Lee Jae-wook returns to team up with Shin Ye-eun in K-drama Island Doctor, and this pairing is just too swoon-worthy

The highly anticipated new Disney+ romantic medical K-drama “Island Doctor” is set to premiere on June 1, 2026. Starring Lee Jae-wook and Shin Ye-eun, the series tells a healing love story between a cold-hearted plastic surgeon exiled to the remote island of Pyeongdong and a mysterious nurse. It’s a can’t-miss pick for this season’s watchlist.

• Related reading: The three male leads across the seasons of “Yumi’s Cells”: Koo Woong, Yoo Babi, and Shin Soon-rok. Yumi ultimately falls for a younger man, which is really about her finally being willing to love herself.

A healing island journey for a cold-hearted doctor and a mysterious nurse

The story is set on Pyeongdong, a remote island jokingly called “Hell Island.” Do Ji-yi (Lee Jae-wook), who has always dreamed of becoming a top plastic surgery specialist, is assigned to this harsh environment as a public health doctor during his military service. The island’s living conditions are grueling, and it also stirs up the deep, indelible trauma he carries from the sea. Just as he feels helpless, he meets assistant nurse Yook Ha-ri (Shin Ye-eun), whose background is shrouded in mystery and who has moved from the city for unknown reasons. Both carrying their own wounds, the two grow together and heal one another in these difficult surroundings, rediscovering why they became doctors. .

The electric first collaboration between two same-age stars from the ‘98 line

The casting surprise fans are most excited about is undoubtedly the dream pairing of Lee Jae-wook and Shin Ye-eun. Both born in 1998, the same-age friends are already sparking great chemistry in their first project together. Without the usual distance between Korean seniors and juniors, their dynamic feels more natural and close, with a strong couple-like chemistry. Shin Ye-eun, praised for her darker performance in “The Glory,” takes on the role of a warm, mysterious nurse alongside Lee Jae-wook, whose popularity soared with “Alchemy of Souls.” This is also a valuable project Lee Jae-wook completed before enlisting, making it especially meaningful for fans. .

A powerhouse creative team and a major streaming release

Beyond its eye-catching lead pairing, the creative team behind the scenes is just as impressive. The series is directed by Lee Myung-woo, who helmed “The Fiery Priest,” and created with writer Kim Ji-soo of “Missing Crown Prince.” With this hit-making team joining forces, the series is sure to spark another wave of romantic, healing K-dramas. .

What makes “Island Doctor” so appealing is that it steps away from the heavy conventional medical-drama format, moving the story to a remote island filled with unknowns and challenges from nature. This setting away from the hustle and bustle gives the leads ample space to be alone and depend on each other, while offering viewers a brief escape from busy city life. Lee Jae-wook’s unexpectedly endearing side beneath his cold exterior, paired with Shin Ye-eun’s warm, healing smile, makes their chemistry well worth watching. Before its June 1 premiere , add this drama to your watchlist.

Join POPBEE Circle and subscribe to the POPBEE newsletter for the latest updates, and get early access to exclusive perks and discounts! Beyond this article, here are a few recent stories worth checking out: