In a world filled with romance and fantasy, the Korean drama “The First Night with the Duke” takes us on an exciting journey through a historical novel. With a mix of fantastical events and strong characters, the drama presents the story of a college student who finds herself in the body of a minor character in an old romance novel. She faces new challenges and discovers love in an unexpected way. Now, let’s dive into the details of this captivating drama.
Detail
Release Date: 2025
Genres: Romance, Fantasy
Country of Origin: South Korea
Director: Lee Woong-hee
Language: Korean
Broadcasting on: KBS2
Plot Overview:
“The First Night with the Duke” follows the story of an ordinary college student, K (played by Seohyun), whose soul takes possession of a minor character in her favorite historical romance novel. K now inhabits the body of Cha Sun-Chaek, a young woman from a wealthy noble family who dreams of leading a peaceful and normal life. While possessing Cha Sun-Chaek’s body, K spends a night with the male lead of the novel, Lee Beon (played by Taecyeon). Lee Beon, a royal figure favored by the King, has a cold demeanor, a striking appearance, and exceptional martial arts skills. He also carries a heartbreaking past. By chance, Lee Beon and Cha Sun-Chaek meet and converse, with Cha Sun-Chaek offering solace for his tragic history. They spend the night together.
Later, Cha Sun-Chaek attempts to connect Lee Beon with Jo Eun-Ae (played by Kwon Han-Sol), the female lead in the novel. According to the story, Lee Beon is supposed to fall in love with Jo Eun-Ae, but the appearance of Cha Sun-Chaek alters Jo Eun-Ae’s fate. Despite Cha Sun-Chaek’s efforts, Lee Beon’s love consistently finds its way back to her.
Other important characters include Jung Soo-Kyeom (played by Seo Bum-June), a young officer from a prestigious family and Lee Beon’s only friend, and Do Hwa-Sun (played by Ji Hye-Won), an ambitious woman whose goal is to marry Lee Beon and join the royal family.
Cast:
- Seohyun as Cha Sun-Chaek
- Taecyeon as Lee Beon
- Kwon Han-Sol as Jo Eun-Ae
- Seo Bum-June as Jung Soo-Kyeom
- Ji Hye-Won as Do Hwa-Sun
more:
“The First Night with the Duke” has faced criticism after allegations that the filming caused damage to Byeongsan Seowon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On January 2, an online user reported seeing the alleged damage on December 30, 2024, providing several photos as evidence. The images show crew members hammering nails and installing props like lanterns within the site.
In response, KBS has stated that they are “currently investigating the matter,” but they have not yet made an official statement.
