"Courtroom Drama? No, It's an Office Drama": 'Seocho-dong' Chronicles Lawyers' Growth

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"We've captured stories about making a living." (Lee Jong-suk)

When one thinks of courtroom dramas, tense scenes often come to mind. Good and evil are clearly divided, and the protagonist dispenses justice by punishing perpetrators. It's rare to empathize with a lawyer's personal struggles.

'Seocho-dong' is different. It focuses not on life-and-death issues, but on the daily grind of making a living. It pays attention to the weight of everyday life rather than grand cases. For instance, the struggle over what to have for lunch often precedes a legal ruling.

Actor Kang Yoo-seok introduced the drama, stating, "'Seocho-dong' shows the ordinary aspects of Seocho-dong. It's not as dramatic as other legal shows. It's a work that captures natural moments."

New Drama Focuses on Everyday Legal Life

tvN's new Saturday-Sunday drama 'Seocho-dong' (script by Lee Seung-hyun, directed by Park Seung-woo) held a production presentation on July 1st at The Link Seoul Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Guro-gu, Seoul. Lee Jong-suk, Moon Ga-young, Kang Yoo-seok, Ryu Hye-young, Lim Sung-jae, and Director Park Seung-woo were in attendance.

'Seocho-dong' is a legal office drama. It portrays the joys, sorrows, and growth stories of five associate lawyers (salaried lawyers employed by a law firm). A lively Seocho-dong life unfolds.

Lee Jong-suk plays Ahn Joo-hyung, a 9th-year associate lawyer. He is armed with logic and facts, meticulously reviewing even the latest precedents, and using sharp rhetoric to pinpoint his opponent's weaknesses.

He previously played a lawyer in 'Big Mouth' in 2022. He commented, "In my previous work, I spent more time in prison. This time, I'll show a realistic lawyer who's accustomed to the routine."

He is reuniting with Director Park 9 years after 'W.' Director Park recalled, "Lee Jong-suk is an actor who is sincere about his work. We had in-depth conversations about the drama's direction and theme."

Moon Ga-young portrays Kang Hee-ji, a new associate lawyer. She's an empathetic lawyer who not only handles her clients' cases but also comforts their hearts. She exhibits the confident and honest charm of a young professional starting her career.

She easily gets along with everyone, greeting not only her colleagues but also the administrative office staff she doesn't even know on her first day. Her personality disarms those around her.

Moon Ga-young has played various roles, including students, celebrities, and office workers. This is her first time playing a professional. She stated, "There were many lines and a lot to study," but added, "Since it's an unfamiliar field, I feel a great sense of satisfaction and excitement."

Workplace Romance and Ensemble Chemistry

A workplace romance with Lee Jong-suk is also hinted. Their characters share a past connection and reunite in Seocho-dong after some time. Their subtly intertwined relationship is expected to inject excitement into the otherwise mundane office life.

The two filmed together in Hong Kong in February, and photos of them walking on the streets and beaches were released. Moon Ga-young hinted, "Many sightings came out of Hong Kong. There's a lot of hidden fun in that."

The perfect chemistry of the 'Eobeonjyeoseu' (Avengers + Lawyers) is also noteworthy. Lee Jong-suk, Moon Ga-young, Kang Yoo-seok (as Jo Chang-won), Ryu Hye-young (as Bae Moon-jung), and Lim Sung-jae (as Ha Sang-gi) form the five-member legal team.

They are meal buddies, gathering as if by约定 during lunchtime, even when overwhelmed by work and people. Comfort and solidarity blossom amidst their lively conversations.

Director Park explained, "Whether happy or sad, you have to eat. I wanted to express that we are living through food. Though they work on different floors, they share the same sentiments."

Kang Yoo-seok stated, "There are many scenes where we eat. We actually ate together often. I think that atmosphere naturally permeated our acting." Lee Jong-suk also added, "The atmosphere on set was comfortable throughout the filming."

Ryu Hye-young played a law student in the 2021 drama 'Law School.' She commented, "If I was a law student then, this time it feels like I've graduated and become a lawyer. I'm happy to show the professional life of a legal professional."

Realism and Viewer Experience

Another viewing point is the realism. The script was penned by Lee Seung-hyun, a practicing lawyer. Director Park brought this to life realistically, depicting the true daily lives of legal professionals instead of fiction.

Ryu Hye-young shared, "I wanted to portray a lawyer who is grounded in reality. I directly asked the writer about details like speech patterns, courtroom atmosphere, and temperature to reference them."

Lim Sung-jae hoped, "There are many descriptors, but the word 'comfort' best describes this work. I hope people can comfortably watch it, perhaps with some late-night snacks."

Moon Ga-young urged, "The evolving attitude as they face the profession of a lawyer will feel warm. Please focus on each character's growth process."

'Seocho-dong' premieres tomorrow, July 5th, at 9:20 PM KST. Are you looking forward to this new take on the legal drama genre?