Jooshin High School, an institution catering to the elite, selectively admits students based on their wealth and influence—but with certain exemptions. Practicing what they believe is a nod to “noblesse oblige,” the school takes in few scholarship students. All was well-controlled, until a transfer student decides to overthrow the system due to a dark secret: he is out for revenge.
Here are 4 reasons to watch the series:
1.) It’s everybody’s first leading role.
This is the first time the five main cast members will be leading a drama series.
Roh Jeong Eui as Jung Jae Yi started as a child actress and eventually played the second lead in the hit Korean drama “Our Beloved Summer.” While Lee Chae Min (from “Crash Course In Romance”) as Kang Ha and Kim Rae Won (from “King The Land”) as Kim Ri An are both rising rookie actors.
It’s also notable to add that the five all had somewhat equal parts and are essential characters in building the plot—this includes “My Perfect Stranger” co-stars Ji Hye Won and Lee Won Jung as Yoon He Ra and Lee Woo Jin, respectively.
2.) The many reunions.
Aside from “My Perfect Stranger”, there are also a few more reunions in “Hierarchy”, including co-stars from “Crash Course In Romance” and “Duty After School.”
3.) The cinematography.
The wide angle shots simply set the mood for certain scenes, emphasizing pivotal moments and its importance. The technique is often used when introducing new information to evoke specific emotions while further developing the story—signifying a plot twist or a key change.
4.) Navigates grey areas around the complexity of morality.
“Hierarchy” started with a rather dark premise that eventually veered away from its assumed foundation. This is what sets it apart from its counterparts from the same genre. It’s not purely evil, but it’s not fully righteous either. Still, it retains accountability as its moral lesson.
All in all, “Hierarchy” is a mystery high school romance drama rolled into one. It’s edgy, and circles around the lives of affluent students. Still, even if some conflicts are elevated due to their prominent backgrounds, the storyline doesn’t go overboard. (It’s not a makjang.)
“Hierarchy”, however, is a lot more centered around ethics—ironically, embodying a tone akin to the balanced scales of justice rather than a crown or throne to symbolize royalty. Hence, redefining high school royalty.
All seven episodes of “Hierarchy” are now streaming on Netflix.
Gia Allana 