Netflix Greenlights 'Long Vacation' Korean Romance Series with 'Crash Landing on You' Director
Netflix has initiated production on 'Long Vacation,' a new Korean romantic drama, bringing together the acclaimed director Lee Jung-hyo, known for the global phenomenon 'Crash Landing on You,' and the prolific romance writer Jung Hyun-jung. The series will feature rising stars Choo Young-woo and Lee Se-young in lead roles, promising a compelling narrative about a centuries-old demon's discovery of love through an unlikely encounter. This venture highlights Netflix's continued investment in Korean content, a strategic area that has consistently delivered massive hits for the streaming giant, reinforcing its significant global presence in 2026.
The creative force behind 'Long Vacation' boasts impressive credentials. Director Lee Jung-hyo has previously helmed 'Crash Landing on You,' one of Netflix's most-watched K-dramas, followed by successful projects like 'Doona!' (2023) and the thriller 'The Price of Confession' (2025). Jung Hyun-jung, the screenwriter, has an extensive portfolio of popular romance series spanning over a decade, including 'I Need Romance,' 'Romance Is a Bonus Book,' 'Lovestruck in the City,' and 'Discovery of Love.' Their combined expertise sets a high bar for the new series.
The cast is equally promising, with two of South Korea's most rapidly ascending young actors taking on the central characters. Choo Young-woo, who recently earned a Baeksang Award for Best New Actor for his roles in 'The Tale of Lady Ok,' 'The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call,' and 'Head Over Heels,' portrays Demon 3375. This ancient being has existed for centuries without experiencing love, a concept entirely foreign to him. Opposite him is Lee Se-young, a versatile actress celebrated for her performances in 'The Red Sleeve' and 'What Comes After Love.' She plays Deul-pan, a hardworking hotel room attendant whose daily life is far from easy. Their repeated accidental meetings at a coastal hotel spark an improbable romance, challenging the demon's long-held perceptions and introducing him to the complexities of human emotion.
Netflix harbors considerable expectations for 'Long Vacation,' given the stellar reputation of the talent involved. The streamer's 2026 Korean content slate, unveiled in January, comprises 33 diverse titles, ranging from a new season of 'Singles Inferno' to the romantic comedy 'Boyfriend on Demand,' starring Blackpink's Jisso, and Lee Chang-dong's 'Possible Love,' the revered auteur's first film in eight years, anticipated to be a major contender at upcoming film festivals. Korea continues to be an indispensable hub for Netflix's content generation outside the U.S., a fact underscored by recent successes such as the BTS comeback concert, which garnered 18.4 million viewers and ranked as the top program in 24 countries. 'Long Vacation' is poised to further enhance this impressive track record.
The announcement of 'Long Vacation' reinforces Netflix's commitment to delivering high-quality Korean programming to its global audience. With a celebrated director and screenwriter, coupled with a dynamic cast of young stars, the series is well-positioned to captivate viewers. This production is a testament to the ongoing strength and appeal of Korean romantic dramas and their significant contribution to Netflix's expanding content library.
