After a decade-long hiatus, the acclaimed tvN drama ‘Signal’ is officially slated to return with its second season in 2026. The announcement was made during the ‘CJ ENM Content Talk 2025’ event held on February 10 in Seoul, where Park Sang Hyuk, head of CJ ENM’s media business division, confirmed the production and scheduling of ‘Signal’ Season 2.
Actress Kim Hye Soo conveyed her enthusiasm through a video message, stating, “The cast and crew are doing their best during filming. Please show lots of love and anticipation for the new Signal.” This message has heightened anticipation among fans eager to see the continuation of the series.
A Decade in the Making
The original ‘Signal‘ series, which aired in 2016, captivated audiences with its unique narrative. The story revolves around detectives from different time periods communicating through a mysterious radio to solve cold cases. The drama drew inspiration from real-life unsolved cases, such as the ‘Lee Hyung Ho kidnapping,’ ‘the Frog Boys’ disappearance,’ and ‘the Dentist mother-daughter murder case,’ adding a layer of authenticity to its storytelling.
The series starred Lee Jae Hoon, Kim Hye Soo, and Cho Jin Woong, whose performances were widely acclaimed. The show’s unique premise and gripping narrative set it apart from other crime dramas, achieving an average rating of 13.4%, peaking at 15%, and gaining international acclaim. The open-ended finale left fans clamoring for a sequel, further fueling anticipation for Season 2.
Anticipated Cast and Crew
The core cast members Lee Jae Hoon, Kim Hye Soo, and Cho Jin Woong—are expected to reprise their roles, much to the delight of fans. Director Jang Hang Joon, husband of writer Kim Eun Hee, hinted in a YouTube show that “the original cast will return,” suggesting a seamless continuation from where the first season left off.
Joining the cast is actor Ahn Jae Hong, known for his roles in ‘Socialphobia,’ ‘Time Renegades,’ and ‘Be Melodramatic.’ He is set to play a pivotal role, likely as a key figure in solving new cold cases, adding a fresh dynamic to the ensemble.
Production and Expectations
Production company BA Entertainment has been collaborating with screenwriter Kim Eun Hee for years to develop the sequel. The return of ‘Signal’ marks a significant moment as tvN celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2026, making it a flagship project for the network.
‘Signal’ Season 2 is expected to tackle unsolved crimes while delivering strong social commentary. Major unanswered questions from Season 1—including the fate of Detective Lee Jae Han, the altered reality due to past interventions, and the mysterious radio signal—are likely to take center stage, providing closure to long-standing mysteries.
CJ ENM is celebrating its 30th anniversary by investing over 150 billion KRW (~103.3 million USD) in content production, with ‘Signal 2’ being one of its flagship projects. With global distribution plans in place, the drama is poised to make a significant impact on the international market, reaching a broader audience and solidifying its place in the pantheon of great television dramas.
As the production progresses, fans worldwide eagerly await the return of ‘Signal,’ anticipating a season that will live up to the legacy of its predecessor and deliver compelling storytelling that transcends time.