JTBC has given viewers a look at what’s coming for the remainder of 2026 and into 2027. The South Korean cable network released a lineup video on September 4, showcasing a mix of new dramas featuring some of the biggest names in the industry. The announcement arrives as the network navigates financial restructuring, yet it continues to press forward with a strong slate of star-powered content.
“Final Table” Kicks Off the 2026 Lineup
First in the schedule is “Final Table,” a cooking competition drama starring Ahn Hyo Seop, Hong Hwa Yeon, Chang Ryul, and Jung Yoo Jin. The series follows talented Korean chefs from around the world who gather to compete in “The Table: K-Chef 2026,” a high-stakes survival competition to determine the best Korean chef.
Ahn Hyo Seop plays chef Kang Han, who enters the competition representing restaurant Familia. Hong Hwa Yeon stars as Choi Song Yi, the hall manager of Familia. Chang Ryul takes on the role of Cha Woo Jin, a perfectionist chef with natural talent who becomes Kang Han’s biggest rival in the competition. The drama combines scripted storytelling with a reality competition format. “Final Table” is scheduled to premiere in October 2026.
“God’s Beads” Brings Historical Action Romance
Following “Final Table” is the historical drama “God’s Beads” (also referred to as “Marble of God” or “The Sacred Jewel”). Set in 1258 during the Goryeo dynasty’s 30-year war with the Mongol Empire, the drama follows an expedition team’s mission to recover sacred relics believed to protect the nation.
The cast includes Ahn Bo Hyun, Lee Sung Min, Claudia Kim, and Ha Yun Kyung. The series is directed by Jung Dae Yoon, who previously directed the hit drama “Reborn Rich”. “God’s Beads” has already gained attention after being invited to the 9th Cannes International Series Festival.
2027 Brings “Gold Digger” and “Human X Gumiho”
Looking ahead to 2027, JTBC has confirmed two major projects. “Gold Digger” is a Korean remake of the British series of the same name. The drama tells the story of a successful middle-aged woman and a younger man who enters her life, with both characters doubting each other’s true intentions.
Kim Hee Ae stars in the lead role. The drama is a mystery romance that explores the question: “Is it love or a con?”.
The second 2027 project is “Human X Gumiho,” a fantasy romantic comedy starring Jun Ji Hyun and Ji Chang Wook. Jun Ji Hyun plays Gu Ja Hong, a 2,000-year-old gumiho (nine-tailed fox) who is also a top actress with the ability to captivate people. Ji Chang Wook portrays Choi Seok, a skilled shaman and museum director who is the one human unaffected by her powers.
The supporting cast includes Cha Joo Young as Ji Woo Kyung, the CEO who knows Gu Ja Hong’s secret, and Kang Yoo Seok as Ko Tae Seung, the museum’s deputy director. Hwang In Yeop, Kim Seol Hyun, and Lee Jae In have also confirmed special appearances.
“The combination of Jun Ji Hyun and Ji Chang Wook is something everyone is excited about. The two will portray a fantasy romance between a human and a nine-tailed fox that is both sweet and dangerous.”
The drama is written by Im Me Ah Ri, known for “Beauty Inside” and “The Day the Destruction Came to My Front Door,” and directed by Kim Jung Shik, who worked on “Strong Woman Gang Nam Soon”. “Human X Gumiho” is scheduled to premiere in the first half of 2027 and will be available to global audiences through Amazon Prime.
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JTBC’s Variety Show Lineup Remains Strong
Alongside its drama offerings, JTBC has confirmed the return of several variety programs. Weekday evening slots will feature “Love War” on Mondays, “Han Moon Chul’s Black Box Review” on Tuesdays, “Talk Pa One 25 O’Clock” on Wednesdays, “Divorce Camp” on Thursdays, and “Scammers” on Fridays. Weekend programming remains unchanged, with “Knowing Bros” airing Saturdays at 9 PM and “Please Take Care of My Refrigerator” airing Sundays at 8:50 PM.
The lineup announcement comes as JTBC faces financial challenges. The network recently declared a default after failing to repay 20.6 billion KRW (approximately 14.8 million USD) in securitized borrowings and subsequently filed for corporate rehabilitation. Despite these difficulties, JTBC continues to invest in high-profile productions with top-tier actors.
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