Meet the The Last Empress Cast: Jang Na‑ra, Choi Jin‑hyuk, Shin Sung‑rok, Lee Elijah, Shin Eun‑kyung & more. Discover character bios, relationships & behind‑the‑scenes insights.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Last Empress is a gripping South Korean drama set in an alternate modern-day Korea where the country is ruled by a constitutional monarchy. Combining intense suspense, romance, betrayal, and palace intrigue, the series captivated audiences with its fast-paced storytelling and unexpected twists.
Premiering on SBS in late 2018, the drama follows the story of a cheerful musical actress, Oh Sunny, who unexpectedly becomes the Empress. As she enters the dazzling but dangerous world of the royal family, she uncovers hidden conspiracies, corruption, and secrets that threaten the very foundation of the empire.
Led by an all-star cast including Jang Na-ra, Shin Sung-rok, Choi Jin-hyuk, and Lee Elijah, The Last Empress delivers thrilling drama and emotional depth, making it one of the most talked-about series of its time.
The Last Empress Cast
Jang Na-ra as Oh Sunny
A lovable and optimistic musical actress who suddenly becomes Empress after marrying Emperor Lee Hyuk. Na-ra brings warmth and strength to her role, portraying Sunny’s transformation from a naïve performer to a bold woman determined to uncover palace corruption and seek justice.
Shin Sung-rok as Emperor Lee Hyuk
The charismatic yet cruel emperor of Korea. On the surface, he appears charming and cultured, but he harbors a dark side, engaging in manipulation and violence to maintain control. Shin Sung-rok masterfully portrays the duality of his character.
Choi Jin-hyuk as Na Wang-sik / Chun Woo-bin
His ultimate goal? To avenge his mother’s death and expose the emperor’s crimes. Choi Jin-hyuk adds intensity and emotion to this vengeance-driven character.
Lee Elijah as Min Yoo-ra
The emperor’s secret lover and the ambitious imperial secretary. She’s cunning, strategic, and willing to destroy anyone who stands in her way. Lee Elijah gives a standout performance, portraying a woman who rises from nothing to wield power behind the throne.
Shin Eun-kyung as Empress Dowager Kang
The fearsome mother of the emperor who stops at nothing to maintain the monarchy’s image and control. Shin Eun-kyung brings gravitas and chilling authority to the role, making the Empress Dowager one of the series’ most formidable antagonists.
Supporting Cast
Oh Ah-rin as Princess Ah-ri
The Emperor’s young daughter, wise beyond her years. Despite her innocence, Ah-ri often finds herself tangled in the political games of the palace.
Yoon So-yi as Seo Kang-hee
A former palace maid and mother figure to Princess Ah-ri. Seo Kang-hee has a complicated history with the royal family and plays a crucial role in several shocking plot twists. Yoon So-yi adds intensity and complexity to her character.
Yoon Da-hoon as Oh Geum-mo
Sunny’s loving and humorous father. He provides emotional support to his daughter during her turbulent journey in the palace and reflects the heartwarming simplicity of family love.
Stephanie Lee as Oh Hel-ro
Sunny’s lively and loyal younger sister. A fashion-forward influencer, Hel-ro adds comic relief while also stepping up to support her sister during difficult times.
Lee Hee-jin as Lady Hong
Lady Hong’s loyalty is tested throughout the series, and her journey adds to the moral conflict and depth of court politics.
Conclusion
The Last Empress delivers an unforgettable blend of suspense, melodrama, and palace intrigue, powered by a dynamic ensemble cast. From Jang Na-ra’s courageous portrayal of Empress Oh Sunny to Shin Sung-rok’s chilling performance as Emperor Lee Hyuk, each character adds emotional weight and complexity to the series. The supporting cast further enriches the drama with layered storylines and unexpected twists.
With its gripping plot and standout performances, The Last Empress became one of the most talked-about K-dramas of its time—leaving a lasting impact on viewers who were drawn into the glamour, secrets, and struggles of life within the palace walls.
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FAQs
Who plays Emperor Lee Hyuk?
👉 Shin Sung-rok takes on the role of the charming but villainous Emperor Lee Hyuk.
Who is Na Wang-sik / Chun Woo-bin and who plays him?
👉 Choi Jin-hyuk plays Na Wang-sik after his transformation into palace bodyguard Chun Woo-bin. Tae Hang-ho plays the character in the early episodes.
Is Min Yoo-ra a villain in the drama?
👉 Lee Elijah plays Min Yoo-ra, a cunning and ambitious woman who serves as a key antagonist.
Was Choi Jin-hyuk always part of the cast?
👉 No, his character first appears played by Tae Hang-ho. After the character undergoes a transformation, Choi Jin-hyuk takes over.
Who plays Sunny’s sister Oh Hel-ro?
👉 Stephanie Lee plays the fashionable and outspoken Hel-ro, adding humor and support to Sunny’s storyline.
Which cast members played palace aides or staff?
👉 Lee Hee-jin (Lady Hong) and Kim Min-ok (Court Lady Shin) portrayed loyal palace staff with evolving roles throughout the series.
Did any supporting actors have standout moments?
👉 Yes. Yoon So-yi (Seo Kang-hee) and Park Won-sook (Grand Empress Dowager Jo) delivered powerful performances in emotionally complex roles.