The Rise of ‘ONE: High School Heroes’ and Yoo Hee-jae’s Intense Performance
A closer look at the webtoon-based drama and its star-studded cast.
Introduction
In a world overwhelmed with high-energy school dramas, ONE: High School Heroes stands out not just for its brisk storytelling but also for its compelling characters. Based on the wildly popular webtoon ONE, this Wave original drama has captured audiences with over 65 million views. This phenomenal number is just the tip of the iceberg as the gripping portrayal of school life resonates deeply with its viewers.
Plot Overview
Leading the pack are the characters Lee Ki-yom (played by Lee Jung-ha), a top student oppressed by his father, and Yoon Ki (played by Kim To-wan), who sees potential in Ki-yom’s innate fighting prowess. Together, they don their masks as ‘High School Heroes’, challenging the toxic hierarchy of school bullies. The action sequences are both cathartic and rapid, amplifying viewer engagement and propelling the series to become the top driver for new Wave subscriptions and the second most-watched show in its category as of June 1st.
Yoo Hee-jae’s Striking Entrance
As the series progresses, Yoo Hee-jae makes a powerful entry in episode six as Choi Ki-soo, a character that sent chills down viewers’ spines. Yoo’s portrayal of Ki-soo, a ruthless brawler, involved unsettling scenes where his character, instead of helping a bullied student, hands them a sharp object. This manipulation introduces a complexity to his villain role, proving how intoxicating his character can be.
The Climactic Confrontation
The tension escalates as Ki-soo seeks revenge against Ki-yom and Yoon Ki for a fallen comrade. A pivotal sequence unfolds in the school’s music room, where a confrontation with a student named Seung-sik (Shin Jun-seop) ends brutally. Ki-soo’s subsequent interaction with Yoon Ki and curiosity over Ki-yom’s combat skills sets the stage for riveting clashes ahead.
Yoo Hee-jae’s Masterful Performance
Yoo’s portrayal is often described as a pure embodiment of the original character Ki-soo, capturing both the physical intensity and emotional disconnect with precise finesse. His portrayal is further amplified by his previous work, including noteworthy performances in Connection, Military Prosecutor Doberman, and Benefic Fraud. In ONE: High School Heroes, Yoo has not only reignited the drama’s spark but has also set expectations soaring for future developments.
Conclusion
The impact of ONE: High School Heroes is undeniable — it’s not merely a drama but a phenomenon that echoes the trials of teen life with compelling storytelling and powerful performances. As Yoo Hee-jae continues to delve deeper into his role, anticipation builds around what lies ahead for his character Ki-soo, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
