High School Return of a Gangster brings a unique twist to the drama genre, blending elements of supernatural body swapping with the gritty reality of gangster life. The story revolves around Kim Deuk Pal (played by Lee Seo Jin), a kind-hearted gangster whose soul ends up in the body of a high school student, Song Yi Heon (Yoon Chan Young), after he dies saving him. This intriguing premise sets the stage for a series of challenges as Deuk Pal tries to navigate the complexities of teenage life.
Choi Se Kyung’s Skepticism
From the very beginning, Choi Se Kyung (Bong Jaehyun) is suspicious of the new “Song Yi Heon.” His disbelief is so strong that he even goes as far as conducting a DNA test to confirm his doubts. This skepticism creates a tense environment for Deuk Pal, who must constantly prove his identity and navigate Se Kyung’s relentless questioning.
Yoon Chan Young In High School Return Of A Gangster (Doc. Viu/High School Return Of A Gangster)
Choi Se Kyung’s actions are not just about suspicion but also highlight the difficulty of Deuk Pal’s situation. The constant pressure and the need to act convincingly as a teenager add a layer of psychological stress, making it hard for Deuk Pal to relax or feel at home in his new body.
Physical and Emotional Struggles
One of the most significant challenges Deuk Pal faces is the physical disparity between his former self and his new teenage body. Despite Yi Heon’s young age, his body is weak, making it difficult for Deuk Pal to fend off bullies. This is a stark contrast to his previous life where he was a strong and capable gangster.
Yoon Chan Young In High School Return Of A Gangster (Doc. Viu/High School Return Of A Gangster
Additionally, the emotional turmoil adds to his struggles. Song Yi Heon’s life is complicated, with a mother who is addicted to alcohol and often abusive. Deuk Pal finds himself in situations where he is slapped and mistreated, something he was not accustomed to in his previous life. This domestic abuse further complicates his mission to adapt and protect Yi Heon’s interests.
Yoon Chan Young In High School Return Of A Gangster (Doc. Viu/High School Return Of A Gangster)
Academic and Social Adaptation
Deuk Pal’s journey is not just about physical adaptation but also academic and social. Song Yi Heon’s poor academic performance becomes another hurdle for Deuk Pal. His test scores plummet, making it hard for him to fulfill Yi Heon’s dream of going to college. This adds to his frustration and sense of inadequacy.
Yoon Chan Young In High School Return Of A Gangster (Doc. Viu/High School Return Of A Gangster)
Socially, Deuk Pal’s friendly nature helps him to some extent, but he struggles with the current teenage slang and trends. His peers often refer to him as a “caveman,” highlighting the generational gap and making it difficult for him to fit in. Despite these challenges, Deuk Pal’s optimism and determination shine through. His ability to adapt and gradually solve Yi Heon’s problems is a testament to his resilience.
Joo Yoon Chan And Yoon Chan Young In High School Return Of A Gangster (Doc. Viu/High School Return Of A Gangster)
Opinion: A Unique Blend of Humor and Heart
High School Return of a Gangster masterfully combines humor and heart, making Deuk Pal’s journey both entertaining and emotionally engaging. The show highlights the stark contrasts between different stages of life and the complexities of identity. Deuk Pal’s struggle to fit into a teenage world serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges of adolescence, magnified by the absurdity of his situation.
Yoon Chan Young In High School Return Of A Gangster (Doc. Viu/High School Return Of A Gangster)
The drama does an excellent job of balancing the fantastical elements with real-world issues, making it relatable despite its supernatural premise. The characters are well-developed, and the storyline is both compelling and thought-provoking. High School Return of a Gangster is a refreshing addition to the genre, offering a unique perspective on the trials and tribulations of teenage life through the eyes of a seasoned gangster.
