Discover the talented The King in Love Cast, a historical Korean drama featuring Im Si-wan, Im Yoon-ah, and Hong Jong-hyun in a captivating love triangle set in the Goryeo dynasty. Learn more about the main and supporting actors behind this romantic saga.
Table of Contents
Introduction

The King in Love is a gripping historical Korean drama that intertwines romance, friendship, and power struggles set during the Goryeo dynasty. Premiering in 2017, the series follows the complex relationships between a crown prince, his loyal friend, and a noblewoman caught in a love triangle. With a visually stunning backdrop and emotionally rich storyline, the drama is brought to life by a talented cast including Im Si-wan, Im Yoon-ah, and Hong Jong-hyun. Their compelling performances make The King in Love a memorable and emotionally resonant series for fans of historical romance.
The King in Love Cast
Im Si-wan as Crown Prince Wang Won
Im Si-wan delivers a powerful performance as Wang Won, the ambitious and intelligent crown prince of Goryeo. His character is complex—torn between love and power, duty and desire. Known for his versatility, Im Si-wan, a member of the boy band ZE:A, has also made a name for himself in acting with acclaimed roles in Misaeng and Strangers from Hell.
Im Yoon-ah as Eun San
Im Yoon-ah, a member of the globally popular girl group Girls’ Generation, plays Eun San, a strong and graceful noblewoman with a mysterious background. Caught between two close friends who both fall for her, Yoon-ah portrays San with elegance, inner strength, and emotional depth. Her performance adds a quiet intensity and charm to the love triangle at the center of the story.
Hong Jong-hyun as Wang Rin
Hong Jong-hyun takes on the role of Wang Rin, a noble warrior and the prince’s childhood friend and protector. Loyal and stoic, Rin finds himself in an agonizing position as he falls in love with San, the same woman his best friend loves. Hong brings sincerity and quiet emotional conflict to the role, making Rin one of the most sympathetic characters in the series.
Supporting Cast
Jung Bo-suk as King Chungnyeol
He plays Wang Won’s father and the reigning monarch of Goryeo. His character is strategic and often cold, driven by political survival and control over his son’s destiny. Jung Bo-suk brings gravitas and authority to the role.
Jang Young-nam as Princess Wonsung (Queen Mother)
As Wang Won’s influential and calculating mother, Princess Wonsung manipulates palace politics for her son’s advantage. Jang Young-nam adds sharp intelligence and elegance to her portrayal.
Oh Min-suk as Song In
He aims to control the royal court through manipulation and betrayal. Oh Min-suk’s portrayal of Song In is chilling and commanding.
Kim Ho-jin as Eun Young-baek
Eun San’s father, a powerful and respected nobleman, who hides his daughter’s true identity to protect her. His character represents loyalty and sacrifice within the court’s dangerous political games.
Park Hwan-hee as Ok Boo-yong
Boo-yong is San’s loyal maid and confidante. She provides emotional support and helps San navigate life in the palace. Park Hwan-hee adds warmth and lightness to the otherwise tense narrative.
Lee Ki-young as Moo-suk
A skilled and loyal bodyguard to Crown Prince Won. He acts as a mentor figure and protector, offering guidance and ensuring the prince’s safety.
Choi Jong-hwan as Wang Young (Rin’s Father)
A high-ranking noble and military official, Wang Young is strict and ambitious, often pushing Rin toward a future Rin doesn’t fully desire. Choi Jong-hwan’s performance adds a layer of generational conflict.
Conclusion
The King in Love stands out as a beautifully crafted historical romance that explores themes of love, loyalty, and political ambition. The drama is elevated by the stellar performances of its main cast—Im Si-wan, Im Yoon-ah, and Hong Jong-hyun—who bring emotional depth and authenticity to their roles. Complemented by a strong supporting cast, the series delivers a rich narrative set against the backdrop of the Goryeo dynasty. With its captivating storyline and unforgettable characters, The King in Love remains a must-watch for fans of historical K-dramas and romantic sagas.
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FAQs
Who plays the Crown Prince in The King in Love?
Im Si-wan portrays Crown Prince Wang Won, the central character torn between love and power.
Is Im Si-wan a singer or an actor?
He is both. Im Si-wan debuted as a member of the K-pop group ZE:A and has since become a well-respected actor in dramas like Misaeng and Strangers from Hell.
Who is the female lead in The King in Love?
Im Yoon-ah (Yoona), a member of Girls’ Generation (SNSD), plays the female lead, Eun San.
Was this Yoon-ah’s first historical drama?
Yes, The King in Love marked her first lead role in a historical (sageuk) drama.
Have Im Si-wan and Yoon-ah worked together before?
No, The King in Love was their first project together, but their strong chemistry received much praise from viewers.
Who played the villain Song In?
Oh Min-suk took on the role of the manipulative antagonist Song In, adding intensity to the plot.
Is Hong Jong-hyun known for other historical dramas?
Yes, Hong Jong-hyun has also appeared in other sageuk dramas like Scarlet Heart: Ryeo.
Who portrayed King Chungnyeol?
Veteran actor Jung Bo-suk played King Chungnyeol, the father of Crown Prince Wang Won.
Did the cast receive any awards or nominations?
While The King in Love didn’t sweep awards, Im Si-wan and Yoon-ah were praised for their performances and chemistry, with fans highlighting their emotional portrayals as standout elements of the show.