Korean dramas adapted from webtoons and web novels are once again reshaping the success formula for both television and streaming platforms in 2026.
Among the dramas that have aired this year or are scheduled for release across terrestrial broadcasters, cable channels, general programming networks, and OTT services, roughly one in four is based on a webtoon or web novel. Even after excluding simulcast titles, adaptations still account for around 25% of all productions. Studios continue to rely on stories that have already proven popular with readers, reducing production risks while attracting existing fan communities and generating both strong ratings and online buzz. Recent successes such as Agent Kim Reactivated, Teach You a Lesson, and The Legend of Kitchen Soldier have become standout examples of this growing trend.
SBS’s Agent Kim Reactivated is an action-revenge drama that follows an ordinary father who transforms into a dangerous man to rescue his only daughter. The series marked So Ji-sub’s return to SBS dramas after 13 years, making it one of the year’s most anticipated premieres. The excitement quickly translated into ratings. After debuting on June 26, the drama reached nationwide ratings of 15.7% and 15.9% in the Seoul metropolitan area by its second episode, according to Nielsen Korea, while its peak minute rating climbed to 18.1%. Centered 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 currently ranks as the No. 1 Friday-Saturday drama on Korean terrestrial television.
Netflix’s Teach You a Lesson, which follows a government agency dedicated to protecting teachers and restoring order in schools, has further demonstrated the global appeal of webtoon adaptations. According to Netflix’s official Tudum rankings released on July 1, the series recorded 7.3 million views and 78.2 million viewing hours between June 22 and June 28, making it the platform’s most-watched non-English series worldwide. After reaching No. 1 just three days after its June 5 release, the drama has now maintained the top position for four consecutive weeks.
The series has also remained near the top of integrated TV and OTT buzz rankings in South Korea, proving successful both critically and commercially. Beyond attracting longtime readers of the original webtoon, Teach You a Lesson has expanded its audience internationally, further highlighting the global potential of Korean intellectual properties.
Another successful adaptation, The Legend of Kitchen Soldier, based on both a web novel and a webtoon of the same name, recently concluded on a high note. The drama follows military cook Kang Seong-jae, who gains a game-like status window that helps him grow into 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 through his own talent, while a new quest hinted at the possibility of a second season.
Industry observers believe the popularity of webtoon and web novel adaptations will continue for the foreseeable future. As proven intellectual properties become increasingly adaptable across dramas, games, animation, and live performances, production companies are expected to keep investing heavily in established source material. Meanwhile, episode three of Agent Kim Reactivated is scheduled to air on SBS at 9:50 p.m. on July 3.
Sources: Daum