The highly anticipated K-drama "Seochodong," (literal title) slated to air in the first half of 2025 via tvN, has officially confirmed its star-studded cast, headlined by Lee Jong Suk and Mun Ka Young. The drama promises a compelling narrative woven around the lives and careers of associate lawyers navigating the bustling Seocho Judicial Town.
Lee Jong Suk, known for his roles in dramas such as "W: Two Worlds" and "Big Mouth," will play Ahn Joo Hyung, a seasoned lawyer with nine years of experience. Ahn Joo Hyung is portrayed as a pragmatic and logical individual who initially pursued law more out of intellectual curiosity than a sense of justice. Despite his impressive record and high salary, he remains content as an associate, showing no ambition to start his own firm. However, his stable life begins to show cracks as he faces new challenges. Lee Jong Suk himself has expressed excitement about the role, noting that while he played a lawyer in "Big Mouth," "Seochodong" will delve deeper into the day-to-day realities of the profession. He also mentioned that his character, Ahn Joo Hyung, will wear glasses throughout the series, a first for him, requiring meticulous selection of the right pair.
Mun Ka Young, recognized for her performances in "True Beauty" and "The Interest of Love," will portray Kang Hee Ji, a passionate first-year associate lawyer. Kang Hee Ji is characterized by her confidence, honesty, and belief in the power of individual change. She believes that changing someone's life can change their entire world. Despite the challenges of her new career, she maintains a warm and resolute personality, driven by a desire to help people. Mun Ka Young described her character as an idealistic newly minted lawyer who strongly believes that changing one person's life can change the world and dreams of becoming a lawyer who truly helps people. She will showcase the sweetness of first love to the professionalism of a team leader, revealing a fresh appeal worthy of a romantic comedy goddess.
Adding to the ensemble cast are Kang You Seok, Ryu Hye Young, and Im Sung Jae, who will play fellow associate lawyers, each bringing their unique personalities and experiences to the screen. Kang You Seok plays Cho Chang Won, the chatterbox of the Seocho Judicial Town associate lawyers’ meal group. Ryu Hye Young plays Bae Moon Jung, the de facto leader of the Abeon-just meal crew while Im Sung Jae plays Ha Sang Gi — a good-natured individualist — who is stressed and busy. Together, these five lawyers form a close-knit group, supporting each other through the trials and tribulations of their demanding profession.
"Seochodong" is penned by Lee Seung Hyun, a practicing lawyer, promising a realistic and insightful portrayal of the legal world. The drama will be directed by Park Seung Woo, who previously collaborated with Lee Jong Suk on the hit drama "W: Two Worlds," raising expectations for another successful partnership. Director Park Seung Woo is known for his unique creativity and portrayal through dramas such as “Kairos” and “Adamas.” The script is grounded in the real-life experiences of writer Lee Seung Hyun. The drama will capture realistic stories as well as the growth of lawyers as they handle cases that could happen in everyday life.
The drama's title, "Seochodong," refers to a district in Seoul known for its high concentration of law firms. The drama aims to explore the joys and sorrows, the camaraderie and competition, that define the lives of these young professionals. The "Law and the City" is a story about the joys, sorrows, and growth of five associate lawyers — salaried attorneys working at a law firm — who work at law firms located in the Seocho Judicial Town. With its blend of legal drama and slice-of-life elements, "Seochodong" is expected to resonate with viewers seeking both entertainment and a glimpse into the realities of the legal profession.