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Oh My Ghost (South Korean TV series)
View on Wikipedia| Oh My Ghost | |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Oh My Ghostess |
| Hangul | 오 나의 귀신님 |
| RR | O naui gwisinnim |
| MR | O naŭi kwisinnim |
| Genre | |
| Written by |
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| Directed by | Yoo Je-won |
| Starring | |
| Composers |
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| Country of origin | South Korea |
| Original language | Korean |
| No. of episodes | 16 |
| Production | |
| Executive producers |
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| Producers |
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| Cinematography |
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| Editors |
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| Running time | 60 minutes |
| Production company | Chorokbaem Media |
| Original release | |
| Network | tvN |
| Release | July 3 – August 22, 2015 |
| Related | |
| Oh My Ghost (Thai TV series) | |
Oh My Ghost[1] (Korean: 오 나의 귀신님) is a 2015 South Korean television series starring Park Bo-young, Jo Jung-suk, Lim Ju-hwan and Kim Seul-gi.[2][3][4][5] It aired on tvN from July 3 to August 22, 2015, on Fridays and Saturdays at 20:30 (KST) for 16 episodes.[6][7]
Synopsis
[edit]Na Bong-sun (Park Bo-young) has an extremely timid personality and low self-esteem, doesn't have any close friends, and is constantly getting reprimanded at her job as an assistant chef at Sun Restaurant. She also occasionally sees ghosts, thanks to a shaman grandmother. One day, Bong-sun gets possessed by a lustful virgin ghost named Shin Soon-ae (Kim Seul-gi). To make up for the lack of romance in her short life and believing that only by losing her virginity will she be able to "resolve her grudge" and move on to the afterlife, Soon-ae is determined to seduce as many men as she can by possessing various women, and she finds the perfect vessel in Bong-sun.
Bong-sun's boss is arrogant star chef Kang Sun-woo (Jo Jung-suk), whom she secretly has a crush on. Sun-woo hasn't dated anyone since getting his heart broken by his college friend Lee So-hyung (Park Jung-ah), who's a TV producer. But when Bong-sun seemingly gets rid of her shyness and suddenly changes into a confident, dynamic woman, she finally catches his eye. Meanwhile, the mystery surrounding Soon-ae's death involves Sun-woo's brother-in-law, a kind police officer, Choi Sung-jae (Lim Ju-hwan), who may not be what he seems.
Cast
[edit]- Park Bo-young as Na Bong-sun[8][9][10]
- Assistant chef at Sun Restaurant. She is shy, insecure, and always has a low self-esteem. Her life changes when she is possessed by Shin Soon-ae, which makes her seem more cheerful. She studied to be a Chef under Kang Sun-woo, and then she studied abroad after winning a cooking contest.
- Jo Jung-suk as Kang Sun-woo
- The owner and head chef of Sun Restaurant, a professional chef specializing in pasta. He also opened a small restaurant with Korean fusion food. He has a not very good relationship with his mother but loves his sister very much.
- Lim Ju-hwan as Choi Sung-jae
- A kind police officer. But actually, he is possessed by an evil spirit. He was the one who killed Shin Soon-ae because Soon-ae was an eyewitness when he was involved in the hit and run. Kang Eun-hee's husband.
- Kim Seul-gi as Shin Soon-ae
- A ghost who's still hanging around because she hasn't finished her grudge. She thought that her grudge was being a virgin ghost, but in the end, she realized that her grudge was caused by an unjust death. She was killed by Choi Sung-jae.
- Park Jung-ah as Lee So-hyung
- A television Program Director and Kang Sun-woo's first love.
- Shin Hye-sun as Kang Eun-hee
- The younger sister of Kang Sun-woo, a former ballerina who became the victim of a hit and run that left her paralyzed. Worked as a Cashier at Sun Restaurant.
- Kang Ki-young as Heo Min-soo
- Sous Chef at Sun Restaurant.
- Choi Min-chul as Jo Dong-chul
- Chef at Sun Restaurant.
- Kwak Si-yang as Seo Joon[11]
- Chef at Sun Restaurant. He studied at Le Cordon Bleu.
- Oh Eui-shik as Choi Ji-woong
- Chef at Sun Restaurant.
- Shin Eun-kyung as Jo Hye-young
- Kang Sun-woo's mother, a teaching professor. She gave birth to at the age of 19, then worked while studying. She has no female friends because she was too busy dating and studying, and her only female friend is Seobinggo.
- Lee Dae-yeon as Shin Myung-ho
- Shin Soon-ae's father. He runs a small restaurant whose main customers are taxi drivers.
- Lee Hak-joo as Shin Kyung-mo
- Shin Soon-ae's younger brother. He is unemployed who only spends his time playing games. Later, he worked at Kang Sun-woo's second restaurant.
- Lee Jung-eun as Shaman in Seobinggo-dong
- A shaman. Jo Hye-young's only female friend. She also close to Shin Soon-ae's ghost.
- Kim Sung-bum as Han Jin-goo
- A police officer in charge of the hit-and-run case of Kang Eun-hee. He is Choi Sung-jae's partner. Later, he was killed by Choi Sung-jae.
- Choi Woong as Joo Chang-gyu / Yoon Chang-sub
- So-hyung's late boyfriend and So-hyung's new boyfriend (double role).
- Lee Joo-sil as Bong-sun's grandmother
- A shaman.
Special appearances
[edit]- Oh Hee-joon as Dormitory occupant
- Lee Do-yeop as pension owner
- Lee Ha-na as radio DJ (voice cameo) (ep. 1)
- Kim Hwan-hee as Yoon Chae-hee (ep. 8)
- Ryu Hyun-kyung as Officer Kang (ep. 13–14)
- Seo In-guk as Edward (ep. 16)
- Nam Gi-ae as Seo Bing-go's customer (ep. 16)
- Park Ji-yeon as Il Pal-gwi a ghost friend of virginal ghost, Shin Soon-ae[12]
Original soundtrack
[edit]| Oh My Ghost OST | |
|---|---|
| Soundtrack album by Various Artists | |
| Released | 2015 |
| Genre | |
| Language | Korean |
| Label | CJ E&M |
Part 1
[edit]| No. | Title | Artist | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Stay" (이야기) | Ben | 4:24 |
| 2. | "Stay" (Inst.) | 4:24 | |
| Total length: | 8:48 | ||
Part 2
[edit]| No. | Title | Artist | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Oh My Ghost" (오나의귀신) | Han So Hyun | 3:29 |
| 2. | "Oh My Ghost" (Trumpet ver.) | 3:29 | |
| Total length: | 7:58 | ||
Part 3
[edit]| No. | Title | Artist | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Leave" (떠난다) | Park Bo-young | 3:42 |
| 2. | "Leave" (Inst.) | 3:42 | |
| Total length: | 6:44 | ||
Part 4
[edit]| No. | Title | Artist | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Eyes" (눈) | Jay Park | 3:50 |
| 2. | "Eyes" (Inst.) | 3:50 | |
| Total length: | 8:00 | ||
OST Special
[edit]| No. | Title | Artist | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Gimme a Chocolate" | Jo Jung-suk | 4:05 |
| 2. | "Gimme a Chocolate" (Drama ver.) | 3:36 | |
| 3. | "Gimme a Chocolate" (Inst.) | 4:05 | |
| Total length: | 11:46 | ||
Ratings
[edit]| Ep. | Original broadcast date | Average audience share (Nationwide) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nielsen Korea[13] | TNmS | ||
| 1 | July 3, 2015 | 2.65% | 3.2% |
| 2 | July 4, 2015 | 2.66% | 3.3% |
| 3 | July 10, 2015 | 3.37% | 3.9% |
| 4 | July 11, 2015 | 2.98% | 4.2% |
| 5 | July 17, 2015 | 3.59% | 3.8% |
| 6 | July 18, 2015 | 3.35% | 4.2% |
| 7 | July 24, 2015 | 3.80% | 3.8% |
| 8 | July 25, 2015 | 3.60% | 4.8% |
| 9 | July 31, 2015 | 3.66% | 4.6% |
| 10 | August 1, 2015 | 3.49% | 4.8% |
| 11 | August 7, 2015 | 4.21% | 4.7% |
| 12 | August 8, 2015 | 4.39% | 4.9% |
| 13 | August 14, 2015 | 5.08% | 6.1% |
| 14 | August 15, 2015 | 5.45% | 6.1% |
| 15 | August 21, 2015 | 5.34% | 6.2% |
| 16 | August 22, 2015 | 7.34% | 8.0% |
| Average | 4.06% | 4.8% | |
Awards and nominations
[edit]| Year | Award | Category | Recipient | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Excellence Award, Actor | Jo Jung-suk | Nominated | |
| Excellence Award, Actor in a Miniseries | Nominated | |||
| Excellence Award, Actress in a Miniseries | Park Bo-young | Won | ||
| 2016 | Best Actress | Won | ||
| Best Actor | Jo Jung-suk | Nominated | ||
| Best Supporting Actress | Kim Seul-gi | Won | ||
| Best Kiss | Jo Jung-suk and Park Bo-young | Nominated | ||
| Best Couple | Nominated | |||
| Best Korean Drama – Comedy | Oh My Ghost | Nominated | ||
| Best Villain | Lim Ju-hwan | Nominated | ||
| Best Ensemble | Jo Jung-suk, Kang Ki-young, Choi Min-chul, Kwak Si-yang, Oh Ui-sik | Nominated | ||
| Best Womance | Park Bo-young and Kim Seul-gi | Nominated | ||
| Most Popular Actress (TV) | Park Bo-young | Nominated | ||
| Most Popular Actor (TV) | Jo Jung-suk | Nominated | ||
| Best Scriptwriter (TV) | Yang Hee-seung | Nominated | ||
| Best Content Award, Drama | Oh My Ghost | Won | ||
| Romantic-Comedy King | Jo Jung-suk | Nominated | ||
| Romantic-Comedy Queen | Park Bo-young | Nominated | ||
| Two Star Award | Jo Jung-suk | Won | ||
| Best Kiss Award | Jo Jung-suk and Park Bo-young | Nominated | ||
| Best Chemistry Award | Park Bo-young and Kim Seul-gi | Won |
Remake
[edit]In September 2018, the Thai remake of the same title premiered on True4U. It stars Nuengthida Sophon as Jiew, Keerati Mahaplearkpong as Khaopun, and Arak Amornsupasiri as Chef Artit.[16]
References
[edit]- ^ "Oh My Ghost (2015)". CJ ENM. Retrieved June 13, 2021.
- ^ Ghim, Sora (6 May 2015). "Park Bo Young And Jo Jung Suk To Act Together". BNTNews. Retrieved 9 June 2015.
- ^ "Park, Jo picked for follow-up drama". Korea JoongAng Daily. 7 May 2015. Retrieved 9 June 2015.
- ^ Jeon, Su-mi (14 May 2015). "Park Bo Young, Jo Jeong Seok, Im Joo Hwan, Kim Seul Gi, and Park Jung Ah Confirm for Oh My Ghostess". enewsWorld. Archived from the original on 3 March 2016. Retrieved 9 June 2015.
- ^ "Finger hearts and first kisses for Oh My Ghostess". Dramabeans. 29 June 2015. Retrieved 2 July 2015.
- ^ Ghim, Sora (4 June 2015). "Oh My Ghost Will Take Responsibility For Summer". BNTNews. Retrieved 9 June 2015.
- ^ "Thailand remakes 3 Korean TV shows". 2018-03-14.
- ^ Ko, Ji-seon (22 July 2015). "Park Bo-young enjoys dual role in Oh My Ghostess". K-pop Herald. Retrieved 30 July 2015.
- ^ "Park Bo-young Grows Up at Last". The Chosun Ilbo. 8 August 2015. Retrieved 9 August 2015.
- ^ "Actress crowned 'romantic comedy queen'". The Korea Times. 24 August 2015. Retrieved 28 August 2015.
- ^ Choi, Shin-ae (13 May 2015). "Kwak Si Yang Cast as Flowerboy Chef in New tvN Drama". enewsWorld. Archived from the original on 27 June 2015. Retrieved 3 July 2015.
- ^ 박지연·이정은·최민철·오의식 '오나의귀신님' 살리는 조연 4인방 [Park Ji-yeon, Lee Jung-eun, Choi Min-cheol, and Oh Yi-sik, 4 assistants who save 'Ona's ghost']. tvdaily.co.kr. 2015-07-25. Retrieved 2023-01-19.
- ^ "Nielsen Korea". AGB Nielsen Media Research (in Korean). Retrieved July 4, 2015.
- ^ "Ji Sung, Park Bo-young chosen best Korean TV actors". Yonhap News Agency. 28 June 2016. Retrieved 2016-06-29.
- ^ "tvN10 Awards Honor The Best Variety Shows And Dramas Of The Past 10 Years". 9 October 2016. Archived from the original on 2016-11-15. Retrieved 2016-10-10.
- ^ "Stream It Or Skip It: 'Oh My Ghost' On Netflix, A Thai Dramedy About A Shy Chef And A Virgin Ghost". Decider. 2018-11-26. Retrieved August 24, 2019.
External links
[edit]- Official website (in Korean)
- Oh My Ghost at HanCinema
- Oh My Ghost at IMDb
Oh My Ghost (South Korean TV series)
View on GrokipediaProduction
Development
tvN announced the project in early 2015 as a romantic comedy incorporating supernatural elements, positioning it within the network's Friday-Saturday lineup following "Ex-Girlfriends' Club."[5] The series was conceived as an "occult romance" centered on a timid kitchen assistant haunted and possessed by a lustful virgin ghost, blending workplace dynamics in a high-end restaurant with ghostly interference to drive the narrative.[6] Writer Yang Hee-seung, known for her romantic comedies such as the 2014 series "High School: Love On," crafted the script to merge ghost possession with themes of self-confidence and romantic pursuit in a professional setting.[7] Her approach emphasized character growth through the protagonist's transformation under possession, drawing on familiar tropes of shy individuals gaining boldness via external forces while maintaining comedic tone.[8] Director Yoo Je-won was chosen for his expertise in light-hearted storytelling, as demonstrated in "High School: Love On," where he balanced humor, romance, and subtle fantasy elements.[9] His direction aimed to infuse the series with whimsical supernatural sequences alongside relatable workplace interactions, ensuring the possession motif served the romantic comedy genre without veering into outright horror. Production was led by Chorokbaem Media in collaboration with Studio Dragon, handling budgeting and scheduling for the standard 16-episode format typical of tvN's original series at the time.[3][10] Pre-production activities, including the first script reading in mid-May 2015 at tvN's Sangam-dong headquarters, set the stage for filming to commence shortly thereafter.[5] The initial concept focused on a shy protagonist's possession by a bold ghost as a vehicle to explore personal empowerment and love, aligning with tvN's strategy for engaging, genre-blending content.Casting
The casting process for the principal roles in Oh My Ghost unfolded in spring 2015, as producers from Chorokbaem Media sought actors capable of balancing the drama's blend of supernatural elements, romance, and comedy. Announcements were made progressively through reputable entertainment outlets, reflecting a deliberate selection to ensure chemistry among the leads and supporting ensemble. Park Bo-young was first reported to be in talks for the role of Na Bong-sun in April 2015, with her confirmation announced on May 6; she was chosen for her versatility in portraying characters with contrasting traits, drawing from her film work that demonstrated range in emotional depth and physical comedy.[11][6] Jo Jung-suk was confirmed alongside her on the same date for Kang Sun-woo, selected based on his prior experience in romantic comedies where he excelled at arrogant yet charismatic professionals, ensuring a dynamic central pairing.[12] Kim Seul-gi joined the cast on May 8 as Shin Soon-ae, the possessive ghost, praised for her expressive style in comedic and fantastical scenarios from earlier supporting roles in series like Discovery of Romance. Lim Ju-hwan was announced on May 14 for Choi Sung-jae, brought on to introduce romantic rivalry and tension through his established screen presence in intense dramatic roles.[13][14] Supporting roles were filled shortly thereafter, with Kwak Si-yang cast on May 13 as Seo Joon via auditions that highlighted his timing in lighthearted, ensemble-driven scenes to enhance the kitchen staff dynamics. The process concluded without significant changes, though guest appearances by actors like Lee Ha-na and Jung Hyun-seok were accommodated to align with their availability amid the production's pre-July premiere schedule.[15]Filming locations
The primary kitchen scenes in Oh My Ghost were filmed on a custom-built set in a Seoul studio, meticulously designed to mimic the interior of a high-end Korean eatery for authenticity in the restaurant-based narrative. This controlled environment allowed the production team to capture intricate cooking sequences without external disruptions.[16] Exterior shots capturing the bustling urban atmosphere and the facade of the central Sun Restaurant were primarily taken in Seoul's Gangnam district, utilizing the Spazio Wedding Studio at 15 Nonhyeon-ro 136-gil, Gangnam-gu, to represent the upscale location. Additional romantic sequences, including night shoots, were filmed at iconic sites like Namsan Tower to enhance the series' atmospheric depth.[17][18] Supernatural elements, such as ghost manifestations and possession effects, were created using green screen techniques in the tvN studios at the CJ E&M Center in Sangam-dong, Seoul, enabling seamless integration of visual effects during post-production. The overall filming schedule spanned approximately from late May to early July 2015, aligning with the series' July premiere on tvN.[5] Production faced logistical challenges, particularly in coordinating real-time food preparation for the authentic chef scenes, where lead actor Jo Jung-suk often cooked alongside the restaurant crew, occasionally risking minor injuries to maintain realism. Actor safety was prioritized during possession sequences through choreographed stunts and rehearsals, ensuring physical demands did not compromise performances.[19]Plot
Overview
Oh My Ghost is a South Korean television series that aired on the cable channel tvN from July 3 to August 22, 2015, consisting of 16 episodes broadcast on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. KST.[20][5] The series was produced by Chorokbaem Media and directed by Yoo Je-won, blending supernatural elements with everyday life in a high-end restaurant setting. The story centers on Na Bong-sun, a shy and timid assistant chef at Sun Restaurant who has the ability to see ghosts due to her shaman heritage.[5] Her life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes possessed by Shin Soon-ae, the restless spirit of a bold and lustful virgin ghost seeking to resolve her unfinished business by seducing men.[21] This possession transforms Bong-sun's demeanor, leading to humorous and chaotic situations as the ghost's confident personality clashes with her host's introverted nature.[22] At the heart of the narrative is a romantic triangle involving head chef Kang Sun-woo, a talented and principled culinary star on whom Bong-sun harbors a secret crush, and Choi Sung-jae, a police officer and Sun-woo's brother-in-law who develops feelings for her. The series combines romantic comedy and fantasy genres with workplace drama, highlighting the intricacies of Korean cuisine preparation and restaurant dynamics through comedic entanglements and supernatural twists.[23]Key themes
The series delves into the theme of self-empowerment through supernatural possession, illustrating protagonist Na Bong-sun's transformation from a timid and insecure individual to one who gains confidence and assertiveness in both her personal and professional life.[7] This motif highlights how external influences can catalyze internal growth, allowing Bong-sun to overcome her longstanding self-doubt and actively pursue her aspirations.[24] Central to the narrative is the exploration of unrequited love and jealousy within a high-pressure professional environment, amplified by the possessing ghost's backstory of unresolved longing.[25] This element underscores the emotional turmoil of suppressed desires and rivalries among colleagues, portraying how personal affections intersect with career ambitions in complex ways.[7] Cultural aspects such as shamanism, traditional Korean ghost lore—particularly the concept of resentful virgin spirits unable to pass on—and culinary practices serve as metaphors for achieving emotional fulfillment and resolving inner conflicts.[22] Bong-sun's familial ties to shamanic traditions enable her interactions with the supernatural, while the restaurant setting uses food preparation and tasting as symbols of nurturing relationships and self-expression.[26] The drama offers a subtle commentary on workplace dynamics and gender roles in the competitive food industry, depicting the challenges faced by women in male-dominated kitchens and the importance of teamwork and recognition for professional advancement.[24] It illustrates hierarchies, mentorships, and the blending of personal vulnerabilities with occupational demands, emphasizing resilience amid scrutiny. Ultimately, the resolution of supernatural elements intertwines with themes of personal redemption and closure, as characters confront past regrets to find peace and forward momentum in their lives.[7] This integration provides a cathartic arc, linking otherworldly unrest to human emotional healing.[25]Cast and characters
Main cast
Park Bo-young portrays Na Bong-sun, a shy and timid intern assistant chef at Sun Restaurant who has the ability to see ghosts due to her shaman heritage, and becomes possessed by a bold spirit that transforms her personality and professional demeanor.[2] Her performance in the role contributed to the series' success, and following her lead role in the 2017 drama Strong Woman Do Bong Soon, Park experienced a significant career boost with increased popularity and endorsement opportunities.[27] Appearing in all 16 episodes, Na Bong-sun drives the central narrative arc of personal growth and romantic entanglement within the restaurant setting.[28] Jo Jung-suk plays Kang Sun-woo, the strict and renowned head chef of Sun Restaurant with a perfectionist exterior that masks a more vulnerable and caring side.[2] Drawing from his extensive background in musical theater, including training at Seoul Institute of the Arts and performances in productions like Spring Awakening and Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Jo infuses the character with nuanced emotional depth and charisma.[29] He appears throughout the 16-episode run, anchoring the key arc of professional mentorship and evolving romantic dynamics.[28] Kim Seul-gi stars as Shin Soon-ae, the seductive virgin ghost who possesses Na Bong-sun in an effort to resolve her unfinished business and ascend to the afterlife.[2] This role marked Kim's breakthrough as a lead actress after previous supporting parts in dramas like Kill Me, Heal Me, showcasing her comedic timing and dramatic range.[30] Featured in all 16 episodes, Shin Soon-ae propels the supernatural possession arc that intertwines with the human characters' stories.[28] Lim Ju-hwan as Choi Sung-jae, the kind-hearted police officer who harbors deep affection for Na Bong-sun.[2] Returning to acting after completing his mandatory military service in February 2013, Lim brought a fresh energy to the role following a two-year hiatus.[31] He is present across the full 16 episodes, contributing to the secondary romantic arc and workplace ensemble dynamics.[28]Supporting cast
The supporting cast in Oh My Ghost enriches the narrative through recurring roles that highlight workplace camaraderie, family tensions, and supernatural ties, creating a vibrant backdrop for the central possession storyline. Kwak Si-yang plays Seo Jun, a Le Cordon Bleu graduate and fellow cook at Sun Restaurant, serving as Na Bong-sun's supportive colleague and friend whose good looks and lighthearted personality inject comic relief into the kitchen scenes. Shin Hye-sun portrays Kang Eun-hui, Kang Sun-woo's younger sister and Choi Sung-jae's wife, whose appearances underscore family dynamics and provide emotional support amid the romantic entanglements.[32] Kang Ki-young depicts Heo Min-soo, the ambitious sous chef and restaurant manager after Sun-woo's departure, acting as a comic antagonist whose overbearing attitude fuels workplace rivalries and humorous conflicts with the staff.[32] Lee Joo-sil appears as Na Bong-sun's shaman grandmother, a recurring figure whose mystical background explains Bong-sun's ghostly visions and weaves the supernatural lore into the protagonist's personal history.[5] Additional ensemble members, such as Choi Min-chul as Jo Dong-chul and Oh Eui-shik as Choi Ji-woong—both fellow cooks—further populate the restaurant subplots with banter and group interactions that amplify the chaotic yet endearing atmosphere.[33]Special appearances
The series featured several special appearances by prominent Korean entertainers, enhancing episodic moments through brief cameos without impacting the core narrative. These guest roles often served promotional purposes, drawing in fans of the actors involved and adding layers of humor or tension in specific scenes. Notable appearances include:- Seo In-guk as Edward, an elite foreign-educated chef who briefly competes in a culinary challenge in episode 16, bringing star power and comedic flair due to his established career as a singer-actor.[34][35]
- Lee Ha-na as Jin Yi, a radio DJ providing voiceover commentary in episode 1, offering a subtle introductory tone to the story's supernatural elements.[32]
- Kim Hwan-hee as Yoon Chae-hee, the daughter of a lodge owner, appearing in episode 8 to contribute to a lighthearted getaway sequence.[32]
- Ryu Hyun-kyung as Officer Kang, a police officer involved in investigative scenes across episodes 13-15, heightening procedural intrigue.[32]
Music
Original soundtrack overview
The original soundtrack for Oh My Ghost was produced by CJ E&M, featuring a mix of ballads and upbeat tracks designed to enhance the series' romantic and supernatural moods. Released in four parts along with a full compilation and a special single between July and September 2015, the OST totals 23 songs in the full album, drawing contributions from prominent artists such as Ben and Jay Park to capture the narrative's emotional depth.[36][37] The release strategy aligned with the drama's airing schedule on tvN, with Part 1 dropping on July 10, 2015, followed by Part 2 on July 24, Part 3 on July 31, Part 4 on August 14, a full OST compilation on August 21, and the OST Special on August 28, allowing songs to build anticipation and complement key plot developments. Many tracks thematically reflect the story's possession duality, blending ethereal, haunting melodies with heartfelt confessions of love to underscore the ghost's bold influence on the protagonist's timid personality.[36] On the Gaon Music Chart, the OST achieved notable success, with the lead single "Stay" by Ben peaking at No. 4 on the Digital Chart during the summer of 2015, contributing to the series' cultural impact through widespread streaming and downloads.Part 1
The first original soundtrack (OST) release for Oh My Ghost, titled Oh My Ghost OST Part 1, was issued on July 10, 2015, coinciding with the early episodes of the series to capture its initial emotional tone. This installment features the lead single "Stay" by Ben, a soulful ballad blending pop and R&B elements, emphasizing the show's budding romantic and introspective atmosphere without delving into specific narrative details. The part also includes an instrumental version. "Stay" serves as the main theme, highlighting themes of longing and emotional depth through its smooth vocals and heartfelt delivery, making it a fitting underscore for the series' early character introductions.[36] Upon release, "Stay" achieved strong performance on major digital charts in South Korea, peaking at No. 4 on the Gaon Digital Chart, reflecting its immediate resonance with audiences and bolstering the series' promotional momentum. This success helped establish the OST's role in enhancing the initial viewer engagement from the outset.Part 2
The second installment of the Oh My Ghost original soundtrack was released on July 24, 2015, aligning with the series' mid-point where romantic tensions between characters intensify.[36] This part features the key track "Oh My Ghost" by Han So Hyun and Jamie Park, an uplifting love song characterized by harmonious duet vocals that mirror the evolving pairings of the leads, such as the chef and the possessed assistant.[38] The accompanying "Oh My Ghost (Trumpet Ver.)" provides an instrumental rendition with subtle supernatural undertones evoked through ethereal trumpet melodies, underscoring the ghostly possession narrative without overpowering the emotional core.[36] In terms of reception, the vocal track achieved notable streaming success, with significant plays on platforms like Spotify, contributing to the OST's overall digital footprint amid the drama's popularity. Specific sales figures for this installment are not separately reported, but prominent tracks from the OST collection performed well on Gaon Chart digital downloads.Part 3
The third installment of the original soundtrack for Oh My Ghost was released on July 31, 2015, coinciding with the series' escalating emotional conflicts around episode 8.[39] This part features a single main vocal track, "Leave" (떠난다), performed by lead actress Park Bo-young, marking her debut as a singer for the drama.[40] The song is a poignant ballad that captures the melancholic essence of the virgin ghost's lost memories and the protagonist Na Bong-sun's internal struggle as she grapples with possession and identity loss, enhancing the narrative's themes of longing and farewell during key dramatic moments like the episode's climactic kiss scene.[41] Composed and arranged to evoke a sense of quiet introspection, "Leave" showcases Park Bo-young's clear and soothing vocals, which were praised for providing emotional solace amid the story's supernatural turmoil.[42] The track's minimalist arrangement, centered on acoustic elements, underscores the series' blend of romance and pathos, aligning with the emotional peaks where characters confront separation and unresolved desires.[43] Released as a digital single including an instrumental version, it quickly garnered attention for the actress's unexpected vocal talent, with viewers expressing surprise and admiration upon its debut in the broadcast.[44] While the overall OST series contributed to the drama's popularity, "Leave" stands out as a fan-favorite for its heartfelt delivery and direct tie to the plot's ghost-human dynamics, though no individual certifications or awards were reported for this track.[45] The production, handled by CJ E&M's music team, emphasized authenticity by featuring the lead actress to deepen audience immersion in the story's conflicts.[46]Part 4
Part 4 of the Oh My Ghost original soundtrack was released on August 14, 2015, just days before the series finale, aligning with the narrative's emotional peak and romantic resolution. The centerpiece track, "Eyes" by Jay Park, delivers a smooth R&B sound infused with heartfelt vocals, exploring themes of lingering pain from distant memories and the desire to hold on despite overwhelming emotions.[47] Lyrics such as "Close my eyes, no, never let me go" evoke a sense of vulnerability and attachment, perfectly underscoring the protagonists' intense connection amid supernatural separation.[47] This installment emphasizes triumphant yet bittersweet tones, blending the relief of resolved tensions with the melancholy of farewells, as the ghost's departure allows for human love to flourish. The track's introspective melody captures the climax's catharsis, where eye contact symbolizes unspoken understanding and closure in the storyline.[36] Following the series' conclusion, "Eyes" maintained notable longevity on digital platforms, remaining a fan favorite in K-drama OST compilations and playlists for its evocative portrayal of enduring romance.[48]OST Special
The OST Special for Oh My Ghost was released on August 28, 2015, six days after the series finale aired on tvN. Published by Culture Depot, it consists of three tracks centered on "Gimme a Chocolate," a song performed by lead actor Jo Jung-suk, who plays the role of Kang Sun-woo. The tracks include the full vocal version (4:05), a drama edit version tailored for the show's scenes (3:36), and an instrumental rendition (4:05).[36] This special release functioned primarily as fan service, extending the in-drama moment where Jo Jung-suk's character plays the guitar and sings the lighthearted tune in episode 7, which became a memorable highlight for viewers. It provided a compilation of extended and variant content not included in the main OST parts, appealing to fans seeking supplementary material from the romantic comedy's musical elements. No additional collaborations or actor vocals beyond Jo Jung-suk were featured.[36] Distribution occurred digitally through platforms like Melon and Genie Music, with the single integrated into the full Oh My Ghost OST compilation album available for physical purchase as a CD in South Korea and select international markets. Physical editions, often including booklets with drama photos, were sold via retailers and later resold online, catering to collectors.[36][49]Broadcast and reception
Airing details and ratings
"Oh My Ghost" premiered on tvN on July 3, 2015, and concluded on August 22, 2015, spanning 16 episodes with each installment lasting approximately 60 minutes. The series aired on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. KST, filling the network's Friday-Saturday drama slot following "Ex-Girlfriends' Club."[5][2] Nationwide viewership ratings, as measured by Nielsen Korea using the paid platform metric for cable, satellite, and IPTV households, began modestly at an average of 2.8% for the premiere episode. Throughout its run, ratings showed an overall upward trajectory with intermittent mid-season dips, such as around episodes 6 and 15, before surging to a series high in the finale. The concluding episode achieved an average rating of 7.9% and a peak of 8.5%, underscoring the drama's growing appeal among audiences. This success positioned "Oh My Ghost" as the third highest-rated tvN drama in history up to that point, behind "Reply 1994" (average 8.4%) and "Misaeng" (average 7.2%).[50][51][52] The table below details the average ratings for select episodes, highlighting key trends in viewership:| Episode | Original air date | Average rating (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | July 3, 2015 | 2.8 |
| 2 | July 4, 2015 | 2.7 |
| 3 | July 10, 2015 | 3.4 |
| 4 | July 11, 2015 | 3.5 |
| 5 | July 17, 2015 | 3.8 |
| 6 | July 18, 2015 | 3.4 |
| 7 | July 24, 2015 | 3.8 |
| 8 | July 25, 2015 | 4.3 |
| 9 | July 31, 2015 | 4.2 |
| 10 | August 1, 2015 | 4.5 |
| 11 | August 7, 2015 | 4.8 |
| 12 | August 8, 2015 | 4.2 |
| 13 | August 14, 2015 | 5.3 |
| 14 | August 15, 2015 | 6.0 |
| 15 | August 21, 2015 | 5.3 |
| 16 | August 22, 2015 | 7.9 |
Critical response
Oh My Ghost received widespread praise upon its 2015 premiere for the palpable chemistry between leads Park Bo-young, portraying the possessed Na Bong-sun, and Jo Jung-suk as the stoic chef Kang Sun-woo, which critics noted elevated the romantic and comedic dynamics.[57] Reviewers commended how their interactions blended tenderness with humor, making the body-swap premise feel authentic and engaging.[24] The series' fusion of fantasy elements, such as the mischievous ghost Soon-ae, with lighthearted rom-com tropes earned acclaim for its balanced tone, often described as heartwarming and inventive. On MyDramaList, it holds an average rating of 8.3 out of 10 from over 58,000 users, reflecting strong approval for its entertaining mix of genres.[20] Similarly, IMDb users rated it 7.9 out of 10 based on more than 6,000 votes, highlighting the show's ability to deliver laughs alongside emotional depth.[2] Despite the positives, some 2015 reviews criticized the narrative for relying on predictable tropes, such as familiar possession and mystery subplots, which occasionally undermined the suspense. Others pointed to a rushed ending that resolved lingering threads too hastily, leaving certain character arcs feeling underdeveloped.[58][24] Audience feedback emphasized its rewatchability, with many rom-com enthusiasts citing it in polls as a comforting, uplifting series ideal for repeated viewings due to its feel-good vibes and relatable humor.[59] In 2020s retrospectives, Oh My Ghost has been hailed as a feel-good classic within the fantasy rom-com genre, praised for its enduring charm and influence on subsequent supernatural K-dramas.[60]Awards and nominations
Oh My Ghost received acclaim at several prominent award ceremonies in 2015 and 2016, with particular recognition for the lead performances of Park Bo-young and Jo Jung-suk, as well as the series' overall quality as a romantic comedy. The drama secured approximately five major wins across various platforms, highlighting its impact on South Korean television, though it did not receive any awards at the Baeksang Arts Awards despite nominations in key categories. The following table summarizes the key awards and nominations:| Year | Award Ceremony | Category | Recipient(s) | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 4th APAN Star Awards (November 28) | Excellence Award, Actress in a Miniseries | Park Bo-young | Won [61] |
| 2015 | 8th Korea Drama Awards (October 9) | Excellence Award, Actor | Jo Jung-suk | Won [62] |
| 2016 | 4th Annual DramaFever Awards (June 27) | Best Actress | Park Bo-young | Won [63] |
| 2016 | tvN10 Awards (October 9) | Top 10 Drama Content Award | Oh My Ghost | Won [64] |
| 2016 | tvN10 Awards (October 9) | Two Star Award | Jo Jung-suk | Won [65] |
| 2016 | 52nd Baeksang Arts Awards (June 3) | Best Screenplay (TV) | Yang Hee-seung | Nominated [66] |
| 2016 | 52nd Baeksang Arts Awards (June 3) | Most Popular Actress (TV) | Park Bo-young | Nominated [66] |
| 2016 | 4th Annual DramaFever Awards (June 27) | Best Korean Drama – Comedy | Oh My Ghost | Nominated [63] |
