What happens when a brilliant but cold‑hearted partner teams up with a righteous yet socially awkward rookie? The upcoming Korean legal drama promises courtroom sparks, mentorship drama, and heartfelt growth. Starring well-known actor Lee Jin-wook from “Sweet Home” and idol-actress Jung Chae-yeon of “Family by Choice,” “Beyond the Bar” may be your next legal K-drama obsession. Read on to discover “Beyond the Bar”’s premiere date, cast lineup, and more!
“Beyond the Bar” Korean Drama (2025)
Written by Park Mi‑hyun and directed by Kim Jae‑hong, the creative duo worked together for JTBC’s new legal workplace drama “Beyond the Bar” (에스콰이어: 변호사를 꿈꾸는 변호사들). The show will bring their signature polish to a thoughtful and character‑driven legal story.
Synopsis
A rookie lawyer, Kang Hyo‑min, enters the Yullim Law Firm with a strong moral compass but little social ease. Under the guidance of her senior partner, Yoon Seok‑hoon, who excels in litigation but avoids small talk, she begins her transformation. Together with associates Lee Jin‑woo and Heo Min‑jeong, she faces the emotional and ethical complexity of real legal cases. Along the way, she grows not just professionally, but also personally.
“Beyond the Bar” Cast and Characters
Main Cast
- Lee Jin‑wook plays Yoon Seok‑hoon, the partner and litigation team leader at Yullim Law Firm. A cold strategist in court but quietly principled beneath the surface.
- Jung Chae‑yeon stars as Kang Hyo‑min, a rookie lawyer who’s righteous and confident but awkward in social settings. Under Seok‑hoon’s tutelage, she begins to find her footing in the legal world.
- Lee Hak‑joo portrays Lee Jin‑woo, who is an associate attorney known for his easygoing charm and support for junior coworkers.
- Jeon Hye‑bin is Heo Min‑jeong, a late bloomer who secured her law degree later in life—and who brings fierce ambition and presence to the firm.
Supporting Cast
- Kim Yeo‑jin as Kwon Na‑yeon, a respected senior lawyer and Yoon Seok‑hoon’s mentor.
- Hong Seo‑jun as Kim Yul‑seong, founding member and litigation head at Yullim.
- Kim Kang‑min as Ji Guk‑hyeon, a junior peer of Hyo‑min who brings warmth to firm dynamics.
- Kwon A‑reum as Han Seol‑ah, Hyo‑min’s roommate and confidante.
The other supporting cast includes Kim Eui‑sung, Lee Ju‑yeon, Pyo Jae‑beom, Park Jeong‑pyo, Kang Sang‑jun, and others filling out the Yullim Law Firm’s staff and clients.
Fun Facts & Reasons to Watch
- It boasts an impressive cast lineup, a mix of top-tier leads, and a rich supporting cast. They will bring the characters to life, making the story more authentic.
- You can witness the chemistry of Lee Jin-wook and Jung Chae-yeon in their dynamic mentor-mentee relationship. And you’ll love watching Seok-hoon’s cold demeanor melt away as Hyo-min learns to stand firm.
- The upcoming legal drama features real cases, adding significance and authenticity to dialogue and courtroom confrontations.
“Beyond the Bar” Premiere Date
The Korean legal drama “Beyond the Bar” is set to premiere on August 2, 2025, with 12 episodes in total. It will be airing on JTBC and streaming on Netflix. New episodes will come every Saturday and Sunday at 22:40 KST.
Final Thoughts
With its interesting characters and engaging plot, “Beyond the Bar” is a must-watch new drama this year, especially for those who love stories about growth, justice, and human connection.
Will you be adding this series to your watchlist? Drop your answer in the comments below.
In the meantime, watch the trailer for “Beyond the Bar” below.
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