Basic Info.
Strange Lawyer Woo Young-woo follows the journey of Woo Young-woo, a brilliant lawyer on the autism spectrum, as she tackles a variety of legal cases. While the drama focuses on courtroom battles, it also thoughtfully portrays the realities faced by individuals with autism spectrum disorder through Woo Young-woo's daily life and her interactions with colleagues, clients, and family. As she navigates the challenges of her profession, Woo Young-woo not only solves complex cases but also embarks on a journey of self-discovery and growth, fostering greater understanding of herself and those around her.
Additional Info.
"A partial inspiration for Woo Young-woo's character in Extraordinary Attorney Woo came from Professor Temple Grandin, a zoologist with autism spectrum disorder. Professor Kim Byeong-gun from the Department of Early Childhood Special Education at Nazareth University, who consulted on the drama, explained: “Although individuals with autism spectrum disorder may face challenges with empathy and communication, focusing on their strengths—such as exceptional concentration in specific areas—can reshape perceptions. I wanted to break the stereotype of portraying them solely as recipients of help.”
Woo Young-woo is depicted as a socially underprivileged individual with autism spectrum disorder, yet also as a powerful and competent lawyer. Her character embodies resilience and strength, overcoming environmental barriers. The drama received favorable reviews from individuals with autism, many of whom shared that the series inspired them and made them feel validated, gaining courage with each episode.
Many events featured in the drama were dramatized based on real-life cases to enhance realism and foster deeper viewer connection. These events serve to explore legal controversies and interpersonal conflicts more profoundly.
Extraordinary Attorney Woo garnered numerous accolades in 2022 and 2023, highlighting its cultural impact:
8th APAN Star Awards (September 2022):
Writer’s Award (Moon Ji-won)
Best Actress (Baek Ji-won)
Idol Champ Female Popularity Award (Park Eun-bin)
4th Asia Content Awards (October 8, 2022):
Best Content Award
Female Actress Award (Park Eun-bin)
1st Asia Pacific Cinema & TV Awards (November 4, 2022):
Rising Star Award (Park Eun-bin, TV Category)
2022 Kino Rights Year-End Awards (December 21, 2022):
Korean Drama of the Year
59th Baeksang Arts Awards (April 28, 2023):
TV Directing Award (Yoo In-sik)
TV Category Grand Prize (Park Eun-bin)
18th Seoul Drama Awards (September 21, 2023):
Asia Star Award (Park Eun-bin)
Korean Wave Award
Best Picture in the Drama Category
These accolades underscore the drama’s exceptional storytelling, character depth, and profound societal impact, particularly in raising awareness about autism spectrum disorder."