Fans of the hit K-drama The First Night with the Duke were left on the edge of their seats as Episode 9 dropped today, July 9, 2025, bringing a dramatic twist that’s now dominating conversations across social media. The romantic fantasy series took a darker turn with a surprise kidnapping, shaking up the central love story and setting the stage for a suspense-filled second half of the season.
Now streaming globally on platforms like Viki and Viu, Episode 9 dives deeper into the love triangle involving the beautiful protagonist Ripley, the enigmatic Duke Zeronis, and the ever-watchful Prince Caine. But just as Ripley starts to come to terms with her feelings for the cold but devoted Duke, she’s suddenly kidnapped by a masked group believed to be connected to palace politics.
This unexpected development not only injects fresh energy into the storyline but also unveils new layers of danger in the fictional kingdom. The emotional intensity skyrockets as Zeronis—usually composed and calculating—loses control for the first time, hinting at just how far he’s willing to go to protect Ripley.
Adapted from the beloved webtoon of the same name, The First Night with the Duke has grown into one of 2025’s most talked-about Korean dramas, thanks to its unique blend of period romance, fantasy, and palace intrigue. Episode 9 ramps up both the romance and the suspense, with fans praising the plot development, high-quality cinematography, and emotionally rich performances from the lead actors.
Social media platforms like TikTok and Twitter have exploded with reactions, with hashtags such as #FirstNightWithTheDuke and #RipleyKidnapped trending globally within hours of the episode’s release. Fan theories are now circulating about who is behind the abduction and what it means for the budding romance between Ripley and Zeronis.
With Episode 10 teased to reveal the kidnapper’s identity and test Zeronis’ loyalty, the stakes have never been higher. As the drama unfolds, The First Night with the Duke continues to prove it’s not just a love story—but a rollercoaster of power, passion, and peril.
