Netflix continues to expand its global K-drama portfolio with the announcement of Long Vacation, an upcoming South Korean romantic series that has already captured fan excitement.
Helmed by Lee Jeong Hyo, the acclaimed director behind Crash Landing on You and Romance Is a Bonus Book, and written by Jung Hyun Jung (Discovery of Love, Five Enough), the series promises heartfelt storytelling with emotional depth and cinematic flair.
“Lee Jeong Hyo’s storytelling is always rich and character-driven,” says drama critic Han Soo Min. “Pairing him with Jung Hyun Jung ensures Long Vacation will deliver both romance and realism — the essence of a great K-drama.”
Overview of Long Vacation
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Long Vacation |
| Director | Lee Jeong Hyo (Crash Landing on You) |
| Writer | Jung Hyun Jung (Five Enough) |
| Genre | Romantic Drama |
| Production Start | Early 2026 |
| Expected Wrap | July 2026 |
| Episodes | 12 |
| Runtime per Episode | 60 minutes |
| Platform | Netflix |
| Expected Release | Q2 2027 |
Plot Overview: What’s Long Vacation About?
While Netflix has not released an official synopsis, industry insiders describe Long Vacation as a “deeply emotional story about love, loss, and rediscovery.” Early reports suggest it will explore the intertwined lives of two individuals who cross paths during a transformative summer retreat, leading to unexpected love and life-changing realisations.
A social media post from user @ggonigone hinted that the drama will revolve around “a man and woman who reconnect after years apart, finding solace and second chances during a long, much-needed break from their everyday realities.”
“It sounds like a warm, healing romance — the kind that defines Korean storytelling at its best,” commented entertainment columnist Kim Da Eun.
Casting: Who’s Starring in Long Vacation?
As of late 2025, casting discussions are ongoing, but two big names have been approached for lead roles:
Choo Young Woo
Known for his breakout roles in Mercy for None and The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call, Choo Young Woo is in talks to play the male lead. His agency confirmed they are “positively reviewing the offer.”
Lee Se Young
Award-winning actress Lee Se Young (The Red Sleeve, The Crowned Clown) has reportedly been approached for the female lead. Her collaboration with Netflix marks another high-profile move following her success in historical and contemporary dramas alike.
“If Lee Se Young and Choo Young Woo are confirmed, this pairing could redefine on-screen chemistry in 2026,” said casting expert Oh Mi Kyung, praising both actors for their emotional range and audience appeal.
Production Schedule: Filming Timeline for Long Vacation
Netflix’s internal production listing indicates a participation period from November 2025 to July 2026, suggesting that filming will begin in early 2026. Pre-production, including casting and location scouting, is currently underway.
| Production Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Pre-Production | Late 2025 |
| Filming Begins | Early 2026 |
| Filming Completion | July 2026 |
| Post-Production | Late 2026 – Early 2027 |
| Anticipated Release | Q2 2027 |
Episode Count & Format
Initially planned as a 16-episode series, Long Vacation has now been shortened to 12 episodes, each approximately 60 minutes long. This aligns with Netflix’s growing trend toward concise, high-impact storytelling in K-dramas such as Doona! and A Time Called You.
| Original Plan | Updated Plan |
|---|---|
| 16 Episodes | 12 Episodes |
| 75-Minute Runtime | 60-Minute Runtime |
| Weekly Release | Likely Full-Season Drop |
Expected Netflix Release Date
Given that filming will conclude by mid-2026, Long Vacation is unlikely to premiere before 2027. The most realistic release window is Q2 2027, though a late-2026 teaser trailer could drop during Netflix’s global fan event “TUDUM.”
“Netflix seems to be taking its time, ensuring Long Vacation meets the same global standards as hits like Crash Landing on You and Queen of Tears,” said K-drama analyst Eugene Park.
Why Fans Are Excited?
The combination of a seasoned director, a respected screenwriter, and two powerhouse leads has already made Long Vacation one of the most anticipated K-dramas of 2027. Its focus on mature, character-driven storytelling and emotional authenticity taps into what international audiences love most about Korean content.
Moreover, Netflix’s commitment to producing Korean dramas with global appeal continues to pay off — Long Vacation could easily follow in the footsteps of 20th Century Girl, Crash Landing on You, and Nevertheless.
Why It Matters?: A New Era for Global K-Dramas
Netflix’s investment in Long Vacation underscores the streaming giant’s role in reshaping how K-dramas reach global audiences.
- Strategic Storytelling: By focusing on romance and emotion, the series bridges both domestic and international appeal.
- Cinematic Direction: Lee Jeong Hyo’s proven ability to blend drama and scenic visuals will likely deliver a visually stunning experience.
- Star Power: The casting of Choo Young Woo and Lee Se Young adds credibility and star magnetism.
This combination positions Long Vacation as a potential flagship drama for Netflix’s 2027 lineup.
FAQs
Filming is scheduled to begin in early 2026 and wrap by July 2026.
Actors Choo Young Woo and Lee Se Young have been approached for the lead roles, but casting is yet to be finalised.
The drama will feature 12 episodes, each running approximately 60 minutes.
It will be directed by Lee Jeong Hyo, best known for Crash Landing on You and Romance Is a Bonus Book.
The series is expected to premiere globally on Netflix by mid-to-late 2027.
