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Looking for Your Next Korean Drama on Netflix? 'Itaewon Class' Checks All of the Boxes

If you're fairly new to the world of Korean dramas or you're looking for something to fill the Crash Landing sized hole in your heart, allow us to give you a recommendation: Itaewon Class.

Starring Park Seo Joon, whom you might recognize from Parasite (he was the handsome friend who gave the Kim family the giant rock), this 16-episode series packs in everything you want from a K-drama and then some. There's a revenge plot, a love triangle, a peek into Seoul nightlife and even a swoon-worthy track sung by one of the members of BTS.

itaewon class park seo joon and kim da mi
Netflix

1. What Is 'itaewon Class’ About?

The show’s official synopsis reads: "In a colorful Seoul neighborhood, an ex-con and his friends fight a mighty foe to make their ambitious dreams for their street bar a reality."

I've got to say, that's a pretty accurate way to sum up the show in one sentence so kudos to whoever wrote that description. But if you're looking for a hair more detail before you commit the next 72 hours of your life to a show, I'd add that this is a coming of age story that gives you the sense of hope and escapism you might be looking for one year into the pandemic.

Led by Park Saeroyi, who is the series protagonist, you can't help but feel invested in his triumphs and tragedies while watching. Dude can't seem to catch a break as he faces one setback after another in his pursuit of becoming a successful businessman and, oh yeah, avenging his father's death. Yet, even in desperation, Park somehow pushes forward without ever compromising his morals.

Buoyed by the support of his newfound friends, which include Jo Yi Seo, a brilliant social media star with sociopathic tendencies, a fellow ex-convict looking for a second chance, a transgendered chef who is coming into her identity and a Guinean-Korean in search of his father, you will cheer the group on as they navigate their way through the ups and downs of their twenties together.

itaewon class category
Netflix

2. Who's In It?

Aside from Park, the series also stars Kim Da Mi (The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion), Yoo Jae Myung (Reply 1988), Kwon Nara (Doctor Prisoner), Ahn Bo Hyun (Kairos), Kim Dong Hee (Extracurricular), Ryoo Kyung-Soo (Confession), Lee Joo-Young (Something in the Rain), Chris Lyon (Miss & Mrs. Cops) and Kim Hye-Eun (Doctor John).

3. Is There A Trailer?

Yes, watch it now and then give yourself the next few days to escape to the vibrant streets of Itaewon with us.

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Jenny Jin Headshot Vertical 2023

Beauty Director

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