Actor Ji-sung is making a highly anticipated return to MBC after 10 years, starring in the upcoming drama Judge Lee Han-young. Known for his award-winning performance in Kill Me, Heal Me, Ji-sung now takes on a challenging role that promises to showcase his signature intensity and versatility.
A Decade-Long Return
The new MBC Friday-Saturday drama, Judge Lee Han-young (written by Kim Kwang-min, directed by Lee Jae-jin and Park Mi-yeon), follows a judge who, after living under the thumb of a powerful law firm, is mysteriously sent back 10 years in time. He seizes this second chance to correct past mistakes and uphold true justice against corruption and abuse of power.
Ji-sung plays the titular Lee Han-young, a judge molded by the pressures of the legal system who experiences a dramatic personal awakening following his mother’s death. From the script reading session, Ji-sung impressed the production team with his nuanced portrayal of Han-young’s inner transformation, promising a deeply immersive performance.
Star-Studded Cast
Veteran actor Park Hee-soon plays Kang Shin-jin, a high-ranking prosecutor with ambitious plans who initially allies with Han-young but later becomes his rival, adding tension and intrigue. Won Jin-ah portrays Kim Jin-ah, a prosecutor with a personal vendetta against the man who caused her father’s death. She navigates a complex mix of vengeance, suspicion, and alliance with Han-young.
Supporting roles include Baek Jin-hee as Han-young’s colleague judge Song Na-yeon, Oh Se-young as the cold, calculating lawyer Yoo Se-hee, and actors Tae Won-seok and Hwang Hee in pivotal legal roles. The presence of seasoned actors like Kim Tae-woo, Ahn Nae-sang, and Kim Beom-rae further strengthens the drama’s gravitas.
During the script reading, Ji-sung expressed his excitement: “I’m thrilled to work with such talented actors. We’ll all do our best to deliver a high-quality drama.”
Park Hee-soon commented, “I’m intrigued by the characters’ evolution and how the actors will bring them to life.”
Meanwhile, Won Jin-ah highlighted the story’s intensity: “It’s a satisfying revenge tale with immersive storytelling. I hope viewers stay engaged until the end.”
From Web Novel to Screen
Judge Lee Han-young is based on a popular web novel and webtoon with over 102.47 million views. Known for sharply critiquing societal corruption, the source material now comes alive as a layered drama blending realistic dialogue and emotional depth.
Directed by Lee Jae-jin, known for The Banker, The Spy Who Loved Me, and Motel California, with Park Mi-yeon and writer Kim Kwang-min, the drama promises top-notch production quality. The team aims to deliver a fresh take on courtroom dramas, combining suspense, emotional storytelling, and the thrill of time-travel narratives.
Judge Lee Han-young premieres on January 2, 2026, marking Ji-sung’s highly awaited return to MBC and the small screen.
Sources: Daum News
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