The time-slip K-drama Bon Appétit, Your Majesty quickly became a global hit after its August 2025 release, charming audiences with its mix of romance, comedy, and palace politics. Among its memorable cast of characters, one particular court entertainer has captured significant viewer attention: the intriguing and skillful Gong Gil. This character brings a special energy to the palace, seamlessly moving between performances and secretly influencing the story’s plot. Here is what you need to know about Gong Gil and the actor who plays him.
The Character: Gong Gil’s Role in the Palace
In Bon Appétit, Your Majesty, Gong Gil is written as a court entertainer and the head of the namsadang, a group of all-male performers who serve as jesters for the king. His role inside the palace is complex. As an entertainer, he is responsible for shifting the mood of the court, moving between comedy and sadness during his performances. This position allows him to connect with different groups within the palace, and his choices often help push the plot forward.
Beyond just providing entertainment, Gong Gil’s character becomes a bridge between performance and politics. He is secretly enlisted for various sensitive tasks by both King Yi Heon and his rival, Prince Je Seon, finding himself at the center of their power struggle. This places the performer in the dangerous role of a spy, making his actions crucial to the unfolding political intrigue. The character is a fresh interpretation of a historic figure; a real-life Gong Gil was known as King Yeonsangun’s “favorite clown” and was previously portrayed in the 2005 film The King and the Clown.
The Actor: Lee Joo-Ahn’s Rising Career
The actor bringing Gong Gil to life is Lee Joo-ahn. Born on January 24, 1996, he studied acting at Dankook University’s Department of Performing Arts and Film. Now 29, Lee has been building his career in the industry for several years. He first appeared on screen in 2018 with minor roles in the drama SKY Castle and the film The Great Battle.
His official start came in 2019 with the series Save Me 2, where he played a troubled high school student. He continued to take on steady supporting roles in popular dramas such as True Beauty (2020), Youth of May (2021), and Snowdrop (2021). More recently, he appeared as Ha-rang in the 2024 drama Love Song for Illusion. His performance in Bon Appétit, Your Majesty has given him his widest recognition to date, securing him a place among Korea’s fast-rising actors.
A Personal Sacrifice: Lee Joo-Ahn’s Military Exemption
Lee Joo-ahn recently shared a personal story that brought him further attention. In an interview on October 1, 2025, he explained that he was exempted from South Korea’s mandatory military service because he donated part of his liver to his mother.
“I was exempted because I donated a part of my liver to my mother,” Lee told SpoTV News.
He recalled the urgent situation that led to the donation when he was 22. His mother had pre-existing liver issues, and her condition suddenly worsened due to cirrhosis and other complications, causing her to lose consciousness. Lee rushed to the hospital, where emergency surgery was necessary. He agreed to be the donor, and nearly 70 percent of his liver was removed for the transplant. The surgery was successful, and his mother’s health improved. Lee expressed his happiness about the outcome, stating, “My mother is doing so well. She mentioned that everyone knows Gong Gil from Bon Appétit, Your Majesty, and hearing that puts my mind at ease.”
A Lasting Impression on Viewers
Lee Joo-ahn’s portrayal of Gong Gil has been widely praised. Fans have noted how he makes the character feel layered and essential, even when Gong Gil is not the central focus of a scene. His ability to express emotion and his physical performance, including displaying judo and sword-fighting skills, have made the character fun to watch and a memorable part of the show’s success. This role has undoubtedly been a breakout moment for the actor, making Gong Gil a character viewers remember long after the show has ended.
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Credits: Marie Claire
