What happens when one of Korea’s most respected “Grand Prize” actors makes a long-awaited comeback? Can a powerhouse cast featuring Kim Ji Won and Lee Jung Eun take the medical noir genre to the next level? And could Doctor X: Age of the White Mafia be the drama that redefines corruption-versus-justice storytelling in K-dramaland?
Actor Son Hyun Joo is said to be in discussions to potentially join the highly anticipated SBS drama Doctor X, which will serve as a possible return to the channel after 12 years. While the drama promises to be a medical thriller with mystery and noir elements, Doctor X, at this moment, is shaping up to be one of the more audacious projects announced for 2026. This is more than just a simple casting update as it suggests a dream team that viewers are longing to witness.
Here is everything we know about the upcoming SBS series
Drama Overview
Titled Doctor X: Age of the White Mafia, the new SBS series will mix more thriller conventions with the weight of a medical noir. Doctor X will premiere in 2026 with 12 tightly-crafted episodes full of suspense and emotion.
With hefty production duties by powerhouse studios Studio Dragon and Studio S, and direction by Lee Jung Rim, the man behind the explosive Revenant and V.I.P. Doctor X is already stirring plenty of excitement among the global K-drama fanbase.
Confirmed / Reported Cast
The so-called “reported cast” is all the rage as it offers a promising combination of well-known actors and layered character roles.
Kim Ji Won is on board to play Ko Soo Jung, a brilliant surgeon shrouded in mystery with a hidden past, whose exceptional skills pin her in the middle of a fight against corruption.
Lee Jung Eun has been offered the role of Jung Hee Sook, an ex”monster” of a surgeon, and runs her own medical staffing agency. Though not blood-related, Ko Soo Jung affectionately calls her aunt.
Son Hyun Joo will reportedly join the cast with an undisclosed role. While those conversations remain under wraps, the expectations have only been raised by his mere presence. His ability to command authority and gravity in the roles he plays set high expectations.
With such a dynamic combination of the aforementioned heavily talented actors, Doctor X promises thrilling performances and chemistry.
Son Hyun Joo’s Career Updates
If confirmed, Doctor X will be Son Hyun Joo’s first SBS drama in 12 years since he starred in 3 Days (2014). This will be his first SBS drama since being back at the network. If he officially joins the highly anticipated series, it would add another project to his already busy schedule.
However, so far, Son Hyun Joo has a couple of new television projects. He is starring in The Wonder Fools alongside Park Eun Bin, Cha Eun Woo, and Kim Hae Sook, and will be making a cameo in The Second Signal led by Lee Je Hoon and Kim Hye Soo.
Earlier this year, Son Hyun Joo was on the big screen this year in the film Big Deal starring with Yoo Hai Jin and Lee Je Hoon. With the various types of productions, he is still showing us why he is one of Korea’s most talented and versatile actors.
Expectations & Buzz
With Kim Ji Won, Lee Jung Eun, and Son Hyun Joo already on board, there has even been talk about them as a potential “dream team” cast. Each actor is very accomplished and has a major screen presence, so their ticket to the drama will bring the show to another level.
In addition, director Lee Jung Rim has had hits in the past that can guarantee a gripping amalgamation of thrills and emotions.
In the meantime, netizens are particularly curious about Son Hyun Joo’s undisclosed role – will he play a mentor, a supporter, or the greatest antagonist for the story? The ambiguity of it all is increasing the hype.
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Conclusion
Doctor X: Age of the White Mafia is establishing itself as one of the most highly anticipated K-dramas of 2026. Boasting a captivating premise, great casting, and award-winning director, the drama offers a fresh perspective on the medical noir genre.
For viewers, the main attraction will be the long-anticipated SBS return of Son Hyun Joo, after more than ten years away from Korean television. All eyes will be on the veteran actor to see how he will once again display his authoritative presence on screen.
As we get closer to the premiere, Doctor X is quickly taking shape as a project that could potentially push the boundaries of K-dramas for a global audience.
