The newly released character posters for The Judge Returns are turning heads, thanks to the commanding presence of Ji Sung, Park Hee Soon, and Won Jin Ah.
MBC’s upcoming Friday–Saturday drama The Judge Returns premieres on January 2, 2026, and tells the gripping redemption story of Lee Han-young—a once-corrupt judge beholden to a powerful law firm who suddenly wakes up 10 years in the past and seizes the chance to rewrite his fate and bring justice to those who abuse it.
Just two days before the premiere, the production team unveiled dramatic posters featuring Ji Sung as Lee Han-young, Park Hee Soon as Kang Shin-jin, and Won Jin Ah as prosecutor Kim Jin-ah—instantly raising anticipation.
Ji Sung exudes icy charisma as Lee Han-young, a judge hardened by a difficult past and seduced by power. The bold line, “Does a judge have to be kind?” lands even harder against his cool, cutting stare. With his back turned to the statue of Lady Justice, viewers are left wondering what justice will look like in his second chance at life.
Park Hee-soon transforms into Kang Shin-jin, a judge who thrives on exploiting others’ weaknesses in his quest to dominate the judiciary. His poised yet menacing presence hints at layers of ambition and moral conflict, echoed by the tagline: “Justice must be faster and clearer than evil.”
Meanwhile, Won Jin-ah’s Kim Jin-ah radiates determination as a prosecutor seeking justice for her father. Her firm gaze and the line “Trust this sharp-tongued, brilliant prosecutor” signal her unwavering loyalty as Han-young’s ally—and a force to be reckoned with in her own right.
Adapted from a blockbuster web novel and webtoon with a combined 110 million views, The Judge Returns has already ignited buzz with its striking visuals and compelling characters. With veteran directors Lee Jae-jin and Park Mi-yeon at the helm, expectations are sky-high.
The Judge Returns premieres January 2 on MBC.