Pro Bono (2025) is a South Korean legal drama. It is written by Moon Yoo-seok and directed by Kim Seong-yoon and Baek Sang-hoon. The series stars Jung Kyung-ho, So Joo-yeon, Yoon Na-moo, Seo Hye-won, and Kang Hyung-seok.
The central character is Kang David (played by Jung Kyung-ho), a highly successful and ambitious judge whose career is driven by materialism, fame, and a perfect public image—he is even an influencer in the legal field with a massive social media following. However, an unexpected professional crisis leads to his abrupt resignation from his prestigious judicial post. Stripped of his former glory, Kang David is forced into a humble, zero-revenue role within the pro bono team of a top-tier law firm. This change of circumstance throws the arrogant former judge into a world dedicated to social justice, forcing him to confront his values.
At the non-profit Pro Bono association, he is paired with Park Gi-ppeum (played by So Joo-yeon), a fellow public interest lawyer. Gi-ppeum is a passionate, deep-diving legal enthusiast whose life mission is to uphold human rights and social justice. The unlikely pairing of the cynical, money-minded Kang David and the principled, warm-hearted Park Gi-ppeum promises a journey of growth, conflict, and heartwarming victories as they use the money earned from defending conglomerates to fight for victims in desperate situations.
Pro Bono Age Rating
Pro Bono is listed as TV-MA (Mature Audiences) on Netflix. This rating indicates the show contains material intended for adults only. The TV-MA label means some episodes likely feature stronger language, disturbing legal content, and mature themes. Netflix’s listing and promotional materials confirm the TV-MA classification.
Violence & Peril
The series may depict intense courtroom confrontations and legal fallout tied to corruption. Tense scenes could include threats, physical altercations, and emotionally charged confrontations. Based on the writer’s past work, expect gritty depictions of institutional abuse and systemic harm. These sequences may feel unsettling for younger viewers and lean toward mature, realistic drama.
Language
Expect frequent strong language and adult profanity during arguments and case scenes. Characters may use harsh terms when exposing wrongdoing or in heated exchanges. Dialogue is written for adult viewers and can include slurs or biting rhetoric. Such language contributes to the TV-MA label.
Mature Themes
The show’s mature themes likely include political corruption, legal malpractice, media backlash, public shaming, and ethical collapse. Themes may also explore social justice, mental health strain, addiction, and the emotional cost of high-profile careers. Because writer Moon Yoo-seok previously tackled dark, systemic topics, expect deep, sometimes disturbing moral questions. These complex topics are central to the show’s tone and suitability concerns.
Is Pro Bono Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: No. The series’ adult themes and mature tone are inappropriate for preteens. Legal complexity and distressing scenes may be confusing and upsetting.
Ages 13–15: With guidance. Some older young teens may follow the plot. However, strong language and mature themes require parental pre-screening and discussion.
Ages 16–17: Yes. Mature teens who can handle intense dialogue and moral complexity may watch. Parents should still preview episodes and discuss graphic or upsetting scenes.
Final recommendation: The show is best suited for adults. If teens watch, parents should watch first and discuss key scenes.
What Parents Can Do
- Watch at least the first episode before letting a teen view it. Note specific scenes that need discussion.
- Prepare to explain the legal, social, and political context. Clarify how fiction differs from real law.
- Use conflict scenes to talk about emotional coping, media influence, and ethical decision-making.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is Pro Bono’s age rating?
A: Netflix lists Pro Bono as TV-MA for mature content and adult themes.
Q: Is Pro Bono appropriate for teens?
A: Generally no for younger teens; older teens may watch with parental guidance.
Q: Does the show contain violence or scary scenes?
A: Expect tense and realistic confrontations. Violence is likely grounded and emotionally intense.
Q: How strong is the language?
A: The series uses strong profanity and heated rhetoric in legal and personal disputes.
Q: Is sexual content shown?
A: Promotional material focuses on legal conflict rather than explicit sexual content. Parents should preview to confirm.
Q: Where and when can I watch it?
A: Pro Bono premieres on tvN on December 6, 2025, and is listed on Netflix with TV-MA.