Global fans of Korean dramas have reason to celebrate as the highly popular web novel The Remarried Empress is getting a live-action adaptation. The fantasy romance series will feature a powerhouse cast, including Shin Min Ah, Ju Ji Hoon, Lee Jong Suk, and Lee Se Young. The drama is set to premiere on Disney+ in May or June 2025, with filming beginning in late May .
A Story of Betrayal and New Beginnings
The Remarried Empress follows Navier, the brilliant and graceful empress of the Eastern Empire, whose life is upended when her husband, Emperor Sovieshu, betrays her. After he takes a mistress and demands a divorce, Navier agrees—but only if she can remarry. She then weds Prince Heinrey of the Western Empire, setting the stage for a tale of love, power, and political intrigue .
The original web novel, first published in 2018, became a global sensation, amassing 2.6 billion views by December 2024. It was later adapted into a webtoon and translated into 10 languages, making it one of the most successful Korean web novels worldwide .
Meet the Cast
Shin Min Ah takes on the role of Navier, the empress known for her intelligence and resilience. Ju Ji Hoon plays Emperor Sovieshu, whose infidelity sparks the central conflict. Lee Jong Suk stars as Prince Heinrey, a mysterious royal with hidden motives, while Lee Se Young portrays Rashta, the former slave who becomes Sovieshu’s mistress .
The production team, led by director Jo Soo Won (I Hear Your Voice, Pinocchio), promises a visually stunning adaptation.
“We plan to faithfully recreate the original world that fans across the globe have fallen in love with. With striking visuals, grand scale, and narrative depth, this series will set a new standard for the romance fantasy genre,” the team stated .
Disney+ Strengthens Its K-Drama Lineup
The series will stream on Disney+, joining other hit Korean originals like Moving and Casino. The platform aims to expand its Asian content library, and The Remarried Empress is expected to draw significant international attention .
