JTBC Unveils 2026 Drama Lineup: Kim Hee-ae Returns with a Gripping Mystery Romance

JTBC has announced its 2026 drama lineup, marking the return of Kim Hee-ae to JTBC dramas after six years with a thrilling mystery romance following the success of 'The World of the Married.'

This year, JTBC is set to captivate viewers with a diverse range of genres and unique concepts. Starting with the new weekend drama 'Everyone is Fighting Their Worthlessness,' premiering on April 18, the lineup includes 'New Employee Chairman Kang,' 'Apartment,' 'Final Table,' 'Gold Digger,' and 'God's Bead,' offering a variety of fantasy, melodrama, mystery romance, and variety show formats.

'Everyone is Fighting Their Worthlessness' (abbreviated as 'EFW') follows the journey of a person driven mad by jealousy and envy among successful friends, seeking peace. The drama boasts a stellar cast including Koo Kyo-hwan and Go Yoon-jung, with writer Park Hae-young and director Cha Young-hoon known for their detailed and warm storytelling.

'New Employee Chairman Kang' is a reminder life drama about a corporate chairman, known as the god of business, who is forced to live a second life after an accident. The cast includes Lee Jun-young, Son Hyun-joo, Lee Joo-myung, Jeon Hye-jin, and Jin Goo. Based on the web novel by San Kyung, the creator of the 2022 hit mini-series 'Reborn Rich,' the drama features Kim Soon-ok as the creator, known for her intense storytelling.

'Apartment,' starring Ji Sung, follows a former gangster who runs for the apartment council president to tackle corruption with the residents. Ji Sung, known for his transformative roles, will be joined by Ha Yoon-kyung, Park Byung-eun, and Moon So-ri, promising a mix of realistic humor and thrilling plot.

'Final Table' is set against the backdrop of the global cooking survival show 'The Table: K Chef 2026,' featuring Korean chefs from around the world. The drama, starring Ahn Hyo-seop, Hong Hwa-yeon, Jang Ryul, and Jung Yoo-jin, combines drama and variety show elements for a new entertainment experience.

'Gold Digger,' featuring Kim Hee-ae and rising star Noh Sang-hyun, is a mystery romance about a successful middle-aged woman and a dangerously charming young man. Adapted from the British BBC drama of the same name, 'Gold Digger' promises intense psychological battles and a gripping storyline.

Rounding off the year is 'God's Bead,' set in 1258 during the Goryeo Dynasty amidst a long-standing war with Mongolia. The drama follows the heroic struggle of a convoy searching for the sacred relic, Guan Yin Bead, and the princess trying to save them. Directed by Jung Dae-yoon and written by Jung Hyun-min, with a cast including Ahn Bo-hyun, Lee Sung-min, Soo Hyun, Ha Yoon-kyung, and Yoon Kyun-sang, it promises an epic historical drama.

Tae Yuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr