PICK: 6 New Korean Dramas to Watch in May 2026

My Royal Nemesis
My Royal Nemesis

Release Date: May 8th

Cast: Lim Ji Yeon, Heo Nam Jun, Jang Seung Jo, Kim Min Seok, Lee Se Hee

Synopsis: Joseon’s deadliest villainess is reincarnated as a failing actress. Her new target is a ruthless chaebol heir known for his tyrannical ego.

Viewing Points: My Royal Nemesis features a romance between two figures known for their notorious reputations. The trailer release has sparked anticipation for another career-defining performance from Lim Ji Yeon, following the success of The Glory and The Tale of Lady Ok.

Genres: Comedy, Romance, Fantasy

Episodes: 14

Network: SBS

Where to Watch: Netflix

The Legend Of Kitchen Soldier

Release Date: May 11th

Cast: Park Ji Hoon, Yoon Kyung Ho, Han Dong Hee, Lee Hong Nae

Synopsis: A ‘special needs’ private with a troubled family background is assigned to kitchen duty, where he discovers an unexpected talent for cooking and begins his journey as a chef.

Viewing Points: Park Ji Hoon, a rising star known for his intense roles in Weak Hero Class 1 and The King’s Warden, is stepping into a comedic role. He is joined by a strong supporting cast, including Yoon Kyung Ho and Lee Sang Yi. The relatable themes of military life and cooking are already generating buzz.

Genres: Comedy

Episodes: 12

Network: tvN, TVING

Where to Watch: Disney Plus, HBO Max

Azure Spring

Release Date: May 11th

Cast: Yeri, Kang Sang Jun, Ko Ju Hee, Jung Hyun Min

Synopsis: A retired swimmer, injured and forced to quit, moves to a seaside village, where she meets a man with his own emotional scars. Together, they begin a journey of healing.

Viewing Points: Red Velvet’s Yeri, praised for her role in Bitch X Rich, returns in this warm, youth-focused healing drama. The stunning blue sea backdrop adds a refreshing, romantic vibe.

Genres: Drama, Youth, Romance

Episodes: 6

Network: MBN Plus

Where to Watch: ODK, Viu, ABEMA

The WONDERfools

Release Date: May 15th

Cast: Park Eun Bin, Cha Eun Woo, Choi Dae Hoon, Im Sung Jae

Synopsis: Set in 1999, The WONDERfools follows a group of neighborhood misfits who accidentally gain superpowers and must use them to protect the world against villains threatening the peace.

Viewing Points: Anticipation is high as Park Eun Bin reunites with the Extraordinary Attorney Woo team. Meanwhile, eyes are on Cha Eun Woo to see if he can rebound from his recent tax controversy.

Genres: Fantasy, Comedy

Episodes:

Network: Netflix

Where to Watch: Netflix

Fifties Professionals

Release Date: May 22nd

Cast: Shin Ha Kyun, Oh Jung Se, Heo Sung Tae, Lee Hak Ju

Synopsis: Three men in their 50s—formerly a top NIS agent, a North Korean operative and a high-ranking mobster—team up to uncover the truth behind a mysterious incident from 10 years ago.

Viewing Points: The veteran cast features iconic comedic duos, reuniting Shin Ha Kyun and Oh Jung Se from Extreme Job with Squid Game star Heo Sung Tae. The story explores a witty “life reboot” for these middle-aged men, with many wondering if it can maintain the momentum of Perfect Crown.

Genres: Action, Comedy

Episodes: 12

Network: MBC

Where to Watch: TBD

Suddenly Intern

Release Date: May 30th

Cast: Lee Jun Young, Son Hyun Joo, Lee Ju Myung, Jeon Hye Jin, Jin Goo

Synopsis: A corporate chairman and a soccer player’s souls are swapped after a mysterious incident, sparking chaotic events.

Viewing Points: This body-swap drama, similar to Reborn Rich, features a powerful chairman (played Son Hyun Joo) in the body of an intern (Lee Jun Young). From his new perspective, he witnesses the true colors of his own children (Lee Joo Myung, Jeon Hye Jin and Jin Goo) as they scramble for his position. The tense power struggle among the characters is already highly anticipated.

Genres: Fantasy, Office, Mystery

Episodes: 12

Network: JTBC

Where to Watch: TBD

Edited by Hong Hyun Jung
Translated by Eungee Joh

Edited Hong Hyun Jung: I am a K-content guide who publishes various articles for people to enjoy Korean movies and dramas deeper and richer. I’ll introduce you to the works that you can laugh, cry and sympathize with.

Total
0
Shares
Related Posts
>