IU’s Emotional Return & More: The Best New K-Dramas to Stream on Netflix in 2026

When Life Gives You Tangerines — Stream on Netflix

When Life Gives You Tangerines is an emotional drama set against the backdrop of 1950s Jeju Island. IU and Park Bo-gum star as Ae-sun and Gwan-sik, whose connections bloom over changing seasons (both literally and metaphorically).

It's a love story at its core, but also a heartfelt tale of personal growth and resilience. When Life Gives You Tangerines can be streamed on Netflix all 2026 long.

Typhoon Family — Stream on Netflix

Okay, I just started this one (like, I'm only two episodes in) and I can't recommend it enough. Typhoon Family is all about a playboy named Tae-poong who has to step up when his father dies and leaves behind his family company. Determined to keep the business afloat, Tae-poong (Lee Jun-ho) enlists the help of bookkeeper Mi-seon (Kim Min-ha) to help him learn the ropes.

And...duh they catch feelings for each other pretty quickly. It's so swoon-worthy that I can't wait to see what comes next (even though I've already seen a lot of clips on TikTok, oops).

Squid Game — Stream on Netflix

Not many shows have captured as much worldwide attention as Squid Game, which kept fans on the edge of their seats. The series debuted in 2021 and became Netflix's biggest hit.

Set in a deadly competition where contestants in debt play games for a life-changing cash prize (at the cost of their lives), Squid Game blends action with social commentary in a truly compelling way. The Squid Game cast for season 3 includes Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-joon, Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Gyu-young, Park Sung-hoon, Yang Dong-geun, Kang Ae-shim, Jo Yu-ri, Lee David, and Roh Jae-won.

All of Us Are Dead — Stream on Netflix

If you're into high-stakes suspense, All of Us Are Dead needs to be added to your watch list. The series first made waves in 2022 by putting a fresh spin on the zombie genre, focusing on a group of high school students trying to survive a sudden outbreak.

But this isn't your typical undead drama. These zombies have unique abilities, and the overall storyline is packed with non-stop action. The series stars Park Ji-hu, Yoon Chan-young, Cho Yi-hyun, Lomon, Yoo In-soo, Lee Yoo-mi, Kim Byung-chul, Lee Kyu-hyung, and Jeon Bae-soo.

Weak Hero: Class 2 — Stream on Netflix

Following the success of its first season, Weak Hero: Class 2 is here. This drama delves into the brutal reality of bullying in South Korean schools, following Yeon Si-eun, played by Park Ji-hoon, as he transfers to a new school following a violent confrontation with past bullies.

With a strong cast and raw themes, Weak Hero: Class 2 is both gripping and gut-wrenching.

Melo Movie — Stream on Netflix

Hopeless romantics will probably adore Melo Movie, which pairs Choi Woo-shik and Park Bo-young in a bittersweet love story. Choi plays a reserved film critic, while Park is a passionate director with a complicated past.

Their paths cross in the world of filmmaking, sparking a connection that's a real treat for rom-com lovers.

Aema — Stream on Netflix

Set in the heyday of Seoul's Chungmuro film district, Aema offers a fictionalized behind-the-scenes look at the making of the 1982 movie Madame Aema, a real-life box office sensation.

At the center of the drama is a rivalry between veteran actress Jeong Hee-ran and rising star Shin Ju-ge, played by Lee Ha-nee and Bang Hyo-rin, respectively.

Can This Love Be Translated? — Stream on Netflix

In a world where languages are both bridges and barriers, Can This Love Be Translated? tackles communication, identity, and connection. Kim Seon-ho stars as a multilingual interpreter who unexpectedly falls for a global celebrity, portrayed by Go Youn-jung.

This nuanced and heartwarming story, written by the Hong sisters and directed by Yoo Young-eun, is the perfect 2026 Netflix watch.

Genie, Make a Wish — Stream on Netflix

If you're more in the mood for magic and laughs, Genie, Make a Wish is a fantasy rom-com that'll satisfy your craving. Uncontrollably Fond stars Kim Woo-bin and Suzy reunite in this series, which follows a wish-granting genie and his new master as they navigate the classic "three wishes" rule.

Hospital Playlist — Stream on Netflix

While Season 3 of Hospital Playlist hasn't officially been confirmed, fans of the show can still hold on to hope. First airing in 2020, the series became popular due to its relatable portrayal of doctor friends as they juggle life, love, and medicine.

Director Shin Won-ho even said in April 2024 that he wanted to make a third season. So, cross your fingers, and stream the first two in the meantime. The cast includes Jo Jung-suk, Yoo Yeon-seok, Jung Kyung-ho, Kim Dae-myung, and Jeon Mi-do.

Under the Queen's Umbrella — Stream on Netflix

Finally, Under the Queen's Umbrella offers a gripping look into royal life during the Joseon dynasty, focusing on a determined queen trying to secure her son's place on the throne amidst palace conspiracies.

Even though this limited series first aired in 2022, it remains a fan favorite in 2026. So, for viewers who love historical fiction and powerful female leads, Under the Queen's Umbrella is a must-watch. The series stars Kim Hye-soo, Kim Hae-sook, and Choi Won-young.