If you’ve been keeping an eye on the Korean drama landscape this January, one show has been quietly dominating the conversation — and now it’s making headlines. MBC’s The Judge Returns, starring Ji Sung, just delivered its biggest ratings ever — and it wasn’t even close.
According to Nielsen Korea, the latest episode of The Judge Returns clocked in at an average nationwide rating of 13.5% — not only its personal best, but the highest-rated show on all of Friday television. That’s a number that tells you everything about where this drama currently stands in the Korean TV ecosystem.
How Does No Tail To Tell Compare?
| Drama | Network | Rating | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Judge Returns | MBC | 13.5% | ↑ New High |
| No Tail To Tell | SBS | 2.4% | — Steady |
Meanwhile, SBS’s No Tail To Tell — airing in the same Friday timeslot — held steady at 2.4%, matching its previous week. A stable showing, but it underlines just how far ahead The Judge Returns is pulling in the ratings race right now.
Why Is Everyone Watching?
The short answer? Ji Sung. The acclaimed actor brings a layered, quietly intense energy to his role as Lee Han-young — a judge entangled in corruption who gets a second chance at life after being transported back in time. It’s part legal thriller, part time-travel drama, and it’s gripping from the first scene. The show is based on a popular Naver webtoon and airs every Friday and Saturday at 9:50 PM KST. Want more K-drama coverage? Head over to TechnoSports K-Drama Hub for weekly updates.
