Kim Soo-hyun is speculated to be returning to K-drama land, as the creators of his long-delayed series “Knock-Off” are eyeing a 2026 release, according to reports from Korean media.
“Knock-Off,” a Disney+ black comedy series starring Jo Bo-ah, was scheduled for release in April 2025. However, Kim’s grooming allegations put its release on an indefinite hold, with creators deciding to postpone its release in March of last year.
While creators of the series have yet to confirm or deny its rescheduled release, Xportsnews said the streaming giant is reportedly “reorganizing” its 2026 K-drama lineup, with “Knock-Off” supposedly part of it.
In a lengthy YouTube post on Feb. 28, Kim’s legal counsel, Ko Sang-rok, said that while he believes the reports’ credibility is high, he hoped the series would be released to the public.
“Personally, I hope to see ‘Knock-Off’ in the first half of the year,” he said in Korean. “If it airs in the first half of 2026 as expected, it will be a response to the fans who waited [for Kim Soo-hyun] and never gave up.”
“[Kim’s] case will also be a clear example showing how much harm baseless accusations and organized public opinion through manipulation can cause to someone. It also raises poignant questions for everyone: how should amplified public opinion affect society? How should the structure of online threats be controlled?” he continued.
Kim has been accused of grooming the late Kim Sae-ron, since both of them were reported to be in a relationship when the latter was still a minor. The actor’s agency, GoldMedalist, firmly denied the allegations and stated that they dated when she was about 19 or 20 and he was 31 or 32.
However, Sae-ron’s family stressed that the ex-couple started dating when she was only 15. Since then, the actor has been on an indefinite hiatus from the entertainment industry.
Known as one of the top Hallyu stars prior to his hiatus, Kim is notable for his lead roles in “Queen of Tears,” “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” “Dream High,” and “My Love from the Star,” among others. (Hannah Mallorca © Philippine Daily Inquirer)
