[Ishani's Picks] Here's Why "Alchemy Of Souls" Is Definitely Worth The Watch

One of the most highly anticipated fantasy K-Dramas of 2022, "Alchemy of Souls" is finally on air and I could not be more excited. Here's why you should be adding it to your watchlist!

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Set in the fictional nation of Daeho, "Alchemy of Souls" tells the story of a feared shadow assassin, Nak-soo (played by Go Youn-jung), who loses her life on a mission to execute the mages of the land who misuse the powers of the mystical Lake Gyeongcheondaeho. Embodying the energy of the sky that rules the wind, clouds and rain, the Lake is an unfathomable source of power that can be harnessed for both good and evil. The sorcery at the centre of the narrative is that of soul shifting or "hwanhonsool".

From the very first episode, the world building and exposition of the drama are impeccable, to say the least. "Alchemy of Souls" posits a complicated dramatic universe but the ruling principles of the same are broken down for viewers without compromising on their complexity. It doesn't take long to connect with the characters or understand their motives but the air of mystery looms eerily over us, keeping us on our toes.

The key protagonist of the story is Nak-soo and later, Mudeok (played by Jung So-min), going by the name of the blind country girl whose weak body holds Nak-soo's soul. However, unlike your usual host, there's something different about Mudeok. The blue mark that signifies soul shifting has appeared in Mudeok's eyes, thus allowing her to evade detection until Jang  Wook (played by Lee Jae-wook), the son of the mighty Jang family, recognizes her.

Jang  Wook is a misunderstood troublemaker with a birth secret that makes him the talk of the town. His father sealed off his energy gate at birth, barring him from being able to learn sorcery. As not a soul in Daeho would dare go against his father, Jang Kang (played by Joo Sang-wook), he's left looking for a true master who will help him break the curse of his father. As soon as Jang  Wook comes across Mudeok, he's quick to notice the blue glow in her eyes. Realizing that the master he had been looking for is right in front of him, he makes a bid that changes both of their lives.

Jang  Wook takes Mudeok in as a servant and Mudeok, after an exhilarating series of events, takes Jang  Wook as her pupil. Thus begins the saga of revenge, betrayal, magic and love - a tale that will transcend reality and leave a mark on our hearts. I cannot wait to see where the show takes us next!

By Ishani Sarkar.

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"Alchemy of Souls" is directed by Park Joon-hwa, written by Hong Jeong-eun, Hong Mi-ran, and features Lee Jae-wook, Jung So-min, Oh Na-ra, Joo Sang-wook, Go Youn-jung, Hwang Minhyun. Broadcasting information in Korea: 2022/06/18~Now airing, Sat, Sun 21:10 on tvN.