NCT's Jeno and Jaemin to Star in Baseball Drama "Wind Up" Coming 2026
NCT members Jeno and Jaemin have wrapped filming on their baseball-themed youth drama "Wind Up," with the short-form series set to premiere in the first half of 2026.
Production Wraps After October Filming
TakeOne Company and SM Entertainment confirmed on November 11 that production on "Wind Up" concluded October 11, 2025. The co-produced drama is currently in post-production, with the broadcast platform to be announced.
The short-form series centers on two high school boys navigating friendship and growth through baseball. Woo Jin, a once-promising pitcher who's lost his ability to throw strikes, meets Tae Hee, a transfer student who appoints himself as Woo Jin's manager. Their story explores mutual support and redemption as they face personal challenges together.
Jeno Makes Acting Debut Alongside Returning Jaemin
Jeno steps into his first major acting role as Woo Jin, the struggling pitcher searching for his form. Jaemin returns to acting as Tae Hee after appearing in the 2019 short drama "Method to Hate You."
The NCT DREAM members' real-life chemistry and teamwork are expected to translate naturally into their on-screen dynamic, adding authenticity to the friendship story.
Veteran actors strengthen the cast. Lee Jong-hyuk, known for "A Gentleman's Dignity" and "Chuno," plays the baseball team's coach. Oh Hyun-kyung, the 1989 Miss Korea winner who starred in "Legendary Witch" and "Young Lady and Gentleman," portrays Tae Hee's mother.
Acclaimed Director Brings Sports Drama Expertise
Director Kim Sung-ho helms "Wind Up" following his work on Netflix's "Move to Heaven" (2021) and KBS2's "Bad Prosecutor" (2022). His track record with emotionally-driven narratives raises expectations for how he'll handle this coming-of-age story.
The collaboration between TakeOne Company (CEO Jung Min-chae) and SM Entertainment combines production expertise with artist management, creating a project tailored to showcase the NCT members' acting potential.
First Half 2026 Release Targets Youth Drama Audience
"Wind Up" joins a growing trend of K-pop idols transitioning into acting through sports-themed youth dramas. The baseball setting provides familiar ground for Korean audiences while the friendship narrative appeals to both domestic and international viewers.
With filming complete and post-production underway, the series aims for a first-half 2026 release. Platform details and specific scheduling will be announced as the launch approaches.
The drama represents another step in NCT's expanding entertainment presence beyond music, with fans eagerly anticipating how Jeno and Jaemin's on-screen partnership will unfold.
