In a surprise move, Netflix has stealthily released a new romantic Korean drama that viewers are already calling the standout television event of 2026. The series, titled Can This Love Be Translated?, landed on the streaming platform on Friday, January 16, with a complete twelve-episode run ready for binge-watching.
A Global Romance From Acclaimed Writers
The limited series is the creation of the famed K-drama writing duo Hong Mi-ran and Hong Jung-eun. It explores a blossoming, complex relationship between a multilingual translator and an internationally renowned actress. The official synopsis poses the central question of whether love can truly be translated as the pair traverse the globe filming a television show together.
As their professional journey continues, their personal connection deepens. However, the series delves into the complications that arise when feelings become entangled, proving that emotional misunderstandings can occur even when a common language is spoken.
Star-Studded Cast and Immediate Fan Adoration
Leading the cast is popular Korean actor Kim Seon-ho, who takes on the role of the seasoned translator Joo Ho-jin. His love interest, the global celebrity Cha Mu-hee, is played by Go Youn-jung.
Anticipation was high even before the show's release, with fans predicting it would become "the best drama of 2026". Early viewer reactions on social media suggest these predictions were accurate, with many reporting they consumed the entire series in one sitting.
One enthusiastic fan wrote online, praising the drama's perfect, slow-paced and ordinary nature. Another declared the show "soooo good so far," while a third exclaimed, "I FINISHED CAN THIS LOVE BE TRANSLATED AND IT TOOK ME EXACTLY 12 HOURS AND I HAVE NOT LEFT MY SEAT."
Critics Offer a More Measured Response
While fan reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, critical reception has been slightly more mixed. Entertainment blog Leisure Byte described the series as "a charming, thematically thoughtful rom-com" that intelligently explores human struggles and miscommunication.
However, the review also noted that the drama occasionally becomes lost in its own complicated emotions, which can be taxing. The critic found the pacing challenging at times, despite acknowledging the show's underlying sweetness.
Regardless of this nuanced critique, Can This Love Be Translated? has undoubtedly made a significant impact since its quiet release. It is now streaming in full on Netflix, offering romance fans a compelling, globe-trotting narrative to devour.
