CJ ENM‘s upcoming military drama “The Legend of Kitchen Soldier” will world premiere at Series Mania 2026.
The Studio Dragon-produced series has been selected for a special screening in the festival’s program, marking it as the only Korean content premiering at the event.
Set to launch as a TVING Original, the high-concept drama follows a so-called “plastic-spoon man” — a term referencing those born into economic disadvantage — who enlists in the military to escape difficult circumstances. His journey toward becoming a legendary army cook takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a mysterious virtual “Quest” system that guides his path as a kitchen soldier. Each mission he completes, from the cookhouse and dormitories to the training grounds, pulls him deeper into uncovering the unit’s hidden problems. Armed only with kitchen implements, his unconventional military adventure unfolds.
“Rarely does a drama embrace such freedom and a gonzo joy,” said Carlo Fasino, programming manager at Series Mania. “‘The Legend of Kitchen Soldier’ is a surrealist joyride that finds profound vitality in the wreckage of loss, weaponizing its formal daring with a truly original wit – all anchored by Park Ji-hoon’s revelatory, deeply felt lead turn.”
Sebastian Kim, head of content distribution business unit at CJ ENM, added: “Based on a famous original webtoon, the series has been brought to life by the outstanding creative teams at TVING and Studio Dragon. Through this special screening, we hope to make a strong impression on industry professionals and audiences alike, and open up opportunities for the series to reach viewers across streaming platforms and TV channels worldwide.”
The selection continues CJ ENM’s strong presence at Series Mania. The company previously showcased “The Cursed” and “Mouse” in the International Panorama section, while “Pyramid Game” and “Duty After School” were featured in Special Screenings.
CJ ENM said it is pursuing multiple strategic initiatives to expand its global content distribution capabilities as it strengthens its position in the international Korean content market.
Korea is the inaugural Country of Honor at the Series Mania Forum.
Source: variety.com
