Netflix has officially revealed the first look at its upcoming historical drama The Scandal, drawing attention as one of the highlighted titles at the “Next on Netflix 2026 Korea” event held on January 21. The series is part of Netflix’s newly announced Korean content slate for 2026.
Based on the 2003 film Untold Scandal, The Scandal is set in the rigidly restrained society of the Joseon era and centers on a daring game of love and deception. The story follows Lady Cho, a woman whose intelligence and abilities far exceed the limits imposed on women of her time, and Cho Won, known as the greatest playboy in Joseon. What begins as a dangerous wager soon entangles Hui Yeon, a virtuous widowed noblewoman, pulling all three into an escalating web of desire, manipulation, and forbidden emotion.
The series is directed by Jung Ji Woo, a filmmaker recognized for his genre-spanning works such as Tune in for Love, Somebody, and One Day. Known for his nuanced approach to emotional storytelling, Jung’s involvement has raised expectations for a character-driven interpretation of the classic narrative.
Son Ye Jin stars as Lady Cho, a role defined by allure, intelligence, and calculated risk. Ji Chang Wook takes on the role of Cho Won, a thrill-seeking libertine whose charm masks dangerous intent. Nana portrays Hui Yeon, a chaste noblewoman whose life is upended as she becomes caught in the couple’s provocative game.
With its expansion from film to serialized format, The Scandal is expected to delve deeper into the psychological tension and shifting power dynamics among its characters, exploring themes of desire and societal constraint. The drama is scheduled to premiere on Netflix in the third quarter of this year.
