Since its release in 2020, Itaewon Class has cemented its place as a modern classic in the K-drama industry. Combining themes of revenge, entrepreneurship, and social justice, it captivated audiences worldwide. While many fans know the basic plot of Park Saeroyi’s rise to power, there are several behind-the-scenes details and cultural impacts that make this show truly unique. In this article, we dive into 13 fascinating facts that define the legacy of Itaewon Class.
1. Based on a Hit Webtoon Written by the Original Author
One of the primary reasons for the drama’s narrative consistency is that the original webtoon creator, Jo Gwang-jin, also wrote the screenplay for the television adaptation. This is relatively rare in the industry, as production companies often hire separate screenwriters. Jo Gwang-jin’s direct involvement ensured that the core message and the distinct personalities of characters like Park Saeroyi and Jo Yi-seo remained true to the source material.
2. Park Seo-joon’s High-Maintenance Haircut
Park Seo-joon’s iconic ‘chestnut’ haircut became a massive trend across Asia, but it was not easy to maintain. The actor revealed in interviews that he had to trim his hair every four days for six months to keep the sharp, short look required for the character of Park Saeroyi. Despite the effort, the hairstyle became a symbol of the character’s unwavering determination and rigid principles.
3. Groundbreaking Representation of Diversity
Itaewon Class is celebrated for tackling social issues often avoided in mainstream Korean media. It featured a prominent transgender character, Ma Hyeon-yi, played by Lee Joo-young, and a character of mixed heritage, Toni Kim, played by Chris Lyon. By addressing the discrimination faced by these individuals, the show sparked important conversations about inclusivity and modern Korean society.
Breaking the Transgender Taboo
The portrayal of Ma Hyeon-yi was particularly significant. Unlike many depictions of LGBTQ+ characters that serve as comic relief, Hyeon-yi’s arc was treated with dignity and strength. Her journey of self-acceptance and her eventual victory in the cooking competition served as a powerful metaphor for the show’s theme of overcoming prejudice.
Addressing Racial Identity
Through the character of Toni Kim, the drama explored the complexities of racial identity in a largely homogenous society. Toni’s search for his father and his struggle to be recognized as ‘Korean’ highlighted the legal and social hurdles faced by multi-racial individuals in South Korea, making the show relatable to a global audience.
4. The Real-Life Impact on Itaewon Tourism
The drama was filmed in the actual Itaewon district of Seoul, and it significantly boosted local tourism. Fans flocked to the real-life locations of the Danbam restaurant. While the first Danbam location was a converted space for filming, the second location, known as ‘Oriole,’ is a rooftop bar owned by singer Jung Yeop. These spots remain popular pilgrimage sites for K-drama enthusiasts today.
5. Kim Da-mi’s Transition from Film to TV
Before starring as the sociopathic genius Jo Yi-seo, Kim Da-mi was primarily known for her powerhouse performance in the film ‘The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion.’ Itaewon Class marked her first-ever television role. Her unique charm and unconventional beauty redefined what a ‘leading lady’ looks like in the K-drama world, earning her the Best New Actress award at the 56th Baeksang Arts Awards.
6. A Record-Breaking Soundtrack
The OST for Itaewon Class was just as successful as the drama itself. Gaho’s ‘Start Over’ became an anthem for youth and perseverance, topping the Gaon Digital Chart for weeks. The song’s energetic vibe perfectly captured the spirit of Park Saeroyi’s fight against the Jangga Group, making it one of the most recognizable K-drama themes of all time.
BTS V’s ‘Sweet Night’
Another major highlight was the song ‘Sweet Night’ by V of BTS. As a close friend of Park Seo-joon, V produced and sang this acoustic ballad specifically for the drama. The track broke numerous international records, topping iTunes charts in over 118 countries, further cementing the drama’s global reach through the ‘Hallyu’ wave.
7. The Villain’s Physical Transformation
Actor Yoo Jae-myung, who played the formidable Chairman Jang Dae-hee, underwent a significant physical transformation. To portray a man who ages over a span of 15 years, he spent hours in the makeup chair each day to apply prosthetic wrinkles and grey hair. His chilling performance created one of the most memorable and hated villains in recent K-drama history.
8. Lessons in Modern Entrepreneurship
Unlike typical revenge dramas that rely on violence, Itaewon Class focuses on strategic business growth. The show highlights the importance of brand identity, social media marketing, and most importantly, investing in people. Saeroyi’s philosophy that ‘business is about people’ served as an inspiring lesson for young entrepreneurs watching the show.
9. Influence on Streetwear Fashion
The fashion in Itaewon Class deviated from the usual high-end luxury brands seen in dramas like ‘Crash Landing on You.’ Instead, it popularized Korean streetwear. Park Saeroyi’s oversized hoodies, bomber jackets, and combat boots, combined with Jo Yi-seo’s leather jackets and dyed hair, influenced youth fashion trends throughout 2020.
10. The 15-Year Revenge Timeline
The narrative of Itaewon Class spans 15 years, showing the long-term dedication required for Saeroyi to achieve his goals. This slow-burn approach allowed for deep character development, showing how the protagonists grew from rebellious teenagers into industry leaders, which resonated with viewers who value patience and hard work.
11. Park Bo-gum’s Surprising Cameo
The final episode featured a surprise cameo by superstar Park Bo-gum. He appeared as a chef auditioning for Oh Soo-ah’s new restaurant. His brief appearance trended worldwide on social media, providing a lighthearted and hopeful conclusion to the series after the intense corporate warfare of previous episodes.
12. The Japanese Remake: Roppongi Class
The success of Itaewon Class was so immense that it led to a Japanese remake titled ‘Roppongi Class.’ Starring Takeuchi Ryoma, the remake adapted the story to fit the Japanese business landscape while maintaining the iconic haircut and the core themes of the original, proving that the story’s appeal transcends borders.
13. A Global Hit on Netflix
While it aired on the cable network JTBC in Korea, its distribution on Netflix was the catalyst for its international fame. It consistently ranked in the Top 10 lists in various countries, including Japan, the Philippines, and Brazil. The show’s universal themes of ‘underdog vs. conglomerate’ made it a hit even for those who were not regular K-drama viewers.
The Legacy of Park Saeroyi
Park Saeroyi remains one of the most respected characters in television. His refusal to compromise his values, even in the face of extreme poverty and injustice, has made him a role model. The ‘Itaewon Class’ spirit continues to inspire fans to ‘start over’ no matter how many times they fail.
In conclusion, Itaewon Class is more than just a revenge story; it is a cultural touchstone that pushed the boundaries of what K-dramas can achieve. From its diverse cast to its focus on business ethics and its chart-topping music, it remains a must-watch for anyone looking for a story with substance and heart.
