Delayed Justice
Delayed Justice (Korean: 날아라 개천용; RR: Narara Gaecheonyong) is a South Korean television drama series that aired on SBS from October 30, 2020, to January 23, 2021. Directed by Kwak Jung-Hwan and written by Park Sang-Kyu, the series consists of 20 episodes and explores the legal system through the perspectives of a public defender and a reporter who champion the causes of individuals who have been falsely accused of crimes.
Plot
The narrative centers on two men: Park Tae-Yong (Kwon Sang-Woo) and Park Sam-Soo (Bae Sung-Woo). Park Tae-Yong is a public defender who, despite a non-traditional educational background, passes the bar exam and becomes a lawyer known for his empathy and commitment to justice. His career reaches a turning point when he becomes the first attorney to successfully win a general criminal retrial. Park Sam-Soo is a reporter who, despite his humble beginnings as a non-permanent employee, gains recognition for his writing skills and his dedication to covering stories often overlooked by mainstream media.
Production and Casting Changes
The production of Delayed Justice experienced significant changes during its run due to the conduct of lead actor Bae Sung-Woo. In November 2020, Bae was cited by police for driving while intoxicated (DWI). Following this event, the production staff announced that Bae would withdraw from the series. While he appeared in episodes up to 16, his scenes were edited to minimize his presence, and he did not appear in the final four episodes. Actor Jung Woo-Sung was cast to replace him, taking over the role of Park Sam-Soo for episodes 17 through 20.
Broadcast Schedule Adjustments
The series' broadcast schedule underwent several adjustments. Episode 6, originally scheduled for November 14, 2020, was delayed until November 20, 2020, due to a soccer match between South Korea and Brazil. Additionally, episode 12 was moved from December 11, 2020, to December 12, 2020, to accommodate the 41st Blue Dragon Film Awards, which were later postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.