Netflix Announces 2026 Release of “Show Business” Starring Gong Yoo and Song Hye-kyo
Netflix has officially confirmed the 2026 premiere of Show Business—also known as Slowly, Intensely—a sweeping period drama that pairs two of South Korea’s biggest stars, Gong Yoo and Song Hye-kyo, on screen for the first time. The announcement has triggered major buzz across the K-drama fandom, especially among fans eager to witness this landmark collaboration.
Set between the 1960s and 1980s, Show Business promises a compelling exploration of South Korea’s entertainment industry during a transformative era. The series will dive deep into the glitz, grit, and complex inner workings of showbiz, spotlighting not only performers but also the managers, producers, and behind-the-scenes forces shaping the industry. It’s a period rarely explored in modern K-dramas, adding a nostalgic, historical texture to the story.
Gong Yoo stars as Dong-gu, a resilient, sharp-witted character navigating the highs and lows of an industry in flux. Song Hye-kyo plays Min-ja, his childhood friend, whose rise to stardom comes with both triumph and sacrifice. Together, they form the emotional backbone of the series—a duo marked by unspoken feelings, personal ambition, and shared history.
Fans are especially excited about the on-screen chemistry between Gong Yoo and Song Hye-kyo. Despite their long-standing individual careers, this marks the first time these two powerhouses will appear together in a drama. Their pairing has been described as a “dream collaboration” by fans and critics alike, making Show Business one of the most highly anticipated K-drama releases in years.
The series is written by acclaimed screenwriter Noh Hee-kyung, known for emotionally rich dramas like It’s Okay, That’s Love and Our Blues. Direction comes from Lee Yoon-jung, who famously worked with Gong Yoo on Coffee Prince, adding another layer of anticipation for fans familiar with her cinematic, character-driven storytelling.
Netflix has backed the project with a production budget exceeding 70 billion won (approximately \$47.8 million), signaling a major investment in quality, detail, and global appeal. With 22 episodes in the lineup, the series is expected to roll out with a premium look and feel, featuring elaborate set designs, vintage costumes, and a soundtrack that channels the cultural vibe of the mid-20th century.
More than just a love story or industry exposé, Show Business aims to examine broader social changes, generational tensions, and the personal cost of fame. Themes of loyalty, identity, and reinvention will be central as Dong-gu and Min-ja struggle to hold on to their ideals in a fast-changing world.
As Netflix continues to expand its Korean content portfolio, Show Business is poised to be a global hit. With its powerhouse cast, rich historical backdrop, and emotionally layered narrative, it’s not just a drama—it’s a cultural event in the making. Mark your calendars—2026 can’t come soon enough.
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