Some of the biggest names in Korean and Japanese entertainment arrived in Hong Kong this week, and we were there to experience the excitement live at the Disney+ Originals Preview held at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.
From respected Japanese actors to rising Korean talents, the event brought together creators and cast members whose projects have shaped the Asian entertainment landscape. Seeing them on stage sharing insights, teasing new seasons and celebrating their achievements made the entire preview feel like a major milestone for Asian storytelling.
Held on November 13, the preview event gave invited guests an exclusive look at the upcoming slate of Original series from Korea and Japan. The reactions in the room showed how strongly audiences connect with APAC content, and how much anticipation there is for the next wave of stories.
A major highlight was the appearance of Hiroyuki Sanada, the star and executive producer of Shōgun, alongside creators Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks. The trio received loud applause as they reflected on the global impact of Season 1, which earned an unprecedented 18 Emmy wins. They also shared their excitement as they prepare to begin production for Season 2, hinting at the deeper political tensions, character arcs and worldbuilding that will drive the new chapter.
Their presence reinforced Disney’s growing investment in Japanese storytelling and the worldwide influence Asian content now carries. Korean shows and creators were also celebrated, with senior executives emphasising Disney’s long-term commitment to producing original Korean drama, romance and action titles in the coming years.
Disney+ Announces Expanded Global General Entertainment Slate
After celebrating Korean and Japanese talent, Disney+ unveiled an extensive global general entertainment line-up for 2026. The slate features returning hits, new franchise extensions and star-led originals that cover everything from adventure documentaries to emotional dramas.
Here is a deeper look at the key titles announced:
A Very Jonas Christmas Movie
Joe, Nick and Kevin Jonas return to the screen in a festive comedy that follows the brothers as they try to travel from London to New York in time for Christmas. Their journey becomes increasingly chaotic as unexpected detours, delays and mishaps threaten their holiday plans. The film blends music, humour and heartwarming moments, making it a family-friendly release for the 2025 festive season. Premieres November 14, 2025.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians Season 2
Based on The Sea of Monsters, the second book in Rick Riordan’s best-selling series, the new season follows Percy as he returns to Camp Half-Blood only to discover everything has changed. He finds out he has a cyclops brother, Grover has mysteriously vanished and Kronos’s threat is growing stronger. The story takes Percy beyond familiar territory into the treacherous Sea of Monsters, where he must battle mythological creatures and confront a destiny that ties him directly to the future of Olympus. Premieres December 10, 2025.
Descendants: Wicked Wonderland
Set mainly in the modern-day Wonderland, this next instalment in the Descendants universe explores the ripple effects of time travel. After the events of The Rise of Red, Red and Chloe must face the consequences of their actions and navigate a world that is no longer as predictable as before. Featuring both new characters and familiar favourites, the film dives into themes of identity, friendship and responsibility. Premieres in 2026.
Chris Hemsworth: A Road Trip to Remember
This personal documentary follows Chris Hemsworth and his father Craig as they revisit important locations from their past after Craig’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. More than a travelogue, the series dives into the science of memory, emotional connection and the healing power of community. Along their journey across Australia, Chris explores new research that shows how meaningful social bonds can slow cognitive decline and improve long-term brain health. Premieres November 24, 2025.
Pole to Pole with Will Smith
Will Smith embarks on one of the most ambitious documentary journeys ever filmed: travelling across all seven continents in just 100 days. The series places him in extreme climates, remote landscapes and cultures very different from his own, offering viewers a personal, raw and adventurous perspective. The show combines exploration, survival and storytelling as it pushes the boundaries of what global travel means today. Premieres in 2026.
Paradise Season 2
Set in an exclusive community filled with influential residents, Paradise returns with a deeper dive into the murder mystery that shattered its peaceful façade. Season 2 raises the stakes with new suspects, hidden alliances and the unraveling of powerful secrets that threaten to destroy the community from within. Premieres in 2026.
The Testaments
Based on Margaret Atwood’s award-winning novel, this series takes place years after the events of The Handmaid’s Tale. The story follows a new generation of young women raised entirely under Gilead’s strict regime. As they confront the reality of forced marriages, indoctrination and limited freedom, they begin seeking allies who can help them escape and reclaim their futures. The series expands the world of Gilead by exploring how resistance movements grow and how courage spreads even in the darkest conditions. Premieres in 2026.
The Artful Dodger Season 2
In this Australian Original, Jack Dawkins returns with more daring adventures. This season continues to explore his complicated relationship with Belle, while a new murderer stalks the streets of Port Victory. Packed with tension, mystery and Victorian charm, the series follows Jack as he attempts to balance his medical career, criminal instincts and the growing danger surrounding him. Premieres early 2026.
Only Murders in the Building Season 6
The beloved trio played by Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez return for another round of comedic detective work. With a new mystery on their hands and even more secrets hidden within their building, the trio must once again rely on their odd teamwork and true-crime knowledge to uncover the truth. The season promises more twists, more unexpected suspects and more laugh-out-loud moments. Premieres in 2026.
FX’s The Bear Season 5
The critically acclaimed series returns with another season following Carmy and his kitchen crew. As they continue transforming the restaurant into a world-class operation, personal struggles, financial pressures and emotional bonds test their limits. The Bear remains one of the most grounded portrayals of the culinary world, exploring themes of grief, ambition and the meaning of chosen family. Premieres in 2026.
FX’s Shōgun Season 2
The political tension in feudal Japan intensifies as Toranaga faces new enemies and shifting loyalties. Season 2 promises deeper intrigue, expanded worldbuilding and the continuation of the powerful character arcs that defined the first season. With Blackthorne, Mariko and Toranaga’s paths becoming more intertwined than ever, the series will explore honour, survival and the true cost of ambition. Premieres in 2026.
So exciting!
