Hello, everyone! Hope you’re doing well. Today I’m diving into the series Itaewon Class, which has emerged as one of the most captivating Korean dramas on Netflix, offering a strong narrative about challenging oppressive power dynamics.
Premiering from January 31 to March 21, 2020, this 16-episode gem runs around 70 minutes per episode and is now accessible for streaming globally on Netflix. Adapted from the webtoon with the same name, it marks the inaugural series produced by the film distribution company Showbox and clinched the Best Drama Series award at the 25th Asian Television Awards.
What sets Itaewon Class apart is its fearless exploration of class conflict and systemic injustice in contemporary Korea. Rather than a mere revenge tale, it offers a poignant social commentary wrapped in a captivating story about an ex-convict who starts a street bar while seeking retribution for his father’s demise. The series delves into themes of prejudice, corporate malfeasance, and the strength of persistence with impressive depth and sincerity.
From Misfortune to Victory: A Former Prisoner’s Quest for Justice
After getting expelled for defying a dominant bully whose actions later result in his father’s death, Park Saeroyi serves time in jail and emerges with an unwavering resolve to dismantle the corporate giant that devastated his family. The central narrative follows his strategic plan to establish a dining empire that can rival the powerful Jangga Group, transforming personal misfortune into a quest for social justice.
The brilliance of this plot lies in its evolution from a basic revenge narrative into something profoundly meaningful. Saeroyi’s journey symbolizes how ordinary individuals can resist systemic oppression. His street bar in the multicultural Itaewon district becomes a sanctuary for outsiders and misfits, symbolizing hope for anyone who has ever felt powerless against corrupt authority.
Park Saeroyi: The Resilient Underdog’s Evolution
Park Seo-joon delivers a standout performance as Park Saeroyi, an ex-convict who starts a street bar in Itaewon while seeking vengeance on the family responsible for his father’s demise. What distinguishes this character is his steadfast moral compass, even after enduring humanity’s harshest trials.
Saeroyi’s transformation from a naive teenager to a tactical entrepreneur is portrayed masterfully. Park Seo-joon infuses the role with remarkable depth, presenting a character who refuses to compromise his principles, even when it would be simpler to do so. His determination to succeed without emulating his adversaries makes him one of the most inspiring protagonists in recent Korean drama history.
Jo Yi Seo: The Intelligent Maverick’s Dedication
Kim Da-mi shines as Jo Yi Seo, a character she described as unlike any she’d encountered before, making it an exciting role to undertake. Yi Seo is a socially awkward genius who becomes Saeroyi’s secret ally in his fight against the Jangga Group, bringing astute strategy and fierce loyalty to his mission.
The chemistry between Kim Da-mi and Park Seo-joon fuels some of the series’ most gripping moments. Yi Seo’s journey from a solitary outsider to someone who finds her place among Saeroyi’s chosen family adds emotional depth to the revenge narrative. Her character underscores how genuine loyalty is earned through respect and shared values, not fear or obligation.
The Final Showdown: When Justice Faces Authority
The series reaches its emotional zenith when Saeroyi’s meticulously crafted plans culminate in a boardroom showdown that will decide the fate of both his restaurant and the corrupt Jangga empire. This climactic confrontation signifies more than a business rivalry; it’s a symbolic triumph of principle over profit, justice over corruption.
The manner in which the series handles this climax is particularly gratifying because it doesn’t rely on implausible plot twists or abrupt character changes. Instead, it illustrates the natural outcomes of the choices each character has made throughout the series, making the resolution feel both deserved and significant.
Global Success on Netflix: A Phenomenon of Social Commentary
Itaewon Class achieved an impressive 8.1 IMDb rating and became one of the most watched Korean dramas released by Netflix in early 2020. The series’ global success is rooted in its universal themes of combating injustice and the resilience of perseverance against formidable challenges. What makes it particularly appealing to international audiences is its exploration of issues like class discrimination and corporate corruption that resonate globally. The performances of the four main actors have been lauded as exceptional, with Park Seo-joon being especially captivating in his portrayal of a wide range of emotions, making Itaewon Class a compelling series that captivates viewers with each episode.
Why This Social Justice Saga Will Alter Your View
If you enjoy stories about underdogs with powerful social messages and characters who steadfastly uphold their values, Itaewon Class is the perfect series to binge on Netflix. The blend of Park Seo-joon’s captivating performance, engaging themes of justice and perseverance, and a diverse cast of memorable characters offers an inspiring viewing experience that will leave you believing in the power of standing up for what is right.
Why This Motivating Drama Should Be Your Next Netflix Binge
Itaewon Class isn’t merely entertainment; it’s a call to action for anyone who’s ever felt powerless against corruption, demonstrating that with enough determination and the right values, even the most formidable empires can be held accountable.
Series Details:
Number of Episodes: 16 episodes
Platform: Netflix
Release Year: 2020
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Genre: Drama, Romance, Revenge, Social Commentary
Protagonists: Park Seo-joon (Park Saeroyi), Kim Da-mi (Jo Yi Seo), Kwon Nara (Oh Soo-ah)
Antagonist: Yoo Jae-myung (Jang Dae-hee), Ahn Bo-hyun (Jang Geun-won)