A new drama is making headlines in South Korea for introducing an unconventional protagonist: a labor attorney who can see ghosts. MBC's Friday-Saturday series Oh My Ghost Clients premiered May 31 at 9:50 p.m. KST, marking the first time a public network drama has centered on the legal profession of labor advocacy.
The series follows Noh Moo-jin, a lawyer who begins his career for financial reasons but evolves into a passionate defender of workers' rights, both living and dead.
Played by actor Jung Kyung-ho, the character communicates with spirits of workers who died in industrial accidents, helping them resolve unfinished business while highlighting real-world labor issues.
"This is the first drama to seriously introduce the profession of a labor attorney," said director Im Soon-rye at an online press conference held May 30.
"I focused on balancing the fantastical elements of seeing ghosts with the real-world issues of industrial accidents."
Known for her films Forever the Moment, Little Forest, and The Negotiation, Im makes her television directing debut with Oh My Ghost Clients.
"I was drawn in by the drama's concept and script. That was the biggest reason I decided to take on the challenge," she said.
The series was penned by Kim Bo-tong, known for Netflix's D.P., and screenwriter Yoo Seung-hee of I Can Speak, bringing both depth and social consciousness to the script.
Jung, often referred to as the "go-to actor for professional roles," is no stranger to portraying characters in career-driven storylines. "I've played a wide range of jobs, some completely opposite from each other," he said.
"It's fun and exciting for me personally. I get to experience things I didn't know before."
The lead actor emphasized the developmental arc of his character: "Unlike my previous characters, this one doesn't start off with a strong sense of professional ethics. But through his experiences, he grows and becomes more committed to his role."
Joining Jung in the cast are Seol In-ah as Na Hee-joo, a bold and passionate colleague, and Cha Hak-yeon (N of VIXX) as Go Kyun-woo, a lighthearted video content creator.
The trio forms the "Moojins" team, whose chemistry off-screen has drawn positive attention.
"I've never given a perfect score while working before, but I want to this time," Cha said.
"Our chemistry is amazing, and I noticed how our movements even start syncing up when we're together."
Seol echoed the sentiment. "Our synergy was perfect, and Jung Kyung-ho was at the center of it all." Jung added, "I'd give a perfect score too. The two of them are so cheerful and energetic. I'm quiet and low-energy, so the balance between us is spot on."
Despite the show's comedic elements, the drama carries a strong social message.
Each episode is inspired by real-life industrial accident cases.
The opening episodes focus on a high school student who dies after being sent to an unsafe worksite—a storyline based on actual events in Korea's manufacturing sector.
"What pained me the most was imagining a very young person losing their life due to adults' irresponsibility in a place with inadequate safety systems," Im said.
Oh My Ghost Clients also features high-profile cameo appearances. Jung noted that Kim Dae-myung "kicks off the entire drama," and highlighted Jin Sun-kyu as a particularly exciting guest.
"There's not a single weak performance in the lineup," Im said.
"I've worked on a lot of films, but for this drama, I got to collaborate with so many amazing actors. Especially veteran actors who joined because of our past relationships or their interest in the project. It'll be a treat for viewers."
Actor Cha praised the drama's fast-paced and emotionally engaging storyline. "You'll feel like it's over in an instant. And you really get emotionally invested in the characters," he said.
Director Im concluded, "There are plenty of fun and provocative dramas out there, but ours includes serious themes and offers emotional healing through the stories of restless spirits.
It's a drama packed with heart, fun, and a meaningful message."
