Idol I

Maeng Se-na is a high-profile criminal lawyer whose public image is immaculate, but privately she's a devoted fan of a K-pop idol she has followed for fifteen years. When that idol becomes the prime suspect in a shocking murder, Se-na shifts focus from routine celebrity work to gathering evidence, challenging police assumptions, and pushing back against tabloids that already declared guilt. The series pairs courtroom maneuvers with behind-the-scenes fan culture, as Se-na and a small legal team lean on unconventional allies who worry loyalty might cloud judgment. As suspicion spreads and investigations tighten, the show mixes sharp humor, tense interrogations, and personal stakes, and she risks her career, reputation, and private life.

Idol I premiered in 2025, directed by Lee Gwang-young and created by Kwan-Young Lee and Kim Da-rim, starring Sooyoung Choi, Kim Jae-young, Choi Hee-jin, Kim Hyun-jin, and Jeong Jae-kwang. It blends comedy, mystery and drama in tone.

As of its initial release the series hasn't picked up major awards, though several reviews singled out Sooyoung Choi's performance and the writing's mix of levity and mystery for praise, suggesting it could attract more recognition over time. While it hasn't won major prizes, industry observers have noted its promise.

Early audience reaction created lively online debate about fandom ethics and media treatment of accused celebrities, with fans, critics, and legal commentators sharing hot takes. Memes and clip compilations circulated, helping the show reach viewers beyond typical legal drama fans. Fan communities dissect episodes, trading theories and reaction clips.

Critical response has been mixed to positive, reflected in a 6.7/10 user vote from a small sample, praising its witty tonal shifts and lead chemistry while noting uneven pacing. Major themes include celebrity, justice, the power of fandom, and how media frames guilt, and some viewers noted uneven pacing.