This show has changed my perspective on life. Never have I watched a show and felt truly changed after watching it, but Itaewon Class achieved that for me. Yes, this story is about revenge, but it's more than that, it's a story about a guy who has a goal and believes in it so strongly, that he will do anything in his power to achieve it. And while this premise is expected of a revenge tale, he works toward his goal by creating strong bonds of trust, friendship, reliability, and a sprinkle of stubbornness.

He is able to build and care for a community of friends who gather around him and support him because he returns the same care and consideration to them. He aspires for them to be better while also trusting their competence to improve. He recognizes a value in people who would otherwise be outcasted. And in that recognition, he is set so far apart from character leads in other K Dramas, and in TV in general.

He not once deviates from his ideals, values, and core essence. He, as a character is written to be very strong and focused. And Park Seo-Joon's portrayal is powerful, emotional, and real. He even inspires me to want to believe in him. I've watched so many revenge plot shows and I have never wanted a character to win as badly as I wanted him to. You can clearly tell he is a genuine character who deserves the validation of overcoming an enemy who did nothing but attempt to destroy his life. The pain he endured repeatedly was layered throughout and built up to a satisfying turning point for Sae-ro-yi in the 15th episode. The portrayal of Park Sae-ro-yi was heartfelt, emotional, and quite inspiring. That he was willing to study his opponent's success, compliment his rival's competency, and even show respect under fire...Park Sae-ro-yi is a world-class character with a heart of gold.

Jo Yi-Seo is another character who captured my heart. She stood for Sae-ro-yi from the moment she liked him and became such a great advocate for the ML and the people he loved. I loved her growth, her change from being a rude sociopath to a rude, but lovable manager. Her strength is in the love that she allows to completely change her and inspire her to improve the world around her. Her world, being DanBum pub, with Sae-ro-yi and the rest. She's an unforgettable character.

The cast works very together, great chemistry all around. The acting was convincing as well. I often found myself stressed, worried about what would happen next!

This is my first review I've left, but this show moved me so much, I needed to write this. I want to see more kdramas follow in their footsteps. .