Netflix’s Weak Hero Class 2 has taken the world by storm, securing the second spot globally on the platform’s rankings within 24 hours of its April 25, 2025, release. The Korean drama’s explosive debut, coupled with tripled viewership compared to its first season, marks a major milestone for the series and its star, Park Jihoon.
Record-Breaking Global Performance
Weak Hero Class 2 premiered on Netflix on April 25, 2025, and quickly climbed to the No. 2 spot on the platform’s global rankings. It achieved first place in 22 countries, including South Korea, and secured top ranks in major markets like No. 3 in the United States, No. 6 in the United Kingdom, and No. 2 in France. Posts on X highlighted its massive debut, noting 708 points in Netflix’s patrol rankings on April 26.
The drama’s first-week viewership was more than three times higher than that of Weak Hero Class 1, which had already gained a strong following. This surge reflects the series’ growing popularity and its ability to connect with global audiences. The first season, released in 2022, had reached No. 2 in Netflix’s non-English series category with 6.7 million viewers from March 24-30, 2025, setting high expectations for the sequel.
Story and Cast
Weak Hero Class 2 continues the gripping tale of Yeon Si-eun, played by Park Jihoon, a high school student who uses his intelligence and courage to fight against school violence. The series dives deeper into themes of bullying, friendship, and resilience, resonating with viewers worldwide. Its intense action scenes and emotional storytelling have been praised for keeping audiences hooked.
The cast includes returning actors like Choi Min-young as Seo Jun-tae and Hong Kyung as Oh Beom-seok, alongside new faces such as Ryeoun and Lee Min-jae. Park Jihoon, a former K-pop idol from the group Wanna One, has been lauded for his powerful performance, cementing his status as a versatile actor. Fans on X have celebrated his ability to carry the series, with many calling him the heart of the show.
“Park Jihoon’s acting in Weak Hero Class 2 is unreal! He’s stealing every scene.” “The emotions in this season hit so hard, Jihoon is killing it!” — Netizens on X
Production and Platform Shift
Originally a Wavve exclusive, Weak Hero Class 1 was later acquired by Netflix, where it gained a global fanbase. The move to Netflix for Weak Hero Class 2 allowed for a broader reach, contributing to its massive success. The production team, led by director Yoo Soo-min, maintained the series’ raw, realistic style while enhancing its cinematic quality.
The drama is based on the popular webtoon Weak Hero by Seopass and Kim Jin-seok, which has a dedicated following for its gritty portrayal of teenage struggles. The adaptation has stayed true to the source material, earning praise from fans for its authenticity. Posts on X noted that Netflix referred to the series as its “filial child,” highlighting its value to the platform.
Audience Reactions
Fans and viewers have flooded social media with excitement over the new season. The series’ intense plot and Park Jihoon’s standout performance have sparked widespread praise. Many have highlighted the improved production quality and deeper character development compared to the first season.
“Weak Hero Class 2 is everything I hoped for and more! The action is insane.” “This drama deserves all the hype, it’s so raw and real.” “Netflix struck gold with this one, can’t wait for more episodes!” — Netizens on X
Some viewers have also expressed emotional connections to the story, particularly its focus on standing up against injustice. The series’ universal themes have helped it resonate across cultures, contributing to its global appeal.
Critical Reception
Critics have praised Weak Hero Class 2 for its compelling narrative and strong performances. The drama’s ability to balance high-stakes action with heartfelt moments has been a key point of acclaim. Reviewers have noted that the series builds on the strengths of its predecessor while introducing fresh elements to keep the story engaging.
The show’s success has also been attributed to its tight pacing and well-crafted characters. Each episode, averaging 40-50 minutes, keeps viewers on edge with its mix of suspense and drama. The series’ realistic portrayal of school dynamics has been called both relatable and impactful.
Industry Impact
The rapid rise of Weak Hero Class 2 underscores the growing global demand for Korean dramas. Its success follows the path of other Netflix hits like Squid Game and All of Us Are Dead, proving that K-dramas can dominate international markets. The series has also spotlighted Park Jihoon as a leading actor, with industry insiders noting his potential for bigger roles.
The drama’s performance has sparked discussions about the power of streaming platforms in amplifying niche stories. By moving from Wavve to Netflix, Weak Hero transformed from a regional hit to a global phenomenon. This shift highlights Netflix’s strategy of investing in high-quality Korean content to attract diverse audiences.
As of April 29, 2025, Weak Hero Class 2 continues to dominate Netflix’s charts, holding the No. 2 global spot and ranking first in 32 countries. The series has solidified its place as one of the platform’s top performers, with fans eagerly awaiting updates on potential future seasons. Park Jihoon and the cast have expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, with the actor sharing a heartfelt message on social media.
“Thank you to all the fans who’ve supported Weak Hero Class 2. Your love means everything!” — Park Jihoon on X
The drama’s strong start suggests it will remain a key player in Netflix’s lineup, with viewership numbers expected to grow in the coming weeks. For now, Weak Hero Class 2 stands as a testament FIGURES, with its raw storytelling and universal appeal continuing to draw viewers worldwide.
