Lee Jong Suk makes his highly anticipated return to K-drama with “Law and The City,” a new series that veers into slow-burn romance and slice-of-life territory, pairing him with the charismatic Moon Ga Young.
Stepping Into Seocho Dong’s Legal Scene
The drama introduces us to a group of five attorneys navigating the competitive law firm landscape of Seocho Dong. Among them is Joo Hyeong, played by Lee Jong Suk, a seasoned lawyer who has defied the local joke of never surviving more than five years in the area, now in his ninth.
Joo Hyeong and his lunch crew from various firms — Ryu Hye Young, Kang You Seok, and Im Sun Jae — gather around their “lawyers’ table.” Here, they unpack legal cases, share career woes, and discuss life’s ups and downs.
The dynamic shifts with the mysterious arrival of Moon Ga Young’s character, Attorney Kang, at their building. She immediately feels a connection to Lee’s character, convinced they’ve met before. Despite her hints about a past encounter in Hong Kong a decade ago, Joo Hyeong doesn’t seem to recognize her.
Tension builds when Attorney Kang takes on her first pro bono case, only to find herself up against one of Joo Hyeong’s clients. As the second episode concludes, Joo Hyeong finally experiences a flashback, revealing a surprising moment from their law school days: a shared kiss.
A Refreshing Take on Law Dramas
“Law and The City” offers a unique twist on the legal drama genre, moving away from high-stakes intensity or fantastical elements often seen in other K-dramas. Director Park Seung Woo crafts a narrative that feels like a breath of fresh air, emphasizing the relatable daily grind rather than glamorizing the legal profession.
This show dives into the messiness of life, showing characters dealing with quiet personal burdens amidst their professional struggles. It blends just enough legal cases with everyday moments and budding romance to keep viewers engaged without overwhelming them with dramatic plots.
The cast truly elevates the story. Lee Jong Suk’s portrayal of a tired, relatable lawyer, who believes many employees secretly carry resignation in their hearts, is a departure from his usual roles. Moon Ga Young, known from “True Beauty,” shines with her passionate portrayal of Attorney Kang. Kang You Seok also impresses with his versatility, transitioning seamlessly from his recent doctor role to a lawyer here, showcasing his lead potential.
Is It Worth Your Time?
Deciding whether to watch “Law and The City” depends on your K-drama preferences. If you’re a fan of Lee Jong Suk and curious to see him in a more laid-back, slice-of-life genre, it’s certainly worth exploring. The series offers more than just legal battles; it weaves in elements of mystery, personal growth, and a comforting rhythm of daily life.
The appeal lies in its focus on the small, human moments: midday breaks, coffee chats, the ethical dilemmas, and shared meals with friends. It’s a quiet reminder that life’s true essence often lies in these deeply relatable experiences.
- Lee Jong Suk returns in a charming, softer role.
- It’s a slow-burn, slice-of-life K-drama, not a high-intensity legal thriller.
- Features relatable characters and everyday struggles mixed with a touch of romance and mystery.
- Ideal for those seeking a mellow, comforting watch.
However, if you typically gravitate towards Lee Jong Suk’s more dramatic or high-stakes roles, like “Big Mouth” or “Romance Is a Bonus Book,” this might be too mellow for your taste. Otherwise, it offers a refreshing and gentle watch, with new episodes available on Disney+ Hotstar.
