“The Queen Who Crowns”: Cast & Filming Locations
“The Queen Who Crowns” is produced by tvN and will be available for streaming on TVING. The series marks a significant entry in the historical drama genre for 2025, offering viewers a glimpse into the political intrigues of the early Joseon dynasty.
Plot and Characters of ‘The Queen Who Crowns’

‘The Queen Who Crowns’ focuses on Queen Wongyeong, portrayed by Cha Joo-Young, who was born as Lady Min during the Goryeo period. Coming from a prestigious family known for producing high-ranking government officials, she marries Yi Bang-Won (played by Lee Hyun-Wook), also known as Prince Jeongan, the son of King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon dynasty.
The story of ‘The Queen Who Crowns’ revolves around the political ambitions of Yi Bang-Won and Lady Min as they navigate the complexities of royal succession. When King Taejo selects his second son, Yi Bang-Gwa, as his successor instead of Yi Bang-Won, the couple becomes dissatisfied. Lady Min then takes on the role of a kingmaker, working to help her husband ascend to the throne.
After successfully becoming King Taejong, Yi Bang-Won acquires multiple concubines, which strains his relationship with Queen Wongyeong. The drama explores the deterioration of their relationship and King Taejong’s efforts to consolidate his power by keeping Queen Wongyeong and her family in check.
Cast of ‘The Queen Who Crowns’
Cha Joo-young as Queen Wongyeong
Cha Joo-young takes on the pivotal role of Queen Wongyeong, a woman who dreamed of a new world. Born as the daughter of Min Je from the prestigious Yeoheung Min clan, Queen Wongyeong is portrayed as a key figure in the establishment of the Joseon Dynasty. Cha Joo-young, known for her versatile acting skills, is expected to bring depth and nuance to this complex historical character.
Lee Hyun-wook as Lee Bang-won
Lee Hyun-wook portrays Lee Bang-won, who later becomes King Taejong, the third king of Joseon. As Queen Wongyeong’s husband, his character is central to the political and personal dynamics of the royal court. Lee Hyun-wook’s previous roles in historical dramas make him a fitting choice for this powerful and ambitious character.
Lee Yi-dam as Chae-ryeong
Adding intrigue to the royal household is Lee Yi-dam in the role of Chae-ryeong. Starting as the queen’s servant, Chae-ryeong becomes entangled in court politics as she catches the king’s eye. This character promises to bring additional tension and drama to the series.
Lee Si-a as Yeong-sil
Lee Si-a takes on the role of Yeong-sil, a royal concubine pregnant with the king’s child. Her character is likely to play a significant role in the power dynamics within the palace, potentially challenging Queen Wongyeong’s position.
A Glimpse into Joseon’s Royal Intrigues
“The Queen Who Crowns” aims to offer viewers a fresh perspective on the early Joseon period, focusing on Queen Wongyeong’s role in shaping the dynasty. The drama is set to explore themes of power, ambition, and the complexities of royal relationships.
Filming Locations of ‘The Queen Who Crowns’
Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung, located in the heart of Seoul, serves as a primary filming location for the drama. As the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, it provides an authentic backdrop for scenes depicting royal life. The palace’s extensive grounds, including the Outer Court (oejeon) and Inner Court (naejeon), offer diverse settings for various royal activities and ceremonies portrayed in the drama.
Namhansanseong Fortress

Namhansanseong, a mountain fortress located in Gyeonggi-do, is used to represent historical defensive structures in the drama. This UNESCO World Heritage site provides a stunning backdrop for scenes requiring a fortified setting.
Dae Jang Geum Park

Formerly known as MBC Dramia, Dae Jang Geum Park in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, is a key filming location for “Wongyeong”. This open-air film set, the largest in Korea, features meticulously reconstructed historical buildings from various periods, making it ideal for depicting different eras in Korean history.
Additional Locations of ‘The Queen Who Crowns’
The drama also utilizes several other historical sites and scenic locations across South Korea, including:
- Jukseoru Pavilion
- Haemi Eupseong Fortress
- Boryeong Chungcheong Naval Base
- Hongsan Hyeongwan-ya (Former Government Office)
- Buyeo Yeohung Min Clan’s Historic House
- Munheon Seowon (Confucian Academy)
- Uam Historical Park
- Hong Panseo’s House
- Gyeonggijeon Shrine
- Jeonju Hyanggyo (Confucian School)
- • Seonunsa Temple
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