On June 18, 2026 a South Korean outlet revealed that actress Ha Yun Kyung is in talks to appear in Netflix’s next Korean‑language medical drama, First Doctor. The project, still untitled, is slated to follow the career of a pediatrician navigating the turbulent halls of Yeonhee University.

HODU&U Entertainment, the agency that represents Ha, confirmed that the actress has received an offer from the production team and is reviewing it favorably. While the agency did not disclose the terms or whether a contract has been signed, the positive response signals a potential collaboration that could broaden Ha’s reach beyond domestic audiences.

First Doctor centers on Heo Ji Wan, a pediatrician who returns to the university’s Department of Pediatrics after a controversial incident during her residency. The narrative follows her efforts to overhaul the department amid resistance from colleagues and institutional politics. According to the production’s synopsis, Jung Ryeo‑Won is slated to portray Heo Ji Wan.

Ha Yun Kyung is expected to play Ki Eun Gyul, the most senior surgical resident at the university. Ki is described as a highly skilled surgeon who initially resists Heo’s reform initiatives but gradually comes to respect her dedication. The role is said to draw on Ha’s experience in medical dramas, notably her performances in Hospital Playlist (2020‑21) and Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022).

The cast also includes Baek Hyun‑Jin as Professor Son Sang‑Baek, the head of surgery who shares a history with Heo. Kim Moo Yul has been offered a major role, potentially marking a third collaboration with director Hong Jong Chan after their work together on Juvenile Justice and Teach You A Lesson.

Production details indicate that filming is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2026. The series will be produced by Gil Pictures and written by Kim Min Seok. Netflix has positioned First Doctor as part of its expanding slate of Korean-language content aimed at global audiences.

Ha Yun Kyung, born October 20, 1992, has built a reputation for versatile performances across television and film. Prior to First Doctor, she earned recognition for her roles in Hospital Playlist, See You in My 19th Life (2023), and Undercover Miss Hong (2026). Her involvement in a Netflix‑produced medical drama follows a trend of Korean actors expanding into international streaming platforms.

Director Hong Jong Chan’s previous work on Teach You A Lesson showcased his ability to blend social commentary with character‑driven storytelling. The upcoming drama’s focus on medical ethics and institutional reform aligns with the thematic concerns that have defined Hong’s recent projects.

Industry observers note that Netflix’s investment in Korean medical dramas reflects a broader strategy to diversify its content library and tap into the global popularity of K‑drama. First Doctor will compete with other recent medical series such as The Roundup: Punishment (2024), which also features Kim Moo Yul.

While the series has not yet received a release date, the confirmation of Ha Yun Kyung’s involvement signals a strong commitment from Netflix to secure high‑profile talent for its Korean productions. Fans of Ha’s previous work can look forward to her first lead role in a series, a milestone that may broaden her international exposure.

As of now, no official trailer, episode count, or premiere date has been announced. The production team has indicated that further details will be released as the project progresses. Viewers interested in Ha Yun Kyung’s recent work can watch her performance in Go Back, while Kim Moo Yul’s recent filmography includes The Roundup: Punishment.

The series is expected to premiere on Netflix in late 2026, pending completion of filming and post‑production. Until then, industry insiders and fans will monitor official announcements for updates on casting, production schedules, and release logistics.