School 2017 (Korean: 학교 2017) is a South Korean drama that aired in 2017 as part of the popular School series, which has been a staple of K-drama since its inception in 1999. Directed by Song Min Yeop and Park Jin Suk, and written by Jung Chan Mi, this 16-episode series combines mystery, comedy, romance, and youth themes to deliver a compelling story about high school life. With a talented cast led by Kim Se Jeong, Kim Jung Hyun, and Jang Dong Yoon, School 2017 explores the struggles of students in a corrupt and discriminatory school system, making it a relatable and engaging watch for audiences of all ages.
Plot Overview
The drama follows Ra Eun Ho (Kim Se Jeong), an 18-year-old student with dreams of becoming a webtoon artist. Despite her creative talents, Eun Ho struggles in a school that prioritizes wealth and academic performance over individuality and fairness. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she is wrongly accused of being Student X, a mysterious figure who has been causing trouble at the school.
As Eun Ho fights to clear her name, she crosses paths with Hyun Tae Woon (Kim Jung Hyun), the aloof and rebellious son of the school’s director. Tae Woon, who has a troubled past, initially appears cold and distant but gradually forms an unlikely alliance with Eun Ho. Together, they team up with other students, including the kind-hearted Song Dae Hwi (Jang Dong Yoon), to challenge the school’s corrupt administration and bring about change.
Throughout the series, the characters navigate friendship, first love, and personal growth while standing up against injustice and inequality.
Episode Guide
School 2017 aired from July 17 to September 5, 2017, on KBS2, with each episode running for approximately 60 minutes.
- Episodes 1-4: Eun Ho is framed as Student X and begins her fight to prove her innocence. She forms a tentative bond with Tae Woon and Dae Hwi.
- Episodes 5-8: The trio uncovers more about the school’s corruption, while Eun Ho and Tae Woon’s relationship deepens.
- Episodes 9-12: The students band together to expose the truth, facing backlash from the school administration.
- Episodes 13-16: The final showdown against the corrupt system unfolds, with the students fighting for justice and a better future.
Cast & Crew
Main Roles
- Kim Se Jeong as Ra Eun Ho: A bright and creative student with dreams of becoming a webtoon artist.
- Kim Jung Hyun as Hyun Tae Woon: The rebellious son of the school’s director, who hides a kind heart beneath his tough exterior.
- Jang Dong Yoon as Song Dae Hwi: A gentle and supportive classmate who becomes Eun Ho’s ally.
Supporting Roles
- Han Sun Hwa as Han Soo Ji: A strict teacher who initially clashes with the students but later supports their cause.
- Han Joo Wan as Shim Kang Myung: A dedicated teacher who stands up for his students.
- Seol In Ah as Hong Nam Joo: A student who struggles with her own insecurities and ambitions.
Production Team
- Directors: Song Min Yeop, Park Jin Suk
- Screenwriter: Jung Chan Mi
Reviews & Reception
School 2017 received positive reviews for its relatable storyline, strong performances, and themes of youth empowerment. The chemistry between Kim Se Jeong and Kim Jung Hyun was particularly praised, as was the show’s ability to balance humor, romance, and social commentary.
The drama holds an 8.1/10 rating on MyDramaList, with over 37,000 users contributing to the score.
Recommendations
If you enjoyed School 2017, you might also like:
- Who Are You: School 2015: A prequel in the School series that explores themes of identity and bullying.
- School 2021: A sequel that focuses on vocational high school students and their dreams.
- Extraordinary You: A romantic fantasy set in a high school where students discover they are characters in a comic book.
Where to Watch
School 2017 is available for streaming on:
- Netflix
- Viki
- iQIYI
- Apple TV
Photos & Teasers
The official poster and teasers for School 2017 highlight the drama’s youthful energy and themes of rebellion. The vibrant visuals and dynamic character interactions capture the essence of high school life, making it an appealing watch for fans of youth dramas.
School 2017 is a heartfelt and inspiring drama that resonates with anyone who has experienced the challenges of adolescence. With its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and themes of justice and friendship, the series stands out as a worthy addition to the School franchise. Whether you’re a fan of youth dramas or simply looking for a story about standing up for what’s right, School 2017 is a must-watch.
