Image Credit: MBC
Launching the new year's lineup with excitement, Judge Lee Han-young is set to make its debut on January 2. This intriguing series features the talents of Ji Sung and Park Hee-soon. At its core is Lee Han-young, portrayed by Ji Sung, whose character embarks on a journey powered by a thirst for justice and the mystical twist of time travel. Once shackled to the demands of a formidable law firm, Lee Han-young finds himself transported a decade into the past, where he is given the chance to alter his fate and face the formidable antagonist Kang Shin-jin, played with intensity by Park Hee-soon. Audiences eagerly anticipate the electrifying performances and dynamic interplay between the lead actors.
Following closely, The Brilliant Season of You is poised to bring warmth and romance to the chilly winter season. This tale centers around Chan, depicted by Chae Jong-hyeop, who approaches life as if it were an endless summer adventure, and Ran, embodied by Lee Sung-kyung, who shelters herself in a metaphorical winter. Their paths cross serendipitously, sparking an awakening from the cold and dormant times. This heartwarming narrative is further enriched by a talented ensemble cast, including Lee Mi-sook, Kang Seok-woo, Han Ji-hyun, and Oh Ye-ju.
Adding a regal touch to the year, IU and Byun Woo-seok take on the lead roles in 21st Century Grand Duchess, a romantic drama set against the backdrop of a modern-day constitutional monarchy in Korea. The plot centers on Seong Hee-joo, a character brought to life by IU, who grapples with the irony of her wealth contrasted by her commoner status. Opposite her is Prince Ian, played by Byun Woo-seok, who wrestles with the emptiness of his royal title. This drama, celebrated for its compelling script in the MBC drama competition, stands as one of 2026's most eagerly awaited shows.
Fifties Professionals promises a delightful blend of action and comedy, focusing on three men who, despite their current ordinary facades, once led remarkably successful lives. Reunited by destiny, these characters, portrayed by Shin Ha-kyun, Oh Jung-se, and Heo Sung-tae, embark on a new chapter. Though time has weathered their physical prowess, their unwavering loyalty and instincts shine as they navigate the latter half of their lives with tenacity and humor.
Anticipated for a second-half release, Married Woman Killer brings to light the struggles of a working mother balancing an incredibly dangerous profession with familial responsibilities. Gong Hyo-jin stars as Yoo Bo-na, a woman who, after five years as a housewife and three years away on maternity leave, returns to her lethal job of dealing with notorious criminals. Her life becomes a delicate dance of uncertainty and danger as her husband, played by Jung Joon-won, becomes increasingly curious about her perilous secret.
In the psychological thriller Liar, two individuals find themselves at odds, each holding a distinct claim over the same elusive memory. The drama unfolds as these characters, portrayed by Yoo Yeon-seok and Seo Hyun-jin, who previously shared the screen in Romantic Doctor, Teacher Kim, dive into a compelling search for truth.
Your Ground offers a touching tale of youthful romance and redemption, following the life of a baseball player, played by Gong Myung, who seeks to reclaim his athletic glory. His journey is intertwined with that of a lawyer-turned-agent, portrayed by Han Hyo-joo, who becomes a pivotal figure in his comeback story.
An MBC drama spokesperson highlighted, “Our carefully curated 2026 lineup aims to deliver not only top-tier dramas but also a variety of genres to engage our viewers," emphasizing the broad and vibrant spectrum of storytelling presented.