Ji Sung Returns in the New Must-See Legal Thriller, "The Judge Returns"! We Explain Why It Is Trending!
- Disha Paul
- 17 hours ago
- 4 min read
The K-drama world has a new must-see legal thriller that is currently trending. The Judge Returns has grabbed attention with its intense story, powerful cast, and a mix of fantasy and courtroom drama that keeps fans talking. The series premiered in early January 2026 and quickly became one of the most searched Korean dramas globally in the first month of the year.
In this guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know about where to watch it, the cast, plot, release schedule, and how global fans can stream it, as well as why viewers are loving this legal fantasy series.
What is The Judge Returns About
The Judge Returns is a South Korean fantasy legal drama that combines powerful courtroom emotions, time travel, revenge, and personal redemption.
The story follows Lee Han-young, a judge who once used his position to benefit powerful law firms, ultimately losing his life. After a tragic death, he unexpectedly wakes up ten years in the past, retaining all his memories from the future.
With his second chance, he commits himself to fighting corruption, bringing justice to the weak, and undoing the wrongs he once served.
As Han-young tries to rewrite his fate, he faces powerful figures, ethical dilemmas, and the consequences of his earlier choices. The story sheds light on the flaws of the justice system and examines whether true justice can be achieved when fate is rewritten.
Release Date and Episode Schedule
The Judge Returns officially premiered on January 2, 2026, on the MBC TV network in South Korea. It airs every Friday and Saturday at 9:40 p.m. Korean Standard Time. The series has a total of 14 episodes and is expected to conclude in mid-February 2026.
Episodes are each about an hour long, and new instalments continue to maintain strong viewer interest with rising ratings as the plot unfolds.
Where to Watch The Judge Returns
Here are all the streaming and viewing options for both Korean and global fans:
In South Korea
MBC TV broadcasts every Friday and Saturday night.
TVING and Wavve for on-demand streaming in Korea.
For Global Viewers
Viki is streaming the series with subtitles in English and many other languages. You can watch the first few episodes for free and then get a Viki Pass for the full series.
HBO Max offers the drama in select regions with subtitles shortly after episodes air in Korea.
Apple TV lists the series in multiple countries depending on regional availability.
Streaming availability can differ depending on your country, so checking your local platforms is always helpful.
Global Time Guide for New Episodes
Here are approximate air times for international fans so you can catch episodes when they drop:
KST: 9:40 p.m.
IST: Around 5:40 p.m.
ET: Around 12 p.m.
CET: Around 1:40 p.m.
These times may slightly vary depending on daylight savings and regional broadcast schedules, but this guide helps fans stay updated.
Cast and Characters to Know
The Judge Returns features a strong ensemble led by some of Korea’s most respected actors:
Ji Sung as Lee Han-young
Ji Sung is back in the law world as a judge who once sided with the powerful but now seeks true justice after getting a second chance at life.
Park Hee-soon as Kang Shin-jin
A senior judge who represents the traditional side of the judiciary and presents a great challenge to Han-young’s plans.
Won Jin-ah as Kim Jin-ah
A passionate public prosecutor driven by her own past loss and quest for justice.
Supporting Cast Members
Baek Jin-hee is a dedicated reporter
Tae Won-seok in an important supporting role
Hwang Hee and Oh Se-young in key ensemble roles
The cast brings emotional nuance and intensity to each twist of the narrative.
Why This Drama Is Trending
There are several reasons this series is gaining attention:
Ji Sung delivers a layered portrayal of a man who must confront his past mistakes while navigating the power structures of the legal world.
The mix of legal thriller, time travel, personal redemption, and complex character motivations stands out from typical courtroom dramas.
This adaptation follows a story many viewers already loved, which brings an already established fan base and buzz.
With subtitles available in many languages and streaming options worldwide, fans across different regions can join the discussion and watch along each week.
Final Thoughts
The Judge Returns has quickly made its mark as a must-watch January 2026 K-drama. With a gripping plot, thoughtful performances, and strong episodes airing weekly, it keeps viewers guessing while exploring deeper questions about justice and morality.
Whether you are drawn to legal thrillers or time travel stories with a twist, this drama delivers both emotional depth and suspenseful pacing.
Will you be watching new episodes every week or waiting to binge the whole series after it ends? Tell us in the comments below.