Netflix has unveiled the first official look at its upcoming drama Tantara, offering audiences an early glimpse into one of its most anticipated Korean titles. The reveal took place on January 21 during the “Next on Netflix 2026 Korea” event, where the series was introduced as part of Netflix’s upcoming content lineup.
Set against the backdrop of South Korea’s entertainment industry from the 1960s to the 1980s, Tantara portrays an era defined by ambition, risk, and relentless competition. The drama follows individuals who begin with almost nothing yet gamble everything on the dream of stardom, tracing their rise amid desire, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of the industry.
The series is written by Noh Hee Kyung, known for emotionally grounded works such as Our Blues and Dear My Friends, and directed by Lee Yoon Jung, whose credits include Coffee Prince and Cheese in the Trap. Their collaboration suggests a character-driven narrative that balances personal emotion with broader social context.
Song Hye Kyo stars as Min Ja, while Gong Yoo takes on a striking transformation as Dong Gu, Min Ja’s childhood friend. Their relationship serves as an emotional anchor within the story, reflecting how shared beginnings can lead to diverging paths under the pressures of time and ambition.
The supporting cast further enriches the narrative. Seolhyun plays Min Hui, a character entangled in a complex love-hate relationship with Min Ja. Cha Seung Won appears as Gil Yeo, the most influential composer of the era, representing authority and artistic power within the industry. Lee Ha Nee joins the cast as Yang Ja, Min Hui’s mother and an aspiring singer, adding another generational layer to the story.
Speaking at the event, Netflix senior director Bae Jong Byeong described Tantara as a gripping exploration of the entertainment industry across two transformative decades. He emphasized the strong appeal of seeing Song Hye Kyo and Gong Yoo together, alongside a cast that vividly portrays the depth of human desire, emotion, and lived experience.
Tantara is scheduled to premiere on Netflix in the fourth quarter of this year.
