One of the most iconic fantasy Webtoons of the last decade is officially making the leap from digital pages to the screen — and it’s gearing up to become one of Disney+’s biggest Korean originals of 2026. The Remarried Empress, based on the hit web novel by Alphatart and illustrated as a Webtoon by Sumpul, is receiving a full live-action K-drama adaptation with a powerhouse cast, a celebrated director, and the backing of Studio N, the production studio behind Sweet Home, Yumi’s Cells, and other Webtoon blockbusters.

Watch here.

The announcement has electrified fans across the globe — and for good reason. With its mix of political drama, palace intrigue, betrayal, and unforgettable romance, The Remarried Empress is one of the most widely read fantasy Webtoons ever published, amassing more than 2.6 billion global views and captivating a devoted international fandom.

Now, the beloved story of Empress Navier, Sovieshu, Rashta, and Heinrey is preparing for its next chapter — this time on the world stage.

From Web Novel to Webtoon to Worldwide Screen

The Remarried Empress began as a Korean web novel by Alphatart, praised for its sharp political manoeuvring, strong female lead, and emotionally complex relationship dynamics. Its popularity exploded when it was adapted into a Webtoon illustrated by Sumpul, becoming one of LINE Webtoon’s most successful fantasy series.

The Webtoon stands out for several reasons:

What Makes the Webtoon Special

• A rare competent, emotionally intelligent heroine in Navier Trovi

• A European-fantasy imperial setting, not tied to Korean historical eras

• Layers of court politics, succession wars, and diplomatic strategy

• A fan-favourite romance arc between Navier and Prince Heinrey

• Global readership surpassing two billion views

• Official English release on Line Webtoon and full colour art by Sumpul

The Webtoon ended in 2023 with enormous acclaim and remains one of the most discussed romance-fantasy series online — making it a prime candidate for a prestige adaptation.

Meet the Royal Cast

Disney+ has confirmed the core cast — and fans agree it’s one of the most exciting lineups of 2026.

Shin Min-ah as Empress Navier Trovi

A poised, intelligent, dignified ruler whose life is shattered when her husband seeks divorce. Known for balancing warmth and steel, Shin Min-ah is expected to bring emotional depth and regal presence to the role.

Lee Se-young as Rashta

The emperor’s controversial concubine — a character both beloved and hated in the fandom. Lee Se-young’s versatility makes her an ideal match for one of the series’ most complicated figures.

Ju Ji-hoon as Emperor Sovieshu

His betrayal sets the entire story in motion. With Ju Ji-hoon’s commanding presence and experience in political dramas, Sovieshu’s character is expected to be more layered and tragic than ever before.

Lee Jong-suk as Prince Heinrey

The charming, mysterious Western prince who offers Navier something her empire never did: choice. Lee Jong-suk’s return to the fantasy-romance genre has fans extremely excited.

The Creative Team Behind the Thrones

The production is helmed by some of Korea’s top creative talent:

• Director: Jo Soo-won (Pinocchio, I Hear Your Voice)

• Writers: Yeo Ji-na and Hyun Choong-yeol

• Studio: Studio N — renowned for its Webtoon adaptations

This combination has dramatically raised expectations for a high-quality adaptation that respects the original tone and worldbuilding.

A Commitment to Fantasy Worldbuilding

One of the biggest questions among fans was whether Disney+ would preserve the Western-inspired fantasy empire setting — a core part of the Webtoon’s appeal.

According to production notes, the live-action adaptation will stay faithful to the original fictional imperial world, including:

• Distinct empires with their own political systems

• Lavish royal courts and diplomatic rituals

• The iconic character names (Navier, Sovieshu, Rashta, Heinrey)

• Costumes inspired by European aristocracy rather than Korean hanbok

This is a major relief for long-time fans who feared a historical Joseon-era re-imagining.

Release Window: When Will It Air?

Disney+ has officially listed The Remarried Empress as part of its 2026 Korean drama lineup, with:

• Release window: Late 2026

• Platform: Disney+ worldwide

• Filming schedule: Expected to begin late 2025

• Format: Full-season drop on Disney+, exact episode count pending

No exact premiere date has been confirmed yet.

Why This Adaptation Matters

Webtoon-to-K-drama adaptations are dominating global streaming — but The Remarried Empress is one of the most ambitious yet.

Here’s why this one stands out:

• Massive built-in global fandom

• Strong, character-driven political drama

• One of the most recognisable female leads in fantasy Webtoon history

• A high-budget Disney+ production

• An A-list cast with proven international appeal

• A story that blends palace intrigue, romance, and female empowerment

With this combination, The Remarried Empress is poised to become one of the most talked-about K-dramas of 2026.

Long Live the Empress

From its billion-view Webtoon origins to its luxury Disney+ adaptation, The Remarried Empress is on track to define a new era of fantasy K-dramas. Whether you’ve followed Navier and Heinrey for years or are discovering the imperial world for the first time, the K-drama promises a compelling blend of grandeur, heartbreak, and redemption.

The Remarried Empress
Streaming on Disney+ worldwide
Releasing in 2026

Long live Empress Navier.