“Phantom Lawyer” Gains Traction, Reviving SBS’s Friday-Saturday Lineup
SBS’s latest legal-fantasy drama, “Phantom Lawyer,” is experiencing a surge in viewership, potentially reversing a recent slump in the broadcaster’s prime Friday-Saturday time slot. The series premiered on March 13, 2026, and has seen its ratings steadily climb.
Blending Legal Drama with Supernatural Elements
“Phantom Lawyer” centers around a lawyer who is possessed by spirits and works to resolve the unresolved issues of the deceased. The show combines courtroom proceedings with elements of Korean shamanism, a belief system that has been gaining popularity in Korean entertainment. This unique premise and emotionally resonant storytelling have attracted a growing audience.
Yoo Yeon-seok’s Performance Anchors the Series
Actor Yoo Yeon-seok has garnered significant attention for his portrayal of the titular character, effectively playing multiple personalities through possession scenes. His performance is considered a key factor in the show’s success.
Ratings Climb and Momentum Builds
According to Nielsen Korea, the first episode of “Phantom Lawyer” achieved a 6.3 percent viewership rating. By the fourth episode, on March 22, 2026, this number had risen to 9.1 percent. The show is now approaching the double-digit ratings mark, a significant milestone in Korean television. This performance is a notable improvement compared to its predecessor, “No Tail to Tell,” which averaged around 3 percent viewership.
SBS’s Friday-Saturday Lineup Rebounds
The success of “Phantom Lawyer” is particularly encouraging for SBS, following previous hits such as “Taxi Driver 3,” “Love Scout,” and “Buried Hearts.” The recent performance of the Friday-Saturday lineup had been inconsistent, making the current momentum a welcome turnaround for the broadcaster.
The Popularity of Shamanism in Korean Entertainment
The show’s success is also attributed to the growing interest in shamanism-themed content within Korean entertainment. This trend has contributed to the show’s early popularity and resonance with viewers.
As ratings continue to rise and online discussions intensify, all eyes are on whether “Phantom Lawyer” can maintain its growth and establish itself as another successful drama for SBS.