The year 2026 is highly anticipated by Korean drama fans, as it brings many new titles with fresh storylines, top-tier stars, and diverse genres ranging from romance, action, fantasy, to historical dramas that are set to delight and captivate audiences. From late June through the end of the year, the broadcast schedules for these dramas have been confirmed, and they will be available on various streaming platforms and channels including Netflix, Disney+, tvN, SBS, and ENA. Below is a comprehensive review of the upcoming new Korean dramas, complete with synopses, main casts, and release dates — all of which deserve a spot on your watchlist.
1. Agent Kim Reactivated – Premiering June 26, 2026
Genre: Action, Thriller, Revenge | Channel: SBS | Number of Episodes: 10
This is one of the most awaited titles this month, starring the legendary actor So Ji Sub, who returns to the screen in an action-packed role. The story follows Kim Tae Jin, an ordinary man living a quiet life as a father and office worker, who is revealed to be a former top-secret agent long since retired. His life is turned upside down when his only daughter is kidnapped by a large criminal syndicate. To save his child, he is forced to reawaken his long-buried combat skills, strategic mind, and covert expertise. Joining So Ji Sub are Choi Dae Hoon and Yoon Kyung Ho in supporting roles, who deepen the story’s tension. Directed by Lee Seung Young, who worked on Voice 2, this drama promises intense action sequences and an unpredictable plot.
2. See You at Work Tomorrow – Premiering June 22, 2026
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Workplace Drama | Channel: tvN | Episodes: 12
This drama blends romance and office dynamics in a lighthearted yet meaningful style. Starring Jung Kyung Ho and Jeon Yeo Bin, the story centers on Na Yi Jun, a famous, charismatic yet arrogant news anchor who is suddenly demoted to a low-rated news program. There, he meets Seo Hae Yun, a sharp-witted, firm scriptwriter who strongly dislikes people with inflated egos. Initially, the two constantly clash and see things completely differently — but as they work together to save the program from being canceled, new feelings begin to grow between them. More than just a love story, this drama explores how they reshape each other’s perspectives on life and learn the value of teamwork.
3. Dream to You – Premiering July 13, 2026
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Youth | Channel: KBS2 | Episodes: 12
A unique story about two people who can only meet within dreams. Han Yeo Reum is a girl who constantly dreams of the future, yet never knows if those visions will come true. One day, she meets Kang Tae Ha, a young man who also appears in those very same dreams. Both realize their fates are intertwined, and events unfolding in their dreams slowly begin to affect the real world. Featuring talented emerging actors, this drama offers sweet moments, a touch of mystery, and a meaningful message about the courage to pursue one’s dreams. It is perfect for anyone who enjoys light yet deeply resonant stories.
4. A Shop for Killers Season 2 – Premiering July 22, 2026
Genre: Action, Thriller, Mystery | Platform: Disney+ | Episodes: 8
Following the massive success of its first season, this sequel is highly anticipated. Lee Dong Wook reprises his role as Jeong Jin Man, the owner of a general store that secretly serves as a safe haven and supply hub for assassins. Meanwhile, Kim Hye Jun returns as his niece Jeong Ji An, who now knows the truth about her uncle’s world and strives to protect herself and the people she cares about. In the second season, conflicts escalate rapidly: a large organization that has long monitored the shop begins to move openly, and Jin Man’s hidden past secrets are revealed one by one. Fast-paced action, high-quality fight scenes, and a plot full of twists remain the hallmarks of this drama.
5. Tantara – Late 2026
Genre: Historical Drama, Music, Life | Platform: Netflix | Episodes: 16
Two of South Korea’s biggest stars, Song Hye Kyo and Gong Yoo, join forces in this major production. Set from the 1960s through the 1980s — a period when Korea’s entertainment industry began to grow rapidly — the story follows Min Ja, played by Song Hye Kyo: a young woman with extraordinary singing talent who must overcome countless obstacles to pursue her passion. Gong Yoo portrays Dong Gu, her childhood friend who becomes a songwriter and stands by her side through every challenge. This story is not only about success and fame, but also about friendship, unspoken love, sacrifice, and how the art of music became part of the nation’s history. Produced on a large budget with highly accurate period details, it is predicted to be one of the year’s finest works.
6. Take Charge of My Heart – Late 2026
Genre: Fantasy, Romance | Platform: Netflix | Episodes: 12
A truly unique and captivating story concept. Kim Young Kwang plays Han Ho Rang, the heir to a large corporation who lives with an artificial heart and cannot survive without specialized medical equipment. His life changes completely when he meets Na Bo Bae, portrayed by Chae Soo Bin — a woman with a strange and wonderful ability: her body generates natural electrical energy, which can recharge Ho Rang’s artificial heart with just a touch. Brought together by chance, they become deeply connected. Their relationship evolves from dependency into love, yet they face many hurdles: from people who seek to exploit Bo Bae’s power, to the medical mysteries surrounding their conditions. This story is sweet, emotional, and filled with heart-fluttering moments.
7. The Remarried Empress – Late 2026
Genre: Historical, Fantasy, Romance | Platform: Disney+ | Episodes: 16
Adapted from a popular novel and webtoon, this drama stars Shin Min Ah and Lee Jong Suk. The story follows Empress Navier: a brilliant, elegant, and highly respected woman whose husband, the Emperor, brings another woman into the palace and demands a divorce. Navier refuses to accept such a cruel fate passively. Instead, she makes a shocking proposal: she will agree to divorce him, but she will marry another man and remain Empress. Lee Jong Suk plays Prince Heinley from a neighboring kingdom, who has secretly admired Navier for years and is ready to become her new partner. This tale is rich with political intrigue, themes of dignity, and a woman’s fight to claim her own rights.
8. Made in Korea Season 2 – Late 2026
Genre: Political, Thriller, Drama | Platform: Disney+ | Episodes: 14
Hyun Bin and Jung Woo Sung return to the screen to continue their intense portrayal of Korea’s cutthroat business and political world. The second season deepens the conflicts between powerful business tycoons, government officials, and influential groups, all battling for control over the nation’s economy. Sharp, realistic, and filled with mind games and suspense, the drama paints a vivid picture of a world where money, power, and trust are inextricably linked — and how a single decision can alter the fate of many. The outstanding performances of the two lead actors are the main highlight of this series.
9. Bloodhounds Season 2 – Late 2026
Genre: Action, Crime, Noir | Platform: Netflix | Episodes: 8
Woo Do Hwan and Lee Sang Yi return as two young boxers fighting against ruthless loan sharks and corrupt power structures. In the second season, they face far larger and more dangerous enemies with connections reaching deep into the upper echelons of society. Brutal physical combat, clever strategy, and core themes of justice and protecting the vulnerable remain central to the story. Known for its realistic action sequences and powerful emotional beats, this drama is widely anticipated as one of the best action series of the year.
10. Notes from the Last Row – Premiering June 26, 2026
Genre: Mystery, Youth, Drama | Channel: ENA | Episodes: 6
A short but mystery-filled drama. It centers on a group of high school students sitting in the very back row of their classroom — often overlooked, quiet, and seemingly unimportant. Yet among them, some hold deep secrets. When a mysterious incident occurs at their school, they gradually begin to uncover the truth, piece by piece. The story explores themes of friendship, academic pressure, and the hidden secrets lying beneath the ordinary faces of teenagers.