Itaewon Class Review – Character Journey and Social Commentary in a Groundbreaking K-Drama
Itaewon Class' Explained: Character Journey & Social Commentary
Itaewon Class (2020) is one of the most powerful and socially conscious Korean dramas of recent years. Adapted from a popular webtoon, the series gained global recognition through Netflix for its inspiring story, diverse characters, and bold commentary on social issues. More than just a revenge or business drama, Itaewon Class became a cultural milestone that continues to influence conversations today.
Introduction: From Prison to Itaewon
The story begins with Park Sae-ro-yi (played by Park Seo-joon), a principled young man whose life is upended after a tragic incident with a powerful food conglomerate. Wrongly imprisoned, he vows to rebuild his life by opening a small bar-restaurant in Itaewon, Seoul’s most diverse district. What follows is a journey of resilience, friendship, and justice, where business success intertwines with personal growth.
1. Park Sae-ro-yi – The Relentless Dreamer
At the heart of Itaewon Class is Park Sae-ro-yi’s determination. Unlike typical K-drama protagonists, he is not wealthy or privileged. His greatest strength is his unshakable sense of justice and perseverance. Viewers admire him for staying true to his values even in the face of adversity. Sae-ro-yi’s journey from a prisoner to a successful entrepreneur is one of the most inspiring arcs in K-drama history.
2. Jo Yi-seo – The Fierce and Brilliant Partner
Jo Yi-seo (Kim Da-mi) is one of the most complex female leads in recent Korean dramas. Smart, outspoken, and unapologetically ambitious, Yi-seo joins Sae-ro-yi’s business and becomes a driving force behind DanBam’s success. Her boldness and modern outlook contrast with Sae-ro-yi’s quiet resilience, creating a dynamic partnership that resonates with viewers. Yi-seo also breaks stereotypes by showing that women can be both ruthless and deeply caring.
3. Antagonists and Their Symbolism
The Jangga Group, led by Jang Dae-hee and his arrogant son Jang Geun-won, represents the corrupt system that often crushes individuals like Sae-ro-yi. Their ruthless pursuit of power highlights issues of corporate greed, abuse of privilege, and inequality. By standing against them, Sae-ro-yi symbolizes ordinary people challenging unfair structures in society.
4. Social Diversity and Representation
Itaewon Class stands out for its inclusive cast and diverse characters rarely seen in K-dramas:
- Ma Hyun-yi – A transgender chef who faces discrimination but pursues her dreams fearlessly.
- Tony Kim – A character of mixed race who highlights Korea’s struggles with multicultural acceptance.
- Choi Seung-kwon – A former gangster who finds redemption through loyalty and hard work.
These characters broadened the scope of Korean television, sparking important conversations about identity, diversity, and acceptance.
5. Social Commentary That Resonates
Beneath its revenge-driven narrative, Itaewon Class shines as a critique of modern Korean society:
- Class Divide – The clash between the rich and the underprivileged is a central theme.
- Discrimination – From gender identity to race, the show highlights struggles marginalized groups face daily.
- Youth and Ambition – The drama celebrates young people who dare to challenge outdated systems and create change.
6. Themes of Resilience and Justice
Viewers connected deeply with the drama’s message: that perseverance and integrity can triumph over injustice. Sae-ro-yi’s refusal to compromise his principles, even when it slows his success, inspires audiences to value dignity over shortcuts.
7. Global Popularity and Cultural Impact
Through Netflix, Itaewon Class gained international acclaim, topping charts and receiving praise for its fresh storytelling. Its cultural impact extended beyond entertainment, inspiring discussions about equality, justice, and inclusivity worldwide. The series also contributed to the popularity of Itaewon as a tourist destination, blending fiction with real-world influence.
8. Life Lessons from Itaewon Class
The drama leaves viewers with several meaningful takeaways:
- Stay true to your values – Integrity is more powerful than shortcuts.
- Diversity matters – Inclusion strengthens communities and businesses.
- Resilience wins – Success often comes to those who persist against all odds.
- Justice is worth fighting for – Challenging corruption creates lasting change.
Conclusion: Why Itaewon Class Still Inspires
Itaewon Class is not just a business or revenge drama—it is a social statement. With its groundbreaking representation, powerful characters, and inspiring message, it continues to influence both Korean and international audiences. The journey of Park Sae-ro-yi and his team at DanBam reminds us that even in the face of overwhelming odds, perseverance, integrity, and solidarity can spark change.
What about you? Did Itaewon Class inspire you too? Share your thoughts and favorite moments in the comments below!