January 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting month for K-drama fans, with highly anticipated premieres across Netflix, Viki, Prime Video, and more. From time-travel revenge stories and historical fantasy romances to heartwarming rom-coms and reality dating shows, the new year starts strong with diverse and addictive titles.
If you’re looking for what to add to your watchlist, here are the K-dramas and Korean shows premiering in January 2026 you definitely shouldn’t miss.
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The Return of the Judge
January 2, 2026
Viki
“The Return of the Judge” tells the gripping story of Lee Han Young (Ji Sung), a corrupt judge who lives as a puppet controlled by a powerful law firm. His life takes an unexpected turn when he is sent ten years back into the past.
Given a second chance, Han Young decides to change his fate and pursue real justice, punishing the powerful figures responsible for major corruption. With themes of redemption, morality, and revenge, this drama promises intense storytelling and strong performances.
To My Beloved Thief
January 3, 2026
Viki
Blending historical fantasy and romance, “To My Beloved Thief” follows Hong Eun Jo (Nam Ji Hyun), a woman who unexpectedly becomes a legendary thief known as Gil Dong. Moon Sang Min stars as Yi Yeol, a Joseon Dynasty prince determined to capture her.
When their souls are mysteriously switched, the two are forced to work together. As chaos unfolds, they not only save each other but also protect innocent people, leading to a heartfelt and adventurous journey filled with romance and destiny.
Spring Fever
January 5, 2026
Prime Video
“Spring Fever” is a romantic comedy centered on the unexpected love story between Yoon Bom (Lee Joo Bin), an emotionally distant high school teacher, and Seon Jae Gyu (Ahn Bo Hyun), a passionate man determined to melt her frozen heart.
With warm humor, emotional healing, and charming chemistry, this drama is perfect for viewers who love cozy romance stories with personal growth and second chances.
Can Love Be Translated?
January 16, 2026
Netflix
Starring Kim Seon Ho and Go Youn Jung, “Can Love Be Translated?” is one of Netflix’s most anticipated romantic K-dramas of 2026.
The story follows a multilingual interpreter and a famous actress who hold completely different views on love. Despite cultural and emotional barriers, they develop a connection that transcends language, leading to both comedic and touching moments. This drama explores communication, misunderstandings, and how love can exist beyond words.
No Tail to Tell
January 16, 2026
Netflix
“No Tail to Tell” is a fantasy romance starring Kim Hye Yoon as Eun Ho, a quirky and independent Gen Z gumiho (nine-tailed fox) who has no desire to become human. Lomon plays Kang Si Yeol, an extremely confident world-class soccer player.
As fate brings them together, their chaotic relationship turns into a mission to save each other. With fantasy elements, humor, and emotional depth, this drama is expected to attract fans of supernatural love stories.
Positively Yours
January 17, 2026
Viki
Based on a popular webtoon, “Positively Yours” is a romantic comedy that explores the unexpected consequences of a one-night stand between two people who vowed never to get married.
Choi Jin Hyuk stars as Kang Doo Joon, the wealthy CEO of Taehan Liquor and a second-generation chaebol heir. Oh Yeon Seo plays Jang Hee Won, the youngest manager in the company’s new product development team—someone who excels at work but struggles with love. The drama promises humor, romance, and heartfelt moments.
Undercover Miss Hong
January 17, 2026
Platform TBA
Set in the late 1990s, “Undercover Miss Hong” is a comedy starring Park Shin Hye as Hong Geum Bo, an elite financial supervisor in her 30s.
To investigate suspicious financial transactions, she goes undercover as a rookie employee in her early 20s at a brokerage firm. The drama combines workplace comedy, undercover antics, and social commentary, offering a nostalgic yet entertaining experience.
Single’s Inferno: Season New Chapter
January 20, 2026
Netflix
Netflix’s hit reality dating show returns in January 2026. “Single’s Inferno” keeps its iconic format: attractive singles are stranded on a remote island (“Inferno”) without phones or modern luxuries.
To escape to “Paradise,” a luxurious getaway, they must form romantic connections. Expect intense chemistry, emotional confessions, and viral moments that will dominate social media once again.
Final Thoughts
From legal thrillers and historical fantasy to romantic comedies and reality dating shows, January 2026 K-dramas offer something for every fan. Whether you love intense storytelling or lighthearted romance, this month is packed with must-watch releases to start the year on a high note.
Which January 2026 drama are you most excited about?
