Ji Sung has always been my very first favourite Korean Actor in the world of K-drama. He was the first Korean actor who let me know that the Korean entertainment industry withholds actors who are veterans and actors who are extremely talented. My first encounter with Ji Sung was in Kill Me Heal Me (2015). Jaw-dropping performance. I still remember how much I laughed watching it. And that was the beginning of my craze for Ji Sung’s works. Plus he is so handsome and the way his eyes smile… that’s worth watching his shows more than twice.

As an actor, father, husband and person – Ji Sung always gained immense love from his fans. And I am always proud to be one. He has been in the industry since 1999. That’s the year I was 2 years old. Lol. I always find that he is one of the most underrated artists in the K-drama world. And only people who have good eyes for performers could understand his exceptional talent.

From being an antihero in Secret Love, and stunning us with 7 alter egos in Kill Me Heal Me, making us swoon and cry in Entertainer to keeping us on the edge of our seats in Adamas and Judge Returns. Ji Sung has pulled out his core acting style in each and every performance to make us entertained.

And guess what? He still hasn’t stopped.

So, three years after I first wrote this list, I think it is time for an update.

Here are my must-watch Ji Sung K-dramas, along with a few newer additions — and, of course, the series that currently has me excited all over again: The Apartment Job.

5 Must Watch K-Dramas Starring Justin Ji Sung

1. Kill Me, Heal Me (2015)

The most exceptional storyline that never disappoints you till the final episode – Kill Me, Heal Me. Many well-written dramas give us the most disappointing ending, but Kill Me Heal Me, is not that kind. It is funny, it is thrilling, it is dramatic and scary whatever you ask for everything is there. It stirs your emotions in every way for the better. It also touches upon, the trauma that child abuse leaves on oneself. The OST and BGM are on point. Tamil Movie – Anniyan was the first ever movie I have watched on Multiple Personality Disorder. There are 2 alter egos that come. Whereas in Ji Sung’s Kill Me, Heal Me – we have 7 alter egos.Imagine the dynamic performance this man has given. Absolutely Jawdropping Performance. Starting from the most handsome Cha Do Hyun, the Charismatic Shin Se-Gi, the bubbly Yo-Na ( I love her) who literally torture Park Seo Joon who played as Oh Ri-On to Mr X the show is more of a feast. You realise after watching the series that no one could have pulled out of this show like Ji Sung did. I always proudly suggest to someone who wants to start watching K-drama. This… right here… never disappoints. Hwang Jung-Eum’s (Female Lead) performance is cherry on the top.

Imagine the dynamic performance this man has given. Absolutely Jawdropping Performance. Starting from the most handsome Cha Do Hyun, the Charismatic Shin Se-Gi, the bubbly Yo-Na ( I love her) who literally torture Park Seo Joon who played as Oh Ri-On to Mr X the show is more of a feast. You realise after watching the series that no one could have pulled out of this show like Ji Sung did. I always proudly suggest to someone who wants to start watching K-drama. This… right here… never disappoints. Hwang Jung-Eum’s (Female Lead) performance is cherry on the top.

This show, cast and ost have bagged so many titles and awards including (literally getting goosebumps) – Excellent Korean Drama & Outstanding Korean Actress (10th Seoul International Drama Awards), Best Original Sound Track (8th Korea Drama Awards), Daesang(Grand Prize) + 9 Awards (MBC Drama Awards) and Best Drama Award (WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival).

(Available On Viki & JioCinema)

2. Defendant (2017)

Defendant is a Thriller!.. This legal drama, which aired in 2017, showcases Ji Sung’s incredible range as an actor. And it gives every reason as to why Ji Sung is revered for his intense and captivating performances. Both Ji Sung and Uhm Ki Joon deliver a powerhouse of emotions, whether it’s the gripping tension or the edge-of-your-seat courtroom drama, everything adds up to a riveting experience that makes you cling to every moment of this show.

I’ve found myself on the edge of my seat multiple times, especially during the scene where Ji Sung’s character, with amnesia, tries to piece together his past – a scene I won’t spoil because you should absolutely watch it yourself. And that’s why I am keeping it short.

This show, like any other project involving Ji Sung, garnered numerous awards and nominations including Best Actor (1st The Seoul Awards), Drama of the Year, Grand Prize, Character of the Year (SBS Drama Awards), Best Actor & Best Drama (30th Grimae Awards). It stands out as one of the most intense, thrilling, and rewatchable dramas.

(Available on Viki & MX Player)

3. Entertainer/ Tantara (2016)

Let me tell you about the series Entertainer, starring the ever-so-talented Ji Sung! This show isn’t as complicated as Ji Sung’s previous series. It’s a bit breezy and fun and youthful. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions packed with music, ambition, and heart. And Ji Sung being an orchestra of the gang of young casting was something to look forward. As Shin Suk-ho, he’s not your typical serious-faced lead, but he’s got this charisma that’ll have you rooting for him from episode one. Despite the age difference between him and Hyeri, the chemistry between them was so good.Tantara is all about the gritty behind-the-scenes of the music industry. It’s got romance, comedy, and a whole lot of tunes that’ll get stuck in your head. OSTs are sooo good. Ji Sung’s character forms this band called ‘Entertainer Band’, and they’re like this underdog group that you can’t help but love.

Tantara is all about the gritty behind-the-scenes of the music industry. It’s got romance, comedy, and a whole lot of tunes that’ll get stuck in your head. OSTs are sooo good. Ji Sung’s character forms this band called ‘Entertainer Band’, and they’re like this underdog group that you can’t help but love.

Unlike his previous shows, this series didn’t bag so many awards but it’s such a feel-good series to watch on a dry day. In short, if you’re looking for a series that’s going to make you laugh, maybe cry a little, and sing along, Tantara is it. It’s not just a drama; it’s a mood booster that’ll leave you feeling like you can take on the world. So, grab your snacks, hit play, and let Ji Sung and the gang turn your day around. Trust me, it’s the therapy session you didn’t know you needed!

(Available on Viki)

4. Doctor John (2019)

Ji Sung’s next terrific performance in his acting career can be seen in Doctor John. The series has an intense and insightful storyline. It is not your regular Romance or Thriller kind of regular medical drama, it’s an extremely thought-provoking journey through the pain and ethics of human life. Experiencing pain and our ability to feel things has always been undermined by us because we are used to it. But after watching this, the way you perceive the sensorial ability of ours will differ.

Ji Sung, as Doctor Cha Yo-han, is a brilliant and perfectly written character who will stay in your heart for so long. He has this mysterious vibe that both intriguing and a tad bit intimidating, but you can’t help but be drawn into his genius. Ji Sung as Yo-han is such a good decision the director has made. It’s such a layered character, and Ji Sung proved his mettle as a master of his craft. His performance was so deep, capturing the intricacies of a man who diagnoses other’s pain by being trapped in his numbness that don’t allow him to rely on others.

I got to know pretty late that the show was actually based on the Japanese novel On Hand of God. This series is a profound journedy into life of a pain management doctor Cha Yo Han, who stands up for his philosopy on life and death. The contraductory thing is that he himself couldn’t feel pain because of a medical condition. Watching this series resonated with me deeply. It taught valuable lessons about empathy.This series garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. So is the OST that gushs down with emotions. And I always feel like it’s a bummer that the series didn’t bagged many awards despite the terrific storyline and characters that none of the medical series could ever come up with.

This series garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. So is the OST that gushs down with emotions. And I always feel like it’s a bummer that the series didn’t bagged many awards despite the terrific storyline and characters that none of the medical series could ever come up with.

For those who are looking for a drama that combines medical intrigue with mysterious yet heartfelt storytelling, this is such a best choice. It will easily take a slot in your heart and of course, will increase your standards.

(Available On Netflix)

5. The Devil Judge (2021)

If you are in for a series that gets on your nerves quite a bit and a series that is as gripping as its thought-provoking about the unfair society we live in, then The Devil Judge should be the next bing-watch in your Ji Sung Series checklist. This is another courtroom drama, in many people’s reviews it will labelled as a dystopian masterpiece, which is a hundred percent true. It is a show that kept me on the edge of the seat from start to end. It’s more of a classic tragedy literature that was modernised. It’s a piece of art. And at times it creates a discomfort that resonates with the world we live in.

Ji Sung’s portrayal of Kan Yo Han is dark. He is the kind of character that blurs the lines between hero and villain. It constantly made me question everything I knew about justice and morality that I had been taught since I was young. The show’s brilliance lies in the way that it makes you love and hate the characters at the same time, and the script is unpredictable and brilliant.

The production quality and cinematography is something I would like to touch upon. It is top-notch. From the grandiose court setting, every detail is crafted to perfection, making the viewing experience nothing less. And the casting was done perfectly. Every single one.

Here there is no traditional love story. Instead, it offers a fresh take on rivalry and camaraderie, with a chemistry between characters that’s so intense. Ji Sung and his on-screen nemesis and offscreen bestie Kim Min Jung redefine the chemistry that every protagonist and antagonist could ever create. Well for men out there, Kim Min Jung as Jun Sun-ah will put you off guard.The series received immense appreciation and has got 10th place in the Forbes list of 2021st’s Best Korean Dramas.

The series received immense appreciation and has got 10th place in the Forbes list of 2021st’s Best Korean Dramas.

(Available on Netflix)

6. Adamas (2022)

I cannot possibly leave Adamas out. Because Ji Sung did something here that I absolutely love watching him do: He played two characters at once. When I originally wrote this article, Adamas was the latest Ji Sung drama that I was excited about. And of course, I cannot leave it out now.Because Ji Sung playing twin brothers? Come on.

Because Ji Sung playing twin brothers? Come on.

The story follows twin brothers Ha Woo-shin and Song Soo-hyun, who look exactly alike but have completely different personalities and professions. One is a bestselling mystery novelist, while the other is a prosecutor.

And both become involved in uncovering the truth behind a murder that happened years ago. What I loved about Adamas was how Ji Sung differentiated the two brothers. You know you are watching the same actor, but somehow you don’t feel like you are watching the same person.

That is the kind of acting I was talking about in the beginning.

The series combines mystery, revenge, family secrets and political power, with Ji Sung carrying two very different characters through the story.

It may not have become his biggest commercial hit, but for anyone who enjoys seeing Ji Sung experiment with characters, Adamas is definitely worth adding to the list.

And honestly, watching him switch between the two brothers is half the fun.

(Available on Disney+)

7. Connection (2024)

Okay. Now we are entering the new Ji Sung era. And Connection is one of the first dramas I would recommend from his more recent works.

This one is a crime thriller, but it is not just another detective drama.

Ji Sung plays Jang Jae-kyung, an ace detective who becomes addicted to drugs after being forcibly drugged by someone.And that immediately makes the character different. Because now you are watching a detective who is supposed to investigate a mysterious death and uncover a complicated web of friendships, money and corruption while he is also struggling with his own addiction.

And that immediately makes the character different. Because now you are watching a detective who is supposed to investigate a mysterious death and uncover a complicated web of friendships, money and corruption while he is also struggling with his own addiction.

That is not an easy character to play.

And Ji Sung, as usual, absolutely commits to it.

The drama also stars Jeon Mi-do (Hospital Playlist), and the chemistry between the two is one of the things that makes the investigation more interesting. Their characters have a complicated history, and slowly uncovering what happened between their old group of friends becomes one of the biggest hooks of the series.

What I really liked about Connection is that the drama doesn’t make addiction just a background detail. It becomes part of the character. It affects his decisions, his relationships and even the way we see him as a detective. And Ji Sung manages to make Jae-kyung feel strong and vulnerable at the same time.

The drama was also well received by viewers and Ji Sung earned recognition for his performance, including a nomination for Top Excellence Award – Actor in a Miniseries at the APAN Star Awards.If you are looking for a darker Ji Sung drama after The Devil Judge or Adamas, this is a very good place to continue. And again, this man proves that he can take a complicated character and make you completely invested in him.

If you are looking for a darker Ji Sung drama after The Devil Judge or Adamas, this is a very good place to continue. And again, this man proves that he can take a complicated character and make you completely invested in him.

(Available on Viki & SBS)

8. The Judge Returns (2025)

This is a gem of a series from Ji Sung. I still remember the title track running in my head as I am typing this.

And then Ji Sung decided to go back to the courtroom. But obviously, he couldn’t just play another ordinary judge. This series, is insanely interesting, thought-provoking and fun to watch.

The Judge Returns is a fantasy legal drama where Ji Sung plays Lee Han-young, a judge who believes in justice and decides to stand against a powerful conglomerate chairman.

Things go horribly wrong. He is killed.And then… He gets another chance.

He goes back ten years into the past and gets an opportunity to change the decisions that eventually led to his death.

Now this is where things become interesting. Because he knows what is coming. He knows who the enemies are. He knows how the system works. And he knows exactly what he needs to change.

Ji Sung is very good at playing characters who are morally complicated, but what I enjoyed here is seeing him play someone who is given the chance to correct his own past.

The series also became a strong ratings performer. I mean…duh… The casting is amazing. I have to give it up for Park Hee Sun as the blood lasted villain, some sort of alter ego thing goes between the hero and villain but its so good and Baek Jin Hee as Son Na-Yeon reporter. I love Baek Jin Hee, I don’t know why she aint doing any lead role these days. But I have to say the chemistry between Ji sung and Jin Hee was so good.

When it ended in February 2026, The Judge Returns recorded its highest Saturday rating of 12.8 percent nationwide and finished No. 1 in its time slot across all channels. It was also the most-watched Saturday programme among viewers aged 20–54.

So yes, three years after I wrote this article, Ji Sung went back to the courtroom and still managed to make it interesting.

At this point, I am convinced the courtroom belongs to him.

(Available on Viki)

The Apartment Job (2026)

Okay.

THIS is the reason I am updating this article. Because after watching Ji Sung play prosecutors, doctors, judges, detectives, twins, gangsters and seven different personalities… I thought I had seen everything. Apparently not.

Because now we have The Apartment Job. And the premise itself is so ridiculously interesting that I had to watch it.

Ji Sung plays Park Hae-gang, a former boss of the Oasis Gang who is desperate to raise a huge amount of money due to a specific reason (not giving spoilers). And his solution? Run for the position of the apartment residents’ association president. Why? not telling, you guys watch it.

The story gets even more interesting when Hae-gang teams up with his closest gang buds, and then gets a fake wife who is an aspiring lawyer Kang Ha-ri, played by Ha Yoon-kyung who obviously doesn’t know the plot that goes in the gang team.

Together, they get involved in a scheme to steal the apartment reserve fund, only to discover that there is much deeper corruption happening inside the apartment complex.

Park Hae-gang is a former gangster, so there is obviously a certain intimidation and toughness to him. But the drama also brings in comedy, absurd situations, apartment politics and a whole bunch of characters who make the whole thing even more entertaining. I am pretty sure this show will definitely make the people in apartments and gated Villa question about the places they reside… i am pretty sure.

The cast is another reason to watch.

Ha Yoon-kyung plays Kang Ha-ri, while Park Byung-eun plays Lee Chung-won and Moon So-ri plays Jang Sook-jin. And when you put all these characters inside one apartment complex with money, secrets, and corruption involved…

You know there is going to be chaos. And I am here for it. What makes The Apartment Job particularly interesting for me is that it feels different from the Ji Sung we have seen in the dramas above.

This isn’t the emotionally tortured doctor from Doctor John. This isn’t the dark Kang Yo-han from The Devil Judge. This isn’t the desperate detective from Connection.

This is Ji Sung with a completely different kind of swagger. A former gangster. A con man. A man with a ridiculous plan. And his eyes carry a bit of yoona’s spirit. And he looks handsome as always… and his eyes continue to sparkle with emotions.

And somehow, I find myself wanting to see how far this ridiculous plan is actually going to go.

The series premiered on July 11, 2026, has 12 episodes and is streaming on Netflix. It combines crime, mystery, thriller and comedy — basically a little bit of everything.

And if you are a Ji Sung fan who has followed him from Kill Me, Heal Me all the way to The Judge Returns, I genuinely think this is a drama you should not miss.

Because one of the best things about watching an actor for years is seeing how they keep surprising you.

More To Go!

There is no end to witnessing exceptional acting skills of Justin Ji Sung.

After watching these top shows, get yourself involved in watching Ji Sung’s other best works including Familiar Wife, an interesting Fantasy Rom-Com, Secret Love, Royal Family, Protect the Boss, My Unfamiliar Family, Adamas and Connection.

And now, three years after I originally wrote this article, I can officially say that Ji Sung has given me even more reasons to remain his fan.

Feels like I have finally confessed my love for the works of Ji Sung.

Again.

Hope you watch all of them as well!

And if you have already watched any of these, let me know in the comment section which is your favourite.

And if you are currently watching The Apartment Job…

I NEED TO KNOW.

Is Park Hae-gang your new favourite Ji Sung character too?