Format

TV Asahi has announced that its flagship medical drama “Doctor-X: Surgeon Michiko Daimon” will be adapted into a Korean remake titled “Doctor-X: The Age of the White Mafia.” The series will be produced by leading Korean production companies Studio Dragon, Studio S and HighZium Studio, and will air as a Friday–Saturday drama on SBS in 2026.

Since its debut in 2012, “Doctor-X: Surgeon Michiko Daimon” has become one of Japan’s most celebrated and commercially successful dramas, captivating millions of viewers. After more than a decade of strong ratings and enduring popularity, production has officially begun on the first-ever overseas remake—marking an important new milestone in the franchise’s global expansion.

Satoko Uchiyama, Executive Producer at TV Asahi, commented: “‘Doctor-X’ has been loved by audiences around the world since the beginning of the series. Personally, I’ve always hoped to see ‘Doctor-X’ localized in various countries. Over the years, I’ve discussed remake possibilities with producers in Korea and North America, and I’m thrilled that this project has come to life with such an outstanding cast and crew. I truly believe that there is a ‘Doctor-X’ in every part of the world. As both the producer of the original series and a fan of ‘Doctor-X,’ I’m very much looking forward to this new adaptation.”

A landmark Japanese hit
Since its launch, the franchise has spanned seven television seasons and a feature film released last year. The story follows Michiko Daimon, a brilliant freelance surgeon with unmatched talent who saves patients while refusing to bow to hospital hierarchies or institutional power.

Across all seasons, the series has achieved impressive results, averaging 11.6% individual ratings and 20.4% household ratings in the Kanto region (Video Research). It has earned numerous awards and remains one of Japan’s most successful drama series.

The Korean remake will reinterpret the concept as a socially charged medical noir drama set within Korea’s healthcare system. Kim Ji-won, acclaimed for her lead role in the hit series “Queen of Tears,” will star as Gye Su-jeong, the Korean counterpart to Michiko Daimon.