Korean dramas adapted from webtoons and web novels are once again reshaping the success formula for both television and streaming platforms in 2026.
Of the dramas that aired this year or are scheduled for distribution on terrestrial broadcasters, cable channels, general programming networks and OTT services, about one in four is based on a webtoon or web novel. Even excluding simulcast titles, adaptations still account for about 25% of all productions. Studios continue to rely on stories that have already proven popular with readers, reducing production risks while appealing to existing fan communities and generating both strong ratings and online buzz. Recent hits like Agent Kim reactivated, I’ll teach you a lessonAND The legend of the soldier in the kitchen have become prime examples of this growing trend.
SBS Agent Kim reactivated is an action and revenge drama that follows an ordinary father who transforms into a dangerous man to save his only daughter. The series marked So Ji-sub’s return to SBS dramas after 13 years, making it one of the most anticipated premieres of the year. The enthusiasm quickly translated into ratings. After debuting on June 26, the series achieved nationwide ratings of 15.7% and 15.9% in the Seoul metropolitan area in the second episode, while peak minutes ratings rose to 18.1%, according to Nielsen Korea. Centering on fathers willing to risk everything to protect their families, the series has been praised for successfully blending emotional family storytelling with large-scale action. It is currently the #1 Friday-Saturday drama on Korean terrestrial television.
Netflix’s I’ll teach you a lessonwhich follows a government agency committed to protecting teachers and restoring order in schools, further demonstrated the global appeal of webtoon adaptations. According to Netflix’s official Tudum chart released on July 1, the series logged 7.3 million views and 78.2 million hours of viewing between June 22 and June 28, making it the most-watched non-English series on the platform worldwide. After reaching No. 1 just three days after its release on June 5, the drama has now held the top position for four consecutive weeks.
The series also remained at the top of the integrated TV and OTT charts in South Korea, proving to be both a critical and commercial success. In addition to attracting longtime readers of the original webtoon, I’ll teach you a lesson has expanded its audience internationally, further highlighting the global potential of Korean intellectual properties.
Another successful adaptation, The legend of the soldier in the kitchenbased on both a web novel and a webtoon of the same name, which recently concluded with great success. The series follows military chef Kang Seong-jae, who gets a game-like status window that helps him become an extraordinary chef. The cast includes Park Ji-hoon, Lee Hong-nae, Yoon Kyung-ho, Jung Woong-in and Lee Sang-yi. According to Nielsen Korea, the finale, which aired on tvN on June 16, achieved a high nationwide rating of 7.6%. In the final episode, Kang Seong-jae won the military cooking competition thanks to his talent, while new research hinted at the possibility of a second season.
Industry observers believe that the popularity of webtoon and web novel adaptations will continue for the foreseeable future. As proven intellectual properties become increasingly adaptable to dramas, games, animations and live performances, production companies are expected to continue to invest heavily in established original material. Meanwhile, episode three of Agent Kim reactivated will air on SBS at 9.50pm on July 3.
Sources: Daum
