2026 K-drama line-up: The most anticipated Korean series set to dominate screens this year

If there’s one thing 2026 is shaping up to dominate, it’s K-dramas. From lavish fantasy romances and historical epics to thrillers, showbiz dramas, and long-awaited sequels, the upcoming slate is packed with star power and ambitious storytelling. 

Featuring some of Korea’s biggest names and exciting new pairings, these titles promise to make 2026 an unforgettable year for drama lovers worldwide. Here’s a detailed look at the most anticipated K-dramas arriving this year.

Also Read: Best K-Dramas of 2025: Highest IMDb-rated shows that left a lasting impact

Perfect Crown

Set in an alternate modern world where monarchy still exists, Perfect Crown revolves around a contractual marriage between two unlikely allies. Sung Hee Joo, a chaebol heiress who despises her lack of royal status, joins hands with Prince Lee Ahn, the powerless second son of the King. What begins as a mutually beneficial agreement soon turns into something far more complicated.

Starring Byeon Woo Seok and IU, the series blends romance, comedy, and palace politics under the direction of Park Joon Hwa.

Where to watch: MBC TV, Disney+

The Remarried Empress

One of the most awaited fantasy romances, The Remarried Empress tells the story of Empress Navier, whose world shatters when her husband demands a divorce to marry a runaway slave. Determined to reclaim her dignity, she agrees to marry Prince Heinrey of the Western Kingdom, turning heartbreak into strategic revenge.

With a powerhouse cast including Ju Ji Hoon, Lee Jong Suk, and Shin Min Ah, this historical fantasy promises emotional depth, political intrigue, and grand visuals.

Where to watch: Disney+

Variety

Dark, gripping, and unsettling, Variety explores the toxic underbelly of the entertainment industry. Son Ye Jin plays So Eun, a sharp businesswoman determined to revive her struggling K-pop group, while Jo Yu Ri portrays an obsessive sasaeng fan who will stop at nothing to meet her idol.

As their paths collide, the show exposes fame, obsession, and moral decay in the glamorous world of stardom.

Where to watch: Netflix

Show Business

Spanning the 1960s to the 1980s, Show Business dives into Korea’s evolving entertainment industry. Childhood friends Min Ja and Dong Gu chase dreams of success, while rivalries, ambition, and complicated family dynamics shape their destinies.

Featuring an ensemble cast led by Gong Yoo, Song Hye Kyo, and Cha Seung Won, the drama is directed by Lee Yoon Jung and created by Noh Hee Kyung.

Where to watch: Netflix

Boyfriend on Demand

In Boyfriend on Demand, reality meets fantasy as Seo Mi Rae, an overworked webtoon producer, turns to a virtual dating app offering simulated boyfriends. Things take a turn when she keeps crossing paths with her real-life rival, Park Gyeong Nam.

Starring Jisoo and Seo In Guk, this rom-com promises humour, heart, and commentary on modern relationships.

Where to watch: Netflix

Human x Gumiho

Fantasy lovers are especially excited for Human x Gumiho, which pairs Ji Chang Wook with Jun Ji Hyun.

Jun Ji Hyun plays a glamorous actress who is secretly a 2,000-year-old gumiho, while Ji Chang Wook portrays a shaman immune to her charms. Their clash sparks chaos, comedy, and romance in equal measure.

Where to watch: Prime Video

Can This Love Be Translated?

This romantic comedy follows top actress Cha Mu Hee as she joins a dating reality show with contestants from around the world. To navigate cultural and language barriers, she teams up with multilingual interpreter Ju Ho Jin.

Starring Kim Seon Ho and Go Youn Jung, the series is created by the Hong Sisters and premieres on January 16, 2026.

Where to watch: Netflix

Portraits of Delusion

Set in 1935, Portraits of Delusion blends mystery, horror, and romance. A gifted painter is commissioned to paint a reclusive vampire hotel owner who demands an unsettling portrait of her aged self.

Led by Bae Suzy and Kim Seon Ho, the drama promises haunting visuals and psychological tension.

Where to watch: Disney+

Yumi’s Cells 3

The beloved series returns with Yumi’s Cells 3. Kim Yu Mi’s emotional and rational cells face new challenges as she meets a charming yet blunt publishing PD.

Starring Kim Go Eun, the third season continues its heartfelt exploration of love, growth, and everyday life.

Where to watch: tvN, TVING, iQIYI

Grand Galaxy Hotel

A spin-off of Hotel del Luna, Grand Galaxy Hotel introduces a supernatural hotel catering to wandering souls. A temperamental new owner teams up with the hotel’s only human employee, surrounded by grim reapers and mysterious beings.

Starring Lee Do Hyun, the series is directed by Oh Choong Hwan.

Where to watch: Netflix

More Sequels and Star-Studded Projects

Other highly awaited releases include Bloodhounds Season 2, A Shop for Killers Season 2, The WONDERfools, and Four Hands. Meanwhile, fans continue to wait for updates on The Second Signal and All of Us Are Dead.

Aslo Read: 5 feel-good k-dramas of 2025 that make the perfect Christmas binge

Why 2026 Feels Special

With bold concepts, global platforms, and beloved stars returning in sequels, 2026 stands out as a defining year for K-dramas. Whether you love romance, fantasy, thrillers, or slice-of-life stories, the year ahead promises something unforgettable for every fan.