May 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most diverse months for Korean entertainment in recent memory. From chaotic body-swap rom-coms to quiet seaside healing stories and high-stakes survival thrillers, this lineup offers something for every kind of viewer.
While release details may vary slightly by region or platform, these eight titles are among the most talked-about K-dramas and Korean screen releases arriving this May. If you also love traveling through filming locations, you will find plenty of inspiration here.
My Royal Nemesis (May 8, SBS / Netflix)
A wild mix of fantasy, romance, and comedy, My Royal Nemesis leans into the popular reincarnation trope with a chaotic twist.
Plot
A feared villainess from the Joseon era suddenly wakes up in modern-day Seoul, trapped inside the body of a top actress. As she struggles to navigate fame, technology, and modern society, she collides with a cold and calculating chaebol heir. Their relationship quickly turns into a battle of ego, power, and unexpected attraction.
Cast
- Lim Ji-yeon
- Heo Nam-jun
- Jang Seung-jo
Filming Locations (Expected)
Although official filming sites have not been fully confirmed, the drama likely blends modern and historical settings.
Modern scenes are expected to take place across central Seoul, while historical sequences are typically filmed at large-scale sets such as Yongin Daejanggeum Park or Mungyeong Saejae Open Set. These locations are widely used for period dramas and are open to visitors.
Azure Spring (May 11, MBN Plus)
If you prefer something softer and more introspective, Azure Spring delivers a calm, emotional story set by the sea.
Plot
Two young individuals, each carrying emotional scars from their past, find themselves in a quiet coastal town. As they slowly rebuild their lives, they discover comfort in small routines, shared moments, and the healing power of nature.
Cast
- Yeri
- Kang Sang-jun
Filming Locations (Reported)
The drama is closely associated with Tongyeong, a seaside city known for its island views, calm harbors, and artistic atmosphere.
Tongyeong has long been a favorite for healing dramas thanks to its slower pace and scenic coastline, making it an ideal destination if you want to recreate the mood of the series.
The Legend of Kitchen Soldier (May 11, tvN / TVING)
Blending military life with humor and food, this drama brings a unique twist to the genre.
Plot
Set inside the army, the story follows a soldier assigned to kitchen duty who unexpectedly finds purpose through cooking. What begins as routine military life evolves into a strange and often hilarious journey filled with ambition, camaraderie, and unexpected challenges.
Cast
- Park Ji-hoon
Filming Locations (Typical)
Military dramas are often filmed in controlled environments and training areas.
Expect scenes shot in regions like Gangwon Province, known for its mountainous terrain and military bases, along with studio sets built near Seoul for more complex sequences.
The WONDERfools (May 15, Netflix)
Set against the backdrop of Y2K anxiety, The WONDERfools mixes retro aesthetics with superhero chaos.
Plot
In 1999, just before the turn of the millennium, a group of ordinary people suddenly gains unusual powers. What starts as confusion quickly escalates into a chaotic mission to protect their city from looming threats.
Cast
- Park Eun-bin
- Cha Eun-woo
Filming Locations (Expected)
To recreate a late-90s atmosphere, productions often rely on older neighborhoods and preserved streets.
Filming likely includes retro-style districts in Seoul, as well as traditional neighborhoods in Jeonju, which are known for their vintage charm.
Fifties Professionals (May 22, MBC)
This drama stands out by focusing on characters rarely centered in mainstream series.
Plot
Three men in their 50s, once highly skilled professionals in dangerous fields, are pulled back into action. As they confront their past and test their limits again, they begin to rediscover meaning in their lives.
Cast
- Shin Ha-kyun
- Oh Jung-se
- Heo Sung-tae
Filming Locations (Expected)
The drama is expected to feature urban and industrial settings.
Most scenes will likely be filmed across Seoul and nearby Gyeonggi areas, where many action and crime productions are based.
Reborn Rookie (May 30, JTBC)
Body-swap stories continue to resonate, and this one takes the concept into the corporate world.
Plot
After a mysterious event, a powerful chairman wakes up in the body of a young employee at his own company. Forced to start from the bottom, he must navigate office politics, rebuild relationships, and rethink what success truly means.
Cast
- Lee Jun-young
- Son Hyun-joo
- Lee Ju-myoung
Filming Locations (Typical)
Corporate dramas are usually grounded in real-world business districts.
Expect filming across major office hubs in Seoul, especially areas like Gangnam, known for its modern skyline.
Soul Mate (May 14, Netflix)
Unlike typical fast-paced dramas, Soul Mate focuses on quiet emotional connection across borders.
Plot
A Japanese man fleeing his past crosses paths with a Korean boxer who saves him. Their relationship unfolds over time, moving across countries and emotional distance as they slowly open up to each other.
Cast
- Isomura Hayato
- Ok Taec-yeon
- Ai Hashimoto
Filming Locations (Expected)
Given its cross-border narrative, the series likely spans multiple locations.
Scenes are expected to alternate between Japan and Seoul, reflecting the emotional and physical journey of the characters.
Colony (May 21, Theatrical Release)
For those who enjoy intense thrillers, Colony brings a claustrophobic survival story to the big screen.
Plot
After a mysterious infection outbreak, residents of a building find themselves trapped inside a sealed facility. As fear spreads and resources run out, tensions rise and survival becomes the only priority.
Cast
- Jun Ji-hyun
- Koo Kyo-hwan
- Ji Chang-wook
Filming Locations (Expected)
The film likely relies on large indoor sets to create its confined atmosphere.
Many scenes are expected to be shot on soundstages, combined with exterior shots of high-rise buildings in Seoul to establish the setting.
Final Thoughts
From seaside healing stories in Tongyeong to high-rise survival thrillers set in Seoul, May 2026 offers more than just great storytelling. It also opens up a new wave of travel inspiration for K-drama fans.
If you are planning your next Korea trip, this lineup is a great starting point. Save a few of these locations, build your own filming-location itinerary, and turn your watchlist into a real-world journey.
Note: Release dates, platforms, and filming details are based on currently available information and may change. This guide will be updated as new official details are confirmed.
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