The 21% Ratings K-Drama Is Back for Season 3—with a Shocking New Cast!

One of SBS’s biggest weekend hits is back—'Taxi Driver' is officially returning for Season 3, and it's not coming alone. After both previous seasons soared past 20% in viewership ratings, the new season is already making headlines with a surprising casting move: beloved Japanese actor Naoto Takenaka is joining the cast.

Based on a popular webtoon, 'Taxi Driver' tells the story of Rainbow Taxi, a secret company that delivers justice for victims failed by the legal system. Known for its thrilling “revenge-for-hire” plots and satisfying takedowns of the bad guys, the show has become one of SBS’s flagship dramas—and a fan-favorite among both domestic and international audiences.

On April 7, the production team confirmed that Naoto Takenaka will appear in Season 3, though they kept his role under wraps to avoid spoilers. This season will expand the show's universe even further, with parts of the story set to be filmed on location in Japan.

Takenaka is a household name in Japan, known for his versatile roles across film and television. Fans may remember him from the 1996 hit 'Shall We Dance?' or his unforgettable performance as Maestro Stresemann in 'Nodame Cantabile'. He's also appeared in titles like 'Waterboys', 'Drops of God', 'Swing Girls', and 'Leon'.

K-drama fans may also recall his appearance in Rain’s 2010 drama ‘Fugitive: Plan B’, making this his first Korean drama in 15 years. His return marks a new chapter in his storied career, and expectations are high for what he’ll bring to the table this time around.

More than just an actor, Takenaka is also a director, comedian, and singer. He’s known for his unique flair, effortlessly shifting between comic and serious roles—qualities that are expected to pair perfectly with the intense, often dark world of 'Taxi Driver'.

Meanwhile, the original Rainbow Taxi crew will also be back in action. Lee Je-hoon reprises his role as Kim Do-gi, with Kim Eui-sung, Pyo Ye-jin, Jang Hyuk-jin, and Bae Yoo-ram all returning from Seasons 1 and 2. Their strong team chemistry promises a smooth and powerful start for the new season.

'Taxi Driver 3' is set to premiere in the second half of this year. With a bold international expansion and an unexpected cross-cultural casting, fans are eager to see if the show can repeat—or even surpass—its previous success.