Gwigung Finale: A Stunning Showdown and Emotional Farewell – How Episode 16 Delivered a Legendary Ending

The Final Battle: Palcheokgui’s Last Stand

Episode 16 of Gwigung reached its climax with the ultimate confrontation between the shaman Yeori, the Imugi-possessed Kangcheol, and the vengeful spirit Palcheokgui, who had possessed King Leejeong. The stakes were higher than ever, with Yeori risking everything to save Kangcheol and put an end to the centuries-old curse haunting the royal family. The episode’s tension was palpable, as viewers watched Yeori disguise herself and infiltrate the palace, leading to a dramatic showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Palcheokgui’s possession of King Leejeong brought out Kim Ji-hoon’s most chilling performance yet, while Yook Sungjae’s portrayal of Kangcheol’s internal struggle between his human and supernatural sides added emotional depth to the action-packed scenes.

A Rollercoaster of Emotions: Yeori and Kangcheol’s Sacrifice

The finale was not just about supernatural battles; it was also a deeply emotional journey for the main characters. Yeori, played by Kim Ji-yeon, poured her heart into saving Kangcheol, even as she faced the possibility of losing him forever. In a heart-wrenching sequence, Kangcheol chose to exhaust his own life force—the ‘Yagwangju’—to protect Yeori, leading to a tearful farewell. Yeori’s desperate pleas and breakdown moved both the characters and the audience, exemplifying the drama’s ability to balance fantasy with heartfelt human moments.
For three days, Yeori mourned beside Kangcheol’s coffin, refusing to give up hope. The eventual resurrection and reunion provided a cathartic release, leaving viewers both relieved and emotionally spent.

A Satisfying Happy Ending and Character Growth

Despite the high stakes and tragic moments, Gwigung’s finale delivered a well-earned happy ending. Kangcheol’s return from the brink of death allowed him and Yeori to finally build a peaceful life together. Yeori resumed her work as a master artisan, and the couple’s simple domestic scenes contrasted beautifully with the chaos they had endured. The king’s invitation for Yeori to return to the palace, met with her radiant smile, signaled a new era of hope and reconciliation.
This resolution was praised by critics and fans for tying up loose ends and giving each character a meaningful conclusion, especially after the intense buildup of the previous episodes.

Viewer Ratings: Breaking Records and Dominating Time Slots

Gwigung’s 16th episode achieved a nationwide rating of 11.0%, the highest in the series’ run, and secured the top spot in its time slot for both Saturday miniseries and all channels. At its peak, the episode reached a 12.3% rating, a remarkable feat given the overall decline in terrestrial TV drama ratings in Korea. The drama consistently maintained 8-10% ratings throughout its broadcast, proving its sustained popularity.
Internationally, Gwigung made waves on platforms like Rakuten Viki, boasting a 9.7 user rating and topping charts in 89 countries, including the US, UK, France, and Australia. This global success highlighted the universal appeal of its fantasy romance and cultural themes.

Critical and Community Reactions: Praises and Critiques

Media outlets and drama bloggers widely celebrated the finale for its tight storytelling, strong performances, and emotional impact. Many praised the original script for blending Korean shamanic traditions with fantasy and romance, noting how the series stood out in a crowded drama landscape. Kim Ji-yeon’s nuanced portrayal of Yeori and Yook Sungjae’s dual role as Kangcheol and Yoon Gap were singled out as highlights.
On major Korean online communities like Theqoo, Instiz, and DC Inside, fans expressed overwhelming satisfaction with the ending, with positive comments outnumbering negative ones. Typical remarks included admiration for the cast’s chemistry, relief at the happy ending, and appreciation for the drama’s cultural authenticity. Some viewers did express disappointment that certain side characters received less closure, but overall, the consensus was highly favorable.

Cultural Insight: Why Gwigung Resonated with Global Audiences

Gwigung’s success lies in its unique blend of Korean folklore, shamanism, and royal intrigue—a combination rarely seen in K-dramas. The Imugi (a mythical serpent aspiring to become a dragon) and the shamanic rituals depicted in the series are deeply rooted in Korean culture, offering international viewers a glimpse into traditions and beliefs that are often overlooked in mainstream media.
The drama’s focus on fate, sacrifice, and the struggle between human desires and supernatural forces struck a chord with global audiences, who found the story both exotic and universally relatable. The chemistry between the leads and the high production values further elevated Gwigung as a standout K-drama of 2025.

Fan Community Buzz: Highlights from Naver and Tistory Blogs

Bloggers on Naver and Tistory provided in-depth analyses and personal reflections on the finale. Many highlighted the growth of Yeori from a reluctant shaman to a courageous heroine, and the bittersweet journey of Kangcheol as he grappled with his identity. Recaps praised the director and writer for maintaining narrative momentum and delivering a finale that respected both the fantasy and romance elements.
Fan discussions often centered on favorite scenes, such as Yeori’s transformation during the final battle and the emotional reunion. Some bloggers speculated about the possibility of a second season, given the show’s popularity and the open-ended nature of certain subplots.

What’s Next for the Cast and the Legacy of Gwigung

With the drama’s conclusion, the main cast members—Yook Sungjae, Kim Ji-yeon, and Kim Ji-hoon—shared heartfelt messages thanking fans for their support. They reflected on the challenges of portraying such complex characters and expressed hope that Gwigung would be remembered as a meaningful work.
As the dust settles, Gwigung is poised to become a reference point for future K-dramas blending folklore and fantasy. Its success demonstrates that international audiences are eager for stories that combine local culture with universal themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption.