Korean actor Jang Keun-suk will return to television after a three-year hiatus, starring as the lead in the upcoming drama Hyupban. The series follows a gangster cook who finds solace through shared meals with a college student he rescues. Filming is set to start in the first half of 2026.
Jang Keun-suk, a veteran Korean actor, is preparing for his small-screen comeback with the drama Hyupban, marking his first TV role since 2023's Decoy. According to industry sources, he will portray Ma Han-sang, a talented cook entangled in gangster life. The plot centers on Ma saving a college student from peril and subsequently taking refuge at the student's home, where the pair bond over home-cooked meals that provide mutual comfort.
Hyupban draws from a well-received novel of the same name, which was previously adapted into the Japanese drama Otoko Meshi. Jang's prior displays of cooking prowess on various TV shows suggest a natural fit for the character. The project also represents his debut collaboration with VAST Entertainment, as he shifts focus toward acting endeavors.
Directing duties fall to Lee Min-woo, acclaimed for his nuanced character development in series such as Boys Over Flowers, God's Quiz Season 4, and Not Others. This pairing has sparked anticipation among fans familiar with Jang's diverse portfolio.
Jang entered the industry as a child actor, gaining prominence through sitcom Nonstop 4 and dramas including Hong Gil-dong, Beethoven Virus, You're Beautiful, Love Rain, and The Royal Gambler. His film work encompasses Baby and Me, The Case of Itaewon Homicide, and You're My Pet, highlighting his versatility across mediums.
Production on Hyupban is slated to commence in early 2026, with the announcement coming on March 10, 2026.
