Park Ji-hoon calls ‘Weak Hero Class 2’ his growing pains, wonders what’s next for season 3

Singer-turned-actor Park Ji-hoon says his latest role in Netflix’s “Weak Hero Class 2” represents both the physical and emotional trials of his growth — and he’s already curious about what season 3 could bring.

In a recent interview with the Hankook Ilbo at a cafe in Seoul’s Jongno District, Park shared his thoughts on the hit Netflix series, which premiered on April 25. “Weak Hero Class 2” continues the story of Yeon Si-eun, a quiet but determined student who, after failing to protect his friends in the past, transfers to Eunjang High School with unresolved trauma. There, he fights against even greater violence in a fierce but radiant journey of survival and self-discovery.

Returning as the lead, Park brings a deeper, more refined portrayal of Si-eun. While his signature use of a pen as a weapon remains, the character now creatively wields everyday objects in battles, showcasing heightened combat skills. “I haven’t looked at too many reactions myself,” Park said, laughing. “The director said the feedback has been great, which was a relief. I’m not the type to search for reviews — even when I was an idol, I was too shy for that.”

Park admitted to becoming emotional after filming ended. “It was a mix of emotions. Si-eun smiled at the end, and I was happy knowing that we pushed through and worked hard for that moment,” he said. “Scenes from the set, all the energy and teamwork with the other actors — they flashed through my mind like a slideshow. I held back tears even during our early screenings.”

The second season builds on the global popularity of the first, which gained belated attention after being released on Netflix. Asked about the show’s continued success, Park attributed it to “more intense action, bromance among classmates, and each character’s unique charm.” Still, he added, “I sometimes want to ask fans directly why they love the series so much.”

He also spoke about the pressure of returning for a sequel. “I always feel a sense of responsibility with any project,” Park said. “One concern was whether someone like Si-eun, with that kind of trauma, could make new friends again. I discussed that point with the director a lot.”

While season 1 served as a prequel to the webtoon, season 2 drew more directly from it. Park explained that he used the comic as a reference for poses and expressions but added, “There are things a drama can express that a webtoon can’t. Each has a different kind of strength, so our focus this time was to show Si-eun’s raw desperation.”

The action scenes also became more ambitious, with creative angles and props. “It wasn’t that they were difficult,” Park said, “but I did spend a lot of time trying to make them feel fresh.”

Thanks to his deep connection with the role, Park was able to slip right back into character. “I can switch on and off pretty easily,” he said. “At the first script reading, the director was surprised that I was already in Si-eun mode. Maybe it’s because I care so much about this character. It didn’t feel like much time had passed.”

In season 1, Park studied clips of senior actors to craft Si-eun’s cold, vengeful personality. “But in season 2, I felt it was up to me to shape that emotional side,” he said. “This time, I didn’t use any references. I watched season 1 again and built a new version of Si-eun — one that’s more desperate and gritty.”

Although the series moved from Wavve to Netflix, Park said he didn’t feel a noticeable difference. “My only goal was to show how Si-eun has grown,” he said.

Park also related personally to his character’s loneliness. “I started working at a young age. I really wanted to make friends but couldn’t. That loneliness made me feel close to Si-eun.”

Support from the season 1 cast continued. Park shared that actor Choi Hyun-wook praised season 2 when they recently met. “He asked why my character kept looking for his. I still rely on him a lot,” Park said. “When I saw him on set, I teared up — even during rehearsal. I was just that immersed.”

The “Weak Hero” series has been a transformative experience for Park. “I’m still growing,” he said, smiling. “There’s so much I want to express. I have a mountain of things to learn. I think this is my growing pains phase.”

When asked to compliment himself, Park paused before saying, “I think I’ve worked hard and kept going no matter what. I still have a long way to go, but I want to praise myself for pushing through without fear. That courage is my strength. I don’t think I’ve changed — I just want to keep taking bold risks.”

As fans began speculating about a third season, Park shared a hint of curiosity. “I’ve imagined what it would be like for students to go up against adults. That kind of question keeps popping into my head,” he said.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.