8 new Korean dramas releasing in January 2026 that promise a heart-fluttering start to the year

While December 2025 treated K-drama fans to binge-worthy titles like Cashero, Made in Korea, Pro Bono, and Surely Tomorrow, January 2026 is shaping up to be equally exciting. The new year opens with a fresh lineup of Korean dramas that blend romance, fantasy, comedy, workplace drama, and emotional storytelling.

Featuring highly anticipated pairings and unique concepts, these upcoming shows are set to make January a month worth bookmarking. Here’s a closer look at the eight new Korean dramas releasing in January 2026.

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

The Judge Returns – January 2

The Judge Returns is a fantasy legal drama that revolves around a morally corrupt judge who lives as a loyal servant to a powerful law firm. His life takes an unexpected turn when he dies tragically and wakes up ten years in the past. Armed with a second chance, he transforms into an anti-hero who punishes powerful wrongdoers while standing up for justice. His journey becomes more complex when he clashes with another greedy senior judge. The drama stars Ji Sung, Park Hee Soon, and Won Jin Ah, and streams on Viki.

To My Beloved Thief – January 3

This fantasy rom-com sageuk follows a noblewoman who secretly lives as a bandit, stealing from the rich to help the poor. Her double life draws the attention of a royal prince tasked with capturing her. However, fate intervenes when their first encounter results in the two switching souls. Forced to survive in each other’s worlds, they slowly develop feelings while protecting their people. The drama stars Nam Ji Hyun, Moon Sang Min, Han So Eun, and Hong Min Gi, and streams on Viki.

Spring Fever – January 5

Spring Fever is a warm rom-com centred on a reserved high school teacher who moves from Seoul to the quiet town of Shinsuep to escape her painful past. Though emotionally guarded, she quickly catches the attention of locals—and especially the CEO of JK Power Energy, a brawny man with a surprisingly kind heart. Their unlikely romance blossoms as they slowly break down each other’s walls. The series stars Ahn Bo Hyun and Lee Joo Bin, and streams on Amazon Prime Video.

Can This Love Be Translated? – January 16

One of the most anticipated K-dramas of the month, this heartwarming rom-com tells the story of a multilingual interpreter and a lively Hallyu actress. Their paths cross when he becomes her translator for a dating reality show. Emotionally clueless in matters of love, the interpreter constantly clashes with the actress, but their witty conversations slowly bring them closer. Complications arise with the arrival of her Japanese co-star, leading to a globe-trotting romance. The series marks the first on-screen collaboration between Kim Seon Ho and Go Youn Jung, and also stars Sota Fukushi. It premieres on Netflix.

No Tail to Tell – January 16

This quirky fantasy romance follows a Gen Z gumiho who avoids both good deeds and wrongdoing to preserve her immortality. Her carefully balanced life falls apart after an accident with a narcissistic soccer star turns her human. Forced to experience human emotions for the first time, she navigates love, vulnerability, and identity with him by her side. The drama stars Kim Hye Yoon and Lomon.

Undercover Miss Hong – January 17

This office comedy centres on a 35-year-old prosecutor who goes undercover as a 20-year-old employee to expose corruption at Hanmin Securities. Using her younger sister’s identity, she navigates entry-level chaos while secretly investigating financial crimes. Matters get complicated when she discovers her CEO is her ex-boyfriend. Starring Park Shin Hye, Go Kyung Pyo, and Ha Yoon Kyung, the series promises humour and drama.

Positively Yours – January 17

Based on a popular webtoon, this rom-com explores the fallout of a one-night stand between a chaebol CEO and a young manager—both firmly against marriage. An unexpected pregnancy changes everything, leading to a comedic yet heartfelt romance. The drama stars Choi Jin Hyuk and Oh Yeon Seo, and streams on Viki.

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

Recipe for Love – January 31

This coming-of-age romance follows childhood friends from feuding families who reunite as adults and co-workers. As feelings resurface, they must protect their love while healing decades-old wounds between their families. The drama stars Jin Se Yeon and Park Ki Woong.