Lee Jun-hyuk has officially been confirmed as the lead in SBS’s upcoming occult drama “Awakening,” where he will portray an exorcist priest battling evil spirits in a high school consumed by academic obsession. The series is scheduled to air in 2027 and is produced by StudioS and TME Group.
SBS’s 2027 Thriller “Awakening” Casts Lee Jun-hyuk in First Occult Role
Drama Overview
SBS has announced its ambitious new occult drama “Awakening,” set to premiere in 2027. Produced by StudioS and TME Group, the series follows the chilling story of a prestigious high school where students, desperate to excel in entrance exams, turn to mysterious “awakening drugs.” These substances unleash terrifying powers, allowing them to hear the voices of the dead and inadvertently invite evil spirits into their lives.
The drama positions itself as a bold successor to SBS’s 2023 hit “Revenant,” which opened new horizons for Korean-style occult storytelling. “Awakening” aims to push the genre further, blending supernatural horror with social commentary on Korea’s intense academic culture.
Lee Jun-hyuk’s Role
Lee Jun-hyuk will take on the role of Antonio, a newly appointed head priest at Holy Spirit High School. His character is tasked with confronting the dark forces unleashed by the students’ obsession with success. Antonio risks his soul to save the young lives trapped in a deadly game of jealousy, desire, and supernatural terror.
This marks Lee Jun-hyuk’s first foray into the occult genre, a significant transformation from his previous romantic comedy roles. His casting has already sparked excitement, as fans anticipate how his versatile acting will adapt to the darker, more intense tone of the series.
Production and Creative Team
- Network: SBS
- Production Companies: StudioS, TME Group
- Genre: Occult / Exorcism / Thriller
- Setting: Holy Spirit High School, a place where academic pressure becomes a breeding ground for evil spirits
The drama is expected to combine psychological tension, supernatural horror, and moral dilemmas, offering a fresh take on exorcism stories within a uniquely Korean context.
Why “Awakening” Matters
- Genre Expansion: Following the success of “Revenant,” SBS is positioning “Awakening” as its next flagship occult drama.
- Actor Transformation: Lee Jun-hyuk’s shift from lighthearted roles to a dark, spiritual character highlights his range and could redefine his career trajectory.
- Social Commentary: By setting the story in an exam-driven high school, the drama critiques the pressures of Korea’s education system while weaving in supernatural elements.
Conclusion
With Lee Jun-hyuk confirmed as the lead priest Antonio, SBS’s “Awakening” is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated dramas of 2027. Combining occult themes with sharp social insights, the series promises to deliver both thrills and thought-provoking storytelling.
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