JTBC’s upcoming romance drama Shining is already stealing hearts with its soft visuals, poetic tagline, and the irresistible pairing of Park Jin-young and Kim Min-ju. Set against the warmth of youth and the quiet ache of adulthood, the drama explores a first love that once felt limitless—and what happens when that love returns years later. With spring-like emotions and tender storytelling, Shining is shaping up to be one of 2026’s most emotionally resonant K-dramas.

Quick Drama Facts

• Drama Title: Shining (샤이닝)
• Network: JTBC
• Premiere Date: March 6, 2026
• Airing Day & Time: Fridays, 8:50 PM (KST)
• Genre: Romance, Melodrama, Slice of Life
• Starring: Park Jin-young, Kim Min-ju, Shin Jae-ha, Park Se-hyun
• Broadcast Slot: JTBC Friday Series

Plot Summary

Shining tells the story of two people who once believed that being together made anything possible. At twenty, their love was bright, fearless, and full of promise. Time, however, led them down separate paths—into careers, responsibilities, and emotional distance.

Years later, fate brings them back into each other’s lives. As they reconnect, old feelings resurface alongside unresolved regrets and unspoken truths. The drama gently asks: Can a love that once defined your youth still shine in adulthood?

Cast & Characters

Park Jin-young as Yeon Tae-seo

A calm and dependable subway train driver who values routine and stability. Tae-seo lives a grounded life, believing that dreams fade with time—until he unexpectedly reunites with his first love, forcing him to confront emotions he thought he had long buried.

Kim Min-ju as Mo Eun-ah

Tae-seo’s first love and the emotional heart of the story. Once passionate and idealistic, Eun-ah now manages a traditional guesthouse, carrying both warmth and quiet loneliness. Her reunion with Tae-seo challenges the life she carefully built for herself.

Shin Jae-ha as Bae Seong-chan

A successful hotelier and Eun-ah’s long-time friend. Mature and supportive, he stands by her side and adds emotional tension as someone who understands her present far better than her past ever did.Park Se-hyun as Im Ah-sol

With its nostalgic tone, emotionally grounded characters, and soft spring-like visuals, Shining feels tailor-made for viewers who love slow-burn romance and heartfelt storytelling. The pairing of Park Jin-young and Kim Min-ju brings freshness and sincerity, while the theme of revisiting first love adds universal relatability.

With its nostalgic tone, emotionally grounded characters, and soft spring-like visuals, Shining feels tailor-made for viewers who love slow-burn romance and heartfelt storytelling. The pairing of Park Jin-young and Kim Min-ju brings freshness and sincerity, while the theme of revisiting first love adds universal relatability.

If you enjoy dramas about timing, growth, and the quiet power of emotional connection, Shining deserves a spot on your 2026 watchlist.