Much to the dismay of fans, actress Nam Ji Hyun will not be reprising her role in Season 2 of SBS’s acclaimed legal drama Good Partner. Industry insiders confirmed on June 24 that despite ongoing discussions with the production team, Nam ultimately declined due to scheduling conflicts.
Production for the second season is already underway, with filming expected to officially begin in the first half of next year. Meanwhile, Jang Na Ra, who co-led the first season alongside Nam Ji Hyun, is said to be positively considering her return.
The first season of Good Partner, which aired from July to September last year, gained strong viewer traction for its unique storyline centered on divorce lawyers. It followed the dynamic between veteran attorney Cha Eun Kyung (Jang Na Ra) and rookie Han Yu Ri (Nam Ji Hyun), blending legal drama with an emotionally rich “womance” narrative that broke from traditional genre conventions.
The show premiered to a solid 7.8% nationwide viewership (Nielsen Korea) and peaked at 17.7%, praised for its heartfelt performances and authentic portrayal of the emotional toll of divorce cases. Nam Ji Hyun, in particular, was lauded for her role as Han Yu Ri, effectively capturing her character’s transformation from an inexperienced lawyer to a confident legal professional. Her on-screen chemistry with Jang Na Ra was considered a major highlight and driving force behind the show’s success.
Nam Ji Hyun, who first stepped into the entertainment industry with MBC’s Say You Love Me in 2004, has since crafted a strong acting career. Her role in Good Partner is often regarded as a turning point, showcasing her emotional depth and versatility.
While fans were eagerly awaiting her return for the second installment, they will now have to see how the series adapts without her presence. The absence of Han Yu Ri raises questions about the direction Season 2 will take and whether it can recapture the charm and success of the original run.
As for Nam Ji Hyun, she remains busy with other projects. She is currently filming KBS2’s upcoming historical rom-com My Dearest Thief (working title), set to air next year. The story revolves around a woman who unintentionally becomes a thief and finds herself in a body-swap twist with a Joseon-era prince. Nam stars opposite rising actor Moon Sang Min in the intriguing new drama.
Though she’s stepping away from Good Partner, Nam Ji Hyun continues to explore bold, fresh narratives—leaving fans eager to see what she’ll deliver next.
