Why Disney+ Is Denying Reports About Kim Soo Hyun’s ‘Knock-Off’ Release

Speculation about the long-delayed drama “Knock-Off” starring Kim Soo Hyun has resurfaced but Disney+ says the latest reports are not true.

Rumors recently circulated suggesting the big-budget series could finally premiere in the first half of 2026. However, the streaming platform quickly shut down the claim.

Disney+ Responds to the Release Rumors

On March 3, Disney+ addressed the reports directly, stating that there are no confirmed plans for a first-half release of the series.

The platform explained that earlier media coverage claiming the drama was preparing for a 2026 broadcast schedule does not reflect the current situation.

Disney+ added that there are no new updates beyond its previous statement regarding the project.

Kim Soo Hyun / Prada

Why the Drama Became One of the Most Delayed K-Drama Projects

“Knock-Off” was originally planned as one of Disney+’s most ambitious Korean productions.

The drama reportedly carries a production budget of around 60 billion won (approximately $45 million), placing it among the most expensive Korean streaming projects ever developed.

The story is set during the IMF financial crisis era and follows a man who rises to become the king of the counterfeit goods market.

With a large-scale historical setting and crime-driven narrative, the project was expected to be a major global K-drama release.

Kim Soo Hyun / Official Company

Why the Release Was Suddenly Put on Hold

Disney+ had initially scheduled the drama for a 2025 second-quarter release.

However, the platform halted production and postponed its premiere indefinitely after controversy surrounding Kim Soo Hyun’s personal life began circulating.

Since then, the drama has remained in limbo, with fans repeatedly asking whether the project would ever see the light of day.

Why Fans Are Watching the Situation Closely

Despite Disney+ denying the recent release reports, the conversation around “Knock-Off” continues to grow.

With its massive budget, high-profile cast, and unusual production pause, the series has become one of the most closely watched unreleased K-dramas in recent years.

For now, Disney+ says nothing has changed.

But the question fans keep asking remains the same:

When will “Knock-Off” finally arrive?