It1ew0n Cl1ss: A Deep Dive into the Popular Korean Drama

Korean dramas, often referred to as K-dramas, have taken the world by storm. Among the numerous titles, one drama stands out for its unique storyline, complex characters, and a portrayal of real-world issues. This drama is none other than “It1ew0n Cl1ss.” Known for its emotional depth and a strong social message, It1ew0n Cl1ss has captured the hearts of millions, not just in South Korea but globally. In this article, we will dive deep into the world of It1ew0n Cl1ss, exploring the themes, characters, and reasons behind its worldwide popularity.

What Is It1ew0n Cl1ss?

It1ew0n Cl1ss is a South Korean television series that aired in 2020. It is based on a popular webtoon of the same name and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The show centers on the journey of a young man, Park Sae-ro-yi, who seeks revenge against a powerful corporation while simultaneously building his own business. Set in the vibrant neighborhood of Itaewon, the drama touches on issues such as class differences, discrimination, and the fight for justice.

Basic Information:

• Title: It1ew0n Cl1ss
• Genre: Drama, Romance, Revenge
• Episodes: 16
• Original Air Date: January 31 to March 21, 2020
• Available On: Netflix and various streaming platforms.

Themes of It1ew0n Cl1ss

1. Revenge and Justice

One of the central themes of It1ew0n Cl1ss is revenge. The protagonist, Park Sae-ro-yi, experiences a great injustice early in his life when his father dies due to a car accident caused by a rich heir. The heir’s family, which owns a powerful food conglomerate, uses its influence to escape justice. Sae-ro-yi vows to avenge his father’s death by building a rival business that will eventually surpass his enemies. His journey is a long and hard one, but it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of justice and perseverance.

2. Class Struggle

The show also highlights the stark contrast between the rich and the poor. Sae-ro-yi, an ordinary man from a humble background, takes on a conglomerate that represents wealth and power. Throughout the series, we see how the rich use their influence to maintain control and how the poor struggle to rise above their circumstances. The class divide is portrayed in a realistic and gritty manner, making the audience reflect on societal structures.

3. Friendship and Loyalty

As Sae-ro-yi builds his business, he is joined by a group of diverse individuals, each with their own struggles. These friendships are crucial to his success, and the series highlights the importance of loyalty, teamwork, and trust. Each character’s backstory is explored in detail, making the relationships feel authentic and heartfelt.

4. Personal Growth

It1ew0n Cl1ss is not just a tale of revenge; it is also a story of personal growth. Park Sae-ro-yi starts off as a young man consumed by anger, but as the series progresses, we see him mature. His journey is filled with challenges that force him to reflect on his values, his goals, and the kind of person he wants to be. This theme of growth resonates with viewers, especially those who have faced similar struggles in their own lives.

The Characters of It1ew0n Cl1ss

1. Park Sae-ro-yi (Played by Park Seo-joon)

The protagonist, Park Sae-ro-yi, is a strong-willed and determined character. After his father’s death, he spends years plotting his revenge, working tirelessly to build his business from scratch. Sae-ro-yi’s journey is one of resilience. He is a character that many people can relate to because of his unwavering sense of justice and his refusal to give up, no matter how tough things get.

2. Jo Yi-seo (Played by Kim Da-mi)

Jo Yi-seo is an intelligent, quirky character who becomes an essential part of Sae-ro-yi’s team. With her genius-level IQ and excellent business sense, she helps Sae-ro-yi’s bar, DanBam, grow. Yi-seo is also a complex character, dealing with her own feelings of loneliness and insecurity, which makes her role in the story even more compelling.

3. Jang Dae-hee (Played by Yoo Jae-myung)

Jang Dae-hee is the primary antagonist of the series. As the head of the Jangga Group, a powerful food conglomerate, he represents the corrupt and oppressive nature of the rich and powerful in society. His rivalry with Sae-ro-yi drives much of the conflict in the series.

4. Oh Soo-ah (Played by Kwon Nara)

Oh Soo-ah is Sae-ro-yi’s first love and a complicated character torn between her loyalty to Sae-ro-yi and her career at Jangga Group. Soo-ah’s inner conflict makes her a nuanced character who must constantly make difficult decisions.

Why It1ew0n Cl1ss Resonates with Global Audiences

1. Universal Themes

One of the reasons It1ew0n Cl1ss has become so popular globally is because of its universal themes. Issues like class inequality, the pursuit of justice, and personal growth are not confined to one culture or country. These are struggles that people all over the world face, making the story relatable to a wide audience.

2. Diverse Characters

The show’s diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique backstories, appeals to a global audience. From Sae-ro-yi’s relentless pursuit of justice to Yi-seo’s quirky and unconventional personality, there is a character that everyone can relate to.

3. Empowerment and Inspiration

The journey of Sae-ro-yi is one of empowerment. His determination to fight against the odds and take on a powerful conglomerate is inspiring to many viewers. The series sends a message of hope — that no matter how difficult the journey, success is possible with hard work, loyalty, and perseverance.

The Success of It1ew0n Cl1ss

It1ew0n Cl1ss has not only been a hit in South Korea but has gained a massive international following. The series was one of the most-watched dramas on Netflix in 2020, thanks to its gripping storyline, well-developed characters, and stunning visuals. The portrayal of real-world issues like discrimination, inequality, and social injustice struck a chord with viewers around the globe, cementing the show’s place in K-drama history.

Awards and Recognition

• It1ew0n Cl1ss was nominated for multiple awards at the prestigious Baeksang Arts Awards and won several accolades.
• Park Seo-joon’s performance as Park Sae-ro-yi was highly praised, earning him Best Actor nominations.
• The show’s OST (Original Soundtrack), particularly the song “Start Over” by Gaho, became a hit in its own right, further enhancing the series’ impact.

Critical Reception

Critics and fans alike have praised It1ew0n Cl1ss for its bold storytelling and its ability to tackle difficult subjects. The series does not shy away from discussing topics like discrimination, racism, and the struggle of the underprivileged, which makes it stand out from more conventional K-dramas.

Positive Aspects:

• Strong Character Development: The main and supporting characters all undergo significant growth throughout the series.
• Realistic Themes: The drama reflects real societal issues, making it relevant to modern audiences.
• Cinematography: The vibrant neighborhood of Itaewon is beautifully captured, adding to the show’s aesthetic appeal.

Areas of Criticism:

• Pacing Issues: Some viewers felt that the series dragged in certain areas, especially toward the middle.
• Unresolved Subplots: A few secondary character arcs were left unresolved, which led to some dissatisfaction among fans.

Lessons Learned from It1ew0n Cl1ss

While It1ew0n Cl1ss is a fictional story, it offers viewers several valuable life lessons.

1. Persistence Pays Off

Sae-ro-yi’s unwavering determination teaches us that persistence, even in the face of overwhelming obstacles, is the key to success. His journey shows that staying true to your principles and fighting for what’s right can lead to eventual victory.

2. The Importance of Friendship

The support Sae-ro-yi receives from his friends and colleagues is vital to his success. The series emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with people who believe in your vision and support you.

3. Growth Through Challenges

Every character in It1ew0n Cl1ss faces challenges that force them to grow. This reflects the reality that personal development often comes from overcoming hardships.

FAQs

Where can I watch It1ew0n Cl1ss?

You can watch It1ew0n Cl1ss on Netflix and other popular streaming platforms.

Is It1ew0n Cl1ss based on a true story?

No, It1ew0n Cl1ss is a work of fiction, although it deals with real-world themes like inequality and justice.

What genre is It1ew0n Cl1ss?

The show is a mix of drama, romance, and revenge, with strong social commentary.

How many episodes does It1ew0n Cl1ss have?

It1ew0n Cl1ss consists of 16 episodes.

What is the message of It1ew0n Cl1ss?

The main message of the show is about perseverance, justice, and personal growth. It also critiques societal structures that favor the rich and powerful.

Who are the main characters in It1ew0n Cl1ss?

The main characters are Park Sae-ro-yi, Jo Yi-seo, Jang Dae-hee, and Oh Soo-ah.

What makes It1ew0n Cl1ss different from other K-dramas?

Its strong social message, complex characters, and realistic portrayal of societal issues make It1ew0n Cl1ss stand out from more conventional K-dramas.

Conclusion

It1ew0n Cl1ss is more than just a typical K-drama. It’s a story of resilience, personal growth, and the fight for justice. Its popularity around the world is a testament to its universal appeal and the emotional depth it offers viewers. Whether you’re a fan of Korean dramas or new to the genre, It1ew0n Cl1ss is a must-watch for its powerful narrative and unforgettable characters.