4 Most Anticipated Korean Dramas and Movies Coming in 2026

4 Most Anticipated Korean Dramas and Movies Coming in 2026: Complete Guide

The year 2026 is set to bring major Korean entertainment releases across streaming platforms and theaters.

Industry surveys conducted among management companies have identified the most anticipated productions, featuring top Korean stars in various genres from romantic period dramas to sci-fi blockbusters.

These korean movies and dramas represent the productions generating the most buzz as 2026 begins.

21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife: The Top Pick Among Industry Insiders

“21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife” earned the top position in a survey of entertainment industry professionals, making it the most anticipated Korean drama of 2026. This MBC and Disney+ co-production features IU and Byeon Woo-seok in leading roles.

The romantic period drama is scheduled for release in the first half of 2026. The production will be available simultaneously on MBC’s broadcast channel and Disney+ streaming platform. This dual release strategy provides access for both domestic and international audiences from the first episode.

The series represents a major production for 2026, with industry professionals selecting it as their number one choice among upcoming releases. Viewers can expect this drama to debut within the first six months of the year on both platforms.

The Remarried Empress: Fantasy Period Drama on Disney+

Disney+ presents “The Remarried Empress,” a fantasy period drama featuring an ensemble cast of Shin Min-ah, Joo Ji-hoon, Lee Jong-suk, and Lee Se-young. The production is scheduled for release in the first half of 2026.

This series was identified as a highly anticipated 2026 release in industry surveys. The drama combines period settings with fantasy elements. Disney+ will release the series during the first half of 2026, though a specific premiere date has not been announced yet.

The production features established Korean actors known to international audiences. Viewers can access the series through Disney+ when it becomes available in 2026.

Hope: Science Fiction Film

Director Na Hong-jin presents “Hope,” a science fiction film about an alien invasion. The cast includes Hwang Jung-min, Jo In-sung, and Jung Ho-yeon. The production also features international actors.

The film is scheduled for a summer 2026 release. “Hope” represents a large-scale production focusing on the science fiction genre. The summer release window positions it as a major theatrical release for 2026.

International cast members have joined the Korean leads, indicating the production’s scope extends beyond domestic markets. The film will receive a theatrical release in Korea with additional international distribution details to be announced.

COLONY(Gunche): Zombie Genre Film

The cast also includes Goo Kyo-hwan, Kim Shin-rok, and Ko Soo. The zombie genre has proven popular with international audiences, and this production brings together established Korean actors in the genre.

May 2026 marks the planned theatrical release date for “COLONY” The film represents a major production within the zombie genre, with a notable ensemble cast.

Korean Dramas and Movies :: Release Information

These korean movies and dramas will be available through different platforms:

Streaming Releases:

• “21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife”: MBC broadcast and Disney+ (First Half 2026)
• “The Remarried Empress”: Disney+ (First Half 2026)

Theatrical Releases:

• “Hope”: Theater release (Summer 2026)
• “COLONY(Gunche)”: Theater release (May 2026)

International availability will vary by region for theatrical releases. Streaming releases on Disney+ and Netflix typically provide day-one access for most international markets.

Conclusion

These four korean movies and dramas represent the most anticipated Korean dramas and movies scheduled for 2026 based on industry surveys and announced release schedules. From romantic dramas to science fiction and zombie films, the lineup covers multiple genres.

Release dates and platform availability are based on current announcements and may be subject to change. International viewers should check their regional Disney+ and Netflix catalogs for availability. For theatrical releases, distribution details will be announced closer to the release dates.

---

:: Check out other articles ::

• Seoul Bus Strike | How to Stay Informed – 7 Checklist for Expats and Foreign Residents
• 4 Most Anticipated Korean Dramas and Movies Coming in 2026
• DDP Design Store Seoul: 3 Things to Buy & How to Get There
• Korean Skin Care Pop-Up: B the B at DDP Seoul | Experience Guide 2026 | K-Beauty Event
• Jongmyo Shrine Mystery: Why is a Goryeo King in a Joseon UNESCO Site?