K-Drama with 15% Ratings and Dominated Buzz Returns with Season 2 After 10 Years!(+New Cast)

The highly anticipated second season of tvN’s legendary drama 'Signal' is officially set to air in 2026. Following the massive success of Season 1 in 2016, which is hailed as a game-changer in Korean crime thrillers, expectations for Season 2 are at an all-time high.

Season 2 of 'Signal': Officially Confirmed for 2026

On February 10, during the 'CJ ENM Content Talk 2025' event in Seoul, Park Sang-hyuk, Head of Channel Business at CJ ENM, officially announced the production and scheduling of 'Signal' Season 2. Actress Kim Hye-soo shared a video message during the event, saying, “The cast and production team are giving their all during filming. Please show your love and support for the new 'Signal' as well.”

Produced by BA Entertainment, the second season has been in development with writer Kim Eun-hee for several years. The timing is significant as it will be part of tvN’s 20th-anniversary lineup, making it even more meaningful.

Premiering in 2016, Season 1 of 'Signal' starred Lee Je-hoon, Kim Hye-soo, and Jo Jin-woong, earning immense popularity for its gripping plot and stellar performances. The drama’s episodic format tackled real-life unsolved cases, such as the “Lee Hyung-ho kidnapping,” “Frog Boys disappearance,” and the “Dentist mother-daughter murder.” Its standout feature was the unique premise of a detective from the past communicating via a mysterious radio with a present-day profiler to solve cold cases. The combination of a compelling storyline, intense direction, and outstanding acting left a mark on Korean drama history.

With an average viewership rating of 13.4% and a peak of 15% (Nielsen Korea), 'Signal' became a major hit, winning over domestic and international audiences. Its open-ended conclusion fueled fan demand for a second season.

Season 2 Cast: Core Members Return, Ahn Jae-hong Joins

Key cast members Lee Je-hoon, Kim Hye-soo, and Jo Jin-woong are all expected to return for Season 2. Director Jang Hang-jun, who is married to writer Kim Eun-hee, hinted at this during a YouTube variety show, saying, “I’m not supposed to reveal much, but yes, the original cast will return.” The actors themselves have frequently expressed their desire for a second season during interviews.

Season 2 will introduce a new character played by Ahn Jae-hong. Although details about his role are under wraps, he is expected to be a key figure in solving cold cases alongside the original cast. Known for his depth and versatility in films like 'Socialphobia' and 'Time Renegades' and dramas like 'Melo Is My Nature', Ahn Jae-hong’s addition is highly anticipated.

What to Expect in Season 2

Season 1 explored more than just crime-solving; it delivered strong social commentary through its gripping narrative. Season 2 is expected to follow a similar format, with new twists, intense mysteries, and unresolved plotlines from Season 1 taking center stage.

Questions about Detective Lee Jae-han’s fate, the altered reality experienced by Park Hae-young and Cha Soo-hyun, and whether the mysterious radio connection will return are expected to be key plot points in the upcoming season. CJ ENM’s Massive Investment Fuels Expectations

As part of its 30th-anniversary celebration, CJ ENM is making its largest-ever investment, with over 150 billion KRW allocated for content production. With about 65 new dramas and variety shows lined up for platforms like tvN and TVING, 'Signal' Season 2 is positioned as one of its marquee projects. With a global expansion strategy in place, 'Signal' Season 2 is expected to leave a significant impact not only in Korea but on international audiences as well.

Fans couldn’t hide their excitement following the announcement. Many took to online forums and social media to express their anticipation: “This is the most perfect drama I’ve ever watched. Everything from the plot to the acting was top-tier. Season 2 is long overdue!” “'Signal' is the only drama that had me fully immersed from the first episode to the last. I got chills every single time.”

With the return of the original cast, the addition of Ahn Jae-hong, and Kim Eun-hee’s writing magic, 'Signal' Season 2 is poised to make history once again when it premieres in 2026.