When two of Korea’s most respected stars come together under a legendary writer-director duo, expectations naturally soar. Tantara, Netflix’s upcoming Korean drama, is already being hailed as a prestige project thanks to the long-awaited pairing of Song Hye-kyo and Gong Yoo. Set against the raw and unforgiving entertainment industry of Korea’s past, this drama promises emotional depth, ambition, heartbreak, and survival — all wrapped in a richly detailed period setting.

Slated for a 2026 release, Tantara is shaping up to be one of Netflix’s most talked-about Korean originals.

Quick Drama Facts: Tantara

• Drama Title: Tantara (딴따라)
• Alternative Titles: Slowly, Intensely / Show Business (working title)
• Genre: Period Drama, Human, Showbiz
• Writer: Noh Hee-kyung
• Director: Lee Yoon-jung
• Streaming Platform: Netflix
• Production Companies: Studio Dragon, GTist, Imaginus
• Setting: Korean entertainment industry (1960s–1980s)
• Release Window: Fall 2026

Tantara: Plot Summary

Tantara is set during the formative decades of South Korea’s entertainment industry, spanning the 1960s through the 1980s — a time when fame was earned through sacrifice, grit, and relentless struggle.

The story follows Min-ja, a woman born into poverty who dreams of success in music and show business. With no privilege or protection, she enters an industry ruled by power, ambition, and exploitation. By her side is Dong-gu, her childhood friend, who shares her journey as they fight their way through betrayal, heartbreak, and harsh realities.

As fame becomes both a dream and a curse, Tantara paints an emotional portrait of people who give up everything — youth, love, morality — just to survive in a world that demands more than talent.

Cast & Characters of Tantara

Song Hye-kyo as Min-ja

A determined woman chasing success in an unforgiving industry, Min-ja’s journey reflects the emotional cost of ambition and survival.

Gong Yoo as Dong-gu

Min-ja’s childhood friend and emotional anchor, Dong-gu enters the entertainment world alongside her, struggling between loyalty, love, and personal ambition.

Kim Seol-hyun as Min-hui A key figure whose presence adds emotional complexity and rivalry within the industry.

Cha Seung-won as Gil-yeo A powerful composer and producer who represents authority, influence, and the darker side of show business.

Lee Hanee (Honey Lee) as Yang-ja A bold and commanding character navigating fame, power, and survival in a male-dominated industry.

Tantara isn’t just another star-driven drama — it’s a deeply emotional exploration of ambition, sacrifice, and identity. With Song Hye-kyo’s emotional intensity, Gong Yoo’s grounded charisma, and a creative team known for realism and human storytelling, the drama is already positioned as a potential awards contender.

Photo:X @Netflix