The Judge from Hell is making waves again, breaking its own viewership records!
On October 13, Nielsen Korea shared that the SBS drama The Judge from Hell hit a viewership rating of 13.7% in the Seoul area and 13.6% nationwide for its eighth episode, which aired on October 12. The show peaked at an impressive 16.1%, securing its spot as the most-watched program on Saturday and for the week. Among viewers aged 20 to 49, it also topped the charts with a rating of 4.4%.
In this gripping episode, the complex relationship between Kang Bit-na (played by Park Shin Hye) and Han Da-on (played by Kim Jae Young) reached a dramatic turning point. As Han Da-on faced overwhelming emotions, he reached out to Kang Bit-na in desperation. This moment prompted Kang Bit-na to truly empathize with him, leading to an emotional scene where she couldn’t hold back her tears.
The tension rose when they discovered gunshot sounds and bloodstains, raising suspicions about the notorious serial killer J, who was linked to the tragic murder of Han Da-on's family 25 years ago. Seeing Han Da-on consumed by rage deeply affected Kang Bit-na, stirring her own emotions and regrets.
Meanwhile, the trial of Choi Won-jung (played by Oh Ui Sik), a wealthy suspect using his power to escape justice, added another layer of tension. He displayed arrogance in court, refusing to apologize to the victims' families and seeking “salvation” in church, which only fueled the viewers' anger.
As the episode unfolded, Kang Bit-na found herself caught between seeking justice and protecting Han Da-on. When she urged him to help her catch the serial killer instead of pursuing her, his emotional response was powerful. He thanked her for believing in him, saying, “Thank you for believing in me and saying it’s not my fault.” This moment of connection was both heartfelt and heartbreaking.
The episode took a shocking turn when Han Da-on filmed Kang Bit-na dragging Choi Won-jung after his punishment. In a twist of betrayal, he had secretly placed a tracking device on her. As Kang Bit-na faced the ultimate betrayal, she became immobilized by Han Da-on's actions, and the news of Kim So-young’s tragic death added to the emotional turmoil.
Kim So-young had been a crucial support for Han Da-on, serving as more than just a family member. Her loss devastated him, leading to a climactic confrontation with Kang Bit-na. He demanded that they work together to kill the serial killer, saying, “After I kill that guy, you can kill me and send me to hell.” His raw desperation struck a chord, and Kang Bit-na’s tearful response showed her internal struggle.
This powerful ending not only hinted at a shift in their relationship but also showcased Kang Bit-na's empathy for Han Da-on’s pain. As tears streamed down her face, they represented a turning point in their dynamic—a blend of tension, trust, and the possibility of teamwork against the dark forces they face.
Throughout the series, Kang Bit-na and Han Da-on have been cautious and suspicious of each other, creating a thrilling cat-and-mouse game. But as they navigate these emotional trials, the final moments of the eighth episode suggest they might finally join forces. Fans are excited to see how this pivotal change will impact the storyline as The Judge from Hell continues to captivate viewers.
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