December 6, 2025

To My Beloved Thief (2026): Cast, Plot, Release Date & Everything You Need to Know

KBS2 is set to kick off 2026 with one of its most anticipated historical romance dramas, To My Beloved Thief, a vibrant blend of action, mystery, comedy, and heartfelt storytelling. With a star-studded cast and a refreshing twist on the classic “Robin Hood” legend, the series promises to captivate audiences throughout the new year.

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⭐ Overview

• Title: To My Beloved Thief (2026)

• Genre: Historical • Romance • Comedy • Fantasy

• Writer: Lee Sun

• Director: Ham Young-Geol

• Network: KBS2 (Weekend Drama Slot)

• Premiere Date: January 3, 2026

• Broadcast Schedule: Saturdays & Sundays, 21:20 KST

A collaboration between Studio Dragon, KBS, and leading creative talent, To My Beloved Thief brings a richly stylized Joseon-era world to life—where secret identities, forbidden love, and political intrigue collide.

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👥 Main Cast

Nam Ji-hyun as Hong Eun-jo / “Gil-dong”

Nam Ji-hyun makes a highly anticipated return to historical dramas as Hong Eun-jo, a compassionate medical officer by day and a righteous vigilante thief by night. Her dual life forms the beating heart of the series as she steals from corrupt officials to help the oppressed.

Moon Sang-min as Prince Yi Yeol

Moon Sang-min stars as the clever, charismatic prince who moonlights as a crime investigator. Determined to expose the infamous thief “Gil-dong,” he becomes entangled in a thrilling chase—only to find himself unexpectedly drawn to Eun-jo.

Han So-eun

She plays a noblewoman caught in a secret romance, adding emotional depth and tension to the palace storyline.

Hong Min-gi

Portrays a figure who stands at odds with the leads, potentially reshaping alliances and rivalries within the royal court.

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📜 Plot Summary

To My Beloved Thief follows the extraordinary life of Hong Eun-jo, born from a noble father and a low-born mother. Despite her humble beginnings, she serves as a dedicated healer at the royal Hyeminseo. But when night falls, Eun-jo becomes Gil-dong, a masked thief who redistributes stolen wealth to the poor.

Her fearless double life attracts the attention of Prince Yi Yeol, a brilliant detective-like royal determined to uncover her identity. What begins as a cat-and-mouse pursuit gradually transforms into a complicated and magnetic relationship—one built on secrets, justice, and an undeniable connection.

Surrounding them is a dangerous web of political conspiracies, personal grudges, and ambitions simmering within the royal court. With hints of fantasy elements and rumored body-swap or identity-shift moments, the drama aims to deliver unexpected twists far beyond a typical rom-com storyline.

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🌟 Why Viewers Are Excited

• Nam Ji-hyun’s return to historical roles—especially with a layered character balancing heroism, vulnerability, and humor.

• A unique blend of romantic comedy, action, palace intrigue, and fantasy, appealing to a wide audience.

• Strong production values from Studio Dragon, known for visually stunning and emotionally rich dramas.

• Fresh chemistry between Nam Ji-hyun and Moon Sang-min, anticipated to be one of the standout pairings of 2026.

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📅 Release Date and Broadcast Details

To My Beloved Thief premieres on January 3, 2026, airing every Saturday and Sunday evening at 21:20 KST on KBS2. Given the buzz surrounding its cast, creative team, and genre blend, the series is expected to be one of KBS’s flagship titles of the year.