Hitmaker Im Sung-han Returns with Medical Melodrama 'Doctor Shin' on TV Chosun in Early 2026

Get ready for the return of Im Sung-han, a writer whose name alone sparks excitement. She is set to make her comeback to the small screen with the new TV Chosun drama 'Doctor Shin,' slated for broadcast in the first half of 2026.

This marks her first new work in three years since 'Durian Affair' (also known as 'A씨두리안') aired in 2021. Notably, 'Doctor Shin' will be her first foray into the medical melodrama genre.

While initial reports suggested a plot about a top actress experiencing an unfortunate accident, given Im Sung-han's signature writing style, the actual storyline is subject to change at any moment.

Im Sung-han is renowned as a 'guaranteed hitmaker' in the drama industry, credited with numerous successful series such as 'I Want to See You Again,' 'Mermaid Princess,' 'Sky Castle' (a common misinterpretation, the actual title is '하늘이시여'), 'The Making of an Opera Star' (another common misinterpretation, the actual title is '신기생뎐'), 'Aurora Princess,' 'High Kick!' (another common misinterpretation, the actual title is '압구정 백야'), and 'Love (ft. Marriage and Divorce.' However, her works have also earned her the nickname 'the godmother of makjang dramas' due to their often sensational 소재s and plot developments.

Despite the 'makjang' label, Im Sung-han's dramas possess a captivating power that draws viewers to their screens, as evidenced by their record-breaking ratings. This allure stems from two key techniques: unconventional plot twists and masterful pacing.

Im Sung-han excels at breaking away from predictable narrative structures, often surprising viewers with twists that far exceed expectations. Her ability to project the inherent unpredictability of life into her dramas was exemplified by the character Seol Seol-hee (played by Seo Ha-joon) in 'Aurora Princess.' Initially a minor character, Seol Seol-hee abruptly rose to prominence as a lead male character, becoming central to the story's progression.

However, when such unconventional developments disregard plausibility, they can face criticism as 'makjang.' Examples include the dog 'Dae-dae' suddenly dying in 'Aurora Princess' or the character Sofia (played by Lee Sook) dying from laughter while watching a comedy show in 'Sky Castle' ('하늘이시여').

Her control over pacing is equally breathtaking. This skill, often showcased in daily dramas, relies on 'meaningless dialogue.' By filling an entire episode with seemingly trivial conversations about food or health, she lulls viewers into a relaxed state before suddenly delivering a dramatic close-up of a significant expression or a pivotal line, instantly escalating tension before abruptly ending the episode.

This creates a powerful addiction, leaving viewers wondering, 'What on earth is this?' and compelled to tune in for the next episode. Even when these 'cliffhangers' turn out to be mere setups with little payoff in the subsequent episode, viewers often feel 'tricked' yet remain captivated by the writer's ability to command their attention.

Fans might think, 'I'll be fooled again,' yet they eagerly await her next work. This anticipation is fueled by Im Sung-han's exceptional writing skills and meticulous planning, as demonstrated in 'Love (ft. Marriage and Divorce).' The slow build-up in Season 1, emphasizing the wives' trust in their husbands, was revealed to be a carefully constructed prelude for the explosive events of Season 2. Im Sung-han dedicated an entire season to evoke the same anger in viewers that the three wives felt—a testament to her intricate strategy.

It will be fascinating to see how Im Sung-han has sharpened her pen during her hiatus. Known for discovering new talent, she has cast Kim Hyung-shin, formerly of the girl group H.U.B, under the stage name Baek Seo-ra, as the female lead. The world of Im Sung-han is about to unfold before us once again, this time with a new Cinderella, Baek Seo-ra.

Netizens are buzzing about Im Sung-han's return, with comments like "Im Sung-han is back? I'm definitely watching," "I can't wait to see what unpredictable story she'll bring this time," and "A medical melodrama is a fresh concept." The anticipation is palpable.