School 2013

School 2013 is a gritty, realistic high school K-drama that dives deep into the harsh truths of student life in South Korea. Set in Seungri High School, the series follows teachers and students as they navigate bullying, peer pressure, academic stress, and the emotional growing pains of adolescence. At the heart of the drama is Jung In Jae, played by Jang Na Ra, a passionate homeroom teacher determined to protect her students despite a broken education system. She is joined by Kang Se Chan, portrayed by Choi Daniel, a former star lecturer with a cold attitude and a secret past. As co-homeroom teachers, their clashing philosophies lead to tension—but also collaboration, as they begin to reach troubled students. The drama shines in its portrayal of how teachers can be both mentors and emotional anchors in a student’s life. Among the students, the bromance between Go Nam Soon (Lee Jong Suk) and Park Heung Soo (Kim Woo Bin) steals the spotlight. Once best friends, they’re now enemies with a painful history. As their story unfolds, viewers witness one of the most emotional and raw portrayals of reconciliation and male friendship in K-drama history. Song Ha Gyeong (played by Park Se Young) and Lee Kang Joo (played by Ryu Hyo Young) represent the academic and social pressures placed on high-achieving girls. Unlike typical high school dramas, School 2013 avoids romance and focuses instead on student struggles, mental health, bullying, and educational flaws. With a cast of rising stars and relatable themes, the drama resonates with both teens and adults. It's an unflinching look at what it's really like to survive high school in Korea—making it a must-watch for fans of coming-of-age K-dramas with heart, realism, and powerful performances.