New season will focus on Si-eun growing up and 'reconciling' with the world as a young adult
Adapted from the hit webtoon of the same name, "Weak Hero" -- the series that gripped global audiences with its raw portrayal of teenage psychology -- is set to return with a highly anticipated second season, "Weak Hero Class 2." This time, the story will unfold on Netflix, rather than Wavve, which aired the first season.
"Weak Hero Class 2" picks up with Si-eun, still reeling from the trauma of failing to protect a close friend. Now transferred to a new school, he finds himself surrounded by new faces who begin to help mend his broken life.
Returning to lead the cast is Park Ji-hoon as Si-eun, joined by newcomers Ryeoun and Choi Min-yeong. The upcoming season will delve into Si-eun’s emotional evolution from a wounded teenager to a young adult grappling with personal growth.
“If Season 1 was about the pain of growing up, then the season that follows explores the process of how one becomes an adult. In the end, the keyword that came to mind was reconciliation. I felt that as we grow into adulthood, reconciliation -- with ourselves and with the world -- becomes necessary,” said director Yoo Soo-min during a press conference held Monday in Mapo-gu, Seoul.
Park, reprising his role as the protagonist, reflected on his performance in the new chapter. “I made an effort to show a more desperate look in my eyes, something different from before. I hope viewers look forward to what new friends he’ll make and who he’ll have to confront this time.”
Co-creator Han Joon-hee, who developed the series alongside Yoo, emphasized a thematic shift in the new season.
“Before, I didn't make 'Weak Hero' with a deliberate social message or implication in mind, but this time, I wanted to weave it in naturally. ‘Weak Hero Class 2’ is, I believe, a story about friendship. It’s a very universal word, and there’s a moment when Si-eun says, ‘It’s nice to have a friend,’ and the look on his face really resonates (with the audience)."
"As the first viewer of the work myself, I also felt it was a story that brings thoughts of friendship to mind,” Han added.
Produced as a Wavve original, "Weak Hero Class 1" earned widespread acclaim, prompting Netflix to step in as the new production home for Season 2, reportedly due to Wavve’s limited budget.
On the move to Netflix, Yoo remarked, “Season 2 was made thanks to the love received by Season 1. Rather than focusing on changes in the production environment, we concentrated more on Si-eun’s story as he enters a new and unfamiliar setting. I didn’t really feel a significant difference in the production environment. The fact that Season 1 was so well-loved still feels a bit surreal to me.”
"Weak Hero Class 2" is slated to premiere Friday on Netflix.
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