Anticipation for Good Partner 2 Starring Jang Nara and Kim Hye Yoon

Jang Nara returns as the fierce Cha Eun Kyung,
Kim Hye Yoon steps into the courtroom light,
Good Partner 2 reignites passion, law, and heart.

The legal drama Good Partner successfully introduced the story of Cha Eun Kyung (Jang Nara), a seasoned divorce lawyer whose career was forged through numerous complex client cases. The 16-episode series, written by divorce attorney and screenwriter Choi Yu Na, aired from July to September 2024 and received strong responses for its realistic portrayal of legal disputes and the compelling chemistry between Cha Eun Kyung and her junior colleague, Han Yu Ri. Thanks to Jang Nara’s remarkable transformation from her usual sweet image to a steely, sharp-minded attorney, Good Partner reached a peak viewership rating of 17.7%. Its success led SBS to confirm a second season in April 2025.

Months later, social media buzzed when talent platform CastLink updated the project listing for “굿파트너2” (Good Partner 2) with the label “D-34,” meaning only 34 days remained before the casting deadline. The post stated that the project is categorized as a drama, produced by Studio S and Studio & New, written by Choi Yu Na, and directed by Kim Garam. Interestingly, the casting call opened 80 roles for all ages and genders, with auditions closing on December 15, 2025. Fans interpreted the “D-34” status as a sign that the production team was finalizing the cast lineup before entering pre-production.

Synopsis, Success of Season One, and Season Two Updates

The first season of Good Partner is set in a bustling law firm and centers on Cha Eun Kyung, who fearlessly handles her clients’ divorces while going through her own. Writer Choi Yu Na used her real-life experience as a divorce attorney to craft a grounded and deeply human narrative. Supporting actress Nam Ji Hyun, who played the idealistic young lawyer Han Yu Ri, provided a refreshing contrast to Jang Nara’s charismatic mentor figure. The “womance” between the two leads, combined with emotionally resonant family issues, kept viewers emotionally invested. It is no surprise the drama achieved high ratings and earned Jang Nara the Daesang (Grand Prize) at the SBS Drama Awards.

Behind the scenes, Studio S collaborated with Studio & New to deliver a visually authentic office atmosphere. The first season also became a stepping stone for actors Kim Jun Han and Pyo Ji Hoon, who portrayed fellow lawyers. Given the drama’s achievements, many hope that the second season will maintain its quality while introducing new stories without losing the humanistic essence that defined Good Partner.

News of the second season first broke in April 2025 when SBS officially confirmed its production. However, one major change quickly surfaced: Nam Ji Hyun was unable to return due to scheduling conflicts. The spot beside Jang Nara remained open until early November 2025, when reports emerged that actress Kim Hye Yoon had been offered a new lead role. Her agency confirmed she was reviewing the offer, while entertainment outlets revealed she would portray a young divorce lawyer who grows alongside Jang Nara’s character.

Best known for Lovely Runner and Extraordinary You, Kim Hye Yoon is beloved for her bright energy and sharp acting skills. Her reputation as a “chemistry master” has fans eager to see what kind of new “womance” dynamic could unfold. According to CastLink, the open audition features 80 available roles for various characters, from lawyers to unique clients, signaling a more diverse ensemble cast.

Allkpop reported that Good Partner 2 has entered the production stage and is targeting release in the latter half of next year. Filming is expected to begin once the main and supporting cast are finalized. For international viewers, this timeline suggests a likely premiere toward the end of 2026.

Social media has since erupted with excitement, as fans await Kim Hye Yoon’s official confirmation and speculate about the potential new characters. Comments flooded X (Twitter) and Instagram:

“Ohh my goddd thank God Hye Yoon got casted yesss”

“YASSSHHHH YUHUUUU SO EXCITEDDDDD”

These spontaneous reactions reflect the public’s high expectations for the collaboration between Jang Nara and Kim Hye Yoon. If the casting becomes official, the series could present a refreshing new dynamic from mentor-mentee to equals, adding depth to the story. Combined with the expanded cast, Good Partner 2 has the potential to explore new aspects of family law while retaining the humor and emotional touch that made the first season so beloved.

Source: OSEN, Allkpop, and CastLink updates circulating on social media.