Show Business (2026)

Release Date: 2026
Platform: Netflix
Episodes: 16
Genre: Period Drama
Director: Lee Yoon-jung (Argon)
Writer: Noh Hee-kyung (Our Blues)
Starring: Song Hye-kyo, Gong Yoo, Lee Ha-nee, Kim Seol-hyun, Cha Seung-won, Park Hae-soo

Introduction

Show Business transports viewers to the vibrant yet tumultuous world of South Korea’s entertainment industry during its golden age—from the 1960s through the 1980s. This sweeping period drama masterfully captures the tension between ambition and sacrifice, ambition and fleeting fame, reflecting not only the lives of entertainers but also the evolving identity of a nation recovering from war.

Plot Overview

Set in the aftermath of the Korean War, the series follows Song Hye-kyo, portraying a resilient actress striving to carve out her place in an industry riddled with censorship, scandal, and personal demons. Her journey from smoky cabarets to dazzling award ceremonies is a testament to both her talent and tenacity.

Parallel to her story is Gong Yoo’s Dong Gu, a visionary film director whose revolutionary ideas frequently clash with the conservative establishment. His relentless pursuit of artistic freedom creates a gripping tension—pitting idealism against survival.

As these two formidable characters’ lives intersect, Show Business delves into their complex relationship—one marked by passion, political intrigue, and the unrelenting pressure of the spotlight. Their narrative becomes a metaphor for South Korea itself, reinventing and redefining its identity, one cinematic frame at a time.

Performances

Song Hye-kyo delivers a powerhouse performance, embodying the resilience and vulnerability of an actress caught between dreams and harsh realities. Her nuanced portrayal captures the multifaceted nature of fame and its toll.

Gong Yoo, as Dong Gu, offers a compelling mix of intensity and subtlety. His character’s artistic fervor and internal conflicts are portrayed with authenticity, making him both sympathetic and frustrating in equal measure.

Supporting roles by Lee Ha-nee, Kim Seol-hyun, Cha Seung-won, and Park Hae-soo enrich the tapestry of this drama, bringing depth and variety to the portrayal of the entertainment world’s many faces.

Direction and Writing

Directed by Lee Yoon-jung, Show Business boasts lush cinematography that skillfully evokes the era’s atmosphere—from smoky jazz clubs to the glamour of film sets. The meticulous attention to period detail immerses viewers in the sights and sounds of a bygone era.

Writer Noh Hee-kyung’s script shines with emotional depth and complexity, exploring themes of identity, sacrifice, and the blurred line between reality and illusion. Dialogue is sharp yet poetic, reflecting the internal struggles of the characters and the societal challenges they face.

Themes and Impact

At its core, Show Business is more than a historical drama; it is a poignant exploration of the price of ambition and the cost of fame. The series questions the nature of authenticity in an industry built on performance, revealing the personal sacrifices hidden behind public success.

Moreover, it serves as a cultural reflection, highlighting South Korea’s rapid transformation and the resilience of its people during a time of great change.

Conclusion

Show Business is a visually stunning, emotionally resonant series that offers an intimate look at an era often romanticized but seldom understood in depth. With exceptional performances, masterful storytelling, and a richly detailed setting, it promises to be a standout addition to Netflix’s lineup in 2026.

For fans of period dramas and character-driven narratives, Show Business is a must-watch—reminding us that behind every spotlight lies a story of struggle, passion, and reinvention.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Recommended for: Lovers of historical dramas, Korean cinema enthusiasts, and viewers intrigued by the interplay of art, politics, and personal ambition.