The gripping finale of "Weak Hero Class 1" left audiences with lingering questions and a heavy heart as the complex web of friendships and violence unraveled. The series, which debuted on Netflix on March 25, 2025, follows the life of Yeon Shi-eun, a top student who confronts bullying and violence alongside his friends, Ahn Soo-ho and Oh Beom-seok.
In the dramatic conclusion, Shi-eun confronts Beom-seok, asking him, "Why did he hit Ahn Soo-ho so hard on the head that he went into a coma?" This pivotal moment underscores the emotional turmoil and the cycle of violence that permeates their lives. Beom-seok, portrayed by Hong Kyung, struggles to articulate his actions, revealing the deep-seated pain inflicted by his adoptive father, Assemblyman Oh Jin-won, who had physically abused him and treated him poorly.
Throughout the series, viewers witness the tragic transformation of Beom-seok, who, after being bullied at school and neglected by his father, becomes a perpetrator of violence himself. Jin-won’s intention to send Beom-seok to the Philippines for education only highlights his disinterest in his son’s well-being. Instead of nurturing his son, Jin-won’s actions foster resentment and rage within Beom-seok, leading to the catastrophic events that unfold.
Shi-eun's own struggles mirror Beom-seok's, as he faces bullying from Jeon Young-bin, who attempts to intimidate him at school. However, Shi-eun finds solace in the camaraderie he shares with Soo-ho and Beom-seok, which is shattered when Beom-seok's jealousy over Young Yi, a new member of their group, drives a wedge between them. This jealousy culminates in violence, with Beom-seok’s actions resulting in Soo-ho's hospitalization.
In the finale, Shi-eun grapples with the aftermath of Beom-seok’s actions. He decides to take revenge on those who harmed Soo-ho but chooses to spare Beom-seok, understanding that violence begets violence. Shi-eun's decision reflects his desire to break the cycle of aggression, even as he is engulfed in his own pain and guilt for not being able to prevent the tragedy.
As Beom-seok leaves to study abroad, he blames Young Yi for Soo-ho’s condition, further illustrating his inability to confront his own issues. Shi-eun, feeling the weight of his friend’s actions, visits Soo-ho in the hospital, where he imagines conversations with his comatose friend, expressing regret for not being there when it mattered most.
The series does not shy away from the harsh realities of bullying and the impact it has on young lives. With Shi-eun now transferred to Eunjang High School in Yeongdeungpo, he faces a new wave of bullying, indicating that the cycle of violence may continue. On his first day, he encounters a new bully, Kang Woo-yeong, who attempts to assert dominance over him. The dynamic between the characters reflects a broader commentary on societal hierarchies and the perpetuation of violence among youth.
Despite the challenges, Shi-eun's character embodies resilience. He stands firm against the bullying, suggesting that he will not be easily crushed. However, the consequences of his actions, including a violent confrontation with Woo-yeong, hint at further complications in the upcoming season.
As the series gains traction on Netflix, it has quickly climbed the charts, ranking third globally in the Netflix TV show category with 589 points as of March 26, 2025, according to FlixPatrol. The show has resonated with audiences in various countries, including topping the charts in Thailand and Malaysia, and ranking well in several others, including Korea, the Philippines, and Brazil.
Fans eagerly anticipate the release of "Weak Hero Class 2," scheduled for April 2025, as they hope to see how Shi-eun navigates the complexities of friendship, violence, and personal growth in a new environment. The series, originally released on the OTT platform Wavve in 2022, has revitalized interest and sparked discussions about its themes of bullying and the impact of violence on youth.
As the narrative unfolds, viewers are left to ponder: will Shi-eun be able to escape the cycle of violence, or will he become ensnared in it once more? The mid-credits scene hints at new challenges ahead, with Woo-yeong being a candidate for the mysterious "Association," suggesting that Shi-eun may face an even greater threat in the future.
In conclusion, "Weak Hero Class 1" not only captivates with its intense storytelling and character development but also serves as a poignant reflection on the issues of bullying and the quest for identity amidst adversity. As audiences look forward to the next chapter, the hope remains that Shi-eun and his friends will find a way to break free from the shadows of their past and forge a brighter future.
