Korean Drama “Hierarchy S01" review

There's trouble at the top high school in South Korea! Rich kids with perfect lives are hiding dark secrets, and they'll do anything to keep them that way. But a new scholarship student isn't afraid to dig. He's on a mission to expose the truth behind the school's fancy facade and show everyone what's really going on. This exciting mystery with a touch of romance is brought to you by the director of "Alchemy of Souls: Light and Shadow" and the writer of "About Time.

In Seoul's most prestigious high school Joshin, where wealth dictates hierarchy, a scholarship student disrupts the status, igniting a battle between privilege and ambition. Season 1 of Hierarchy exposes the dark side of Korean society's obsession with class, leaving viewers questioning the true cost of success.

Hierarchy takes place at Joshin High school reserved for Korea's elite family students. Here, students are not defined by grades but by family wealth. Wealthy elites, admitted solely based on family connections and scholarship students in school must fight tooth and nail for every opportunity. Bullying and manipulation are rampant, making life a constant struggle for the underprivileged scholarship students. This divide breeds resentment and fuels a cycle of betrayal, where even seemingly close friendships can crumble under the pressure of competition and the allure of power.

Kang Ha, a brilliant scholarship student with a mysterious past. His arrival disrupts the established order. Fueled by a hidden agenda, Kang Ha seeks not only academic success but also justice for his older brother, a former scholarship student who died under suspicious circumstances at Joshin. His quest for answers leads him to clash with Kim Ri-an, the successor to Joshin group, and also develops a blossom relationship with Jae-hi, daughter of Jael group owner even she loves Kim-Rian from his childhood.

As Kang Ha navigates the treacherous social landscape, he develops an unlikely connection with Han Seo-yeon, a bright and determined scholarship student. Together, they form a powerful alliance, determined to expose the corruption at Joshin and fight for a more just system.

Kanga Ha, played by the captivating Lee Chae-min, is the heart of the series. He embodies the struggle of the underclass, fighting for a chance to succeed in a system stacked against him, struggling to find person’s strain on his brother’s death and also expressing his charming care for Jae-Hi.

Kim-Rian , portrayed by rising star Kim Jae won, represents the entitled elite. He is initially arrogant and cruel, but also express his adamant care for Jae-hi. Jae-Hi, portrayed by Roh Jeong Eui is queen of the series who struggles with her feeling, between having utmost care for Kim-Rian and unexposed loving feelings towards Kang Ha.

Hierarchy's visuals are sleek and stylish, perfectly capturing the opulence of Joshin High school. The contrast between the school's luxurious facilities and the desperation of some students is masterfully portrayed. Hierarchy is more than just a thrilling drama; it's a social commentary. The series tackles the complex issue of class inequality in Korea, exposing the corrosive effects of wealth on society.

By the end of Season 1, Kang Ha journey remains unfinished. However, his unwavering spirit inspires viewers to believe that change is possible, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Hierarchy leaves a lasting impression, reminding us that the fight for equality is a universal one, one worth fighting in every society.

Overall, Hierarchy Season 1 is a compelling drama that offers much more than just entertainment. It's a social commentary disguised as a thrilling narrative, leaving viewers with plenty to ponder long after the Season S01 ends. Hoping creators would delivers answers to open leads in season S02.