The Judge Returns Episode 9: Ji Sung and Park Hee Soon Clash Over Supreme Court Appointment
MBC’s weekend drama The Judge Returns continues to intensify as Episode 9 airs tonight, January 30, at 9:50 PM. The latest installment places Judge Lee Han Young (played by Ji Sung) and Kang Shin Jin (played by Park Hee Soon) in a fierce behind‑the‑scenes battle over the appointment of the next Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
In the previous episode, Han Young exposed a drug scandal involving the daughter of Justice Minister nominee Woo Kyo Hoon (played by Jeon Jin Ki), forcing his downfall. This move solidified Han Young’s position as Kang Shin Jin’s trusted ally. Seizing the opportunity, Han Young asked Kang to help him bring down Supreme Court Justice Hwang Nam Yong (played by Kim Myung Soo), who had once delivered a ruling unfavorable to Han Young’s father, Lee Bong Seok (played by Jung Jae Sung). Although Kang initially planned to elevate Hwang Nam Yong to Chief Justice, he unexpectedly handed Han Young documents revealing a hiring corruption scandal involving Hwang’s son, raising questions about his true intentions.
The newly released stills highlight the growing tension between Han Young and Kang Shin Jin as their conflicting ambitions collide. Han Young visits the office of Baek Yi Seok (played by Kim Tae Woo), a respected figure in the judiciary known as the “White Tiger.” However, Yi Seok greets him with suspicion and distrust, disappointed by Han Young’s closeness to Kang Shin Jin. Despite the strained relationship, Han Young remains determined to draw Yi Seok into his larger plan. Whether their fractured bond can be repaired or will collapse into irreversible conflict remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, a major variable threatens to shake the Supreme Court appointment process. Kang Shin Jin is seen dining with Chief Justice candidate Hwang Nam Yong, where a chilling atmosphere dominates the scene. Kang maintains a calm and composed demeanor, but Hwang’s troubled expression suggests heavy pressure and unease. The tension raises anticipation about the strategy Kang Shin Jin is quietly orchestrating and how it will impact the unfolding power struggle.
With alliances shifting and hidden agendas surfacing, Episode 9 of The Judge Returns promises gripping drama and high‑stakes intrigue. Viewers can expect explosive confrontations and revelations as the battle for control of the judiciary reaches new heights.
The Judge Returns Episode 9 airs tonight, January 30, at 9:50 PM on MBC.
Read: The Judge Returns: Ji Sung’s Legal Thriller Dominates Global Charts and Smashes Ratings Records
