Ji Sung Stars in New Drama “The Judge Returns,” Premiering January 2026

MBC has revealed the highly anticipated first look at its upcoming drama, “The Judge Returns,” featuring acclaimed actor Ji Sung in the lead role. The series, which is based on a popular web novel, tells the compelling story of a corrupt judge, Lee Han Young, who gets a second chance at life after traveling back in time by ten years.

In “The Judge Returns,” Lee Han Young, portrayed by Ji Sung, initially serves as a subservient judge at Haenal Law Firm. His quest for power leads him down a dark path, ultimately resulting in a wrongful accusation following the tragic death of his mother. After facing an unjust end, he finds himself returning to a pivotal moment in his past, armed with the knowledge and determination to seek justice against the corrupt forces that once dominated his life.

The first promotional stills highlight Ji Sung’s impressive range as an actor. In one image, he dons a judge’s robe, exuding a cold and calculating demeanor, while another shows him in prison attire, fervently protesting his innocence. These visuals indicate the emotional depth and complexity of the character, which Ji Sung is known for portraying with remarkable skill.

As Ji Sung steps back into the role of Lee Han Young, he is expected to navigate the character’s significant transformation from a corrupt judge to a seeker of justice. This evolution will be a central theme throughout the series, showcasing the trials he must endure and the moral dilemmas he faces.

Supportive Cast and Production Insights

Alongside Ji Sung, the drama features notable performances from Park Hee Soon and Won Jin Ah, who will play key roles in the story, shifting between allies and adversaries. Their interactions are anticipated to add layers of tension and intrigue to the narrative.

The production team has expressed their excitement about Ji Sung’s return to MBC after a decade, emphasizing his commitment to fully embodying the character of Lee Han Young. In a statement, they remarked, “We hope viewers will show a lot of interest in Ji Sung, who has fully become the character of Lee Han Young. Please watch with anticipation to see how he will face the powers that once oppressed him.”

“The Judge Returns” is scheduled to premiere on January 2, 2026, at 21:40 KST. As fans eagerly await the debut, they can revisit Ji Sung’s previous work in “The Devil Judge,” which has already garnered significant attention.

With its intriguing premise and strong cast, “The Judge Returns” promises to be a captivating addition to MBC’s lineup, inviting audiences to explore themes of redemption and justice in a world fraught with corruption.