Image Credit: MBC
Leading the premieres is Judge Lee Han-young, starring Ji Sung alongside Park Hee-soon. The series is set to begin airing on January 2. This drama explores themes of justice through a time-travel narrative. Lee Han-young, portrayed by Ji Sung, is a character who once toiled under a major law firm's influence. He ventures back a decade in time to alter his life's course and confronts Kang Shin-jin, played by Park Hee-soon, who embodies a formidable evil. The series promises a powerful acting duel between the two lead actors.
Next in line is The Brilliant Season of You, a story crafted to bring warmth during winter months. The plot revolves around Chan, played by Chae Jong-hyeop, who lives life with the excitement of an endless summer vacation, and Ran, portrayed by Lee Sung-kyung, who has secluded herself in her own winter. Their serendipitous meeting sparks a thawing of stagnant time. The ensemble cast also includes Lee Mi-sook, Kang Seok-woo, Han Ji-hyun, and Oh Ye-ju.
In the 21st Century Grand Duchess, IU and Byun Woo-seok lead a romance narrative set within a contemporary constitutional monarchy in Korea. The story delves into the life of Seong Hee-joo, played by IU, a wealthy woman dissatisfied by her commoner background, and Prince Ian, depicted by Byun Woo-seok, a royal grappling with his lack of possessions despite his title. The drama, lauded during the MBC drama script competition, stands as one of the most eagerly awaited series of 2026.
Fifties Professionals presents an action-comedy narrative featuring three men who, despite appearing ordinary, were once highly successful. Fate compels them to reengage with life, showcasing their enduring loyalty and instincts as they navigate through their professional resurgence. Shin Ha-kyun, Oh Jung-se, and Heo Sung-tae collaborate to deliver a blend of action and comedy.
Slated for the latter half of the year, Married Woman Killer centers on a working mother with an exceptionally dangerous occupation as she endeavors to balance her professional and personal life. Gong Hyo-jin stars as Yoo Bo-na, a former contract killer targeting heinous criminals, who returns to her high-stakes profession after taking three years off for maternity leave. The series further intensifies with Jung Joon-won's portrayal of her husband who is determined to uncover his wife's hidden identity.
Liar explores psychological themes in a thriller format, focusing on two individuals engaged in a battle over a shared yet disputed memory. The series reunites Yoo Yeon-seok and Seo Hyun-jin following their collaboration in Romantic Doctor, Teacher Kim.
Your Ground portrays a romantic journey involving a baseball player, portrayed by Gong Myung, who endeavors to return to his sport following a career setback. He meets a lawyer turned agent, played by Han Hyo-joo, catalyzing his return to the field.
An MBC drama representative articulated, “Our 2026 lineup has been meticulously curated to deliver top-tier dramas while offering a wide spectrum of genres,” emphasizing the variety of narratives presented.