**Legal Drama Television Series in the United States and South Korea**

In the realm of television, legal dramas offer viewers a blend of suspense, ethical quandaries, and courtroom battlefields, all while navigating the intricate network of law and justice. This genre remains exceptionally popular across various cultures, reflecting the diverse judicial systems and societal norms of each nation. Focusing on the United States and South Korea, two standout series, "How to Get Away with Murder" and "The First Responders" (particularly its second season), encapsulate the pinnacle of legal drama in their respective countries. Here, we explore these series in detail, noting how each aligns with and is a product of its own culture and television industry.

### How to Get Away with Murder – United States

"How to Get Away with Murder" (HTGAWM) is an American legal drama television series that premiered on ABC in September 2014. Created by Peter Nowalk and produced by Shonda Rhimes, the show is set in Philadelphia and follows the life of Annalise Keating (played by Viola Davis), a law professor and defense attorney who becomes embroiled in a twisting plot filled with murder, deceit, and a constant testing of ethical boundaries. 

#### Plot and Reception
The plot weaves through intricate legal strategies and personal turmoil, exploring themes of corruption, ambition, racial tension, and the complexities of the legal system. Each episode builds on a framework of legal education where Keating involves her students in real-life cases they likely wouldn’t encounter until much later in their careers, all while a larger, darker plot unfolds around them.

Viola Davis's portrayal received widespread acclaim, earning her an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series—the first African-American to win the category. The show itself was noted for its dynamic storytelling methods, including nonlinear timelines and multifaceted character development.

#### Cultural and Legal Portrayal
The series delved into the American judicial context, reflecting the adversarial nature of legal proceedings in the U.S., and highlighted the deep institutional challenges that exist within its legal framework. "HTGAWM" stands as a prominent example of American legal dramas, known for their high stakes, moral conflicts, and complex litigation processes.

### The First Responders Season 2 – South Korea

"The First Responders" is a South Korean television series which originally debuted in 2022 on SBS (Seoul Broadcasting System). While primarily categorized as an emergency services drama, encompassing police, fire, and medical services, its second season in 2023 ventured deeply into legal drama territory. The involvement of legal issues becomes more pronounced as the series progresses, dealing with the aftermath of emergency incidents and the ensuing legal implications.

#### Plot and Thematic Elements
Season 2 of "The First Responders" continues to follow the interwoven lives of Jin Ho-gae (a police officer), Bong Do-jin (a firefighter), and Song Seol (a paramedic) as they encounter and manage various emergency situations. The legal drama in the series is highlighted as the characters deal with the legal repercussions of their actions during emergencies, the bureaucratic pressures of their professions, and the ethical dilemmas they face while trying to save lives.

#### Cultural Reflection and Legal Drama
The series reflects South Korean societal values such as collective responsibility, respect for authority, and the public's high expectations of governmental agencies, including emergency services. The legal aspects in the series examine the South Korean justice system’s handling of cases involving public service and the collaborative operations of multiple government bodies.

### Summary

While both series come from different cultural backgrounds and focus on varying aspects of legal drama, "How to Get Away with Murder" and "The First Responders" Season 2 each embody their nation's unique approach to storytelling, legal discourse, and dramatic presentation in the realm of television. Each series has its own merits and caters to its audience's tastes, providing captivating narratives that offer more than just entertainment by prompting viewers to reflect on deeper societal and ethical issues.