Lee Jong-suk and Moon Ga-young Shine in 'Seocho-dong' with Record-Breaking Ratings

Lee Jong-suk and Moon Ga-young have successfully collaborated in their first project together, 'Seocho-dong,' marking Lee's return to the screen after three years. The drama premiered with a nationwide household rating of 4.6%, the highest for a tvN weekend drama this year.

In the sixth episode aired on the 20th, viewers witnessed the emotional rollercoaster of characters An Ju-hyung (played by Lee Jong-suk), Kang Hee-ji (played by Moon Ga-young), Jo Chang-won (played by Kang Yoo-seok), Bae Moon-jung (played by Ryu Hye-young), and Ha Sang-gi (played by Lim Sung-jae).

The episode achieved a metropolitan household rating of 6.1%, peaking at 7.6%, and a nationwide household rating of 6.1%, peaking at 7.3%. These figures set new records for the drama, making it the top-rated show in its time slot across cable and general programming channels. It also dominated the 2049 demographic ratings, a key target for tvN, in both metropolitan and nationwide metrics, according to Nielsen Korea.

In the episode, An Ju-hyung and Kang Hee-ji, brought together by a proposal from advisor Kim Hyung-min (played by Yum Hye-ran), attempted to help club employee Jung Min-kyu (played by Park Tae-rin) who was assaulted by club owner Lee Dong-soo (played by Heo Hyung-kyu). They met club DJ Kang Chang-jun (played by Lee Jung-in) who was wrongfully terminated and gathered evidence to prove the unjust dismissal. Despite Jung Min-kyu's initial reluctance to testify due to fear of losing his job, An Ju-hyung and Kang Hee-ji offered their support.

The duo successfully presented evidence in court, leading to a victory in their first case together. Their teamwork brought smiles as they celebrated their win.

Meanwhile, Ha Sang-gi faced challenges due to an article mentioning his name in connection with the privileged admission of elite students to law schools. Unable to explain his situation, he chose silence, causing tension with Jo Chang-won, who felt distanced by Ha's reticence.

Despite this, Jo Chang-won showed loyalty by supporting Ha Sang-gi, who eventually opened up about his past struggles, revealing a difficult childhood where he had to work in the fall to afford school in the spring. His emotional revelation moved viewers.

The group, known as 'Eobeonjeos,' shared their secrets to comfort Ha Sang-gi. An Ju-hyung revealed he was handling an ex-girlfriend's divorce case, Jo Chang-won was working as a visiting lawyer, Bae Moon-jung announced her six-week pregnancy, and Kang Hee-ji admitted she knew all along. Their shared stories lightened their burdens, and they bonded over a meal, showcasing their enduring friendship.

After much contemplation, Bae Moon-jung shared her pregnancy news with her husband Kim Ji-seok (played by Yoon Kyun-sang), who was moved to tears, much to her relief. The couple's joy over their impending parenthood delighted viewers.

Following their legal victory, An Ju-hyung and Kang Hee-ji's relationship took on a new dynamic. During a celebratory gathering, they shared personal stories, reminiscent of their time in Hong Kong a decade ago. Their subtle chemistry hinted at a deeper connection, leaving audiences eager to see how their relationship will evolve.