South Korean broadcaster SBS is rolling out a stellar lineup of new dramas for 2026. The roster features a range of genres including romance, comedy, thriller, and action, all starring some of the industry’s top talents. This diverse slate aims to captivate audiences and sustain the momentum sparked by early-year hits like the romantic comedy "No Tail No Tell," which showcased Kim Hye Yoon and Lomon.
This article highlights eight highly anticipated SBS dramas set to premiere throughout the year. Each production brings a unique storytelling approach and star-studded cast that promises to draw viewers and critics alike.
1. Sold Out On You
Starring Ahn Hyo Seop and Chae Won Bin, this romantic comedy centers on Matthew Lee, a hardworking farmer juggling multiple jobs, and Dam Ye Jin, a top-tier announcer suffering from severe insomnia. Their encounters blend humor with emotional moments, exploring the challenges of chasing dreams amidst life’s unpredictability.
2. Wicked World
Featuring Lim Ji Yeon and Heo Nam Jun, "Wicked World" offers a fresh take on romance through a supernatural twist. Lim Ji Yeon’s character, Shin Seo Ri, an under-recognized actress, becomes possessed by the spirit of an infamous Joseon-era villain. Heo Nam Jun plays Cha Se Gye, a ruthless chaebol nicknamed the "monster of capitalism," adding layers of intensity and intrigue.
3. Nine to Six
Adapted from the 2021 Chinese series "The Rational Life," this drama stars Park Min Young as Kang Yi Ji, a woman who has long deprioritized romance to focus on her career. Yook Sungjae plays Han Seon Woo, whose wisdom and kindness introduce her to a new perspective on love. The story deftly balances professional ambition with personal growth, resonating with modern career-driven audiences.
4. Phantom Lawyer
Yoo Yeon Seok, Esom, and Kim Kyung Nam headline this legal thriller infused with supernatural elements. Yoo portrays Shin Yi Rang, a lawyer capable of seeing ghosts, teaming with elite attorney Han Na Hyun, played by Esom. Together, they tackle legal cases involving spirits, merging procedural drama with fantasy in an innovative concept.
5. Manager Kim
Marking So Ji Sub’s return to acting, "Manager Kim," based on a popular webtoon, is a noir action drama. The protagonist, an ordinary office worker, faces turmoil when his beloved daughter goes missing. He is forced to reveal hidden secrets to save her, embarking on a tense journey filled with suspense and sacrifice.
6. Doctor X: Age of the White Mafia
Kim Ji Won leads this medical noir drama adapted from a Japanese series. Her character, Gye Soo Jung, is a brilliant surgeon who challenges the corruption entrenched within the medical institution. Alongside Lee Jung Eun, Son Hyun Joo, and Kim Woo Seok, the story explores themes of integrity, skill, and resistance against systemic malpractice.
7. Flex x Cop 2
Following the success of its first season, "Flex x Cop 2" returns with Ahn Bo Hyun reprising his role. Newcomer Jung Eun Chae plays Joo Hye Ra, a feared "devil instructor" and new team leader. The drama focuses on Jin Yi Soo, a freshly graduated police officer assigned to the Violent Crimes Unit 1, as law enforcement officers collaborate intensely to bring criminals to justice.
8. Good Partner 2
Jang Nara reprises her role as Cha Eun Kyung in the sequel to the popular legal drama. This time, Kim Hye Yoon joins as her new partner in a pioneering divorce law firm. The narrative explores their complicated relationship, professional challenges, and emotional resilience, highlighting the intricacies of modern legal battles and personal connections.
SBS’s approach in 2026 emphasizes complex characters and layered storytelling that reflect contemporary society while providing entertainment across various genres. According to Soompi, this lineup showcases the network’s commitment to innovation and high production values, supported by the participation of acclaimed actors and creative teams.
The presence of established stars like Ahn Hyo Seop, Kim Ji Won, and Park Min Young ensures substantial viewer interest. Meanwhile, adaptations and original stories alike contribute to diverse plots appealing to a broad demographic. These dramas are poised to generate discussion and acclaim both domestically and internationally.
Overall, SBS’s schedule reveals a strategic focus on blending star power with engaging narratives. The combination of romance, suspense, legal drama, and supernatural elements caters to evolving viewer tastes. Fans of Korean dramas will find numerous compelling reasons to explore the channel’s offerings throughout the year.
