Hey, everyone! How’s it going? Today I’m here to review the drama Itaewon Class, which became one of Netflix’s most compelling Korean series and a powerful statement about fighting against corrupt power structures.
Released from January 31 to March 21, 2020, this 16-episode masterpiece runs approximately 70 minutes per episode and is now available for streaming worldwide on Netflix. Based on the webtoon of the same name, it’s the first series produced by film distribution company Showbox and won Best Drama Series at the 25th Asian Television Awards.
What makes Itaewon Class extraordinary is its unflinching look at class warfare and systemic injustice in modern Korea. This isn’t just another revenge story, it’s a social commentary wrapped in an engaging narrative about an ex-convict who opens a street bar while seeking justice for his father’s death. The series tackles themes of discrimination, corporate corruption, and the power of perseverance with remarkable depth and authenticity.
From Tragedy to Triumph: An Ex-Con’s Journey to Justice
After being expelled from school for standing up to a powerful bully whose actions later kill his father, Park Saeroyi serves time in prison and emerges with an unshakeable determination to bring down the corporate empire responsible for his family’s destruction. The central plot follows his methodical plan to build a restaurant empire that can challenge the mighty Jangga Group, turning personal tragedy into a mission for social justice.
The genius of this storyline lies in how it transforms a simple revenge plot into something much more meaningful. Saeroyi’s journey becomes a symbol of how ordinary people can fight back against systemic oppression. His street bar in the diverse Itaewon district becomes a haven for misfits and outcasts, representing hope for anyone who’s ever felt powerless against corrupt authority.
Park Saeroyi: The Principled Underdog’s Transformation
Park Seo-joon delivers a career-defining performance as Park Saeroyi, an ex-con who opens a street bar in Itaewon while seeking revenge on the family responsible for his father’s death. What sets this character apart is his unwavering moral compass, even after experiencing the worst humanity has to offer.
Saeroyi’s evolution from a naive high schooler to a strategic businessman is masterfully portrayed. Park Seo-joon brings incredible depth to the role, showing us a character who refuses to compromise his values even when it would be easier to do so. His determination to succeed without becoming like his enemies makes him one of the most inspiring protagonists in recent K-drama history.
Jo Yi Seo: The Brilliant Wildcard’s Loyalty
Kim Da-mi shines as Jo Yi Seo, a character the actress described as unlike anyone she’d seen before, making it an exciting role to tackle. Yi Seo is a socially awkward genius who becomes Saeroyi’s secret weapon in his battle against Jangga Group, bringing both brilliant strategy and fierce loyalty to his cause.
The chemistry between Kim Da-mi and Park Seo-joon creates some of the series’ most compelling moments. Yi Seo’s journey from a lonely outsider to someone who finds her place among Saeroyi’s chosen family adds emotional depth to the revenge narrative. Her character represents how true loyalty is earned through respect and shared values, not fear or obligation.
The Final Confrontation: When Justice Meets Power
The series reaches its emotional peak when Saeroyi’s carefully laid plans finally come to fruition in a boardroom battle that will determine the fate of both his restaurant and the corrupt Jangga empire. This climactic showdown represents more than business rivalry, it’s a symbolic victory of principle over profit, justice over corruption.
The way the series handles this climax is particularly satisfying because it doesn’t rely on unrealistic plot twists or sudden character reversals. Instead, it shows the natural consequences of the choices each character has made throughout the series, making the resolution feel both earned and meaningful.
Success on Netflix: A Global Phenomenon of Social Commentary
Itaewon Class achieved an impressive 8.1 IMDb rating and became one of the most watched Korean dramas that Netflix released in early 2020. The series’ success on Netflix stems from its universal themes of fighting injustice and the power of perseverance against impossible odds. What makes it particularly appealing to global audiences is how it addresses issues of class discrimination and corporate corruption that resonate worldwide. The performances of the four lead actors are described as excellent, with Park Seo-joon being particularly magnetic in expressing a wide array of emotions, making Itaewon Class a compelling watch that grows on viewers with each episode.
Why This Social Justice Epic Will Change Your Perspective
If you love underdog stories with powerful social commentary and characters who refuse to compromise their values, Itaewon Class is the perfect series to binge on Netflix. The combination of Park Seo-joon’s magnetic performance, compelling themes of justice and perseverance, and a diverse cast of unforgettable characters creates an inspiring viewing experience that will leave you believing in the power of standing up for what’s right.
Why This Inspiring Drama Should Be Your Next Netflix Obsession
Itaewon Class isn’t just entertainment, it’s a rallying cry for anyone who’s ever felt powerless against corruption, proving that with enough determination and the right values, even the mightiest empires can be brought to justice.
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)