New K-drama releases of May 2026 that promise romance, chaos and curveballs

While April 2026 captivated viewers with buzzworthy titles such as Perfect Crown and Yumi’s Cells season 3, May offers an equally exciting mix of genres and tones. From supernatural chaos to corporate power struggles, the upcoming list of K-dramas releasing in May 2026 promises layered storytelling, compelling performances and narratives designed to keep audiences fully invested.

Leading the slate is the fantasy romantic comedy My Royal Nemesis, starring Lim Ji-yeon and Heo Nam-jun. The series follows a Joseon-era concubine whose soul is transported into modern-day Seoul, where she inhabits the body of an actor and clashes with a ruthless chaebol heir.

Expressing confidence about lead actor Lim, director Han Tae-seob said in a press conference (via Soompi), “Lim Ji-yeon was the top choice for both me and the writer. Her unique appeal, proven through many roles, closely matches the spirit shown by Shin Seo Ri, who steadfastly believes in herself and forges her own path.”

Adding a burst of genre energy to the month is The WONDERfools, led by Park Eun-bin and Cha Eun-woo. The Korean series follows a group of ordinary individuals who suddenly gain imperfect superpowers, drawing them into a mystery involving disappearances in a South Korean city. Blending action, comedy and suspense, the drama thrives on its chaotic ensemble dynamic.

Other exciting upcoming K-drama titles set to release in May 2026 include Azure Spring and The Legend of Kitchen Soldier.

These upcoming K-dramas are set to entertain viewers in May 2026

1 /6

Directed by: Han Tae-seob

Cast: Lim Ji-yeon, Heo Nam-jun, Jang Seung-jo, Lee Se-hee

Streaming platform: Netflix

Synopsis: Sin Seo-ri (Lim), a feared Joseon-era concubine executed for her ruthless ambition, wakes up in modern Seoul inside the body of a female actor. As her sharp instincts resurface, her encounter with chaebol heir Cha Se-gye (Heo) sparks a volatile love-hate dynamic that blurs the boundary between the past and present.

2 /6

Directed by: Jo Nam-hyung

Cast: Park Ji-hoon, Yoon Kyung-ho, Han Dong-hee, Lee Hong-nae

Streaming platform: HBO Max

Synopsis: Kang Seong-jae (Park), a troubled recruit seeking to escape the brutal military life, encounters a mysterious quest system that guides him towards becoming a top army cook. His skills sharpen with each challenge. But at the same time, buried truths about his father’s death and military corruption begin to surface.

Also read: Romantic K-dramas to look forward to in 2026

3 /6

Directed by: Jung Hun-soo

Cast: Kang Sang-jun, Yeri

Streaming platform: TBA

Synopsis: Deok-hyeon (Kang), a man weighed down by his past, and An-na (Yeri), a young woman paralysed by uncertainty, find solace as divers in a coastal village. As they immerse themselves in the sea, they begin to rediscover purpose, healing and a fragile sense of belonging.

4 /6

Directed by: Yoo In-shik

Cast: Park Eun-bin, Cha Eun-woo, Kim Hae-sook, Choi Dae-hoon

Streaming platform: Netflix

Synopsis: It is 1999, and Eun Chae-ni (Park) unexpectedly gains supernatural powers alongside her neighbour Son Gyeong-un (Choi). As their abilities spiral out of control, they are pulled into a mystery involving disappearances in Haeseong City, forcing them to confront a hidden threat.

Also read: Best office romance K-dramas

5 /6

Directed by: Han Dong-hwa

Cast: Shin Ha-kyun, Oh Jung-se, Heo Sung-tae

Streaming platform: TBA

Synopsis: Jung Ho-myeong (Shin), a former elite intelligence agent, crosses paths with Bong Je-sun (Oh), a once-feared North Korean operative, and Kang Beom-ryong (Heo), an ex-gang member who now owns a shop. As their pasts resurface, the trio navigate ageing, identity and unfinished battles.

6 /6

Directed by: Go Hye-jin

Cast: Lee Jun-young, Son Hyun-joo, Lee Ju-myoung, Jin Goo

Streaming platform: TBA

Synopsis: Kang Yong-ho (Son Hyun-joo/Lee Jun-young), a powerful conglomerate chairman, swaps souls with young footballer Hwang Jun-hyeon (Lee Jun-young). Trapped in Jun-hyeon’s body, Yong-ho becomes a rookie employee in his own company. In this new form, he must rebuild his authority from within while uncovering new truths about power, ambition and identity.

Also read: Medical K-dramas that will keep you hooked