Born in 1998, actor Kim Do-hoon made a striking cameo in the drama 'Seocho-dong', leaving a strong impression from the very first episode. Previously, Kim was part of Sam Company, co-represented by Hwang Jung-min, for about five years starting in 2020. In January this year, he transitioned to Peak J, where Moon Ga-young is also signed.
On November 5th, Kim Do-hoon appeared as a rookie lawyer in the premiere of tvN's new weekend drama 'Seocho-dong'. He portrayed the fresh and eager character stepping into his first trial, capturing viewers' attention with his charming performance. Playing the opposing lawyer to the seasoned attorney Ahn Joo-hyung, portrayed by Lee Jong-suk, Kim brought a realistic and lively energy to the show with his portrayal of an enthusiastic yet inexperienced newcomer.
From preparing his arguments while watching courtroom scenes on his way to court, to dramatically addressing the judge with "Your Honor!" and calling an unexpected witness, Kim's character humorously mimicked the 'charismatic lawyer' trope familiar to drama audiences.
However, the outcome was unexpected. His awkward words and actions led to a chilly atmosphere, and his first argument ended anticlimactically, leaving him dejected as he exited the courtroom. Ahn Joo-hyung offered a pointed critique, "Don't learn to argue from dramas. And that drama was about a criminal case. This is a civil lawsuit. If you're going to watch, at least watch the right one," marking a bittersweet ending to the rookie lawyer's debut trial.
Through 'Seocho-dong', Kim Do-hoon took on the role of a lawyer for the first time, delivering a detailed portrayal of an 'eager but clumsy' rookie lawyer, leaving a lasting impression despite his brief appearance. 'Seocho-dong' is also notable as Lee Jong-suk's return to the screen after three years, following the 2022 MBC drama 'Big Mouth'.
Kim Do-hoon's portrayal of the rookie lawyer hints that 'Seocho-dong' will focus on the stories of ordinary working lawyers, rather than the typical hero or villain legal figures, adding significance to his cameo.
Kim Do-hoon has been gaining attention for his unique performances in various projects such as 'My Perfect Secretary', 'Your Honor', and 'Moving'. In the latter half of 2025, he is set to captivate audiences once again as the lead character Kim Jae-oh in the TVING original series 'Dear X'.
Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr