JTBC's legal romance series 'Beyond the Bar' wrapped up its 12-episode run on Sunday with all-time-high ratings, leaving fans talking about a second season as they celebrated its blend of courtroom drama and emotional storylines.
The finale reached 9.1% in Seoul and 8.4% across the country, with highs at 10.1% in paid households, Nielsen Korea reported.
The most recent episode featured lawyers Yoon Seok Hoon (Lee Jin Wook) and Kang Hyo Min (Jung Chaeyeon) who represented a couple tied under a co-parenting marriage contract.
The ruling of the court highlighted that "marriage is the process of enduring imperfect love," a point of view that viewers shared and also meant to imply the impending romance between the lead lawyers.
Since its premiere with a modest 3.7% rating, 'Beyond the Bar' has steadily gained traction. By episode 10, it had already surpassed 9% and consistently topped its time slot.
The series ranked No. 1 in Gallup Korea's "Most Enjoyed TV Programs" survey (2.8%) and led Good Data Corporation's drama buzz index.
Globally, it took up Netflix Korea's Top 10 for three weeks and made a place in Netflix's Top 10 non-English TV shows in 51 markets, reaching No. 2 globally.
In the wrap-up interview, Lee Jin Wook looked back on his maiden appearance as a lawyer. "This was my first lawyer role, but it suited me perfectly. There are so many stories left to tell," he replied, affirming talks on Season 2 are already under way.
Jung Chaeyeon, who scored her highest success to date with the rookie lawyer Kang Hyo Min, also expressed excitement at a continuation. "I would absolutely return for another season," she stated.
Audiences reiterated the actors' wishes. One of them posted on the internet, "It deserves a Season 2."
Another posted, "Lee Jin Wook and Jung Chaeyeon are perfect together," with others calling out, "Please extend it to 16 episodes and let them fall in love."
With its finale, Beyond the Bar has solidified itself as among JTBC's best dramas of 2025. It will be replaced in the weekend timeslot by A Hundred Memories, featuring Kim Da Mi and Shin Ye Eun.
