If you’re a fan of workplace romance dramas with strong female leads, charming younger male leads, and plenty of emotional tension, then Nine to Six should be at the top of your watchlist. The upcoming SBS drama brings together an exciting cast led by Park Min-young, Yook Sung-jae, and Go Soo in a story that explores career ambitions, workplace politics, and unexpected love.

Adapted from the beloved Chinese drama The Rational Life, Nine to Six reimagines the story for Korean audiences while maintaining the mature romance and realistic office setting that made the original series so popular. With Park Min-young returning to a genre she excels in and Yook Sung-jae taking on a refreshing romantic lead role, expectations for this drama are already sky-high.

Unlike many office romances that focus solely on romantic relationships, Nine to Six promises a deeper look into modern corporate culture, professional growth, and the challenges faced by ambitious professionals trying to balance work and personal happiness. Whether you’re a longtime fan of noona romances or simply enjoy character-driven stories, this drama has all the ingredients to become one of 2026’s standout K-dramas.

Quick Drama Facts

• Drama: Nine to Six
• Korean Title: 나인 투 식스
• Genre: Romance, Workplace, Drama
• Episodes: 12
• Network: SBS
• Director: Lee Hyeong-min, Oh Song-hee
• Writer: Choi Ji-o
• Country: South Korea
• Language: Korean
• Release Year: 2026
• Based On: Chinese Drama The Rational Life
• Production Companies: Studio S, Samhwa Networks
• Streaming: Netflix (Expected in select regions)
• Airing Schedule: To Be Announced

Plot Summary

Nine to Six follows Kang Yi-ji, an accomplished legal team manager working for a major automobile company. Intelligent, disciplined, and highly respected within her organization, Yi-ji has spent years building a successful career through hard work and determination. She believes that professional achievement is more reliable than romance and has carefully structured her life around logic rather than emotions.

However, her orderly world begins to change when Han Seon-woo enters her life. As a young intern starting his career journey, Seon-woo possesses a refreshing sincerity and warmth that stand in stark contrast to the competitive corporate environment around them. Despite their age difference and contrasting perspectives on life, the two gradually develop a meaningful connection.

Complicating matters further is Park Hyun-tae, a newly appointed executive who quickly recognizes Yi-ji’s talent and professionalism. As their relationship grows, Yi-ji finds herself caught between different paths, both professionally and personally.

The drama explores the realities of office life, workplace discrimination, power dynamics, career aspirations, and the emotional struggles that come with opening one’s heart after years of prioritizing work. Through its mature storytelling, Nine to Six aims to deliver a realistic and heartfelt romance that resonates with modern viewers.

Cast and Characters

Park Min-young as Kang Yi-ji

Kang Yi-ji is the heart of the story. As the manager of the legal team at Chronic Motors, she is known for her intelligence, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to her career. Having spent years proving herself in a demanding corporate environment, she has become emotionally guarded and skeptical about romance.

Yi-ji’s journey revolves around learning that success and happiness do not always follow the same path. Through unexpected relationships and personal challenges, she begins to reevaluate her priorities and discover what truly matters in life.

Yook Sung-jae as Han Seon-woo

Park Hyun-tae is a highly respected executive who joins the company as a senior leader. Charismatic, intelligent, and confident, he quickly becomes an influential figure within the organization.

As someone who appreciates competence and ambition, Hyun-tae recognizes Yi-ji’s abilities and forms a close professional relationship with her. However, as their connection deepens, his presence creates emotional complications and adds another layer to the story’s central romance.

Joo Hyun-young as Shin Ji-won

Shin Ji-won brings energy and humor to the workplace. As one of Yi-ji’s colleagues, she provides support, friendship, and occasional comic relief while navigating her own professional challenges.

What to Expect

A Mature Workplace Romance: Unlike typical romantic comedies, this drama focuses on adult relationships, career struggles, and emotional growth.

Park Min-young Returns to Her Signature Genre: After delivering memorable performances in workplace romance hits, Park Min-young is once again stepping into a role perfectly suited to her strengths.

A Refreshing Noona Romance: The age-gap romance between Yi-ji and Seon-woo offers a refreshing dynamic that many K-drama fans love.

Strong Character Development: The story focuses on personal growth, career ambitions, and self-discovery rather than relying solely on romantic tropes.

Adaptation of a Beloved Story: Fans of The Rational Life will be eager to see how the Korean adaptation brings a fresh perspective to the beloved storyline.

Where to Watch

Nine to Six is scheduled to air on SBS in 2026. International viewers are expected to be able to watch the drama through Netflix in selected regions. Official streaming details may vary by country and will likely be announced closer to the premiere date.

Final Thoughts

Nine to Six has all the ingredients necessary for a memorable K-drama: an accomplished female lead, a lovable younger male lead, a charismatic second male lead, and a realistic workplace setting filled with emotional and professional challenges. The combination of Park Min-young, Yook Sung-jae, and Go Soo alone makes this drama one of the most anticipated Korean series of 2026.

For viewers who enjoy workplace romances with mature storytelling, meaningful character growth, and heartfelt relationships, Nine to Six looks poised to become one of the year’s must-watch dramas. As more details emerge, excitement for this SBS series will only continue to grow.