Hierarchy, the latest Korean drama on Netflix, premiered on July 6, 2024, with all seven episodes released simultaneously. Set in the prestigious Jooshin High School, the series explores themes of power, revenge, and the social hierarchy that rules the lives of its students. The arrival of a transfer student disrupts the established order, leading to a series of events triggered by a quest for vengeance over the death of a scholarship student.
Attention: This article contains spoilers.
The Final Destinations of the Main Characters
Jung Jae Yi (Roh Jeong Eui)
Image: Roh Jeong Eui in the drama Hierarchy (Doc. Netflix/Hierarchy)
Jung Jae Yi’s storyline culminates in a poignant decision. Despite having the opportunity to move to New York, she chooses to remain in South Korea and reunite with her estranged mother after many years. This resolution brings a sense of closure to her personal journey, highlighting themes of family and forgiveness.
Kang Ha (Lee Chae Min)
Image: Lee Chae Min in the drama Hierarchy (Doc. Netflix/Hierarchy)
Kang Ha plays a crucial role in uncovering the truth behind the series’ central mysteries. He remains at Jooshin High School and receives an apology from his tormentors, symbolizing a victory against bullying and the restoration of his dignity. Kang Ha’s perseverance and courage serve as a beacon of hope for viewers.
Unraveling the Mysteries
Kim Ri An (Kim Jae Won)
Image: Kim Jae Won in the drama Hierarchy (Doc. Netflix/Hierarchy)
Kim Ri An’s narrative is one of bittersweet separation. She learns the truth about Jung Jae Yi but decides they must part ways to find their own happiness. This decision underscores the complexity of relationships and the importance of personal growth.
Yoon He Ra (Ji Hye Won)
Image: Ji Hye Won in the drama Hierarchy (Doc. Netflix/Hierarchy)
Facing the brink of financial ruin, Yoon He Ra undergoes a significant transformation. Realizing the value of true friendship and the impact of her actions, she takes steps towards redemption. Her character arc is a testament to the power of self-awareness and change.
Lee Woo Jin (Lee Won Jung)
Image: Lee Won Jung in the drama Hierarchy (Doc. Netflix/Hierarchy)
Lee Woo Jin uncovers the truth about the tragic death of Kang Ha’s twin, revealing his own feelings of guilt over sending Jung Jae Yi to New York. His actions and revelations drive much of the series’ emotional weight, highlighting themes of accountability and the consequences of one’s choices.
Han Ji Soo (Byeon Seo Yun)
Image: Byeon Seo Yun in the drama Hierarchy (Doc. Netflix/Hierarchy)
Han Ji Soo’s story takes a dramatic turn when she is fired for dating a student and subsequently arrested, thanks to video evidence provided by Lee Woo Jin. This outcome emphasizes the importance of integrity and the repercussions of inappropriate actions within a position of authority.
Park Hee Sun (Bae Hae Sun)
Image: Bae Hae Sun in the drama Hierarchy (Doc. Netflix/Hierarchy)
The revelation of Jung Jae Yi’s pregnancy leads to Park Hee Sun being dismissed, deemed incapable of protecting Kim Ri An. This development brings to light the harsh realities faced by those in protective roles and the challenges of maintaining trust and responsibility.
A Cliffhanger Ending
The series ends on a suspenseful note. Jung Jae Yi chooses to distance herself from the two boys she cares for, leaving their relationships unresolved. The epilogue adds further intrigue, showing students found lying in class, covered in blood, and a mysterious message received by Kim Ri An. This open-ended conclusion leaves viewers eagerly anticipating potential future developments.
My Take on the Ending
Hierarchy offers a compelling exploration of justice and redemption within the microcosm of a high school. While some characters find closure, others are left with lingering questions, much like life itself. The drama adeptly balances personal growth with the consequences of past actions, making it a must-watch for fans of character-driven stories.
In the end, Hierarchy challenges viewers to ponder the complexities of justice and the enduring impact of one’s choices, all set against the backdrop of an elite educational institution. What did you think of the ending? Does it leave you satisfied, or are you hoping for more answers in a possible sequel?
