Actress Won Jin Ah has discussed her upcoming role in the new drama “The Judge Returns”, providing details on her character, the show’s appeal, and her experience working with her co-stars.
The series, which is based on a popular web novel, is a legal fantasy-thriller centered on the themes of justice, revenge, and second chances. “The Judge Returns” is set to premiere on January 2, 2026, at 9:40 p.m. KST.
The Allure of Extra-Legal Justice
When asked why she chose to star in the drama, Won Jin Ah pointed to the unique sense of catharsis the story offers. She acknowledged the limitations of the real-world justice system while celebrating the drama’s fictional premise.
“In real life, crimes must be judged within the bounds of law and rules, but in the drama, you can feel both exhilaration and emotional comfort, which I found very appealing,” she explained.
This desire to offer viewers a satisfying, albeit fictional, resolution to societal injustices was a major draw for her.
Portraying Kim Jin Ah: A Prosecutor Driven by Revenge
Won Jin Ah plays the role of Kim Jin Ah, a fierce and determined prosecutor at the Seoul Central District.
Her character’s primary motivation is to secure revenge against the person who jeopardized her father’s life, showing a commitment to justice that transcends professional duty.
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Kim Jin Ah is characterized by her honesty, a quick temper, and an overwhelming determination to pursue her goals, even when facing formidable obstacles.
The core of her passionate, sometimes volatile, personality stems from her deep love and sense of indebtedness toward her father.
Speaking about her preparations for the role, the actress emphasized her focus on capturing her character’s formidable spirit, stating,
“I worked hard to capture [Kim Jin Ah’s] fierce and strong side.”
The drama will explore the specific incident that transformed her into a person consumed by revenge and the eventual, unpredictable alliance she forms with the male lead.
An Unlikely Alliance for Justice
Kim Jin Ah’s storyline is deeply intertwined with that of the main character, Lee Han Young (played by Ji Sung).
Lee Han Young is a corrupt judge who, after traveling 10 years back in time, seeks a second chance at life to punish “great evils” and dispense true justice.
Despite Kim Jin Ah’s relentless pursuit of revenge against overpowering figures of authority, she finds herself unexpectedly teaming up with Judge Lee Han Young.
The drama is expected to focus heavily on the dynamics of this unpredictable partnership as they navigate the complex, often corrupt, legal world to deliver their own brand of justice.
Working with Ji Sung and Park Hee Soon
Won Jin Ah shared her positive experience working alongside her veteran co-stars, Ji Sung and Park Hee Soon, who are known for their intense on-screen personas.
She affectionately noted that while their characters in the drama may seem intimidating, the actors themselves are the opposite.
“Ji Sung and Park Hee Soon may be intimidating in the drama, but in reality, they are warm and lovely people. They always treated me kindly, so I looked forward to filming days,” she commented, highlighting the supportive atmosphere on set.
In concluding her interview, Won Jin Ah expressed her hope for the drama’s impact on the audience.
“As a character who represents the vulnerable, I hope Kim Jin Ah can offer comfort and relief to those hurt by social status and power. I also hope viewers enjoy watching the drama,” she stated.
Her comment underscores the drama’s ambition to serve as a voice for the powerless and to deliver a satisfying narrative of ultimate justice prevailing over systemic corruption.
