A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty (1970)
A classic Korean horror film in which royal tyranny and tragic injustice awaken a supernatural vengeance that haunts an entire palace.
A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty - Movie Information
- Original Title: 이조괴담
- Release Year: 1970
- Directed by: Shin Sang-ok
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Horror, Drama
- Runtime: 1h 21m
- Original Language: Korean
- Spoken Languages: Korean
- Release Date (Theatrical): April 24, 1970 (South Korea)
- Alternative Titles: Ijogoedam (KR)
- Production Companies: Shin Films
- Production Countries: South Korea
A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty - Plot
Prince Yeonsan-gun attempts to sexually harass Yahwa, the wife of Yun Pil-u who was beheaded after being branded as a traitor. Yahwa commits a suicide following her husband but, before she dies, has already asked her cat to make revenge. Since that time, the bodies of the court ladies and the patrol guards are found every morning and ghosts of Pil-u and Yahwa regularly appear along with the mewing sound of the cat. Kim Chung-won, head of the guardsmen and also a former friend of Pil-u, borrows the supernatural power of a senior Buddhist priest and succeeds in getting rid of the ghosts for the peace of the nation.
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A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Shin Sang-ok
Main Cast
- Jo Su-hyeon
- Choe Ji-suk
- Jeon Young-ju
- Lee Gang-hui
Writers
- Il-ro Gwak
A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty - FAQs
What is A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty about?
The film follows the tragic fate of Yahwa, whose husband is executed after being branded a traitor. When Prince Yeonsan-gun attempts to assault her, she takes her own life but first commands her cat to exact revenge. A series of mysterious deaths ensues until a Buddhist priest intervenes.
Who directed A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty?
A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty was directed by Shin Sang-ok, one of South Korea's most celebrated and prolific filmmakers of the 20th century, known for blending genre entertainment with rich period atmosphere across dozens of films produced through his Shin Films studio.
Where can you watch A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty?
Streaming availability for A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty varies by region. You can check the most current viewing options, including any rental, purchase, or subscription platforms carrying the film, on JustWatch, which aggregates up-to-date streaming information for your location.
Is A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty based on a true story?
The film draws on the historical figure of Prince Yeonsan-gun, a real and notoriously tyrannical ruler of the Joseon Dynasty. However, the central supernatural narrative involving Yahwa and her vengeful cat is rooted in traditional Korean ghost story folklore rather than documented historical events.
Who are the main actors in A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty?
The film stars Jo Su-hyeon, Choe Ji-suk, Jeon Young-ju, and Lee Gang-hui. These actors bring to life the tragic central characters and the court figures caught up in the supernatural terror that grips the Joseon royal palace following a grave injustice.
When was A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty released?
A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty was released on April 24, 1970, in South Korea. It was produced by Shin Films, the studio founded and operated by director Shin Sang-ok, which was one of the most prominent production companies in Korean cinema during that era.
What genre is A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty?
The film belongs to the Horror and Drama genres. It combines the atmospheric dread of traditional Korean supernatural storytelling with the dramatic weight of a period injustice narrative, set against the backdrop of the historically turbulent reign of Prince Yeonsan-gun during the Joseon Dynasty.
What are similar films to A Ghost Story of Joseon Dynasty?
Viewers who enjoy this film may also appreciate other Korean period productions such as Seong Chun-hyang (1961), The Sword with No Name (2009), The Royal Tailor (2014), Painted Fire (2002), Noryang: Deadly Sea (2023), and The Admiral: Roaring Currents (2014), all of which explore Joseon-era history and drama.
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