Itaewon Class (2020) User Reviews

Unexpectedly Fantastic Story of Revenge

[fake_moviestar · 9/10 · 4 August 2020]

I'm really surprised by how divisive this show seems to be - based on the reviews it looks like people either hated it or loved it. I fell into the love it category (obviously). Interesting characters and a revenge plot line were the heart of this show, with a subplot of romance that people also either loved or hated. I understand that people don't want to waste their time on a show they won't like, so I would probably advise "on-the-fence" viewers that if you don't like Yi-Seo's character from the get-go (I personally loved her), I feel like you won't like this show (based on the other reviews I feel that her character is the perfect benchmark to determine whether or not to keep watching).

A small detail that I really loved and just have to point out was the symbolic use of hairstyles in this show. Also this is hella progressive for a KDrama - I loved how they brought up big issues like racism and trans-phobia. It was refreshing since most KDrama's definitely feel like they can be stuck in that awkward 90's phase of mentioning progressive issues in a way that is funny-offensive (think Friends).

Itaewon Class was such a great binge-watch, you can't help but want to know how it all turns out, and it has so many "yell at the screen moments" that make it truly enjoyable to watch. I did think that towards the end, the choices of some characters felt a bit melodramatic, but this didn't take away from my enjoyment at all. Definitely worth a watch!

every episode exceeds expectations

[backnblack-06123 · 9/10 · 19 February 2020]

Finished with the 6 available episodes and have to say this one is different than any KD I've seen, at first it got my attention and was interesting figured it would fad out somewhat like most but it builds with every show not that predictable plenty of surprises some good humor but not a romcom.Its a 10 so far nothing more i can as for a KD,give it at least 4 episodes and the claws come out after that men and women. Through episode 11 now and nobody can screw up a great series and a good mood like Korean writers, come on people cruel behavior from your main character isn't how you grow a audience and i see for the first time this last show had a lower rating then the previous one. Just finished it they actually nailed the final episode so ill say this is a great series and you should watch it.good job

Biggest disappointment of all time in Kdrama History (?)

[go_geta_ · 8/10 · 22 March 2020]

The series started with great character introduction and it continued for the next episodes. The Acting, Writing, Most importantly the OST was brilliant for this drama till Ep.12 and Then The writers decided to pull Game of thrones. The Ending was so bad that I cursed myself for liking this drama. Most cringe things happen from time to time you will start hating the drama. So, I guess this deserves all the hype and positive reviews for the first 12 eps and the writers made a fool out of the viewers by giving one of the worst endings.

Excellent!!

[safnitros · 10/10 · 22 May 2020]

A very heart rendering drama that grows on you. Park saroyis character deserves appreciation.

A must watch inspirational life changing kdrama

[sachanparikrama · 10/10 · 5 June 2020]

It made me think how I want to live my life Character arcs were amazing Park seroyi- his will and determination to not to be defined my his past or others Jo yi seo- her confidence that's he can have both love and success and then putting in the work and patience for it Oh soo ah- kinda like Snape in Harry Potter, I didn't liked her but last episode explained everything Jang geun won- a villan, a victim who again chose to be the villian Jang geun soo- a teenage boy without guidance One other great thing was this drama won't feel you wondering what happened to that guy .. they gave proper ending to each character and relationship Haters might be saying they don't get the shift of love story or decisions by geun won but I would like to point out the effect of time (years) on characters Bonus point is it's great ost .. especially sweet night by V hits home.

Top class acting and script writing.

[petermarendy · 10/10 · 8 February 2020]

This k-drama is gripping and touching. The performances of the four lead actors are excellent. Park Seo-Joon is magnetic and he effortlessly expresses a wide-array of emotions. Kim Da-Mi is totally convincing in her role. Highly recommended.

MY FIRST REVIEW

[moncadaaudreymae · 10/10 · 24 May 2020]

I've watched thousands of K-drama since I was a kid. This K-drama is phenomenal, I don't think I've seen so many GREAT actors in one show. Their emotions and rationality, the message, everything was perfect. Describing how amazing this show was is ineffable. This is unlike any K-drama with whirlpool of misunderstandings-this touches reality. Many messages and significance with Korean culture was depicted as well! Try it for yourself.

Korean Values and Work Ethic

[admichalk · 8/10 · 29 February 2020]

We have two hardworking business men at the focal point of this story. One of wholesome culture and the other of brutality on the way to the top.

The overarching theme is great. However, I would like to say the main male character could have a little more depth. Yes, I understand his personality is written to be stoic but at some points he, for lack of a better description, seems autistic. This is fine of course, just weird as his character is sculpted to pure but his non-verbal dialogue is sometimes just 'off'.

Awesome awsome awsome

[wallettface · 9/10 · 1 March 2020]

Korean. Drama at its best So good I am addicted And I am a kiwi

promising plot ruined by annoying character and boring love story

[poinla37 · 6/10 · 30 March 2020]

The first two episodes were really great, then, I stopped watching after episode 13. The story lost its focus and I just couldn't stand Yi Seo anymore, she's so childish, selfish, and disrespectul compared to the high morale of Saeyori... Also, harassing and assaulting during sleep is not OK at all!!

best KD ever.

[elsamirre · 10/10 · 2 April 2022]

I know a lot of people felt let down after a few episodes. I'm not one of them. I've been watching KD for a year now, non stop, and this show is the one that ousts them all out of my heart (almost all of them).

I kept avoiding it because (not proud of this) Park Seo Joon looked unbearably unattractive to me (that was before Hwarang ) and the trailers were poorly chosen. But from the moment I started, there wasn't an episode without me pausing to think, gosh this is good!

Yeah, this story has been told many times before. Not usually my taste, by the way. And yet I liked every single bit of it. Every character, every villain, every move, every reaction, let alone, the acting, scenery, pace (except for the last episode: admitedly, that one was dragged out beyond my tolerance).

PSJ is incredibly versatile in this role. And he manages to be handsome with that awful haircut. Even Park Bo Gum (cameo) couldn't catch my eye.

The love story was boring? Although I thought it impossible, I swear I spent nights thinking of alternative endings were Seoroyi would chose Yi-Seo at some point. Like a fool, I begged with hands and knees for them to end up togheter. Was my wish granted?

Of course, there was the whole gay-transgender-black thing, that will make you throw up after watching so many western shows. You'd think they just forgot to add a disabled person. But this is Korea, man! They dare show a black guy, a Korean black guy at that! There were scenes with people touching him, holding his hands, hugging him!! This does not happen in KD land! This is just not done! Racism isn't even considered an issue in Korea because most people don't understand what's wrong with judging people over skin color.

In "Fight For My Way", same PSJ basically says there is no difference between an island natives and monkeys!

I finished this just a few minutes ago, so I'm still experiencing the excitement of the aftermath. Maybe ten stars isn't my final rating. Still. This show is one of the best ever.

Good Enough

[PennyReviews · 6/10 · 22 March 2020]

" Itaewon Class " had a strong start but it didn't keep up with the momentum.

The main problem with the drama was the pace. The skipping forward years in the future prevented the characters from having any character development and it just didn't help the romance at all. Especially the 14th episode was just bad, as it felt like they were trying to present the current situation of the characters in a fast and furious way, editing scene after scene and just blurting out that the main character now loves this girl, out of the blue, but that's that. No explanation was provided for their actions, no background and those four years in the future seemed like they four empty years (I mean even the flashbacks that the male lead was experiencing were from four years ago or of the same day, like nothing happened in those four years). Another factor that didn't really help with the love story was that the couple didn't have chemistry. They didn't have any solid heart-racing moment either. So, them getting together was just too random and forceful.

Finally, the characters remained the same as they were presented at the beginning of the drama. We knew the bad guys were bad and that didn't really change, although, the son did have some potential to demonstrate why he was the monster he turned out to be, a potential that was never really properly explored. The big boss and enemy of the male lead felt also more like a promise of a bad character after all. He sure was mean to the main character and seriously unlikable, but, in the end, his actions were left in the behind the scenes grey area. The main character, in addition, showed zero development. He even got a bit boring after a while and felt a bit too bland in others.

Now, for the good part of the drama. The beginning was just perfect. If you like melodrama, like I do, where the main character hits bottom and gets unfairly treated in order to stand up to his own two feet again and take matters into his own hands, then you are going to love the first half of the drama. The revenge plot was very satisfying as well, with a solid ending that was nicely presented. Though, it would have been nice if they showed how they actually managed to succeed, as the first part of the drama had focused on the struggles of them setting off. Another part of the drama that was pretty good was the characters. The members of the crew were unique and the drama didn't shy off from issues like racism and gender identity. So, it was refreshing to see those elements added in the plot. The female leads were delightful too. They were strong women, the one beautiful but a tragic character, and the other young, fearless, reckless and somehow, likable. Sure, she did some questionable things, but she was young and just too full of herself, so it was nice to see how the others helped her realize that her attitude wasn't always right and to grow up. I've also seen some other viewers not really liking her looks. Sure, she isn't the classic beauty, but, for her character, who was cool and interesting, I think she was just perfect. Finally, the OST was solid.

So, overall, six out of ten.

Disastrous ending ruined the whole show..

[noosrattasneem · 4/10 · 1 April 2020]

Itaewon Class had a wonderful beginning, first two episodes were treat for the audiences. And it held for a pretty long time; until episode 10 it still had it's appeal. After that the plot started to become frustrating, the main character(Park Sae-ro-yi) started to lose his charm, actually no real emotion was portrayed through him. The vengeance concept was never questioned and it started to become stressful to watch. The romance went the worst way possible. There is really no justification for this. That four years leap made the plot a mess, so, after episode 13 it became just unwatchable.

Performance of the artists were great. Kim Da Mi had a powerful character(Jo Yi-seo), which if not likable was very refreshing...but became dull and annoying as the story progressed. Park Seo-joon did great, just like the plot he was wonderful at the beginning, heart rending acting but his character never really got past the revenge arch, was particularly inept in the romance part. And I don't think that's the actor's fault, the plot was very weak. Now, very few reviews appreciated Kwon Nara's(Oh Soo-ah) performance, but I found her amazing. Till episode 13, though the plot really didn't let her flourish, she was outstanding. All those complicated emotions was perfectly expressed by her...there was no way to bypass her and bring the other romantic counter part to be the final love. But that's what happened and ruined the whole tension that was built through the previous episodes. There was more chemistry between her and the main character than Kim Da Mi and him.

Ending was really messy, villains lost their charisma, Kim Dong-hee's character(Jang Geun-soo) didn't receive any understandable closure and the final revenge and happy ending was totally shallow and out of the blue, not convincing at all. Kwon Nara's character was totally ignored where she had amazing potential and Park Sae Joon's character was totally lost by the end.

But for the first 11 episodes it deserves applause, the views of Itaewon was eye catching at times and the music brilliant.

It was that unbelievable wrecking ending which just ruined the amazing show that it could become.

It's worth a watch, for a k-drama

[nenufairy · 8/10 · 12 May 2021]

I enjoyed this series quite a lot. I don't usually like k-dramas because the romance is extremely slow-burn and the drama is too over the top, like in telenovelas. What's different with this one is that the focus is not on the romance. It has a captivating story that will keep you wanting to see it through to the end.

Sadly, some characters are very annoying and the events get a little too ridiculous in some of the last episodes, which almost made me lose interest... but, trust me, it's worth watching till the end just because the main conflict's resolution is very satisfying. It will not disappoint.

As for the main cast, Park Sae Ro Yi comes off as strong and inspiring whenever he's in an important scene; the rest of the time, he could be replaced for a wooden plank and we wouldn't notice. Oh Soo Ah's motivations and feelings are confusing and Yi Seo can be really annoying at times. It looked like they tried to make us feel some empathy for Geun Won and I thought he would receive some character depth, but they completely ruin it in the end. All of my praise goes to Yoo Jae-Myung who made a great job as Jang Dae Hee, the main villain; ruthless and dignified but with clear motivations and foreseeable weaknesses. Without him, the series would have probably been a flop.

I dropped a couple points because of the problems mentioned above, but the series has just enough jaw-dropping moments to make up for it and make it watchable. Plus, the OST was the best part of it. Ha Hyun Woo's voice is amazing, and his theme "Diamond/Stone Block" along with Gaho's "Start Over" are definitely going into my playlist. Worth a watch even if you don't like K-drama.

Yay for a strong and gutsy female lead!

[sonia-95111 · 10/10 · 2 November 2020]

I had to add my review after I read a few awfully negative reviews of #ItaewonClass I decided to watch this show because I liked PSJ in What is a Wrong With Secretary Kim and I'm thrilled I did!! He was awesome in this series! He is a great actor! I loved the themes on this series, and most of all, the gutsy performance of Kim Da Mi. Her Yi-Seo is epic. She shines!! Finally! A woman who saves the day!!!! This is a great show! Watch it! And don't get distracted by those who think otherwise!!!

Beautiful Series

[vishnukhowal-32941 · 10/10 · 11 February 2020]

Fantastic acting...beautiful screenplay.. just wow..

Excellent Kdrama

[gautamkumarvfx · 10/10 · 1 February 2020]

The first 2 episodes gave me chills. Beautiful direction with a strong script and cast uptil now.

Great show, but...

[DieFuechsin · 8/10 · 19 May 2020]

I was disappointed by the love story. Other than that really a brilliant show with great characters, amazing acting skills and a very entertaining storyline!

So Good

[IPyaarCinema · 8/10 · 20 October 2021]

Review By Kamal K

Itaewon Class was an emotional ride with an especially promising start. Just after the first two episodes, I felt immensely attached to the main character, Park Saeroyi, and was looking forward to following him on his journey. Throughout the 16 episodes, I definitely learned a lot from his hardwork and values. Park Seo Joon did a phenomenal job with his character and left me in absolute awe. Whether it may be understanding the beauty of life or being reminded the importance of hardwork; I was thankful to be able to get to know and learn from Park Saeroyi.

However, apart from Park Saeroyi, I did have a few complaints for the other characters. Some characters were especially annoying, and lacked development. I did like that the drama showcased imperfect characters, but it also sometimes excused the ignorant behaviour of these characters - almost making it seem that such behaviour was appropriate to viewers. Some characters were especially inconsistent, and just seemed random. This switch was really annoying to see because it didn't make sense. I think these characters had a lot of potential to really compliment the story, but the writer just changed them randomly in order to make Park Saeroyi look good. I wish the side characters had contributed a little more to the overall plot but unfortunately we were unable to see that as viewers.

I was disappointed with the last two episodes as I felt that there were unnecessary additions to the plot. However, the ending was still quite nice and most questions were answered.

The OSTs were beautiful, and I know I will play them countless times in the future!

Overall, this was definitely a meaningful and enjoyable watch.

Don't really get the hype

[boombim_vintage · 6/10 · 29 March 2020]

The show starts very strong. Then after 7 or 8 episodes I lost my interest. Why? Story drags on and on. You can skip and skip and still knows what is going on. Cliche and predictable plots. And I kinda expect more story on how the protagonist develops his business (my fault). Turn out they are more focus on his revenge, and the business parts are lost in those skipped years. Lastly, cheesy romance.

One of the most substance rich Kdrama..it is good

[jeanys · 10/10 · 12 May 2022]

A lot of kdrama...has drama just for the sake of it. This one is different..it real..believable..incredible performance..actors look great...not a lot of fluff. So the best revenge is massive success.

Bravo job well done.

Can't stop watching in the beginning and fast forward near the end

[ks-60500 · 7/10 · 3 April 2020]

You have Principle? Please watch this if you believe u are one of the kind. You must echo this drama definitely. The romance line is also charming In this drama but the revenge part is the core. Sadly the ending not good enough and too many flash back to make story longer. The first 9 ep I rate 9 but last 7 drag to 5 only. But the concept of a principle young man just make me feel who will do this in reality... probably none. Interesting to watch at the beginning.

DISAPPOINTED

[redaestheticplanet · 3/10 · 1 April 2020]

The drama starts really amazingly but toward the end, i just passed the scenes and i was still able to predict anything. to sum up: great start boring end

From Beginning to the Ending Best K-Drama and Heart Wrenching

[PalmBeachG · 10/10 · 4 April 2022]

On Netflix, Itaewon Class, was the best K-Drama I have seen from the beginning to the ending. Park Seo-joon is an amazing actor who played the lead Park Sae-ro-yi and no other actor would have been able to portray him as well in my opinion. He is emotionless, stern, unwavering in seeking revenge, determined, smart, defending, a risk taker, a bit of a fool, understanding, caring and loving all in one character. You have to admire him for his good work. The series itself is captivating every single episode. The story and character also addresses a couple of social issues and whether you agree in them or not, it is a wonderful all around series. #ItaewonClass #K-Drama.

Really really good Kdrama

[jcwins · 10/10 · 16 February 2020]

Watched six episodes so far and it is very intense! The acting is top notch by ALL of the actors and actresses. Get on Netflix sit down for a bit and watch some episodes its seriously worth your time!