On January 2, Baek Jin Hee attended the production press conference for MBC’s new Friday–Saturday drama The Judge Returns in Seoul, marking her return to the public spotlight.
For the event, she opted for an all-white outfit consisting of a cropped jacket and a mini skirt, creating a clean yet sophisticated look. The streamlined silhouette highlighted her slender figure, while black stockings and heels added contrast and polish, immediately catching the eye.
However, the main focus quickly shifted from her styling to her visual transformation. Many viewers felt that Baek Jin Hee’s overall impression looked markedly different from before, prompting a flood of reactions across online communities.
Known for her youthful image and delicate visuals, Baek Jin Hee appeared with sharper eyes and more defined facial features at the event. As a result, comments such as “She looks completely different” and “Her eyes look much stronger” surfaced, with some netizens even speculating about possible cosmetic procedures.
At the same time, others pushed back against the criticism, pointing out that changes in makeup, hairstyle, weight, lighting, and camera angles can significantly affect appearance. Many argued that excessive scrutiny of an actress’s looks should be avoided, emphasizing that natural changes over time are inevitable especially after a hiatus.
Still, it is undeniable that Baek Jin Hee’s return has sparked conversation, with much of the public’s attention currently centered on her visual change rather than the project itself.
As The Judge Returns begins airing, expectations are now focused on whether Baek Jin Hee can move beyond the visual controversy and once again prove her presence through her acting transformation. Whether this buzz will translate into recognition for her performance remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, The Judge Returns is a fantasy justice drama that follows a corrupt judge who regresses 10 years into the past and chooses a different path to punish powerful evils. The series airs every Friday and Saturday at 9:40 p.m. on MBC.
Sources: MHN,MBC