seon is also headed to the palace to see Yoon Gap. She is attracted to him but ultimately helps Yeo-ri and Gangcheori hide in her palanquin. Guard Seo pursues them, but In-seon misleads him by claiming they are headed to see Yoon Gap. Inside the palanquin, Gangcheori becomes flustered by Yeo-ri’s proximity, leading to a moment of accidental intimacy.

The Ghost’s True Nature and the King’s Growing Desperation

Guard Seo eventually finds them but escorts them to Yeong-in’s palace to investigate the death. Gangcheori meets Ok-im, and they discover a talisman that reveals the 8-foot ghost is a fire ghost. The King arrives and expresses his fury, but Queen Mother insists on taking full responsibility for Yeo-ri’s return to the palace. After some deliberation, the King hires Gangcheori and Yeo-ri to keep the investigation secret.

A Darker Twist in the Plot: The Blind Shaman’s Confrontation

Meanwhile, the Blind Shaman is confronted by his original employer, a mysterious figure who demands the death of the Crown Prince within a month. Gangcheori deduces that Yeong-in’s death was a sacrifice to strengthen the 8-foot ghost.

The Queen’s Pregnancy Sparks Palace Intrigue

As Choi Won-u pays his respects to the Queen Mother, he expresses guilt for his past mistreatment of Yeong-in. Afterward, the one-legged ghost follows him. At the same time, Queen Mother checks on the Queen, who shows signs of morning sickness, raising the possibility of a pregnancy that could alter the palace dynamics. The Queen’s history of miscarriages adds a layer of complexity to the situation.

Yeo-ri’s Trap and the 8-Foot Ghost’s Final Confrontation

In a strategic move, Yeo-ri announces that the Crown Prince will be in the library all night, setting a trap for the ghost. Guard Seo spots the shaman’s assistant placing a talisman on the building, but inside, the Prince and Gangcheori are busy exchanging banter. The 8-foot ghost makes its appearance, and a talisman net traps it. Gangcheori attempts to banish it with a blade and his enchanted pearl. However, the ghost breaks free, and the episode ends with an uncertain fate for Gangcheori and Yeo-ri. For more recap, check out the link below.

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