table of content table of content
MBC finally unveils the first images from The Judge Returns, his next legal thriller starring Ji Sung. Adapted from a web novel, the drama tells the story of Lee Han-young, a judge once consumed by ambition, completely subservient to the interests of the powerful Haenal law firm. But everything changes when a family tragedy throws him into a case that turns him into a criminal overnight. Convicted, imprisoned, then the victim of an unjust death, he is offered the unthinkable: a return to the past, 10 years earlier... just before the beginning of his downfall. Lee Han-young is determined not to squander this second chance.
A complex role for Ji Sung, between corruption, revenge and the quest for justice
The first images show the magnitude of the challenge Ji Sung is about to take up. With a magistrate's robe over his shoulders, his icy gaze is a perfect reflection of the old Lee Han-young: calculating, cold, ready to do anything to climb the ladder.
Conversely, another scene shows him in prison garb, screaming his innocence. The contrast is striking, and suggests an intense role, rich in nuance, ideal for an actor renowned for his radical transformations.
With this return to the past, Lee Han-young intends to break the cycle that led to his downfall. But standing up to those who have manipulated him, including the characters played by Park Hee-soon and Won Jin-ah, will not be without consequences. Between ambiguous alliances and explosive confrontations, The Judge Returns announces a story where every choice could change everything.
Ji Sung returns to MBC, ten years later
The production team makes no secret of its enthusiasm: Ji Sung, back on MBC a decade later Kill Me, Heal Meis totally immersed in the role. The team promises a dense, emotional performance, and a constant build-up of tension right up to the denouement.
The Judge Returns will be broadcast from January 2, 2026 at 9:40 pm (KST)awaiting an international distributor.
