Lee Han-young, portrayed by Ji Sung, has renounced his position as the son-in-law of a powerful chaebol law firm.
The first episode of MBC's 'Judge Lee Han-young,' aired on the 2nd, showcased Lee Han-young's decision to abandon his ties with the Hae-nal Law Firm and declare his intention to divorce.
In a dramatic scene, Lee Han-young is seen collapsed and bleeding, expressing, "Dying like this is too unfair. I finally wanted to live as the real Lee Han-young," hinting at his return to the past from the year 2035.
In 2035, Lee Han-young served as a senior judge at the Seoul High Court, presiding over an industrial accident compensation case involving Go Jin Chemical. The plaintiff, Han Na-young, who worked at Go Jin Chemical's factory, was diagnosed with acute leukemia and a brain tumor in her 20s. Lee Han-young dismissed the plaintiffs' claims, leading to Han Na-young's tragic end. Her mother confronted him, asking, "If you judged fairly, look me in the eye and say it," but Lee Han-young remained silent. Ultimately, he collapsed and died on his way back from Han Na-young's funeral.
Lee Han-young submitted his resignation to the court ahead of the Yes Group trial. However, his father-in-law, Yoo Sun-chul, the head of Hae-nal Law Firm, insisted, "Finish the Yes Group case and come back." In response, Lee Han-young declared, "I plan to be independent. I'm also considering divorce," reflecting on the day he became Hae-nal Law Firm's son-in-law, "It's been 10 years since then. Living like a dog with Hae-nal Law Firm's leash around my neck," solidifying his resolve for independence.
Yoo Sun-chul's son mocked, "This is why servants shouldn't taste money." Lee Han-young reiterated, "My dealings with Hae-nal Law Firm end here." He also announced his intention to divorce his wife, Yoo Se-hee, played by Oh Se-young, who retorted, "I'll divorce when I want to. Don't come home until I say so," asserting her dominance.
Despite Yoo Sun-chul's pressure, Lee Han-young sentenced Yes Construction's CEO, Jang Tae-sik, to 10 years in prison and a fine of 24 billion won, and informed Yoo Se-hee that he would send divorce papers.
However, the episode ended with a shocking twist as Lee Han-young was seen in the defendant's seat. In court, the prosecutor accused him of "murdering and threatening an accomplice," and announced charges against him. Lee Han-young shouted, "No, I'm innocent!" heightening the drama's tension.
Na-yeon Cho, TenAsia Reporter nybluebook@tenasia.co.kr