The Heavenly Idol

The Heavenly Idol (Korean: 성스러운 아이돌; RR: Sungseuryeowoon Idol) is a South Korean fantasy television series that aired on tvN in 2023. The series is based on the web novel Sungseureowoon Idol by Shin Hwa-jin, which was first published on Naver on September 4, 2019. During its development, the project was known by the working title Daeshingwan Lembrary (Pontifex Lembrary).

Plot

The story follows Pontifex Lembrary, a high priest from another world known for his immense divine power. While battling a demon, he is suddenly transported to Earth and finds himself inhabiting the body of Woo Yeon-woo, a member of the struggling idol group Wild Animal. The group has faced three years of obscurity and is on the verge of disbanding. Lembrary's sudden appearance in Yeon-woo's body leads to a chaotic live broadcast performance, which unexpectedly captures public attention. As he navigates life as an idol, he must contend with the challenges of the entertainment industry, the threat of the devil, and various religious factions.

Production and Release

The series was directed by Park So-yeon and Lee So-yoon, with a screenplay by Lee Cheon-geum. It consisted of 12 episodes and was broadcast on tvN every Wednesday and Thursday at 22:30. The series premiered on February 15, 2023, and concluded on March 23, 2023. It occupied the time slot previously held by Poong, The Joseon Psychiatrist 2 and was succeeded by Stealer: The Treasure Keeper.

Cast

The main cast includes Kim Min-kyu as Pontifex Lembrary and Woo Yeon-woo, Go Bo-gyeol as Kim Dal, and Lee Jang-woo as Shin Jo-woon.