The Scandal: Son Ye-jin and Ji Chang-wook's Joseon 'Dangerous Liaisons' Hits Netflix September 18

Son Ye-jin Is Finally Back — and She's Bringing the Heat

Mark your calendars, K-drama fam: Son Ye-jin is making her long-awaited small-screen comeback, and she's doing it in the steamiest way possible. Netflix just confirmed that The Scandal — a period romance set in Joseon-era Korea — will premiere globally on September 18, 2026. And trust us, the internet is already losing it.

The series stars Son Ye-jin (you know her from Crash Landing on You), Ji Chang-wook (Lovestruck in the City, The K2), and Nana (Glitch, Into the Ring). This is Son Ye-jin's first TV drama in four years, which alone has fans counting down the days. It's also her boldest project yet — an adult-rated love story that's already being called a steamy Korean take on Dangerous Liaisons.

What's the Plot?

The Scandal is adapted from the beloved 2003 film Untold Scandal, which itself was inspired by the classic French novel Dangerous Liaisons. The story drops us into the rigid, polite world of Joseon, where public decorum hides private desire.

At the center of it all is Lady Cho (played by Son Ye-jin), a sharp, sophisticated aristocrat who thrives on manipulating the social games of the era. She makes a dangerous wager with the charming and notoriously flirtatious Jo-won (Ji Chang-wook): seduce the virtuous young widow Han-won (Nana) and win a scandalous bet. But what starts as a game quickly spirals into something far more dangerous — for all three hearts involved.

It's a tale of forbidden passion, power games, and consequences nobody saw coming. Think Bridgerton energy, but set in historical Korea with stakes that cut much deeper.

Why Everyone's Talking About It

Director Jeong Ji-woo and writers Lee Seung-young and Ahn Hye-song are behind the series, and early teasers show exactly why it's trending. The first posters and teaser drop sparked massive buzz across social media, with fans marveling at the chemistry between the leads.

Here's why The Scandal is shaping up to be a must-watch:

• Son Ye-jin's return: Her first drama since Crash Landing on You made history — and she's back in a role that feels completely different.
• A stacked cast: Ji Chang-wook and K-pop star-turned-actress Nana bring serious star power alongside her.
• Adult, period romance: It's not your typical sweet sageuk — this one's unapologetically bold and romantic.
• A proven story: Untold Scandal was a critical favorite, so the source material is solid.

Should You Watch It?

If you're into slow-burn romance, gorgeous costumes, and leads who can act circles around each other, absolutely. The Scandal drops on Netflix on September 18, 2026, and it's already one of the most anticipated K-dramas of the year.

September is packed for K-drama fans — from Made in Korea Season 2 to The Scandal — but this one feels different. Son Ye-jin choosing this as her comeback project says everything. Get ready to cancel your plans, because this is going to be a delicious, scandalous ride.