Ryeoun Embraces a New Challenge in Netflix's 'Weak Hero Class 2'

"I've never played a role like this before."

Actor Ryeoun expressed his affection for his character, Baku, in the Netflix series 'Weak Hero Class 2'. Ryeoun shared, "I enjoyed Season 1 and was a fan of the original work, but another reason I wanted to be part of this project was to play Baku." Known for his roles in youth dramas, Ryeoun added, "Baku is a character that embodies a man's dream, and I wanted to try more action scenes."

'Weak Hero Class 2' follows the story of model student Yeon Si-eun (played by Park Ji-hoon), who transfers to Eun Jang Go after failing to protect his friend from violence. Determined not to lose another friend, he faces even greater violence. The series, which was previously available on Wavve for Season 1, has moved to Netflix for Season 2.

Ryeoun plays the role of Park Hoo-min, also known as 'Baku', the leader of Eun Jang Go with a strong sense of justice. Ryeoun explained, "Baku is powerful and uses action that relies on strength." To portray the robust physique of Park Hoo-min, Ryeoun gained 10kg by following a 'eat well and exercise' regimen.

"I love eating. Usually, I have to manage my diet with chicken breast while exercising, but this time, I could eat whatever I wanted while working out, which made me happy. I ate a lot for about two months. I gained 10kg while eating a lot of mala xiang guo, about three to four times a week. I also ate a lot of meat, like pork belly and chicken. Those were happy days. Gaining weight is easier for me than losing it. I've since lost over 10kg by not eating as much."

In the series, Park Hoo-min makes a striking first appearance with red-dyed hair, wearing shorts and flip-flops in the middle of winter. Ryeoun revealed that he took inspiration from the character Kang Baek-ho in the manga 'Slam Dunk'.

"Baku is simple-minded but steadfast, cheerful yet strong. He has a sense of justice. Baku and Kang Baek-ho are similar. Baku may seem foolish because he's innocent and pure. Despite his difficult family background, he maintains a positive mindset. I aimed to portray a more mature vibe than his peers and focused on his cheerful demeanor to overcome his circumstances."

What was Ryeoun's real school life like? He laughed, saying he was "very different" from Baku, the leader among friends. When asked if he was strong, Ryeoun replied, "I'm not weak," which drew laughter. He added, "In high school, I was good at arm wrestling. I had a high win rate. Unless there was a significant size difference, I won most of the time."

"I went to an all-boys school, so I played basketball with friends during lunch and went to the snack bar together, which was similar. But I didn't lead the group as a leader. Haha."

The set of 'Weak Hero Class 2' felt like a real high school environment. Ryeoun worked alongside fellow young actors Park Ji-hoon, Yoo Soo-bin, Choi Min-young, and Lee Jun-young. Ryeoun shared, "The atmosphere was great. It felt like a real boys' school. We liked each other and had a strong bond." He also mentioned that working with peers provided learning opportunities.

"We learn from each other, creating synergy. I learned a lot from Soo-bin, who was the oldest among us. Even when he didn't have scenes, he would come out to support his colleagues. When I visited his room, I saw his script filled with detailed analysis. It motivated me to work harder."

'Weak Hero Class 2' concluded with the possibility of a Season 3. The final episode introduced a new character, hinting at connections with existing characters.

"If Season 3 comes out, I think viewers will love it again. Personally, I hope Season 3 will be more peaceful, but it seems like it will be even more intense."

Reported by Kim Ji-won, TenAsia bella@tenasia.co.kr