January 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting month for K-drama fans worldwide. From high-stakes legal fantasies and historical romances to workplace comedies and supernatural love stories, the new year kicks off with a powerful lineup featuring top-tier actors and binge-worthy plots. If you’re planning your next watchlist, these upcoming Korean dramas premiering in January 2026 deserve a spot.
The Judge Returns
- Premiere Date: January 2, 2026
- Network: MBC
- Genre: Legal, Fantasy, Time Travel
- Cast: Ji Sung, Park Hee-soon, Won Jin-ah
A righteous judge meets an unjust death, only to wake up years in the past with memories of everything that went wrong. Given a second chance, he sets out to expose corruption, change tragic outcomes, and deliver justice where the law once failed. With Ji Sung leading the cast, this drama blends intense courtroom battles with emotional depth and fantasy elements, making it one of the most anticipated premieres of the month.
To My Beloved Thief
- Premiere Date: January 3, 2026
- Network: KBS2
- Genre: Historical, Romance, Comedy, Fantasy
- Cast: Nam Ji-hyun, Moon Sang-min, Hong Min-gi, Han So-eun
Set in the Joseon era, this drama follows a noblewoman who secretly lives as a righteous thief helping the powerless. Her carefully hidden life becomes complicated when she crosses paths with a sharp-minded man devoted to justice. Filled with romantic tension, disguises, and lighthearted humor, this historical rom-com promises charm, heart, and clever storytelling.
Spring Fever
- Premiere Date: January 5, 2026
- Network: tvN
- Genre: Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life
- Cast: Ahn Bo-hyun, Lee Joo-bin
After a painful breakup and burnout from city life, a woman moves to a quiet town hoping for a fresh start. There, she meets a man with his own emotional scars. As seasons change, so do their hearts. “Spring Fever” focuses on healing, second chances, and slow-burn romance, making it perfect for viewers who love warm, comforting dramas.
No Tail to Tell
- Premiere Date: January 16, 2026
- Network: SBS
- Genre: Fantasy, Romantic Comedy
- Cast: Kim Hye-yoon, Lomon
A nine-tailed fox who has spent centuries avoiding humans unexpectedly becomes human after an accident involving a famous soccer star. Forced to adapt to modern life, she navigates love, identity, and emotions she never experienced before. With fantasy elements mixed with humor and romance, this drama offers a fresh take on supernatural love stories.
Can This Love Be Translated?
- Premiere Date: January 16, 2026
- Platform: Netflix
- Genre: Romantic Comedy
- Cast: Kim Seon-ho, Go Yoon-jung
A multilingual interpreter is hired to work closely with a globally famous actress. As they travel, work, and communicate across languages and cultures, unexpected feelings begin to grow. This drama explores emotional translation, cultural differences, and modern romance, making it a highly anticipated global Netflix release.
Undercover Miss Hong
- Premiere Date: January 17, 2026
- Network: tvN
- Genre: Workplace Comedy, Investigation
- Cast: Park Shin-hye, Go Kyung-pyo, Ha Yoon-kyung, Cho Han-gyeol
A brilliant financial regulator goes undercover as a rookie employee at a suspicious corporation. While trying to uncover illegal activities, she finds herself caught in office politics, unexpected friendships, and hilarious situations. With Park Shin-hye’s return to the small screen, this drama combines corporate suspense with sharp comedy.
Positively Yours
- Premiere Date: January 17, 2026
- Network: Channel A
- Genre: Romantic Comedy
- Cast: Choi Jin-hyuk, Oh Yeon-seo, Hong Jong-hyun, Kim Da-som
Two adults who have sworn off marriage find their lives turned upside down after a one-night encounter leads to unexpected consequences. As they navigate responsibility, love, and societal expectations, the story balances heartfelt moments with humor and realistic romance.
Why January 2026 Is a Strong Month for K-Dramas
January 2026 offers exceptional variety — from emotionally intense legal thrillers to lighthearted romantic comedies and fantasy-driven love stories. With major broadcasters and global streaming platforms releasing high-profile projects simultaneously, viewers can expect strong performances, polished production quality, and stories that cater to both domestic and international audiences.
If you’re looking to start 2026 with unforgettable storytelling, these upcoming Korean dramas deliver on every front. Whether you enjoy romance, fantasy, historical settings, or modern workplace stories, January 2026’s lineup has something you won’t want to miss
