Photo Credit: MBC
Kicking off the year, Judge Lee Han-young is scheduled for a January 2nd premiere. This drama features the talents of Ji Sung and Park Hee-soon and is set against the backdrop of justice and time travel. Ji Sung takes on the role of Lee Han-young, a man who has served as a mere cog in a colossal law firm. He finds himself transported a decade into the past, seizing a second chance to alter his path and challenge the formidable antagonist Kang Shin-jin, portrayed by Park Hee-soon. The audience eagerly awaits the electrifying performances and intense rivalry between these two actors.
Subsequently, viewers can look forward to The Brilliant Season of You, a tale crafted to thaw the chills of winter with its warm romantic narrative. At its heart is the story of Chan, embodied by Chae Jong-hyeop, a young man whose life exudes the vibrancy of a perpetual summer. In contrast, Ran, played by Lee Sung-kyung, dwells in the solitude of winter. Their serendipitous encounter sparks a rejuvenation of time itself. The drama also stars Lee Mi-sook, Kang Seok-woo, Han Ji-hyun, and Oh Ye-ju, each contributing to the unfolding romance.
Adding to the diverse lineup is the period romance 21st Century Grand Duchess, starring the illustrious IU and Byun Woo-seok. Set in a contemporary constitutional monarchy in Korea, the narrative delves into the life of Seong Hee-joo, a wealthy woman plagued by her commoner roots, and Prince Ian, who grapples with the irony of his status offering no real power. This drama, already celebrated in the MBC drama script competition, stands as one of the most eagerly awaited projects of the coming year.
Injecting humor and action into the mix is Fifties Professionals, a comedy that chronicles the adventures of three men—Shin Ha-kyun, Oh Jung-se, and Heo Sung-tae—who, despite appearing ordinary, once led successful lives. Now, as they confront the trials of their midlife years, these seasoned individuals rally their unwavering camaraderie and instincts, embarking on a humorous yet touching journey.
Set to make its debut in the latter half of the year, Married Woman Killer introduces a narrative filled with tension and domestic intrigue. At the center is Yoo Bo-na, played by Gong Hyo-jin, a woman juggling the demands of being a mother and the perilous career of eliminating vile criminals. As she transitions back to her career after a three-year hiatus for maternity leave, her husband, played by Jung Joon-won, becomes increasingly curious about her clandestine life.
In the realm of psychological thrillers, Liar presents a gripping exploration of memory and truth. Yoo Yeon-seok and Seo Hyun-jin, reuniting after their collaboration in Romantic Doctor, Teacher Kim, portray characters ensnared in a conflict over a single memory, each vying to establish their version of reality.
Rounding out the diverse offerings is Your Ground, a youthful romance interwoven with sports drama. The story follows a baseball player, portrayed by Gong Myung, whose promising career faces a setback. A chance encounter with a lawyer-turned-agent, played by Han Hyo-joo, reignites his determination to reclaim his place on the field.
An MBC drama spokesperson commented, "Our 2026 selection has been meticulously curated to not only bring the finest dramas to the forefront but also to engage viewers with a diverse array of genres," emphasizing the broad appeal of the upcoming lineup.