Kingdom — Characters & Cast

Initially surviving his political enemies; later, protecting the people of Joseon and restoring rightful governance.

Begins as an illegitimate, vulnerable prince seeking self-preservation against court intrigue. Through his journey across the stricken provinces, he witnesses peasant suffering and evolves into a selfless military strategist and compassionate leader. In the Season 2 finale, he willingly abdicates the throne to preserve peace and eradicate the plague's root cause.

Absolute political power and total dominion for the Haewon Cho clan.

Operates as the untouchable, calculating Chief State Councillor who resurrected the King to maintain clan supremacy. His absolute faith in his ability to control everyone leads to his ultimate downfall when he is poisoned by his own ruthless daughter.

Saving lives and finding a medical cure for the infection.

Starts as a quiet physician’s assistant at Jiyulheon clinic. She grows into an indispensable scholar and medical investigator, systematically dissecting the biological mechanics of the plague, discovering the worm parasite, and finding the water treatment.

Seeking retribution for past noble atrocities while fighting for current survival.

Introduced as a taciturn, dangerously skilled marksman carrying deep secret trauma. He is revealed to be a surviving tiger hunter from the elite Chakho unit whose village was destroyed during the Imjin War. He transforms from a vengeful lone wolf into Lee Chang’s most reliable frontline combatant.

Protecting his family while maintaining loyalty to the Crown Prince.

Prince Chang’s devoted personal bodyguard and comic relief. When Cho Hak-ju takes his pregnant wife hostage, Mu-yeong is forced to leak the Prince’s whereabouts. His tragic arc concludes in Season 2, Episode 4, when he sacrifices his life to protect Lee Chang after securing his newborn son.