MBC’s time-slip legal drama The Judge Returns is set to deepen its emotional stakes as its central couple faces a pivotal turning point.
Starring Ji Sung as Lee Han Young—a once-corrupt judge who lived under the control of a powerful law firm before mysteriously traveling 10 years back in time—the series follows his mission to right past wrongs and punish entrenched corruption. Alongside him is Oh Se-young as Yoo Se Hee, a principled lawyer whose path becomes deeply intertwined with his second chance at life.
In the previous episode, Lee Han Young tried to stop Yoo Se Hee from taking Jang Tae Sik’s case, fearing the danger it might bring upon her. In his first life, their marriage had been little more than a façade—a political “show-window couple” devoid of affection. But in this rewritten timeline, genuine emotions have taken root. His determination to protect her now stems not from obligation, but from love he can no longer deny.
Newly released stills reveal Yoo Se Hee visiting an injured Lee Han Young in the hospital. Her eyes brim with concern, while he initially masks his pain with a reassuring smile. Yet beneath that fragile composure lies unspoken fear and longing. As the emotional weight between them builds, the two share a kiss charged with vulnerability—less a moment of passion, and more a silent confession of everything they have endured and everything they stand to lose.
The upcoming episode, extended by 10 minutes, will air on February 13 at 9:40 p.m. KST, promising heightened tension and deeper emotional resonance as Lee Han Young continues his fight for justice—and for the woman he loves.
