Introduction
Love in the Moonlight (also known as Moonlight Drawn by Clouds) is one of the most popular K-dramas of recent years. Based on the web novel Moonlight Drawn by Clouds by Yoon Yi-Soo, the drama has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide with its engaging story, stunning cinematography, and impeccable performances by its cast. The series revolves around a young crown prince, his love for a woman disguised as a eunuch, and the complexities of palace life.
One of the standout aspects of the show is its remarkable ensemble of actors. From the lead roles to the supporting characters, each actor brought their character to life in a unique and compelling way, contributing to the series’ success. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the actors of Love in the Moonlight and explore their roles and impact on the show.
Lead Cast of Love in the Moonlight
Park Bo-gum as Lee Yeong
Park Bo-gum stars as the crown prince, Lee Yeong. His portrayal of a reserved but passionate royal caught in the turmoil of palace life resonated with fans around the globe. Park’s ability to express the inner conflict of his character was pivotal in the series’ emotional depth. His character’s journey from a playful prince to a determined ruler captivated audiences and made him one of South Korea’s top actors.
- Character Traits: Charming, yet conflicted by royal duties.
- Notable Scenes: His slow-burn romance with Hong Ra-on and moments of vulnerability.
Kim Yoo-jung as Hong Ra-on
Kim Yoo-jung plays Hong Ra-on, a woman who disguises herself as a man to survive in a male-dominated world. Ra-on’s transformation from a humble servant to the woman who captures the heart of the crown prince is one of the most captivating story arcs in the drama. Love In The Moonlight Actors Kim’s portrayal of Ra-on was both strong and endearing, giving the character an unforgettable presence on screen.
- Character Traits: Witty, resourceful, and strong-willed.
- Notable Scenes: Her emotional struggles with her identity and love for Yeong.

Supporting Cast: Key Players in the Story
Love in the Moonlight also features a stellar supporting cast that added depth to the storyline. From the loyal court officials to the characters who challenged the protagonists, each role was crucial to moving the plot forward.
Jinyoung as Kim Yoon-sung: Kim Yoon-sung, portrayed by Jinyoung, is the crown prince’s childhood friend, and his secret affection for Hong Ra-on adds a layer of complexity to the love triangle.
Chae Soo-bin as Jo Ha-yeon: Jo Ha-yeon, the intelligent and ambitious daughter of a powerful official, also plays a role in the prince’s life and political intrigue.
How the Actors Brought Their Characters to Life
The actors in Love in the Moonlight didn’t just perform their roles; they transformed into their characters. From method acting techniques to fitting into the historical costumes, the preparation behind these performances was meticulous.
Park Bo-gum: Known for his professionalism, Bo-gum spent considerable time researching his character and learning the nuances of palace life, ensuring his portrayal of Lee Yeong was authentic.
Kim Yoo-jung: As a seasoned actress even at a young age, Yoo-jung’s dedication to understanding her character’s emotional complexity shone through, especially in scenes that dealt with Hong Ra-on’s internal struggles.
Impact of Love in the Moonlight on the Actors’ Careers
The success of Love in the Moonlight significantly boosted the careers of its lead and supporting actors. Park Bo-gum’s fame soared internationally, solidifying him as one of the top Hallyu stars. Kim Yoo-jung, who had already been in the industry for years, gained even more recognition, becoming one of the most sought-after actresses in South Korea. Their chemistry, both on and off-screen, was a key factor in the drama’s success.
Recognition and Awards
The cast received numerous accolades for their performances. Park Bo-gum won several Best Actor awards, while Kim Yoo-jung was recognized for her role in bringing Hong Ra-on to life. The chemistry between the lead actors was one of the highlights of the drama, earning them a dedicated fan following.
Guide to Exploring Love in the Moonlight Characters
If you’re a fan of Love in the Moonlight or a newcomer to the drama, exploring the characters and their backstories will deepen your appreciation for the series. Here’s a step-by-step guide to understanding the core characters and their journeys.
Start with Lee Yeong (Park Bo-gum): As the prince, Yeong’s journey from a playful young man to a responsible ruler is central to the plot. His internal conflict, love for Ra-on, and growth as a leader make him a character to watch closely.
Explore Hong Ra-on (Kim Yoo-jung): Follow Ra-on’s evolution from a disguised eunuch to a strong-willed woman who loves deeply but also faces significant hardships. Her journey of self-discovery and her relationship with Yeong is the heart of the drama.
Dive into the Political Intrigue: Supporting characters like Kim Yoon-sung (Jinyoung) and Jo Ha-yeon (Chae Soo-bin) add layers of complexity to the royal palace’s power struggles. Watch how these characters influence the storyline, creating tension and drama.
Appreciate the Historical Context: Understanding the historical setting in which the drama takes place will give you a new perspective on the characters’ decisions. The royal court, its customs, and societal expectations play a big part in shaping the narrative.
Enjoy the Romance and Tension: The romantic relationships in Love in the Moonlight are central to its appeal. Focus on the moments between Yeong and Ra-on, as well as the other characters’ evolving relationships.

SERP Featured Snippet List: Love in the Moonlight Cast
Here’s a quick look at the main characters and the actors who brought them to life:
- Park Bo-gum – Lee Yeong (Crown Prince)
- Kim Yoo-jung – Hong Ra-on (Disguised as a eunuch)
- Jinyoung – Kim Yoon-sung (Yeong’s childhood friend)
- Chae Soo-bin – Jo Ha-yeon (Yeong’s love rival)
- Kwon Na-ra – Choi Hae-soo (Supporting character)
FAQ: Love in the Moonlight Cast and Characters
Who played the crown prince in Love in the Moonlight?
Park Bo-gum played the role of Lee Yeong, the crown prince in the drama.
What role did Kim Yoo-jung play in Love in the Moonlight?
Kim Yoo-jung portrayed Hong Ra-on, a woman who disguises herself as a man and becomes the object of the crown prince’s affection.
Is there a love triangle in Love in the Moonlight?
Yes, there is a love triangle involving Lee Yeong, Hong Ra-on, and Kim Yoon-sung (played by Jinyoung), which adds tension to the plot.
Did the cast receive any awards for their performances?
Yes, both Park Bo-gum and Kim Yoo-jung received several awards for their portrayals in the drama, including Best Actor and Best Actress honors.
How did the actors prepare for their roles?
The actors underwent extensive research into their characters’ lives in the Joseon Dynasty, with Park Bo-gum focusing on the responsibilities of a crown prince and Kim Yoo-jung immersing herself in the character’s emotional complexity.