Actor Kim Moo-yul speaks up on his new drama, ‘Teach You a Lesson’ [Netflix]
Actor Kim Moo-yul speaks up on his new drama, ‘Teach You a Lesson’ [Netflix]

Actor Kim Moo-yul has shared why he chose to take on the lead role of Na Hwa-jin in Teach You a Lesson.

On Friday, a press conference for the Netflix series Teach You a Lesson was held at the Ambassador Seoul Pullman Hotel in Jung-gu, Seoul.

The Netflix series Teach You a Lesson follows the story of the Teacher Rights Protection Bureau, an organization established to restore order in Korea’s collapsing education system, which has been undermined by misconduct from students, teachers and parents alike.

Based on the webtoon of the same name published on Naver, the original work previously sparked controversy over its portrayal of corporal punishment, glorification of violence in schools and racial discrimination. Acknowledging this, the production team emphasized that they were fully aware of the issues and made careful adaptations, stressing that the core theme and message surrounding the Teacher Rights Protection Bureau remain central to the series.

Amid the controversy, there was also noise surrounding the casting of the lead role. Actor Kim Nam-gil had initially been considered for the role of Na Hwa-jin but publicly declined. At the time, he stated, “‘Teach You a Lesson’ was simply one of several projects I was offered, and one I had already turned down before. I’m aware of the controversies and issues, and if many people feel uncomfortable, I believe it’s right not to take part in such a project.”

Following this, the production ultimately cast Kim Moo-yul as Na Hwa-jin.

Addressing the situation, Kim Moo-yeol said cautiously, “Various things happen during casting for every project. It’s something we experience all the time, though this time it became widely known.”

He continued, “I hope viewers will judge for themselves how well I’ve transformed that pressure into my performance. I believe actors speak through their work. I hope people can understand my sincerity through my acting. Rather than words, I’ll speak through the project itself.”

Kim Moo-yeol’s character, Na Hwa-jin, is known for always wearing a black suit. Though he may appear stoic on the outside, he consistently stands on the side of victims and delivers decisive blows against those who threaten the education system.

The Netflix series, Teach You a Lesson, is available exclusively on Netflix.

Reported by Herald Muse Staff Writer Kim Min-ji

Reviewed and edited by Herald Muse Team Leader Kim Hae-yeon


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