MBC Unveils Ambitious 2026 Drama Lineup to Reclaim 'Drama Kingdom' Status

Struggling with low ratings this year, MBC has unveiled its 2026 lineup, confidently aiming for a revival of its 'Drama Kingdom' status.

Kicking off the 2026 MBC drama season is 'The Judge Returns,' starring Ji Sung and Park Hee-soon. Premiering on January 2, 'The Judge Returns' is a time-travel drama where a corrupt judge, Lee Han-young (played by Ji Sung), returns to the past to confront the evil symbolized by Kang Shin-jin (played by Park Hee-soon). The drama promises intense performances from the lead actors, with Won Jin-A, Tae Won-seok, Baek Jin-hee, and Oh Se-young also joining the cast. It is based on a popular web novel by writer Lee Hae-nal.

Following this is 'In Your Glorious Season,'(찬란한 너의 계절에) a romance drama about Chan (played by Chae Jong-hyeop), who lives every day like a summer vacation, and Ran (played by Lee Sung-kyoung), who has confined herself to winter. Their fateful meeting thaws frozen time in this unpredictable romance. The cast also includes Lee Mi-sook, Kang Seok-woo, Han Ji-hyun, and Oh Ye-ju.

IU and Byeon Woo-seok star in 'Perfect Crown,' set in a constitutional monarchy in modern-day Korea. The drama follows Seong Hee-joo (played by IU), a wealthy woman frustrated by her commoner status, and Lee An-daegun (played by Byeon Woo-seok), a prince who has nothing. This romance drama, which challenges social status, was a standout winner in MBC's drama script competition and is highly anticipated.

Noh Sang-hyun plays Prime Minister Min Jung-woo from a prestigious political family, while Gong Seung-yeon plays Yoon Yi-rang, destined to be a queen. Directed by Park Jun-hwa of 'Alchemy of Souls' and 'What's Wrong with Secretary Kim,' the drama is expected to be a hit.

'Fifties Professionals' tells the story of three men who, despite appearing ordinary, are drawn back into action by fate. This action-comedy features Shin Ha-kyun, Oh Jung-se, and Heo Sung-tae, showcasing their camaraderie and humor. Directed by Han Dong-hwa, known for 'Bad Guys 2,' '38 Task Force,' 'Navillera,' and 'Shadow Detective,' it promises a blend of action and comedy.

In the latter half of the year, 'A Bona fide Killer'(유부녀 킬러) will air, depicting the work-life balance struggles of a working mom with the world's most dangerous job. Kong Hyo-jin stars as Yoo Bo-na, a killer who returns to work after a three-year maternity leave, balancing her family life and perilous job. Jung Jun-won plays her husband, eager to uncover her secret. This drama, based on a mega-hit webtoon, is directed by Yoon Jong-ho of 'Lovely Runner.'

'Liar'(라이어) is a psychological thriller where two individuals with opposing memories clash in pursuit of the truth. Yoo Yeon-seok and Seo Hyun-jin reunite after 'Dr. Romantic,' drawing attention to this intense drama. Directed by Jo Young-min, known for his delicate storytelling in 'You and Everything Else,' it promises to be a well-crafted psychological drama.

'Your Ground'(너의 그라운드) follows a baseball player (played by Gong Myoung) who, after a setback, meets a lawyer-turned-agent (played by Han Hyo-joo) and embarks on a journey to return to the field. This youth romance, set against the backdrop of sports, draws comparisons to the film 'Jerry Maguire.' Directed by Lee Sang-yeob of the 'Yumi's Cells' series, it is highly anticipated.

An MBC drama representative stated, "We have carefully curated our 2026 lineup to not only present the best dramas but also to reach viewers with a variety of genres. We aim to continue the legacy of the 'Drama Kingdom' with top-notch actors and directors, delivering exceptional works throughout the year."

Tae Yuna, TENASIA Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr