K-DRAMA WATCHLIST: January 2026 Korean Dramas

The new year ushers in a fresh lineup of Korean dramas poised to keep viewers entertained throughout 2026.

A diverse slate of titles spanning drama, romance, and fantasy will headline the first wave of premieres—many led by proven stars returning to the small screen.

Below are January 2026 Korean Dramas to add to your watchlist.

The Judge Returns — January 2 | MBC

The Judge Returns follows Lee Han-young, a judge who once traded integrity for power, becoming entangled with elite legal circles and the influence of a powerful law firm. After a tragic downfall, he unexpectedly wakes up a decade in the past—before corruption consumed him. Faced with a rare second chance, he vows to rewrite his fate, expose wrongdoing, and deliver justice on his own terms. The series blends legal intrigue, moral dilemmas, and redemption storytelling, driven by high-stakes tension and commanding performances.

To My Beloved Thief — January 3 | KBS

This sweeping historical romance centers on a gifted yet notorious thief who becomes the most wanted figure in the kingdom—unbeknownst to her, also capturing the attention of the crown prince determined to hunt her down. When the pair suddenly swap bodies, they are forced to see the world—and each other—through new eyes. As palace politics intensify and loyalty is tested, the two develop a fated bond that could change the future of the nation. Expect grandeur, chemistry, and a refreshing twist on the royal-romance formula.

Spring Fever — January 5 | tvN

Spring Fever tells the heartwarming story of Yoon Bom, a quiet and enigmatic teacher who relocates to a peaceful countryside village to start anew. There, she meets Sun Jae-gyu, a passionate but rough-around-the-edges man devoted to raising his young nephew. As their contrasting personalities gently collide, the pair begin to heal emotional scars and rediscover life’s simple joys. With scenic backdrops and tender storytelling, the drama explores love, second chances, and the comfort of unexpected companionship.

No Tail to Tell — January 16 | SBS

This fantasy-romance introduces Eun-ho, a centuries-old gumiho who has never found the desire to become human, and Kang Si-yeol, a world-celebrated football star struggling under the weight of fame. When fate intertwines their paths, Eun-ho’s reserved independence clashes with Si-yeol’s larger-than-life persona, sparking a whimsical yet deeply emotional romance. Combining myth, humor, and charm, the drama takes a fresh approach to Korea’s iconic nine-tailed fox lore while exploring identity, self-worth, and love across lifetimes.

Can This Love Be Translated? — January 16 | Netflix

At the heart of this globally set romantic comedy is Joo Ho-jin, a multilingual interpreter renowned for her sharp intellect and cool composure. Her latest assignment pairs her with Cha Mu-hee, one of the world’s biggest stars—charismatic on the surface, yet deeply unpredictable in private. As culture, communication, and misunderstandings collide, the two form a relationship fueled by witty banter, heartfelt moments, and an undeniable spark. The series offers a playful yet sincere look at love in translation—literally and emotionally.

Undercover Miss Hong — January 17 | tvN

Set against the bustling financial world of the 1990s, this retro-style comedy follows Hong Geum-bo, an experienced and confident investigator working for the securities commission. When a suspicious case threatens market stability, she goes undercover disguised as Hong Jang-mi—a naïve junior employee inside the company under investigation. Balancing slapstick humor with sharp social commentary, the drama highlights dual-identity chaos, workplace nostalgia, and the determination of a woman who refuses to back down in a male-dominated industry.

Positively Yours — January 17 | Channel A

Adapted from the hit webtoon, Positively Yours centers on Jang Hee-won and Kang Doo-joon—two successful professionals who share one thing in common: neither has time or interest in romance. But when an unexpected one-night encounter binds them together in life-altering ways, both are forced to confront unresolved fears, vulnerabilities, and changing priorities. Blending sincerity with light-hearted humor, the drama follows their awkward yet disarmingly sweet journey toward love, responsibility, and emotional growth.