Netflix has released a new genre drama thriller titled Hierarchy. This series stars Roh Jeong Eui, Lee Chae Min, Kim Jae Won, Ji Hye Won, and Lee Won Jung. Directed by Bae Hyun Jin, this drama centers on a transfer student who enters the elite Jooshin High School to uncover the truth behind his brother’s death.
The five main characters in this drama each have unique backgrounds and conflicts. Let’s dive into their stories!
Jung Jae I: A Life of Strict Discipline
Jung Jae Yi (Roh Jeong Eui) in the drama Hierarchy (instagram.com/netflixkr)
Jung Jae I, played by Roh Jeong Eui, is the eldest daughter of the founding family of Jaeyool Group. She lives with her father, stepmother, and half-sister after her biological mother was divorced for not following her father’s orders. Her father controls every aspect of her life, from her clothing to her choice of partner, all to uphold the family’s image.
Despite this harsh upbringing, Jung Jae I finds some solace in her relationship with Kim Ri An, a childhood friend. However, their relationship faces a tragic turn when she becomes pregnant and decides to keep it a secret. After a miscarriage and being disowned by her father, Jung Jae I is left to navigate life on her own.
Kim Ri An: The Powerful Yet Lonely Heir
Kim Ri An (Kim Jae Won) in the drama Hierarchy (instagram.com/netflixkr)
Kim Ri An, portrayed by Kim Jae Won, is the son of the founder of the Jooshin Foundation. Despite his wealth, he suffers from the absence of his parents. His mother, constantly busy with work, compensates for her absence with an entourage of tutors, assistants, and doctors, but neglects emotional support.
Kim Ri An’s anger issues and lack of parental guidance lead to problematic behaviors, including a free-spirited dating life that results in Jung Jae I’s pregnancy. His inability to control his emotions and actions makes him a dominant but troubled figure at Jooshin High School.
Kang Ha: The Determined Outsider
Kang Ha (Lee Chae Min) in the drama Hierarchy (instagram.com/netflixkr)
Lee Chae Min plays Kang Ha, a scholarship student at Jooshin High School, often looked down upon by his wealthy peers. His determination to uncover the truth behind his brother Kang In Han’s death drives him to attend the same elite school.
Kang Ha initially suspects Kim Ri An of being involved in his brother’s death but later discovers through a video that their teacher, Han Ji Soo, is the real culprit. Despite the revelation, the bullying and mistreatment by Kim Ri An’s group still hang over his brother’s tragic end.
Yoon He Ra: From Luxury to Hardship
Yoon He Ra (Ji Hye Won) in the drama Hierarchy (instagram.com/netflixkr)
Yoon He Ra, played by Ji Hye Won, is the youngest daughter of an international trading company owner. Her life of luxury contrasts sharply with the struggles of her friend Jung Jae I. Yoon He Ra’s infatuation with Kim Ri An strains her friendship with Jung Jae I, especially after being rejected by him.
Her life takes a drastic turn when her father’s company goes bankrupt. Stripped of her luxurious lifestyle, Yoon He Ra faces public humiliation but receives help from Jung Jae I to restore her father’s company.
Lee Woo Jin: The Luckiest of Them All
Lee Woo Jin (Lee Won Jung) in the drama Hierarchy (instagram.com/netflixkr)
Lee Woo Jin, portrayed by Lee Won Jung, stands out as the luckiest among the main characters. As the son of a politician aspiring to be president, his family remains scandal-free throughout the series. His mother’s attentive care and his father’s clean political slate provide him with a stable home life.
However, Lee Woo Jin’s lack of gratitude and reckless behavior, including an inappropriate relationship with his teacher Han Ji Soo, lead to dire consequences. His father’s involvement in a hit-and-run incident that kills Kang Ha’s brother further complicates his seemingly perfect life.
In Hierarchy, Lee Woo Jin’s character illustrates how privilege and luck do not necessarily lead to happiness or moral integrity. His actions and the subsequent fallout highlight the complexities of a life lived without appreciation for one’s blessings.
Hierarchy offers a thrilling exploration of the diverse backgrounds and conflicts faced by its main characters. Each character’s journey reveals deep-seated issues and the impact of family dynamics on their lives. For those who have watched Hierarchy, what are your thoughts on the luckiest character, Lee Woo Jin?