May 2026 will bring a packed schedule of Korean dramas and films to television, streaming platforms and cinemas. From romantic fantasy and YA healing stories to sci-fi survival horror and workplace comedy, the month offers something for almost every type of viewer. Here are the top 8 Korean titles to watch in May 2026.
1. My royal nemesis
Premiering May 8 on Seoul Broadcasting System, My royal nemesis is a romantic fantasy comedy with a touch of time-slip. The story begins when the spirit of a Joseon era villain suddenly travels to the modern world and enters the body of an unknown actress. There she meets a cold chaebol heir, creating a love-hate relationship full of tension, comedy and unexpected romance.
2. Blue spring
Coming May 11th on MBN Plus, Blue spring is a healing youth drama set in a quiet seaside village. The drama follows 2 people who carry emotional scars from the past and work as traditional divers. With its gentle pace and emotional tone, the series should appeal to viewers who enjoy healing dramas about loss, recovery and rediscovering the meaning of life.
3. The legend of the soldier in the kitchen
Also premiering on May 11th The legend of the soldier in the kitchen will air on tvN and TVING. The military fantasy comedy follows a clumsy private who suddenly receives game-like missions. Through those strange missions, he slowly transforms into a talented cook inside the military base. Mixing food, fantasy and military life, the drama offers a new twist on the usual military-themed story.
4. Soulmate
Netflix will release Soul mate on May 14th. The Korean-Japanese project BL follows 2 characters whose emotional connection spans 10 years and across multiple cities, including Seoul, Berlin, and Tokyo. Beyond romance, the series is expected to explore identity, personal growth and self-search.
5. The Wonderful Ones
The premiere is scheduled for Netflix on May 15th The Wonderful Ones is a superhero comedy set in the late 20th century. The story follows a group of ordinary people who suddenly gain special powers. Instead of focusing on perfect heroes, the series highlights their clumsiness, flaws, and very human reactions to extraordinary abilities.
6. Colony
Released in Korean theaters on May 21st Colony brings sci-fi survival horror to the big screen. Set in a future where humans must seek survival beyond Earth, the film follows a group sent to a space station to build a new colony. However, their mission quickly turns dangerous when they face a mysterious threat.
7. Professionals of the 1950s
Previews May 22 Professionals of the fifties focuses on a rare topic in Korean entertainment: middle-aged men who were once at the peak of their careers. Having left their former glory behind, they reunite for a special mission. The project combines action and comedy while exploring self-esteem, aging and the possibility of a second chance at life.
8. Suddenly intern
The premiere is scheduled for the end of May, Suddenly intern is a workplace fantasy drama about the exchange of souls between a corporate executive and a young intern. Through their swapped lives, the story reveals hidden problems in the corporate world, including workplace pressure, power imbalance and business ethics.
With these 8 titles, May 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most diverse months for Korean dramas and films. Whether viewers prefer romance, comedy, healing stories, action or sci-fi horror, the program has a lot to look forward to.
Sources: Saostar
