The Haunted Palace Episode 9 delves into political conspiracies, heartfelt confessions, and a shocking kidnap plot as King Lee Sung, Yeo-ri, and Gangcheori each confront their past and present demons. With court politics boiling over and ancient forces in play, this chapter marks a major turning point in both the palace power struggle and Yeo-ri’s emotional arc.

A Ghost-Filled Past and Deadly Truths

The Haunted Palace Episode 9 opens with a flashback to King Lee Sung’s youth. He watches his grandfather, Minister Kim Bong-in, punish the shaman Pung-san for forbidden rituals. During the ordeal, Pung-san sees the eight-foot ghost haunting the prince and warns Kim, who chillingly demands the shaman summon the spirit.

In the present, Pung-san tells Kim that Yeo-ri is behind their failures—and worse, she’s protected by an Imugi. We learn that under Kim’s orders, Pung-san helped the eight-foot ghost kill and devour Neop-deok.

The King and Yeo-ri: Confronting the Past

The King confides in Yeo-ri about Neop-deok’s final act—helping his possessed father momentarily regain control. He admits he’s been in denial and asks for her help. Yeo-ri is still reeling from learning the truth about her grandmother’s death.

Gangcheori’s Guilt and a Confession

Meanwhile, Gangcheori opens up to Bibi, revealing he once wanted to warn Neop-deok but didn’t—his bitterness over Yeo-ri rejecting him held him back. When Yeo-ri confronts him, she’s shocked by his concern. She breaks down in tears, prompting Gangcheori to ask Bibi to look after her. But Bibi has ulterior motives—he plans to turn Yeo-ri against Gangcheori.

Still, Yeo-ri can’t stop thinking about him. She confesses to Ok-im that she’s confused, having hated Gangcheori for a murder he never committed. Ok-im teases her for falling for him, and Bibi, who overhears, grows annoyed. He wants his brother to focus on ascending—not romance.

A Brewing Coup and Royal Conflicts

The King reveals that his father once tried to abolish slavery with Choi Won-u’s help. Now, he wants Choi back in court to fulfill that mission. Though Minister Kim protests, the King appoints Choi as Left State Councillor. Kim feigns acceptance but plots behind the scenes.

Kim spots Gangcheori venting to the King about Yeo-ri. When the King teases him for caring, Gangcheori insists he’s just confused by her tears. The King advises him to offer support—like a hug.

Back home, Gangcheori grows awkward around Yeo-ri. Bibi attempts to manipulate the situation, but Yeo-ri catches on. Bibi, frustrated, notices talismans scattered throughout the noble class—protection against Imugis.

Rebellion Roots and New Schemes

Minister Kim meets with Kwak, revealing they led a rebellion to stop anti-slavery reforms. Kwak’s obsession with Yoon Gap makes Mrs. Yoon a target. Knowing Gangcheori would try to rescue her, Kim plans to kidnap Yeo-ri during the distraction.

Kim also manipulates Queen Mother through Pung-san, claiming Choi Won-u’s return would make the King invincible—and unpunishable for Prince Yeong-in’s death. Choi, Queen Mother’s nephew, gives in to her threats and rejects the King via letter.

Kidnappings and Misunderstandings

The next day, chaos erupts. Mrs. Yoon is kidnapped. In-seon visits Gangcheori to say goodbye and is rude to Yeo-ri. Jealous, Yeo-ri ignores Gangcheori. Irritated, he flirts with In-seon in return. Then, Minister Kim calls for Yeo-ri’s services.

On her way, Yeo-ri is attacked by assassins. Bibi hesitates but ends up helping her escape.

A Storm of Emotions and a Rescue Mission

Gangcheori gets word of Mrs. Yoon’s abduction and, though he brushes it off, admits he would miss her cooking. He heads out to rescue her. In-seon tries to confess again, but he brutally shuts her down, defending Yeo-ri.

At Kwak’s hideout, Gangcheori is ready to reveal his true identity as the Imugi, but Mrs. Yoon’s tearful cries hold him back. Weakened by talismans, he can’t use his wind powers. Kwak knocks out Mrs. Yoon. Luckily, Bibi appears in full Imugi form and scares Kwak off.

Meanwhile, assassins catch up to Yeo-ri again. Just in time, the King returns from meeting Choi and heroically saves her.

Tears, Healing… and a Kiss

Yeo-ri returns home to find Gangcheori injured and Mrs. Yoon safe. When he hands her back her lost optician kit and gently tends to her wounds, she lashes out—confused about why she feels relieved instead of guilty. He wipes her tears.

And then… he kisses her. For more about The Haunted Palace, do check out the link below.

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