“Human from Today” K-Drama: Kim Hye-yoon’s Gumiho Twist That’s Set to Break Tropes in 2026

Kim Hye-yoon’s return to fantasy-rom-coms comes with a darkly comedic twist in Human from Today—a bold reimagining of the gumiho (nine-tailed fox) myth. With quirky writing, supernatural themes, and a vain soccer star as her accidental nemesis, this upcoming SBS drama has all the makings of a cult hit. Here’s everything we know so far.

Plot Twist: A Gumiho Who Doesn’t Want to Be Human?

In a genre-defying take on Korean mythology, Human from Today introduces Eun-ho, an immortal gumiho who does everything in her power not to become human. Instead of performing good deeds to earn humanity, she clings to immortality by racking up “small evils.” This deliberate resistance to moral growth is where the drama flips expectations—and fuels its dark humor.

But when a freak accident involving Kang Si-yeol, a narcissistic pro athlete, forces Eun-ho into a human body, the real story begins. As she awkwardly navigates daily life with her new limitations, the drama explores vulnerability, emotional awakening, and what it really means to live.

“Her human name, Kim Ok-soon, signals a dual identity—and possibly a reluctant rebirth.”

Behind the Scenes: What Makes This Drama So Unique?

  • Director Kim Jung-kwon (Maestra, Lie After Lie) is known for mixing emotional resonance with stylish visuals. His teaser post from the first script reading called it a “Hyeppy Day,” playing off Kim Hye-yoon’s fan nickname.
  • Writers Park Chan-young and Jo Ah-young (Best Chicken) are back with their signature rom-com flair—expect sharp dialogue, offbeat humor, and quirky character beats.
  • Production Status: Filming wrapped in early 2025. Post-production is underway, with SBS eyeing a 2026 premiere. The delay sparked curiosity, especially after scenes teased at the 2024 SBS Drama Awards went viral.

Cast Chemistry: From Fantasy to Football Fields

  • Kim Hye-yoon (Lovely Runner) embraces slapstick comedy and emotional nuance as Eun-ho. Her viral teaser scene—struggling with human sensations—had fans comparing it to classic body-swap humor, with a fantasy twist.
  • Lomon (All of Us Are Dead) plays Kang Si-yeol, a ripped but self-absorbed athlete terrified of “muscle loss.” His character’s vanity clashes hilariously with Eun-ho’s survival instincts, setting the stage for spicy enemies-to-lovers tension.
  • Supporting Roles:
  • Hyun Woo-seok (Jang Dong-joo) – a washed-up soccer prodigy
  • Seo Beom (Yoo Hwan) – a wise veteran player
    Their arcs may explore redemption, mentorship, and the pressure of perfection in pro sports.

Genre Fusion Done Right: Fantasy, Rom-Com, and Sports

Human from Today blends genres in fresh, unexpected ways:

  • Fantasy: Gumiho lore, supernatural twists, potential magical conflicts.
  • Rom-Com: Banter, tension, and chaotic chemistry between two flawed leads.
  • Sports-Drama: Set within the high-stakes world of professional soccer.

Eun-ho’s “evil to survive” mantra mirrors modern cynicism, while her transformation critiques conformity and emotional repression.

Fan Hype, Viral Moments & Global Buzz

Despite production delays, anticipation remains high:

  • Teaser scenes from SBS’s year-end awards show—particularly Eun-ho’s confused reaction to sneezing—sparked meme-worthy moments.
  • Kim Hye-yoon’s Baeksang nomination for Lovely Runner has heightened expectations for a breakout performance here.
  • International appeal is strong, especially with the fantasy-sports fusion likely to resonate with fans of shows like Tale of the Nine-Tailed.

What’s Next? Theories & Unanswered Questions

  • Will Eun-ho ever regain her gumiho powers?
  • Is her transformation permanent—or symbolic of deeper change?
  • Could Geum-ho (played by Lee Si-woo), another fox spirit, be a hidden villain?

The title “Human from Today” suggests an ongoing internal conflict—raising the question: what if you don’t want to be human, but life won’t let you opt out?

Release Date, Streaming & Where to Watch

While SBS has yet to confirm an exact air date, Human from Today is expected to premiere in early 2026. Streaming platforms have not been finalized, but fans are eyeing Viki or Netflix as potential international hosts.

Follow for Updates

To stay in the loop:

  • Watch SBS’s official drama announcements.
  • Follow Kim Hye-yoon and Lomon on Instagram for behind-the-scenes teasers.
  • Bookmark this page—we’ll update as soon as new trailers or air dates drop.

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