[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Hyesoo] JTBC’s Friday-Saturday drama 'Itaewon Class,' which premiered on the 31st, satisfied viewers' expectations with its highest ratings.
Adapted from the popular webtoon of the same name, 'Itaewon Class' recorded nationwide ratings of 5.0% and 5.3% in the metropolitan area (Nielsen Korea, paid households), achieving ratings comparable to its buzz. This matches the highest first-episode ratings ever recorded by a JTBC drama.
'Itaewon Class,' which perfectly opened the curtain on the hip rebellion of youth united by stubbornness and recklessness in an unfair world, captivated viewers instantly with direction that fully brought out the charm of the original work and passionate performances by the actors.
The first episode depicts Park Saeroi (Park Seojoon) transferring schools due to his father Park Sungyeol’s (Son Hyunju) transfer to headquarters 15 years ago. However, on his first day at Gwangjin High School, Saeroi witnesses Lee Hojin (Lee Dawit) being bullied by Jang Geunwon (Ahn Bohyun), the heir of 'Jangga,' and throws a punch, which complicates the life of nineteen-year-old Park Saeroi.
Upon hearing the news, Jangga chairman Jang Daehee (Yoo Jae Myung) visits the school and proposes that Saeroi avoid expulsion if he kneels and apologizes in front of Jang Geunwon. However, Saeroi expresses his conviction that he cannot admit wrongdoing nor kneel.
Ultimately, Saeroi is expelled on his first day of transfer, and his father Park Sungyeol dies in a motorcycle accident, compounding the tragic fate. Later, Saeroi discovers that his father’s death was not an accident but related to Jang Geunwon, foreshadowing a long-standing feud with Jangga.
The presence of Son Hyunju, who plays Park Saeroi’s father, and the reliable actor Yoo Jae Myung, along with Park Seojoon’s performance that seems to have stepped out of the webtoon, combined with delicate and stylish direction, are reasons to keep watching 'Itaewon Class' in the future.
Along with a smooth first broadcast, the second OST of 'Itaewon Class' has been released.
'Itaewon Class' OST Part.2 'Start' features Gaho, who showcases a charming clear and refreshing voice and a wide musical spectrum. The addictive melody of the chorus, revealed through the drama’s teaser video, captures the story of Saeroi, who dreams of a life where “there is no price for conviction,” and the Danbam members who pursue freedom with their own values against an unfair world, with a lively and refreshing sound.
JTBC’s new Friday-Saturday drama 'Itaewon Class' episode 2 will air on the 1st at 10:50 PM.
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