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tvN’s latest hit, “Good or Bad Dong-jae” (좋거나 나쁜 동재), has quickly become one of the most talked-about dramas this season. As a spinoff of the beloved series “Stranger” (비밀의 숲), it follows the complex character Seo Dong-jae (played by Lee Jun-hyuk), a prosecutor struggling to rise from the shadows of his past corruption. The series blends dark humor, legal drama, and thrilling suspense, offering a fresh take on the character while maintaining the intensity fans loved in the original series.
In this post, we’ll explore why Good or Bad Dong-jae is resonating with audiences, how its black comedy sets it apart from other legal dramas, and what to expect as the story unfolds.
For fans of Stranger, the character of Seo Dong-jae was always morally ambiguous—a prosecutor known for using questionable methods. Good or Bad Dong-jae takes his story further, following Dong-jae as he struggles to rebuild his life and career after being branded a corrupt “sponsor prosecutor” in his past. Set in Cheongju District Prosecutor’s Office, the show starts with Dong-jae trying to redeem himself by solving the Dal Hangari case, a high-profile redevelopment scandal.
The drama doesn’t shy away from showing Dong-jae’s flaws, making his redemption all the more compelling. Lee Jun-hyuk’s portrayal of this character brings depth, blending moments of vulnerability with the trademark swagger that fans of Stranger will remember.
What sets Good or Bad Dong-jae apart from other legal dramas is its clever use of black comedy. While it deals with serious topics such as corruption, political intrigue, and murder, the show injects humor through Dong-jae’s often absurd situations. His quick wit and self-preserving antics provide comic relief, even in tense moments. The balance of these lighter elements with the darker undertones of a legal thriller creates a refreshing viewing experience.
This dark comedy not only adds a new layer to the story but also humanizes Dong-jae. His “bad-good guy” personality makes it easy to root for him, even when he’s making morally questionable choices. It’s a tightrope walk between drama and humor that keeps viewers on their toes.
In addition to Lee Jun-hyuk, Good or Bad Dong-jae features a strong supporting cast, with Park Sung-woong taking on the role of Dong-jae’s nemesis, Nam Wan-sung, a corrupt construction CEO. Their dynamic creates much of the show’s tension, as their battle of wits escalates over the course of the series. The pacing of the plot is another highlight. From the moment Dong-jae becomes entangled in the Dal Hangari case, the stakes only rise. Each episode reveals new layers to the mystery, with unexpected twists that keep viewers guessing. The drama also explores complex themes such as the abuse of power and the blurred lines between good and evil, adding depth to what could otherwise be a straightforward legal drama
Good or Bad Dong-jae is more than just a legal thriller—it’s a character study, a redemption story, and a sharp black comedy all rolled into one. With Seo Dong-jae at the center of it all, the series offers a unique perspective on the world of law and corruption, while also delivering laughs and suspense in equal measure. Whether you’re a fan of Stranger or new to the character, this is a must-watch for those who enjoy legal dramas with a twist.
Catch new episodes every Monday and Tuesday at 9 PM on tvN, and stay tuned as Seo Dong-jae’s journey continues to unfold.
