Introduction

Netflix is throwing its weight behind Lee Chang-dong’s latest Korean drama, Possible Love, as part of a calculated multi-category Oscar push. The streamer aims to replicate the critical and awards success that followed Parasite’s historic win, positioning the film as a serious contender across several prestigious categories.

What Happened

Lee Chang-dong’s Possible Love has already gathered significant momentum on the festival circuit, earning the Grand Jury Prize at Venice and a strong second-place finish at Toronto’s International Film Festival. With a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score and a 93 Metacritic rating, the film has been positioned as one of 2026’s most acclaimed releases. Netflix has secured Korea’s official submission for Best International Feature and is now lobbying its four principal actors across specific Oscar categories, including Jeon Do-yeon for Best Actress, Sul Kyung-gu for Best Actor, Cho Yeo-jeong for Best Supporting Actress, and Zo In-sung for Best Supporting Actor.

Why This Matters

The campaign signals Netflix’s commitment to Korean cinema’s continued momentum at major awards bodies, especially as the Academy expands its global membership. By splitting its four leads across different categories, the streamer is strategically maximizing its chances across the acting races, while also courting the Drama category at the Golden Globes and the SAG Awards’ ensemble category. For viewers, it means a potential historic night for Korean storytelling and a rare, category-spanning performance campaign from a streaming giant.

Key Takeaways

Netflix is pursuing a multi-category Oscar push for Lee Chang-dong’s Possible Love following its festival triumphs. The film’s four lead actors are each promoted in distinct Oscar categories, from Jeon Do-yeon’s Best Actress bid to supporting nods for Cho Yeo-jeong and Zo In-sung. The campaign leverages the film’s critical acclaim, including 100% Rotten Tomatoes and 93 Metacritic scores, plus its status as Korea’s official international feature submission. Success could further cement Korean cinema’s presence at the highest levels of global awards recognition.

Conclusion

As the 2026 awards season unfolds, all eyes will be on how Netflix’s strategic category placement for Possible Love translates into nominations and wins. With strong critical reception, a celebrated director, and a powerhouse cast split across acting categories, the film stands as one of the most strategic and potentially impactful Oscar campaigns of the year. Whether it breaks new ground for streaming-led international campaigns remains to be seen, but the groundwork is firmly set.