Transform yourself with powerful, inspiring, and unstoppable stories.
2026 is calling—the year of your revolution. Whether you’re ready to confront your fears, pursue your ambitions, stand up for what matters, or simply become the best version of yourself, what better way to prepare than by watching real people (well, characters) pour their hearts into overcoming impossible odds?
We’ve curated eight must-watch Korean dramas and variety shows across different genres—from Korean motivation and fitness challenges to thrilling K-dramas to heartwarming romance stories. All you need is a Viu membership to access these gems with multiple subtitle options. Let’s dive in!
Iron Girls 2
Genre: Korean Variety, Reality, Sports, Motivation
Synopsis: Physical & mental transformation through boxing—KIM Yu Jin(Uie), Seol In Ah(Seorina), and Park Ju Hyun return as fearless actresses who previously conquered a grueling triathlon. Joined by newcomer Geum Sae Rok(Keum Sae Rok), known for her unwavering dedication to fitness, the team now steps into an even tougher arena: professional boxing training.
Under the guidance of MMA fighter Kim Dong Hyun, they face relentless physical training and deep mental battles.
Cast: Kim Yu Jin (Uie/ Uee), Seorina, Park Ju Hyun, Keum Sae Rok, Coach Kim Dong Hyun
Review: Iron Girls 2 is the ultimate motivational watch because it proves that transformation isn’t about being perfect—it’s about confronting the voice in your head that says “I can’t” and choosing to keep going anyway. When you watch these women get knocked down (literally) and choose to get back up, you’ll understand what true resilience looks like. It’s not about your body; it’s about discovering your identity and your unwillingness to quit. Viewers praise the authentic struggles and genuine character growth throughout the season.
2026 Revolution Takeaway: When you watch these women discover their hidden strength, you’ll understand that your power has been inside you all along. 2026 is the year you stop shrinking yourself and start using your full potential.
Taxi Driver 3
Genre: K-drama, Thriller, Action, Crime
Synopsis: Resilience, justice, and unwavering commitment—Lee Je Hoon returns as Kim Do-gi, the fearless driver of Rainbow Deluxe Taxi.
After conquering Japan’s yakuza underworld in Season 2, the team now takes on gambling syndicates, match-fixing conspiracies, and international crime. With record-breaking ratings and an international cast featuring Edan Lui as Interpol Inspector Michael Chang, this is the ultimate adrenaline-pumping watch.
Cast: Lee Je Hoon as Kim Do-gi, Kim Eui Sung as Jang Seong Cheol, Pyo Ye Jin as An Go Eun, Jang Hyuk Jin as Choi Gyeong Gu, Bae Yoo Ram as Park Jin Eon, Edan Lui as Michael Chang
Review: Taxi Driver 3 dominates with record-breaking ratings because it combines impeccable action choreography with emotional depth. The international cast adds fresh appeal, and the show’s commitment to justice-driven revenge missions keeps viewers invested. Each arc tackles different social crimes, proving that persistence beats impossible odds. Lee Je Hoon’s charisma and the team’s chemistry make this unmissable.
2026 Revolution Takeaway: Kim Do-gi doesn’t have superpowers or unlimited resources. He’s a taxi driver who uses his wits, courage, and unshakeable belief that every victim deserves justice. Your 2026 revolution doesn’t need perfection—it needs commitment to something bigger than yourself.
Lovely Runner
Genre: Romantic Love Korean drama, Fantasy
Synopsis: Second chances and time-travel perspective—Im Sol’s life has fallen apart. Then she’s given an impossible gift: she wakes up 13 years in the past, with knowledge of a future she’s already lived.
Determined to save the person who was her only light in the darkness—top star Sun-jae—she discovers something profound: the real transformation isn’t changing others, it’s changing yourself. Based on the web novel Tomorrow’s Best, this 2024 hit combines fantasy elements with genuine emotional depth.
Cast: Kim Hye Yoon as Im Sol, Byeon Woo Seok as Sun-jae
Review: Lovely Runner isn’t about dwelling on the past—it’s about using what you’ve learned to make better choices now.
The captivating chemistry between the leads brings magic to every scene, and the show’s exploration of second chances and personal growth is deeply moving. Viewers praise the balance of romance, fantasy, and meaningful character development.
2026 Revolution Takeaway: If you could go back in time and tell your past self one thing about 2026, what would it be? Your power to change your life exists right here, right now, without a time machine.
My ID is Gangnam Beauty
Genre: Kdramas, Romance, Comedy
Synopsis: Self-acceptance and internal beauty—Kang Mi Rae was bullied relentlessly for her appearance, so she gets plastic surgery and transforms her face. But her physical transformation isn’t her real journey.
When she meets Do Kyung Joon, a man who judges people on character alone, she’s forced to confront the truth: the real beauty she needed to cultivate was internal. Adapted from the popular webtoon, this 2018 classic explores societal beauty standards and self-acceptance.
Cast: Im Soo Hyang as Kang Mi Rae, Cha Eun Woo as Do Kyung Joon
Review: This drama is a thought-provoking exploration of societal beauty standards and self-acceptance. Im Soo Hyang and Cha Eun Woo deliver powerful performances that make you empathize with their characters’ struggles and growth. The storyline is both heartwarming and inspiring, resonating with viewers across all ages.
2026 Revolution Takeaway: Your 2026 transformation isn’t about changing yourself to fit someone else’s standards. It’s about becoming the version of yourself that YOU respect, that YOU’re proud of. The most powerful transformation is learning to see yourself the way people who truly love you see you.
The Auditors
Genre: Korean TV series, Workplace, Comedy
Synopsis: Workplace integrity and speaking truth to power—At JU Construction Company, known for its corruption, the audit team is hard at work.
The team consists of a pragmatic, sharp-witted team leader and a warm-hearted new employee. Initially struggling with teamwork, they eventually become an unstoppable investigative duo as they tackle various cases together. This 2024 series aired on tvN from July to August and became one of the year’s standout workplace dramas.
Cast: Shin Ha Kyun as Shin Cha Il (team leader), Lee Jung Ha as Goo Han Soo (new employee)
Review: The Auditors is a refreshing take on workplace dramas, blending comedy and drama seamlessly. Shin Ha Kyun’s portrayal of the pragmatic team leader is spot-on, and Lee Jung Ha’s character adds youthful energy to the mix.
The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping you hooked from start to finish. South China Morning Post even ranked it as the 7th best K-drama of 2024.
2026 Revolution Takeaway: Your 2026 transformation at work isn’t just about promotions or salary increases.
It’s about having the courage to say “this isn’t right” and backing it up with action. It’s about finding a team that shares your values and building something meaningful together.
Whenever Possible Season 4
Genre: Funny Korean variety shows, Korean Game Show, Reality Show, Heartwarming
Synopsis: Small acts creating big impact—Yoo Jae Suk and Yoo Yeon Seok return with upgraded games and heartwarming moments as they help everyday people achieve their dreams. Episode 1 features Taxi Driver stars Lee Je Hoon and Pyo Ye Jin. It’s pure joy, laughter, and genuine human connection. This newest season continues the beloved series’ tradition of life-changing moments for ordinary people.
Cast: Yoo Jae Seok as MC, Yoo Yeon Seok as Co-MC, Lee Je Hoon as Guest Star (Episode 1), Pyo Ye Jin as Guest Star (Episode 1), Various everyday people and “Whenever Friends”
Review: Whenever Possible Season 4 stands out in an oversaturated reality TV landscape for its genuine kindness and lack of manufactured drama. Yoo Jae Suk’s legendary MC abilities shine through, and the show’s focus on helping ordinary people achieve dreams feels authentic.
Viewers appreciate the balance of comedy and emotion. The upgraded games and new guest appearances keep the season feeling fresh while maintaining the core appeal that made earlier seasons beloved.
2026 Revolution Takeaway: Your 2026 revolution doesn’t have to be big and loud. Sometimes the most powerful transformations are quiet ones—a kind word, a generous act, a moment of genuine connection. And you have the power to create those moments.
Dreaming of a Freaking Fairy Tale
Genre: Korean drama with Romance, Comedy
Synopsis: Breaking victim mentality—A woman stuck in a harsh reality dreams of becoming Cinderella, waiting for a prince to rescue her. She meets a cynical man who doesn’t believe in love or fairy tales. Together, they challenge each other to grow. She stops waiting to be rescued and starts saving herself. He learns that love and vulnerability aren’t weaknesses. This romantic comedy explores what it means to be the hero of your own story.
Cast: Pyo Ye Jin as Shin Jae Rim, Lee Jun Young as Moon Cha Min
Review: This drama is a whimsical and heartwarming tale that reimagines the classic Cinderella story for the modern age.
Pyo Ye Jin and Lee Jun Young deliver captivating performances, making you believe in the magic of love and self-discovery. The storyline is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with genuine chemistry between the leads.
2026 Revolution Takeaway: 2026 is the year you stop waiting for someone else to make your life better. It’s the year you become Princess Charming—the one with agency, power, and the ability to shape your own destiny. You are your own hero.
Strong Woman Do Bong Soon
Genre: Romance, Korean Action Comedy drama
Synopsis: Discovering hidden strength—Do Bong Soon has superhuman strength, but she’s been taught to hide it, to be small, to be weak.
When she finally stops apologizing for her power and starts using it, everything changes. She protects herself. She protects others. She becomes the hero of her own story. This 2017 classic combines romance, action, and empowering themes.
Cast: Park Bo Young as Do Bong Soon, Park Hyung Sik
Review: A delightful mix of romance, comedy, and action that celebrates female empowerment. Park Bo Young brings charm and physicality to her role, making the character unforgettable.
The chemistry with her co-star is undeniable, and the series expertly balances humor with meaningful messages about self-acceptance and strength.
2026 Revolution Takeaway: You already have the strength you need—you might just be hiding it. 2026 is the year you stop shrinking yourself. Stop apologizing for taking up space. Stop hiding your power. Start using it.
Download the Viu App & Start Your 2026 Revolution!
All these dramas are available on Viu with multiple subtitle options. Whether you’re looking for action, inspiration, healing moments, or genuine human connection, Viu has something for your 2026 transformation journey.
Download the Viu app today to:
- Stream unlimited dramas with no waiting between episodes.
- Enjoy multiple subtitles in your preferred language.
- Get instant notifications when new episodes drop.
Why These K-Dramas Matter for Your 2026 Revolution
These aren’t just entertainment. They’re evidence that humans are more resilient than they think. When you watch characters fail, adapt, and try again, you’re literally rewiring your brain to believe that failure isn’t terminal—it’s data for the next attempt.
That’s the power of watching compelling stories. Because transformation doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens when you surround yourself with evidence of what’s possible. When you watch people who look like you, sound like you, struggle like you—and keep going anyway.
That’s your 2026 Revolution.
