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Netflix's Korean drama ‘Teach You a Lesson’ premieres amid controversy
The Korean series *Teach You a Lesson* debuted on Netflix worldwide, drawing attention both for its action‑driven plot and the debate surrounding its source material. The drama adapts the webtoon *Get Schooled*, which had been criticised for portraying a mixed‑race Black student as a violent antagonist and for endorsing corporal punishment in schools. Director Hong Jong‑chan said the adaptation “tried to approach the story through a more refined lens and create something meaningful.”
The series follows a fictional government‑backed unit that intervenes in extreme school‑related incidents, tackling violent students, abusive parents and unethical teachers. Lead actor Gim Mu‑yeol plays Na Hwa‑jin, a former special‑forces operative turned inspector, describing his character as someone “who doesn’t stop at understanding people’s pain. He takes responsibility and acts on his convictions.”
The show has sparked social‑media buzz in South Korea and abroad, with fans discussing its intense action scenes and its commentary on systemic issues in education. Its release follows earlier Vietnamese fan coverage that highlighted the series’ focus on school violence and related legislative themes.