My Liberation Notes

My much-anticipated Weak Hero Class 2 is finally here. As we all know, following the traumatic events of the first season, Yeon Si-eun transfers to Eunjang High School, hoping for a fresh start. However, he soon faces a new wave of violence and more formidable enemies. Haunted by his past inability to protect his friends, Si-eun is determined to confront the escalating dangers head-on while navigating new friendships. Together, they face a ruthless gang known as the Alliance. This new season delves deeper into Si-eun's emotional scars and his determination to protect his new friends, adding significant emotional weight to the action. Every fight feels personal, raising the stakes. Similar to the first, I kept thinking, how are these high school kids; where are their teachers, parents, families -- how do the adults around them not know what their minor children's are involved in; just overwhelming but I understand we as viewers were given the view into these students lives from their prespective. If I was irritated with anyone in this drama, it was Si-eun's mom. She seemed to be clueless about her son's emotional and mental state, or maybe she was desperate. Regardless, I found myself wondering what had happened to his dad.

The introduction of Park Hu-min, Seo Jun-tae, and Go Hyeon-tak, with their distinct personalities and growing bonds with Si-eun, makes a strong impression. I was drawn to Park Hu-min's unique and even comedic approach to fighting, which brings a new dynamic to the series. And I must say that Park Ji-hoon's portrayal of the evolving Yeon Si-eun is award-worthy, showcasing his character's intelligence, emotional depth, and strategic acumen.  This second season stays true to its predecessor, with even more intense action. It delivers visceral and impactful fight sequences that leave viewers feeling every blow.

I know this is an adaptation, but I welcome the changes from the Webtoon. The drama takes some creative liberties as an adaptation, particularly with character backstories. I like that this season strongly emphasizes Si-eun forming new bonds, especially since his first season was a nightmare, especially with O Beom Seok's betrayal. I like that it is more grounded, restrained, and thoughtfully shaped by his past, in a way. I felt this season was more methodical. One can see that he had matured, and that is a testament to the writing and, of course, the acting.

This second season is a worthy successor to the first, delivering intense action and exploring deeper emotional themes, albeit a bit more subdued than the first, which I believe is intentional. The new cast members are well-written and acted, but Park Ji-hoon remains the standout, consistently delivering a compelling performance. I have seen a few reviews concerning the changes from Webtoon this season and how it affected the overall impact, but I disagree. Despite the changes, the drama remains an intense action drama, featuring impactful storytelling and compelling character dynamics. This season, just like the last, took me on another gripping and emotionally charged journey through the brutal world of high school violence, highlighting the power of friendship and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.