Itaewon Class webtoon/manhwa review

"Itaewon Class" is a South Korean webtoon that packs a powerful punch, mixing social commentary with a story of resilience, determination and revenge. Park Saeroyi, the protagonist, has his sheer determination as a powerful attracting factor to the webtoon. After a tragic incident fueled by corporate greed and curroption of power, Saeroyi vows to rebuild his life and seek justice.

He embarks on a bold path, opening a small pub called "Danbam" in the vibrant yet complex district of Itaewon in Seoul. Saeroyi's journey is not just about revenge; it's about proving his values and building a successful business on his own terms. He assembles a ragtag team of passionate individuals, each with their own struggles and dreams who traditionally would never have had a shot at them. Together, they face all those opposing them and fight for what they believe in.

"Itaewon Class" delves into themes of social justice, defying wrongful authority, the power of friendship, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. Saeroyi's spirit as he is abused by the cutthroat world of business and his determination fueled by the desire to build a better future for himself and his team are truly something to witness.

I personally fell in love with Itaewon class as one of the first webtoons I ever read, it has a plotline that is hard to describe. It is unique in itself for a webtoon, and it never loses your attention. There was also a Kdrama made based on the webtoon in 2020 with the same name, "Itaewon Class", becoming one of the most popular shows in South Korea nationwide. This webtoon is one of the older ones, yet that what makes it great to read for someone who has only been reading newer webtoons, it provides a parallel. 

Here is what other internet users had to say about the webtoon:
"The plot is a rollercoaster of emotions, keeping viewers hooked from start to finish."

"Itaewon class has a lot of things most dramas don’t have-

1. diversity and representation - lgbtq and different races

2. Parents that support their kids

3. Moral codes

4. Good acting

5. Good female characters- Four hardworking female executives, out of which one is a sociopath, one is a trans woman, one is an older woman, one is a younger woman

6. Though driven by revenge you never think that the hero stoops down to the level of the villain(s) The villains(s) are humanized somewhat and have actual reasons for their actions

7. I actually think itaewon class does have a plot- it’s a bullied kid’s revenge, two orphans work hard to make it in the restaurant industry on opposite sides, an ex con figures out his life has value, etc

8. There’s a lot of themes that are explored- power, money, family, love, race, bullying, etc.

9. the main character is someone I identify with- it’s rare to find someone that means what they say

10. The female lead is not a Mary Sue nor a damsel in distress

11. Neither of the female leads need to be rescued- they both make their own choices and save themselves

12. None of the characters are perfect-they are all flawed"

Overall, this is a great webtoon for veterans to look into reading, however if you are still new, this shouldn't be one of the ones you start with, but you can still try it if you want, it is great! Overall, this is a 9/10!