Extraordinary Attorney Woo has brought autism into the mainstream conversation, while its characters still struggle to find acceptance in a world that often puts them into the background.
Woo stands out at her new firm due to her high IQ, photographic memory, and whale obsession – qualities which set her apart. However, autism complicates matters further, creating barriers in terms of communication with coworkers.
1. They’re not compatible
I was deeply dismayed when Attorney Woo visited Dad at his gimbap restaurant to try to convince him to move with her to Boston, but that is just her way. Joon Ho doesn’t particularly appreciate it but still understands her point of view and strives to be understanding and respectful in this matter.
Young-woo is surprised to find her childhood neighbors still together during her fifth case, as well as an ethical dilemma caused by having to represent a client whose behavior breaches laws.
She confides in Jun-ho about her struggle, who advises her to follow her heart and values instead of listening to anyone else. He compares it to an unrequited love between a cat and its owner – as Jun-ho would always be there for her; and also suggests taking time for herself rather than working so hard.
2. They’re too busy
Jung Myeong Seok has gone missing, forcing Young Woo and the Hanbada lawyers to work with an opponent who contradicts everything she stands for. Yet she remains strong regardless of any obstacles that may come their way.
Young Woo’s ninth case sees her successfully defend a man accused of sexually abusing a mentally handicapped girl. Her mother attempted to create an impression that Young Woo took advantage of his position by twisting facts so as to appear like they took advantage of her, yet Young Woo successfully defends him in court.
After she returns home, a Taesan employee stakes out her house and presents Young Woo with information regarding a branch in Boston. Jun-ho steps in to protect his wife and listens in as the employee goes over all the benefits that would accompany relocating; Young Woo considers their suggestion, but ultimately decides she doesn’t wish to relocate there.
3. They’re not compatible with their children
Young Woo is asked by her litigation attorney Joon Ho to defend a man accused of sexually abusing mentally handicapped women, though Young Woo eventually manages to win this case. Though successful in her defense of him, this makes Young Woo question whether her budding relationship with Joon Ho may not return his feelings in equal measure, making him feel lonely while making Young Woo feel guilty that her feelings don’t return equally for him.
She still attempts to push herself outside of her comfort zone by pursing their relationship further; but when he becomes attracted to another colleague and she begins distancing herself from him, she uses this as an opportunity to further fight negative stereotypes of people with autism in legal circles; she intends to prove they can compete as lawyers while breaking through media stereotypes of autistic individuals in this way.
4. They’re too busy
Attorney Woo, played by Choi Dae Hoon, must learn to set aside her feelings and judgment in favor of representing clients effectively. This was made evident in episode five of Extraordinary Attorney Woo when working with Jang Seung Jun (portrayed by Choi Dae Hoon).
Initial complications arise as she struggles to work with him since he shows no willingness to listen to her reasoning or accept her argumentation; nonetheless, she perseveres and does her job efficiently.
After visiting Geurami and explaining her client troubles, she inquires for advice as well as whether she should reveal the truth for social justice purposes. Geurami gave some great advice as well as reminding her to take care of herself first before allowing work consume her completely.
