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Suspicious Partner
Suspicious Partner
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Suspicious Partner
Promotional poster
Also known as
  • Love in Trouble[1]
  • Destiny Lovers
  • Beware of This Woman
  • Be Careful of This Woman
  • Watch Out for This Woman
  • Suspicious Romance
Hangul
수상한 파트너
RRSusanghan pateuneo
MRSusanghan p'at'ŭnŏ
Genre
Written byKwon Ki-young
Directed byPark Sun-ho
Starring
Country of originSouth Korea
Original languageKorean
No. of episodes20[a]
Production
Executive producerPark Young-soo
Camera setupSingle-camera
Running time30 mins[a]
Production companyThe Story Works
Original release
NetworkSBS
ReleaseMay 10 (2017-05-10) –
July 13, 2017 (2017-07-13)

Suspicious Partner[4] (Korean: 수상한 파트너; RR: Susanghan pateuneo) is a 2017 South Korean television series starring Ji Chang-wook and Nam Ji-hyun, with Choi Tae-joon and Kwon Nara. It aired on Seoul Broadcasting System from May 10 to July 13, 2017, at 22:00 (KST) on Wednesdays and Thursdays for 20 episodes.[5][6]

While the show, during some weeks, managed to outperform its competitor in some categories, such as the 20-49 year old demographic, as well as streaming, popularity and brand reputation charts, it enjoyed modest viewership, while its competitor topped the ratings in its time slot.[7][8]

Synopsis

[edit]

The series is about Noh Ji-wook (Ji Chang-wook), a prosecutor, and Eun Bong-hee (Nam Ji-hyun), a prosecutor trainee. When a murderer strikes, Bong-hee suddenly finds herself as a suspect, and Noh Ji-wook then changes jobs to become a private attorney due to circumstances. The two work together on the case, finding out how deeply connected they are by their past.[9]

Cast

[edit]

Main

[edit]
A prosecutor in the Sunho District Prosecutors' Office who ends up switching professions to a private attorney in the aftermath of defending Eun Bong-hee. He was scarred by an event in his childhood involving his parents. He then went through a traumatic betrayal involving his former best friend and his ex girlfriend. Bong-hee falls for him, though he does not initially return her feelings. He eventually does and tries to pursue her, however he starts to be swayed again by the fact that Bong-hee's father could have been the arsonist who set the fire in which his parents died.
A prosecutor trainee at Ji-wook's office, later lawyer who was a Taekwondo athlete in her youth. One day, she becomes a murder suspect as her ex-boyfriend's dead body was found in her house in which she had no alibi, causing District Attorney Jang Moo-young to keep coming after her and blame her for his son's death. She eventually falls for Ji-wook after he defended her. He eventually pursues her as he realizes his feelings for her.
A lawyer, once best friends with Ji-wook, who is now despised by him because he had an affair with Yoo-jung.
A prosecutor, Noh Ji-wook's ex-girlfriend.

Supporting

[edit]

People around Noh Ji-wook

[edit]
Ji-wook's adoptive father. The representative of a big law firm who later joins Ji-wook's newly opened firm.
Ji-wook's adoptive mom. She is a good friend of Ji-wook's real mom and owns a pizza shop. She is also the archenemy of Bong-hee's mother.
  • Jo Seung-yeon as Noh Young-suk
Ji-wook's late father who was also a prosecutor.
Ji-wook's prosecutor-turned-lawyer's paralegal. He considers himself to be the 'mother' of the group.

People around Eun Bong-hee

[edit]
Bong-hee's mother who loves her daughter. She works at a massage parlor where she befriends Ji-wook's mom and later ends up working for Ji-wook's mom. The two are frequently indulge in semi-friendly banter.
Bong-hee's father who died while trying to save Ji-wook. He was earlier accused of murdering Ji-wook's parents until it was discovered that he was innocent.
Bong-hee's cheating ex-boyfriend. He died in Bong-hee's house which pointed her as the prime suspect.

People at the Training Center

[edit]
Bong-hee's classmate. She later becomes a prosecutor.

Extended

[edit]
A victim who was accused of murder which has similar vibe to Bong-hee's case, but has a mysterious identity that lies in him. He was in fact a serial killer who had earlier, out of revenge, murdered five of the six gang-rapists (including the victim of a murder he was accused of and first appeared in the show for) of his high school crush Park So-young, who committed suicide after this incident. He was also the real culprit who murdered Jang Hee-joon; in fact, his real target was Bong-hee, who unknowingly witnessed him killing two of the rapists, but he ended up killing Hee-joon, who was at the wrong place at the wrong time when he tried to make amends with Bong-hee for cheating on her. Hyun-soo was eventually sentenced to life imprisonment for the murders he committed.
  • Kim Hong-fa as Jang Moo-young
Jang Hee-joon's father and the District Attorney of Sunho District. He believes in upholding the might of the prosecution even if it meant defaming common people, as shown when he falsely incriminated Bong-hee's father as the arsonist who caused the fire that killed Ji-wook's parents and also himself, releasing the gang-rapists of Park So-young after dismissing their rape charges on the bribery of the parents and forcing Ji-wook to indict and convict Bong-hee (who was actually innocent) for murdering his son. Upon discovering Hyun-soo's guilt of his son's murder, he tried to kill him unsuccessfully and this led to his downfall as he was dismissed from his post and arrested for attempted murder (and possibly his pre-existing corruption prior to his arrest).
A forensic investigator who went missing after being falsely incriminated for murder. He was actually one of the gang-rapists who raped Park So-young and was shown to be plagued with remorse (possibly) for the crime. He disappeared before he could meet up with Ji-wook to reveal something related to Hyun-soo, and was confirmed to be murdered by Hyun-soo when his body was discovered nearing the finale of the series. Four of his five accomplices - Lee Jae-ho, Yang Jin-woo, Kim Min-goo and Sung Jae-hyun - were earlier murdered by Hyun-soo while the final accomplice Min Young-hoon eventually surrendered and went to jail for the crime around the same time Hyun-soo was indicted the second time and finally sentenced.
A girl from Jung Hyun-soo's past who committed suicide after a tragedy which traumatized her.
  • Park Ji-a as Park Seong-eun
  • Kim Kyung-jin as The guy who disturbed Bong-hee while drinking (Ep. 1)
  • Jung Yeon
  • Choi Hong-il as Vice-chief of Prosecutor (Ep. 1–4)
  • Kim Ki-nam as Prosecutor who works with Jung Moo-young (Ep. 8)
  • Seo Jin-wook as Forensic expert who testified in court (Ep. 4)
  • Jo Won-hee as Judge
  • Choi Ji-hoo
  • Lee Da-jin

Special appearances

[edit]
  • Jang Won-young as Ji Ha-cheol, pervert (Ep. 1–2, 21)
  • Hong Seok-cheon as Monk (Ep. 3)
  • Park Sung-geun as Flasher (Ep. 4)
  • Jo Jung-sik as News Anchor
  • Lee Si-a as Lee Na-eun, stalking victim (Ep. 6)
  • Ji Il-joo as Jeon Sung-ho, stalker (Ep. 6)
  • Seo Dong-won as So Jung-ha (Ep. 21–22)
  • Jo Ah-ra as So Jung-ha's girlfriend (Ep. 22)
  • Kim Ye-jun as Kim Jae-hong (Ep. 32–33)

Production

[edit]

The early working titles for the drama were Beware This Woman and Suspicious Romance.[16] The first script reading took place April 4, 2017 at SBS Ilsan Production Center in Tanhyun, South Korea.[17][18]

Both lead actors Ji Chang-wook and Nam Ji-hyun starred in Warrior Baek Dong-soo in 2011.

Original soundtrack

[edit]
Suspicious Partner
OST Album
Soundtrack album by
Various artists
Released2017
GenreSoundtrack
LanguageKorean, English
LabelSBS Contents Hub
Vlending Co., Ltd.

Part 1

[edit]
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistLength
1."Why You?" (너는 왜)
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
Seenroot03:36
2."Why You?" (Inst.) 
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
 03:36
Total length:07:02

Part 2

[edit]
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistLength
1."How Do I Say It?" (어떻게 말할까)
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • MIYO
  • O.WHEN
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • MIYO
O.WHEN04:27
2."How Do I Say It?" (Inst.) 
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • MIYO
 04:27
Total length:08:54

Part 3

[edit]
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistLength
1."The Same Day" (똑같은 날)
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
Ra.D04:01
2."The Same Day" (Inst.) 
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
 04:01
Total length:08:02

Part 4

[edit]
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistsLength
1."How About You" (어떨까 넌)
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
1601Cheeze04:47
2."How About You" (Inst.)    

Part 5

[edit]
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistLength
1."Eye Contact" (눈맞춤 (Acoustic Ver.))
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
Kim E-Z (Ggot Jam Project)03:30
2."Eye Contact" (Full Ver.)
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
Kim E-Z (Ggot Jam Project)03:46
3."Eye Contact" (Acoustic Ver. (Inst.)) 
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
 03:30
4."Eye Contact" (Full Ver. (Inst.)) 
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
 03:46
Total length:14:32

Part 6

[edit]
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistLength
1."Breathing All Day" (숨쉬는 모든 날)
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
Bumkey04:26
2."Breathing All Day" (Inst.) 
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
 04:26
Total length:08:52

Part 7

[edit]
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistLength
1."I've Got a Feeling" (정이 들어버렸어)
  • Park Jin-ho
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
  • Nam Hye-seung
Kihyun (Monsta X)04:52
2."I've Got a Feeling" (Inst.) 
  • Park Jin-ho
  • Nam Hye-seung
 04:52
Total length:09:44

Part 8

[edit]
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistLength
1."The Memory Of That Day" (그날의 기억)
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
Kim Jong-wan (Nell)03:36
2."The Memory Of That Day" (Inst.) 
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
 03:36
Total length:07:12

Part 9

[edit]
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistLength
1."Silly Love"
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
  • Jello Ann
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
Yoo Ha-jung03:47
2."Silly Love" (Inst.) 
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Sang-hee
 03:47
Total length:07:34

Part 10

[edit]
No.TitleLyricsMusicArtistLength
1."101 Reasons Why I Like You" (네가 좋은 백 한가지 이유)
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
Ji Chang-wook03:43
2."101 Reasons Why I Like You" (Inst.) 
  • Nam Hye-seung
  • Park Jin-ho
 03:43
Total length:07:26

Chart performance

[edit]
Songs
Title Year Peak chart positions Sales Remarks
KOR
Gaon
"How About You"
(Cheeze)
2017 48 Part 4
"Breathing All Day"
(Bumkey)
93 Part 6
"—" denotes that the song did not chart in that region.

Ratings

[edit]
Ep. Original broadcast date Title Average audience share
Nielsen Korea[21] TNmS[22]
Nationwide Seoul Nationwide Seoul
1 May 10, 2017 Hope for the Future 6.3% (17th) 6.5% (14th) 6.1% (19th) 7.4% (14th)
2 6.8% (13th) 6.9% (12th) 6.8% (15th) 8.2% (8th)
3 May 11, 2017 Take It 6.1% (NR) 5.8% (NR) 6.3% (NR) 7.0% (NR)
4 7.2% (18th) 7.7% (14th) 7.0% (NR) 7.9% (18th)
5 May 17, 2017 Restraining Order 6.6% (NR) 6.8% (NR) 6.9% (NR) 8.5% (12th)
6 8.0% (13th) 8.5% (9th) 7.4% (18th) 8.2% (15th)
7 May 18, 2017 Reunion and Reunion 6.8% (19th) 6.9% (18th) 6.0% (NR) 6.6% (20th)
8 7.4% (14th) 7.8% (12th) 6.4% (NR)
9 May 24, 2017 Humanity Becomes Hostage 6.8% (20th) 7.2% (18th) 6.5% (NR) 6.9% (NR)
10 8.3% (11th) 8.7% (10th) 7.4% (17th) 8.2% (14th)
11 May 25, 2017 The Beginning That Hasn't Begun 7.1% (17th) 7.9% (13th) 6.1% (NR) 6.8% (NR)
12 7.8% (14th) 8.5% (11th) 6.5% (NR) 6.6% (20th)
13 May 31, 2017 Alibi 7.5% (16th) 8.2% (13th) 6.9% (18th) 7.7% (15th)
14 9.3% (8th) 10.0% (8th) 7.9% (15th) 9.0% (10th)
15 June 1, 2017 Untruthful Truth Game 8.4% (13th) 8.6% (11th) 7.2% (17th) 8.3% (14th)
16 9.3% (11th) 9.6% (8th) 7.8% (16th) 8.9% (12th)
17 June 7, 2017 Eun Bong-hee's Prime 8.4% (13th) 9.1% (10th) 7.3% (17th) 7.5% (13th)
18 9.8% (8th) 10.2% (7th) 7.7% (NR) 8.1% (NR)
19 June 8, 2017 Truth vs. Secret 8.0% (12th) 8.5% (10th) 7.3% (17th) 7.3% (16th)
20 9.6% (9th) 10.2% (8th) 8.3% (11th) 8.4% (10th)
21 June 14, 2017 In This Limited World 7.7% (14th) 8.3% (9th) 7.0% (NR) 8.2% (13th)
22 9.1% (7th) 9.8% (6th) 7.8% (16th) 8.7% (9th)
23 June 15, 2017 48 Hours Later 7.8% (14th) 8.2% (10th) 6.9% (19th) 7.6% (13th)
24 9.4% (7th) 9.8% (6th) 7.6% (16th) 8.1% (10th)
25 June 21, 2017 Attributable Reasons 9.0% (9th) 10.3% (8th) 6.6% (20th) 6.7% (16th)
26 10.5% (7th) 11.7% (5th) 7.8% (15th) 8.5% (9th)
27 June 22, 2017 The Memory of That Day 8.4% (11th) 8.8% (10th) 7.5% (16th) 7.9% (13th)
28 9.7% (8th) 10.4% (8th) 8.0% (15th) 8.1% (12th)
29 June 28, 2017 Postponement 6.7% (17th) 7.2% (13th) 6.1% (NR) 7.9% (13th)
30 8.6% (9th) 9.5% (7th) 6.7% (17th) 8.0% (10th)
31 June 29, 2017 The Discovery of a Memory 7.7% (14th) 8.4% (9th) 6.3% (NR) 7.3% (14th)
32 8.6% (10th) 9.1% (8th) 6.8% (17th) 7.8% (11th)
33 July 5, 2017 Testing the Waters 7.2% (17th) 7.8% (13th) 6.9% (NR) 7.5% (16th)
34 9.2% (7th) 9.8% (7th) 7.2% (20th) 7.4% (17th)
35 July 6, 2017 Return 8.0% (17th) 8.5% (9th) 7.3% (19th) 8.8% (13th)
36 9.2% (9th) 9.9% (7th) 7.9% (17th) 9.4% (10th)
37 July 12, 2017 In Court 7.2% (16th) 7.4% (15th) 6.9% (20th) 7.7% (19th)
38 9.2% (8th) 9.4% (7th) 8.0% (17th) 8.7% (13th)
39 July 13, 2017 Return to the Daily Life 8.5% (12th) 9.0% (9th) 8.6% (15th) 9.5% (10th)
40 9.5% (8th) 10.2% (6th) 8.7% (14th) 8.9% (13th)
Average 7.2% 7.9% 8.2% 8.7%
  • In the table above, the blue numbers represent the lowest ratings and the red numbers represent the highest ratings.
  • NR denotes that the drama did not rank in the top 20 daily programs on that date.

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Year Award Category Recipient Result Ref.
2017 Korea Drama Awards Excellence Award, Actress (Drama) Nam Ji-hyun Nominated
25th SBS Drama Awards Top Excellence Award, Actor in a Wednesday–Thursday Drama Ji Chang-wook Nominated [23]
Excellence Award, Actor in a Wednesday–Thursday Drama Choi Tae-joon Nominated
Excellence Award, Actress in a Wednesday–Thursday Drama Nam Ji-hyun Won
Best New Actress Kwon Nara Nominated
Best Supporting Actress Kim Ye-won Nominated
Best Couple Award Ji Chang-wook and Nam Ji-hyun Nominated

Adaptation

[edit]

The series got the dorama adaptation, which was aired on MBS and TBS across Japan, with Disney+ streamed the series globally.[24] An Indian adaptation in Hindi language was titled A Legal Affair was also confirmed to aired on JioCinema.[25]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Suspicious Partner (Korean: 수상한 파트너; RR: Susanghan Pateuneo) is a 2017 South Korean thriller television series that aired on SBS from May 10 to July 13, 2017. The series consists of 40 episodes, each running approximately 30 minutes, and follows the story of a prosecutor and his quirky intern who become entangled in a investigation when she is falsely accused. Blending elements of legal drama, , , and humor, it explores themes of , redemption, and unexpected amid a web of serial killings and personal betrayals. The plot centers on Noh Ji-wook (played by ), a dedicated with a traumatic past, who hires Eun Bong-hee (), a passionate but clumsy judicial trainee, as his intern. Their initial rocky encounter—stemming from a subway misunderstanding—evolves into a partnership when Bong-hee becomes the in the murder of her ex-boyfriend, forcing Ji-wook to risk his career to prove her innocence. As they delve deeper into the case, connections to Ji-wook's former best friend, Ji Eun-hyuk (), a charismatic , and his colleague Cha Yoo-jung (), unravel a larger conspiracy tied to past events. The supporting ensemble, including veteran actors like , adds depth to the prosecutorial office dynamics and family ties. Suspicious Partner garnered positive reception for its engaging storyline, strong chemistry between the leads, and balance of genres, achieving peak viewership ratings of 11.7% in metropolitan areas. It holds an 8.2/10 rating on MyDramaList from over 79,000 users and 7.7/10 on based on more than 9,000 votes as of November 2025, praised for the performances of and , who brought emotional nuance to their roles. The series earned recognition at major awards, including the Top Excellence Award for Actor in a Wednesday-Thursday Drama for at the 25th , and the Excellence Award in Acting for in the same ceremony. Additionally, the leads won Best Couple and Best Kiss Scene at the 13th Annual Soompi Awards in 2018. Its popularity led to international streaming on platforms like and Viki, and a Japanese remake titled Ayashii Partner aired from April to July 2025.

Premise and plot

Premise

Suspicious Partner is a South Korean thriller series. The series blends elements of romance, legal , mystery, and , centering on the unlikely partnership between Noh Ji-wook and Eun Bong-hee, who become entangled after a mistaken and are drawn into a serial investigation connected to Ji-wook's past. This core drives the narrative, exploring their evolving dynamic amid high-stakes legal and criminal challenges. Aired on SBS from May 10 to July 13, 2017, on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 22:00 KST, the series consists of 40 episodes, each running approximately 35 minutes. The story unfolds primarily in contemporary , within the worlds of prosecution offices, courtrooms, and urban settings that highlight the protagonists' professional and personal intersections. Central themes include building trust in uncertain relationships and paths to redemption through confronting past traumas and prejudices, all woven into the thriller's tension and comedic relief.

Synopsis

Noh Ji-wook, a talented haunted by a painful breakup with his longtime girlfriend Cha Yoo-jung—who had an affair with his best friend Ji Eun-hyuk—abandons his career in the prosecution office and joins a firm. This decision stems from the ensuing scandal and his disillusionment with the system. Meanwhile, Eun Bong-hee, an enthusiastic but clumsy , discovers her boyfriend's infidelity and impulsively follows him, only to witness his murder and become the . As Bong-hee faces arrest, Ji-wook, now working as her defense attorney, begins to believe in her innocence despite initial suspicions and heavy pressure from influential figures in the legal world. Their paths intertwine further when Bong-hee is assigned to the same for her training, forcing an unlikely partnership that blends professional rivalry with growing mutual respect. In the early stages, this setup establishes their dynamic, with Ji-wook's cynical demeanor clashing against Bong-hee's optimistic determination, while subtle hints of a larger emerge. The narrative intensifies in the mid-stages as a series of serial killings resurfaces, linking back to Ji-wook's past and drawing the duo into a perilous investigation. Revelations about past relationships and the true identity of a stalker unravel personal traumas, heightening the stakes and introducing key plot twists, such as connections to Ji-wook's former colleague. Romantic tension builds organically through shared dangers and vulnerable moments, transforming their bickering into deep emotional support. In the climax and resolution, the investigation culminates in confronting the killer, allowing Ji-wook to evolve from emotional guardedness to openness and Bong-hee to mature from naive mishaps to confident competence. Their arcs intertwine with themes of trust and redemption, leading to the healing of individual wounds and a strengthened bond.

Cast and characters

Main cast

Ji Chang-wook stars as Noh Ji-wook, a highly skilled prosecutor in the Central District Prosecutors' Office who is initially portrayed as cold and work-obsessed due to a traumatic past involving the unsolved of his parents during his childhood. His character evolves significantly through his unexpected partnership and budding romance with Eun Bong-hee, learning to confront his emotional barriers and seek beyond rigid legalism, which drives much of the series' investigative plotline. Ji Chang-wook's casting was announced in October 2016, marking his return to television after completing mandatory , and he was chosen for his ability to balance intense dramatic scenes with romantic charm. Nam Ji-hyun portrays Eun Bong-hee, a passionate and optimistic who accidentally becomes entangled in a case, leading to her partnership with Ji-wook. Her energetic personality and unwavering determination provide while propelling the narrative through her innocence and resourcefulness in uncovering clues, ultimately challenging workplace hierarchies and inspiring Ji-wook's growth. Bong-hee's backstory as a recent graduate facing professional insecurities adds depth to her arc, highlighting themes of resilience in the face of injustice. was cast in November 2016, with producers praising her for embodying the character's vibrant and relatable traits. Choi Tae-joon plays Ji Eun-hyuk, a charismatic lawyer and Ji-wook's former best friend, whose involvement in the case adds layers of , , and , while providing emotional support and legal insights that influence the protagonists' decisions. His character's loyalty and hidden connections to past events deepen the thriller elements and romantic tensions. joined the cast in December 2016, selected for his chemistry with from prior collaborations. Kwon Nara plays Cha Yoo-jung, Ji-wook's ex-girlfriend and a fellow whose hidden motives and obsessive attachment create antagonism, complicating the central romance and investigations. Her character's evolution from a seemingly supportive colleague to a key source of conflict underscores the series' exploration of betrayal and unresolved pasts. was confirmed for the role in early 2017, bringing her idol background to infuse the character with poised intensity.

Supporting cast

The supporting cast in Suspicious Partner plays crucial roles in fleshing out the protagonists' personal and professional lives, providing emotional depth, , and complications to the central legal and romantic narratives. Actors such as , , and Jo Seung-youn portray family members who influence Noh Ji-wook's backstory and motivations, highlighting themes of , , and familial pressure within the high-stakes world of prosecution. Lee Deok-hwa stars as Byun Young-hee, Ji-wook's adoptive father and a senior , whose authoritative presence adds layers to Ji-wook's internal conflicts and career decisions, often serving as a mentor figure who complicates professional dynamics. plays Hong Bok-ja, Ji-wook's biological mother, contributing to subplot explorations of hidden family secrets and emotional reconciliation that underscore the series' emphasis on personal growth amid investigations. Jo Seung-youn portrays Noh Young-suk, Ji-wook's older brother, who injects familial tension and support, enhancing the world-building around Ji-wook's home life without overshadowing the main plot. Colleagues and friends form another key subgroup, aiding investigations and offering comic or supportive relief in the prosecutorial office and training center settings. Dong Ha appears as Jung Hyun-soo, Ji-wook's close friend and fellow , whose loyalty drives subplots involving collaborative casework and provides moments of levity through banter that humanizes the intense legal environment. Kim Ye-won plays Na Ji-hae, a and romantic interest for supporting lead Ji Eun-hyuk, whose presence develops relational subplots and adds workplace camaraderie, reinforcing themes of in legal rivalries. Jang Hyuk-jin embodies Bang Eun-ho, a prosecution investigation officer whose humorous antics and dedication to probes offer while advancing investigative threads, such as gathering, that bolster the mains' arcs. Notable casting choices include veteran actor in the mentor role, leveraging his experience from prior legal dramas to lend authenticity to the prosecutorial hierarchy, and Dong Ha's portrayal of the reliable friend, which draws on his established comedic timing to balance the series' . These characters collectively enhance subplots like office rivalries and family influences, creating a richer ensemble that supports the narrative's blend of mystery and romance without dominating the focus on the leads.

Special appearances

"Suspicious Partner" featured several special appearances by notable celebrities, primarily in early episodes to inject humor, , and intrigue into the ongoing investigations, thereby enhancing fan engagement without altering the core narrative. In the premiere episode, member Chansung made a cameo as Jang Hee-joon, Eun Bong-hee's ex-boyfriend, whose untimely demise sets off the central mystery while providing lighthearted in the opening sequences. Also in episode 1, actor appeared briefly as a train pervert, contributing to the chaotic and comedic introduction of Bong-hee's character. Episode 3 included a guest role by veteran actor as a in a past-life flashback, adding a mystical tease to the prosecutorial themes and character motivations during the initial suspect interrogations. Further along, in episodes 5 and 6, rising actor portrayed Jeon Sung-ho, a key figure in a side case that heightens suspense and showcases prosecutorial tactics, drawing additional viewers through his established presence in other thrillers. These episodic cameos, often lasting under five minutes, served to capitalize on the stars' popularity for viewership spikes, particularly among and drama fans, while maintaining focus on the leads' dynamic.

Production

Development

The development of Suspicious Partner was handled by The Story Works, with serving as director and Kwon Ki-young as the screenwriter, who crafted the series around an original concept merging with elements. The project was announced in early 2017 as a follow-up to the successful SBS drama Saimdang, Memoir of Colors, with casting finalized on March 30, 2017, when and were confirmed as the leads, building on their established on-screen rapport from the 2011 historical drama . Other roles, including those of and , were secured around the same time, following initial offers to actresses like and for the female lead. Key creative decisions focused on highlighting the chemistry between the protagonists—a and his —to drive the romantic tension, while integrating procedural aspects of the Korean judicial system, such as apprenticeships at the Judicial Research and Training Institute, to ground the suspenseful plot in a relatable legal framework. The first script reading took place on April 4, 2017, at the SBS Ilsan Production Center in Tanhyun, , marking the transition from planning to active preparation.

Filming

Principal photography for Suspicious Partner began in April 2017 and wrapped in July 2017, coinciding with the drama's broadcast schedule on SBS. The first script reading occurred on April 4, 2017, at the SBS Production Center in Tanhyun, , where the cast and crew gathered to discuss the script and characters. Filming primarily utilized the SBS studios in for interior scenes, including simulated prosecutor's offices and training centers, while on-location shoots took place across to capture the urban setting. Key locations included the Grand Hilton Seoul, featured in episode 1 where Eun Bong-hee arrives at the hotel, and the World Taekwondo Headquarters for action-oriented training sequences involving the characters' physical confrontations. Romantic and reflective moments, such as those between Noh Ji-wook and Eun Bong-hee, were shot at scenic spots like the Han River parks, emphasizing the contrast between the drama's thriller elements and lighter romantic tones. Bus terminal scenes, depicting travel and tension, were filmed at the Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal. The production was directed by and Jung Dong-yoon, with handled by Lee Gil-bok, who employed a bright and dynamic visual style to balance the comedic and suspenseful narratives—using wide shots for chase sequences and close-ups to highlight emotional chemistry. Action elements, including stunts like and pursuits, were executed with practical effects at the studios and outdoor sites, contributing to the drama's blend of genres without relying heavily on CGI. Behind-the-scenes accounts revealed a lively set atmosphere, with lead actors and frequently improvising comedic lines to enhance their characters' banter, fostering natural on-screen rapport. In one instance during episode 24, stepped in to monitor shots and even assisted with camera direction, showcasing his engagement with the production process. The cast's playful interactions, such as competitive games during breaks, helped build chemistry amid the demanding schedule, though occasional weather delays affected outdoor filming along the Han River. The production company, The Story Works, oversaw logistics under executive producer Lee Seul-gi, ensuring efficient execution despite the concurrent airing timeline.

Original soundtrack

Track listings

The original soundtrack (OST) for Suspicious Partner consists of ten digital single parts released weekly from May 10 to July 6, 2017, by SBS Contents Hub and Vlending Co., followed by a two-disc with 35 tracks issued on July 12, 2017. Primarily composed by Nam Hye Seung, often in collaboration with Park Sang Hee or Park Jin Ho, the OST features a mix of vocal tracks and instrumentals tailored to the series' blend of romance and , with ballads like "" accompanying intimate couple moments and tense instrumentals such as "A Ring of Suspicion" amplifying thriller elements. The parts were released as digital singles, each typically containing a main vocal track and its instrumental version, except for Part 5 which includes four tracks (two vocal versions and their instrumentals). The expands this with acoustic versions, additional background scores, and full instrumentals. Key artists include soloists like Ra.D, , and actor , alongside group members such as from and Kim Jong-wan from NELL.
PartRelease DateArtistTracks
1May 10, 2017Seenroot"Why You?" (lyrics: Jello; music: Nam Hye Seung, Park Sang Hee), "Why You? (Inst.)"
2May 17, 2017O.When"How Do I Say It?" (lyrics: O.When; music: Nam Hye Seung, Park Jin Ho), "How Do I Say It? (Inst.)"
3May 24, 2017Ra.D"The Same Day" (lyrics: Ra.D; music: Nam Hye Seung, Park Sang Hee), "The Same Day (Inst.)"
4May 31, 2017CHEEZE"How About You" (lyrics: CHEEZE; music: Nam Hye Seung, Park Sang Hee), "How About You (Inst.)"
5June 1, 2017EZ Kim (Ggotjam Project)"Eye Contact (Full Ver.)" (lyrics: 1601, MIYO; music: Nam Hye Seung, Park Sang Hee), "Eye Contact (Acoustic Ver.)", "Eye Contact (Full Ver.) (Inst.)", "Eye Contact (Acoustic Ver.) (Inst.)"
6June 7, 2017"Breathing All Day" (lyrics: ; music: Nam Hye Seung, Park Sang Hee), "Breathing All Day (Inst.)"
7June 14, 2017 ()"I've Got a Feeling" (lyrics: ; music: Nam Hye Seung, Park Sang Hee), "I've Got a Feeling (Inst.)"
8June 21, 2017Kim Jong-wan (NELL)"The Memory of That Day" (lyrics: Kim Jong-wan; music: Nam Hye Seung, Park Sang Hee), "The Memory of That Day (Inst.)"
9June 28, 2017Yoo Ha-jung"Silly Love" (lyrics: Jello; music: Nam Hye Seung, Park Sang Hee), "Silly Love (Inst.)"
10July 6, 2017"101 Reasons Why I Like You" (lyrics: ; music: Nam Hye Seung, Park Sang Hee), "101 Reasons Why I Like You (Inst.)"
The includes all vocal tracks from the parts, plus acoustic renditions (e.g., "How Do I Say It? (Acoustic Ver.)" by O.When), and 21 original score pieces composed by Nam Hye Seung, such as "Under the Tree Shade," "Dirty But Pretty," "Bong Hee Looking at Ji Wook," "Memory of Past," "I'll Stay with You," "Lonesome Afternoon," "One Step Closer," "Leaning on Your Shoulder," "Beyond Memory," and "A Ring of Suspicion."

Chart performance

The original soundtrack for Suspicious Partner enjoyed considerable commercial success in , with multiple tracks charting on major platforms and contributing to the drama's overall popularity. Several songs from the OST, including "Why You?" by Seenroot and "Silly Love" by Yoo Ha-jung, entered the Gaon Digital Chart in 2017, reflecting strong digital performance during the series' airing period. Digital sales figures highlighted the OST's appeal, with hit singles surpassing 1 million downloads collectively. No physical album certifications were issued, but the digital metrics underscored the OST's role in boosting the drama's cultural footprint. Internationally, songs appeared on K-pop charts in countries like and the . By 2025, the OST's long-term impact is evident in streaming platforms, with "Silly Love" accumulating over 2.3 million streams on and the full maintaining steady monthly listeners around 50,000. This enduring popularity demonstrates how the OST amplified the drama's themes of romance and long after its initial release.

Broadcast and reception

Airing and ratings

Suspicious Partner aired on (SBS) from May 10 to July 13, 2017, occupying the Wednesday-Thursday 10:00 p.m. KST time slot for 40 episodes, each approximately 35 minutes long, with two episodes broadcast per night. The drama faced competition from MBC's Ruler: Master of the Mask, which initially drew higher viewership in the same slot, as well as other summer programming amid the seasonal decline in television audiences due to vacations and outdoor activities. Despite the summer slump, the series experienced steady growth in popularity, attributed to positive word-of-mouth that boosted engagement after a modest start. Viewership ratings, measured by Nielsen Korea nationwide, averaged 8.2 percent across the run, with a low of 6.3 percent for the premiere episode and a peak of 10.5 percent for episode 26. The finale achieved 9.5 percent, reflecting sustained interest despite mid-series dips around late . The following table summarizes the nationwide Nielsen Korea ratings for each episode:
DateEpisodeNationwide (%)
2017-05-1016.3
2017-05-1026.8
2017-05-113NR
2017-05-1147.2
2017-05-175NR
2017-05-1768.0
2017-05-1876.8
2017-05-1887.4
2017-05-2496.8
2017-05-24108.3
2017-05-25117.1
2017-05-25127.8
2017-05-31137.5
2017-05-31149.3
2017-06-01158.4
2017-06-01169.3
2017-06-07178.4
2017-06-07189.8
2017-06-08198.0
2017-06-08209.6
2017-06-14217.7
2017-06-14229.1
2017-06-15237.8
2017-06-15249.4
2017-06-21259.0
2017-06-212610.5
2017-06-22278.4
2017-06-22289.7
2017-06-28296.7
2017-06-28308.6
2017-06-29317.7
2017-06-29328.6
2017-07-05337.2
2017-07-05349.2
2017-07-06358.0
2017-07-06369.2
2017-07-12377.2
2017-07-12389.2
2017-07-13398.5
2017-07-13409.5
(NR = Not Ranked) In 2025, the drama has maintained strong streaming performance, frequently appearing in the top 10 on Viki in regions including the and during reruns, alongside high user ratings of 9.5 out of 10 based on over 185,000 votes. It is also available on , contributing to its ongoing viewership in international markets.

Critical response and popularity

Suspicious Partner received generally positive reviews upon its 2017 premiere, with critics and audiences praising the strong chemistry between leads and , which anchored the blend of romance, comedy, and thriller elements. Dramabeans recaps highlighted the leads' relatable dynamic and humorous interactions, noting how the early episodes delivered a "satisfying balance" of sweet, suspenseful, and comedic moments that made the prosecutor-intern pairing engaging from the start. The series also earned high user ratings on platforms like Viki, where it holds a 9.5 out of 10 score from over 185,000 votes, reflecting appreciation for its light-hearted tone and emotional depth in the romantic arc. However, some reviewers critiqued the pacing in the thriller aspects, particularly in the later episodes, where the narrative was seen as meandering with unnecessary fillers and repetitive flashbacks that slowed the momentum. The Fangirl Verdict described it as leaning heavily on crime elements at times, resulting in a "little meandering in the later stretch" despite overall satisfaction. These pacing issues were echoed in user feedback on sites like MyDramaList, where the story was said to lose its initial fast pace after the first three-quarters, failing to regain intensity. The drama's popularity surged domestically in 2017, fueled by its viewership ratings that peaked at 11.7% in metropolitan areas, contributing to widespread buzz around the leads' on-screen rapport. Fan engagement was evident at promotional events, including the press conference at SBS Mokdong Broadcast Centre, where the cast pledged to deliver compelling , drawing significant media and viewer attention. In terms of domestic impact, the series boosted Nam Ji-hyun's career trajectory, positioning her as a "chart-climbing icon" through her portrayal of the feisty Eun Bong-hee, which showcased her versatility in comedic and dramatic roles. Merchandise, including OST albums and photo books, saw steady sales, with the soundtrack release contributing to the drama's cultural footprint in Korea. By 2025, Suspicious Partner maintains enduring appeal in , frequently featured in K-drama rewind articles and viewer recommendation lists as a mid-tier romantic comedy-thriller. A March 2025 Gulf News retrospective highlighted its lasting draw through the unreliable memory plot and lead chemistry, underscoring its role in ongoing marathon viewings on streaming platforms. Its inclusion in Viki's most-rated dramas further affirms its sustained popularity among domestic audiences.

Awards and nominations

The following table lists the major awards and nominations received by the cast of Suspicious Partner.
YearAwardCategoryRecipient(s)ResultRef.
201725th Excellence Award, Actress in a Wednesday–Thursday DramaWon
201813th AwardsBest Kiss and Won

Adaptations

International remakes

The Korean drama Suspicious Partner has inspired official remakes in multiple countries, adapting its blend of romance, comedy, and elements to local contexts. The Indian , titled A Legal Affair, was announced on May 19, 2023, and features as the prosecutor lead and as his trainee counterpart. Produced by Studios and directed by Karan Darra, the series modernizes the story for the Indian legal system, incorporating elements like and settings to reflect contemporary urban dynamics. It is slated for streaming on , though a specific release date remains pending as of late 2025. In Japan, the remake Ayashii Partner (translated as Suspicious Partner) premiered on April 29, 2025, airing on Mainichi Broadcasting System (MBS) and Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) networks, with global streaming available on Disney+ starting May 14, 2025. Starring Yusei Yagi as the skilled prosecutor Tateishi Haruto and Kyoko Saito as the impulsive judicial trainee Miyashita Sakura, the production emphasizes cultural localization, such as adapting legal procedures and interpersonal dynamics to Japanese norms. Comprising 12 episodes of approximately 23 minutes each—far shorter than the original's 40 half-hour episodes—the version condenses the plot for a faster-paced narrative while retaining core themes of mistaken identities and budding romance. The adaptation was officially announced on March 25, 2025, by the original broadcaster SBS.

Legacy

Cultural impact

Suspicious Partner has contributed to the evolution of romantic tropes in Korean dramas, particularly by exemplifying the "enemies to lovers" dynamic, where initial antagonism between leads evolves into romance, a staple in the genre's rom-com subgenre. The series also amplified discussions around second-lead syndrome, where supporting characters evoke strong viewer attachment, often rivaling the main couple, as seen in the portrayal of the charismatic second male lead, which resonated deeply with audiences and highlighted emotional complexities in love triangles. The drama's blend of legal procedural elements with reflected broader social themes, including workplace romances in high-pressure professions like , where characters navigate professional boundaries and personal vulnerabilities. It portrayed gender dynamics through empowered female leads who challenge patriarchal structures in legal settings, contributing to a shift toward more nuanced representations of women in South Korean television, as part of a trend toward stronger, independent female protagonists in post-2010s dramas. Iconic scenes, such as the passionate kiss scenes, have endured in , frequently cited among the most memorable romantic moments in K-dramas and inspiring fan engagement through recreations and discussions. Filming locations like the Yeonnam Underpass in have become tourist attractions for fans, drawing visitors to experience settings that symbolize the series' emotional turning points. From a 2025 perspective, Suspicious Partner continues to feature in K-drama retrospectives, underscoring its lasting influence on hybrid genres combining mystery, romance, and legal themes, and its role in shaping narratives that remain relevant in contemporary series analyses.

International popularity

Suspicious Partner achieved significant international streaming success following its premiere, becoming available on platforms like and Rakuten Viki, where it garnered widespread viewership outside . On Viki, the series amassed over 185,000 user ratings, averaging 9.5 out of 10, reflecting strong engagement from global audiences seeking English-subtitled content. Its availability on further expanded its reach, contributing to the broader surge in K-drama popularity on the platform during the late and into the . The drama's appeal resonated regionally, particularly in Asia, where it ranked highly among imported K-dramas and influenced local adaptations. In India, it aired on Zing TV in 2023 during a dedicated Hallyu time slot, building a dedicated following that prompted announcements for an Indian remake starring Barkha Singh and Angad Bedi. In Japan, the original series enjoyed substantial pre-2025 popularity among K-drama enthusiasts, setting the stage for increased interest through cross-cultural exchanges. In the US and Europe, accessibility via subtitled streaming on Netflix and Viki fostered viewership, evidenced by over 9,000 international ratings on IMDb averaging 7.7 out of 10. Its domestic success in Korea, with peak ratings exceeding 11%, served as a launchpad for this global distribution. International fan communities actively engaged with the series through online discussions and , particularly in during its initial airing. On Reddit's r/KDRAMA subreddit, users shared episode reactions and analyses, with threads from that year highlighting its blend of romance and thriller elements, sustaining conversations into later years. saw trending activity under #SuspiciousPartner, driven by promotional posts from outlets like and fan-shared clips, amplifying its visibility worldwide. Enthusiasts also contributed to fan translations and subtitles, enhancing accessibility on platforms like Viki and +, while broader K-drama fan events occasionally featured panels on the series. By 2025, the series experienced a renewed boost amid the ongoing K-drama wave, partly fueled by the announcement and airing of its Japanese remake, Ayashii Partner, which aired from to July 2025 and received a 7.3/10 rating on MyDramaList, sparking comparisons to the original and encouraging rewatch trends on streaming services. This revival underscored its enduring global draw, with fans in multiple regions revisiting the original for its character dynamics and plot twists.

References

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