SBS has dropped an intriguing first teaser for its upcoming supernatural legal drama Phantom Lawyer, spotlighting the dynamic between lead stars Yoo Yeon-seok and Esom in a world where the living and the dead collide in the courtroom. The teaser, shared across official channels and drama community accounts, builds anticipation for the series' March 13 premiere on the South Korean network, with international viewers set to stream it weekly on Netflix starting the same date.
The teaser opens with moody, rain-drenched nighttime streets, where Yoo Yeon-seok's character moves through the shadows under an umbrella, setting an immediate tone of mystery and solitude. Quick cuts shift to tense courtroom scenes, capturing Yoo Yeon-seok's expressive reactions—wide-eyed surprise and flustered gestures—as supernatural hints emerge through shadowy presences and abrupt shifts in demeanor.
The fast-paced montage blends humor from exaggerated expressions with mounting suspense, culminating in the dramatic title reveal for 신이한 변호사무소 (internationally known as Phantom Lawyer), alongside the premiere date of March 13. The SBS branding highlights the network's role in producing and initially airing the series, while the overall tone effectively teases the show's mix of comedy, legal intrigue, and paranormal elements.
Phantom Lawyer Plot
Phantom Lawyer (also referred to as Shin and Law Office or God and Law Firm) centers on Sin I-rang, portrayed by Yoo Yeon-seok, a kind-hearted but inept lawyer whose life takes a bizarre turn when he opens his practice in a building once occupied by a shaman. This decision awakens his ability to see and communicate with ghosts, who approach him with their unresolved earthly grievances, seeking legal resolution in the afterlife.
The ghosts possess Sin I-rang's body temporarily, allowing them to argue their cases through him—resulting in hilarious personality clashes as his timid nature collides with their bold, often eccentric traits during courtroom proceedings. The series mines comedy from these transformations while delving into poignant themes of empathy, unfinished business, and emotional healing for both the living and the departed.
Han Na-hyeon, played by Esom, is the sharp, undefeated elite attorney at a top firm who initially scoffs at Sin I-rang's supernatural claims, viewing him as delusional competition. As events unfold and she encounters undeniable proof of the ghosts, her skepticism gives way to reluctant partnership. Together, they tackle cases that bridge the mortal and spectral realms, helping spirits find justice while confronting personal demons—particularly Han Na-hyeon's buried traumas. This evolving alliance drives the narrative's mix of courtroom drama, supernatural twists, and character growth, offering a fresh spin on the legal genre infused with fantasy and heart.
Phantom Lawyer Cast
Leading the cast is Yoo Yeon-seok as Sin I-rang, the reluctant ghost-whispering lawyer whose comedic timing and emotional range—honed in hits like Hospital Playlist and Reply 1994—bring depth to the role's awkward possessions and heroic moments.
Esom stars as Han Na-hyeon, the formidable, win-obsessed attorney whose icy exterior softens through collaboration. Known for strong performances in Because This Is My First Life and Taxi Driver, Esom captures the character's intelligence, vulnerability, and transformation.
The supporting ensemble features Kim Kyung-nam as Yang Do-gyeong, adding layers to the firm's interpersonal dynamics; Jeon Seok-ho as Yun Bong-su, Sin I-rang's supportive brother-in-law; Kim Mi-kyung as Park Gyeong-hwa, the caring mother figure; and Son Yeo-eun as Sin Sa-rang, his sister providing grounded family ties.
Additional cast includes Choi Kwang-il as Yang Byeong-il, the powerful chairman; Jung Seung-kil as Priest Matthew, linking spiritual elements; Lee A-rin as Yun Da-bong; and a special guest spot by Heo Sung-tae as Lee Gang-pung.
Directed by Shin Jong-hun and written by Kim Chul-gyu (with production planning by Park Young-soo and oversight by Hong Sung-chang), the team combines expertise to deliver on the drama's ambitious genre fusion.
Phantom Lawyer Netflix Release Date
Netflix has acquired the international streaming rights for Phantom Lawyer through its partnership with SBS, ensuring global access following the domestic broadcast. The series premieres on Netflix on Friday, March 13, 2026, simultaneous with its SBS airing at 9:50 p.m. KST.
With 16 episodes, new installments will release weekly on Fridays and Saturdays, extending through the finale on Saturday, May 2, 2026. This schedule allows international fans to follow along closely with South Korean viewers, complete with multilingual subtitles. As part of Netflix's expanding K-drama slate—alongside genre-blending successes like Extraordinary Attorney Woo—Phantom Lawyer positions itself as a standout 2026 title, blending legal thrills with supernatural charm for a broad audience.
Sources: KOCOWA TV YouTube channel, SBS TV, Netflix
