The wait is finally over—tvN’s highly anticipated historical drama The Queen Who Crowns premieres tonight, promising an epic tale of power, betrayal, and love set in the early days of the Joseon dynasty.

Reimagining the life of Queen Won Gyeong (played by Cha Joo Young), the series explores her journey from being a shadowed historical figure to a powerful woman who played a pivotal role in shaping Korea’s history. Here’s why you can’t miss tonight’s debut:

1. A Riveting Love-Hate Relationship

At the heart of the drama lies the complicated romance between Queen Won Gyeong and her husband, King Taejong Lee Bang Won (Lee Hyun Wook). Once a loving couple united by shared dreams, their relationship unravels into a web of love, betrayal, and political intrigue.

Cha Joo Young and Lee Hyun Wook bring their A-game to this dynamic pairing, showcasing an electrifying chemistry that will make their love story as intense as the war raging around them. Expect grand coronation scenes followed by moments of raw, emotional tension that will keep you glued to the screen.

2. Intense Relationships That Deepen the Drama

The Queen Who Crowns doesn’t stop at just one captivating relationship. The drama promises a complex web of connections that fuel its narrative.

The central conflict between King Taejo Lee Seong Gye (Lee Sung Min) and his son Lee Bang Won is already setting up to be a highlight, as the founding king refuses to recognize his rebellious heir. This father-son clash is sure to escalate into dramatic and unforgettable moments.

Adding further intrigue are the relationships between Queen Won Gyeong and Lee Bang Won’s concubines, Chae Ryeong (Lee Yi Dam) and Yeong Sil (Lee Si Ah). While they were meant to replace Won Gyeong, their ties to her bring unexpected twists to the story, making the dynamics all the more fascinating.

3. Stunning Cinematography and a Tight Narrative

Visually, The Queen Who Crowns is set to be a feast for the eyes. Director Kim Sang Ho pulled out all the stops, filming in over 100 picturesque locations across Korea to bring the country’s natural beauty—its mountains, rivers, and fields—into the emotional fabric of the story.

Beyond the visuals, the drama’s tight 12-episode format ensures a fast-paced, immersive narrative. Viewers will witness the entire journey of Won Gyeong and Lee Bang Won, from their youth to their later years, in just a dozen episodes.

Cha Joo Young shared her dedication to capturing the evolution of her character, saying, “In this short span, we show Won Gyeong and Bang Won from their teenage years to old age. I’ve worked hard to portray their evolving relationship and growth in diverse ways.”

Don’t Miss the Premiere!

With a stellar cast, a gripping plot, and jaw-dropping visuals, The Queen Who Crowns is ready to become your next K-drama obsession. Tune in for the premiere tonight, January 6, at 8:50 p.m. KST on tvN, or stream it on Viki.

Let the royal drama begin! 👑✨