Alchemy of Souls - Characters & Cast

Initially, his motivation is simply to open his gate of energy and prove his worth. This quickly evolves into a powerful drive to protect Mu-deok/Naksu at all costs. In Season 2, his motivation is a death wish—to find someone who can remove the Ice Stone from his body. This nihilism is gradually replaced by a renewed will to live and love as he rediscovers Naksu in Jin Bu-yeon.

Jang Uk begins as a charming but frustrated nobleman, his gate of energy sealed by his own father. His meeting with Mu-deok/Naksu ignites his journey from a powerless troublemaker to a formidable mage. Throughout Season 1, he masters complex spells under her tutelage, driven by a desire to protect her. After his death and resurrection with the Ice Stone at the end of Season 1, he transforms in Season 2 into a cold, tormented 'monster' who hunts other monsters. His arc culminates in him embracing his destiny as the King's Star, accepting his immense power not as a burden but as a tool to save the world and reunite with the love of his life, finally finding peace and purpose.

Her initial motivation is pure revenge against the four families she believes killed her father, a belief instilled by her manipulative master, Jin Mu. This shifts to a desire to regain her powers. Eventually, her primary motivation becomes her love for Jang Uk and the desire to forge a future with him, leaving her vengeful past behind.

Naksu starts as a legendary, ruthless assassin seeking revenge for her family's murder. When her soul becomes trapped in the weak body of Mu-deok, she is humbled and forced to rely on others. Her relationship with Jang Uk slowly melts her icy exterior, revealing a vulnerable and caring person. After the tragic events of Season 1, her soul takes over the original body of Jin Bu-yeon, but she loses her memories. Her journey in Season 2 is one of self-discovery, falling in love with Jang Uk all over again and reclaiming her identity not as the Shadow Assassin, but as Cho Yeong, the woman destined to be with him. She evolves from a creature of vengeance to a figure of immense divine power and love.

His core motivation is his enduring, pure love for Naksu (Cho Yeong). This love drives him to protect her secretly, help Jang Uk, and defy his own family and the established rules. He is guided by a strong moral compass and a deep sense of loyalty to his friends.

Seo Yul is the genius mage from the noble Seo family and Naksu's first love from their youth. He is initially torn between his lingering feelings for her and his duty to uphold the laws that condemn soul-shifters. Throughout the series, he consistently chooses to protect Naksu and Jang Uk, even at great personal cost. He suffers from a parasitic blood worm, a consequence of saving a soul shifter, which slowly drains his life. His arc is one of tragic, unrequited love and unwavering integrity. He matures from a conflicted young man into a wise and respected leader, eventually taking charge of Jeongjingak.

His initial motivation is to secure his position as the heir to the throne and gain recognition. He is deeply concerned with his own dignity and the perception of the royal family. Over time, his motivation shifts to a genuine desire to become a good king and protect his people, recognizing the true threats to Daeho.

The Crown Prince of Daeho starts as a somewhat petulant and insecure royal, often clashing with Jang Uk, whom he sees as a rival. He possesses a good heart but is easily manipulated by Jin Mu. His journey is about learning what it truly means to be a just and worthy king. He gradually develops a deep respect and friendship with Jang Uk, choosing to trust him over the corrupt mages. His arc concludes with him ascending to the throne, having grown into a wise and compassionate ruler who prioritizes the well-being of his kingdom over personal power.