Rising Star Oh Se-young Shines Alongside Ji Sung in MBC's 'Judge Lee Han-young'

Oh Se-young and Ji Sung are receiving praise for their on-screen chemistry in MBC's Friday-Saturday drama 'Judge Lee Han-young' (hereafter 'Lee Han-young'). Despite a real-life age gap of 19 years, their relationship in the drama, which adds a touch of romance to the genre, has been well-received. This has also increased interest in newcomer Oh Se-young. Although she appeared nervous at the pre-broadcast press conference, Oh Se-young has surprised audiences with her chemistry with Ji Sung in the drama.

'You Know What?' Lee So-jung from TenAsia captures intriguing issues in the broadcasting world to stimulate the public's dopamine.

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Since its premiere, 'Lee Han-young' has been on a steady rise. The episode aired on the 30th of last month recorded a 13.5% viewership rating, marking a new high for the series. With the final episode set to air on the 14th, the drama, which kicked off MBC's mini-series lineup this January, is receiving enthusiastic responses, with some even calling it an award-worthy production. Ji Sung, known for his reliable performances, has once again lived up to his reputation, while Oh Se-young's performance has also caught attention.

'Lee Han-young' tells the story of a judge who, living like a slave to a giant law firm, travels back 10 years to make new choices and fight corruption. At the center of the drama is Ji Sung's character, Lee Han-young, who is both the son-in-law of the Hae-nal Law Firm and known as the 'servant judge.' He navigates between his powerless past and his current efforts to correct it. Ji Sung anchors the drama with his restrained emotional performance and compelling narrative. Meanwhile, Oh Se-young, playing Yoo Se-hee, the youngest daughter of the Hae-nal Law Firm, has unexpectedly received praise. Concerns were initially raised due to the 19-year age gap between Ji Sung, born in 1977, and Oh Se-young, born in 1996.

However, once the show aired, reactions changed. Viewers commented, "Ji Sung looks young, so the age gap isn't noticeable," "The slight romance in the genre drama is actually charming," "I didn't know Oh Se-young's real age, so I naturally got immersed," and "Their chemistry is stable." Oh Se-young's relatively low public recognition also positively contributed to the drama's immersion, allowing viewers to focus more on the character Yoo Se-hee rather than the actress.

Oh Se-young's character, Yoo Se-hee, is portrayed as the youngest daughter of Korea's top law firm, combining a sophisticated image with a cute and comedic side that emerges as the series progresses, refreshing the drama's atmosphere. Her appearances are praised for enhancing the show's flow, though some viewers wish she had more screen time. A graduate of Chung-Ang University's Theater Department, Oh Se-young skillfully embodies her character without overacting, maintaining a balanced performance alongside Ji Sung.

The shift in atmosphere before and after the broadcast is also noteworthy. At the 'Lee Han-young' press conference on the 2nd of last month, Oh Se-young appeared nervous and struggled to answer questions smoothly, which was disappointing for a nine-year veteran. However, her performance in the drama has dispelled any initial doubts.

Two years ago, Oh Se-young made a brief but impactful appearance in the tvN drama 'Sunjae Up and Run,' playing a bully who tormented Kim Hye-yoon. Despite her limited screen time, she left a strong impression, and 'Lee Han-young' has once again solidified her presence. Viewers speculate that this drama could be a turning point in Oh Se-young's career, potentially marking her 'life's work.'

'Lee Han-young' is praised for combining Ji Sung's solid acting and a strong narrative with the fresh face of Oh Se-young, creating a synergistic effect. The drama's ability to convincingly portray the significant age gap through its setting and performances is seen as a meaningful achievement.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr