When the Devil Calls Your Name
When the Devil Calls Your Name is a captivating fantasy K-drama that explores the price of success and the consequences of striking a deal with the devil. Ha Rip (Jung Kyung Ho), a once-struggling musician, becomes a legendary hitmaker after making a pact with the devil. For ten years, he enjoys fame, wealth, and success, believing he has outsmarted fate. But when his contract nears its end, the devil himself, Mo Tae Kang (Park Sung Woong), comes to collect his soul.
Desperate to escape his impending doom, Ha Rip discovers that his success was stolen from Kim I Gyeong (Lee Seol), a talented but struggling singer-songwriter whose life was unknowingly altered by his bargain. Filled with guilt, he tries to help her while searching for a way to rewrite his destiny. Alongside him is Ji Seo Yeong (Lee El), his dedicated manager, who harbors secrets of her own. As the devil's grip tightens, Ha Rip must choose between his own salvation and making amends for his past sins.
Blending music, fantasy, and psychological drama, this series delivers intense performances, gripping storytelling, and a thought-provoking exploration of ambition, morality, and redemption. The soundtrack, featuring emotional ballads and haunting melodies, plays a crucial role in setting the mood, making the story even more immersive.
For fans of dark fantasy, Faustian bargains, and music-infused dramas, When the Devil Calls Your Name is an unforgettable K-drama that asks the ultimate question—what would you give up for success?
Details
🙂 Native Title: 악마가 너의 이름을 부를 때
🌎 Also Known As: Akmaga Neoui Ileum-eul Buleul Ttae
🎭 Genres: Fantasy, Supernatural, Drama
🏷 Tags: Deal with the Devil, Musician Male Lead, Faustian Bargain, Redemption, Soul Selling
✍ Screenwriters: Noh Hye-Young, Go Nae-Ri
🎬 Directors: Min Jin-Ki
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬Episodes: 16
🗓️ Aired: July 31, 2019 – September 19, 2019
📅 Airing Days: Wednesday & Thursday
📺 Original Network: tvN
⏰ Duration: 75 minutes per episode
🔞 Content Rating: 15+ – Teens 15 or older
Best Scenes
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Ha Rip’s Soulful Performance: Ha Rip (Jung Kyung-ho) delivers an impassioned rendition of “Where Is The Dream,” capturing his internal struggle and desire for redemption.
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Contract Revelation: The intense moment when Ha Rip realizes his success came at the cost of Kim I-gyeong’s (Lee Seol) talent, leading to a profound moral dilemma.
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Devil’s True Form Unveiled: A dramatic scene where Mo Tae-gang (Park Sung-woong) reveals his demonic nature, showcasing impressive special effects and acting.
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Ha Rip and I-gyeong’s Duet: A touching performance where they collaborate on “My Song,” symbolizing forgiveness and unity.
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Climactic Confrontation: The final showdown between Ha Rip and the devil, filled with suspense and emotional depth.
Filming Locations
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Seoul’s Hongdae District: Vibrant streets reflecting the youthful and artistic ambiance of the characters.
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Namsan Seoul Tower: A scenic backdrop symbolizing Ha Rip’s contemplation of his life’s choices.
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Bukchon Hanok Village: Traditional Korean houses highlighting the cultural essence of the series.
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Han River: Serene riverside scenes depicting moments of reflection and decision-making.
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Seoul Arts Center: Concert hall settings for pivotal musical performances.
Visual Design and Costumes
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Ha Rip’s Evolutionary Wardrobe: Transition from flamboyant outfits to more subdued attire, mirroring his character development.
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Devil’s Stylish Suits: Mo Tae-gang’s sharp and dark ensembles emphasize his charismatic yet sinister persona.
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I-gyeong’s Bohemian Style: Reflects her artistic nature and free-spirited personality.
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Dreamlike Lighting: Soft filters and ethereal lighting during fantasy sequences enhance the supernatural theme.
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Symbolic Color Palette: Use of contrasting colors to represent the battle between good and evil.
Themes and Messages
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Price of Ambition: Explores how far one might go to achieve success and the moral implications involved.
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Redemption and Forgiveness: Highlights the possibility of atonement and the power of forgiving oneself and others.
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Duality of Human Nature: Depicts the coexistence of good and evil within individuals.
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Consequences of Choices: Emphasizes that every decision has repercussions, affecting not just oneself but others.
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Search for Identity: Characters grapple with understanding their true selves amidst external influences.
Interesting Facts
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Inspired by Goethe’s “Faust”: The drama draws parallels to the classic tale of a man who sells his soul to the devil.
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Jung Kyung-ho’s Musical Talent: The lead actor performed his own singing scenes, adding authenticity to his role.
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Lee Seol’s Breakthrough Role: This series marked a significant milestone in her acting career.
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Philosophical Dialogues: The script incorporates deep reflections on morality, existence, and human desires.
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Acclaimed Soundtrack: The original soundtrack received praise for complementing the show’s emotional depth.
Awards
“When the Devil Calls Your Name” received the following award nomination:
- 12th Korea Drama Awards (2019): Jung Kyung-ho was nominated for the Top Excellence Award, Actor, for his role in the series.
Real-Life Loves on Set
There is no public information or confirmed reports indicating that any romantic relationships from the Korean drama “When the Devil Calls Your Name” have extended into real life. The cast members, including Jung Kyung-ho, Park Sung-woong, Lee Seol, and Lee El, have maintained professional relationships, and no off-screen romances have been reported. Jung Kyung-ho has been in a long-term relationship with Choi Soo-young of Girls’ Generation since early 2013.
Trailer
Music / OST
Gallery
