Fresh off a shocking global debut, the Netflix series Teach You a Lesson is dominating charts — and director Hong Jong-chan is already stoking hype for a potential Season 2.
On the 11th, during an interview held in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Hong shared his thoughts on the explosive success of Teach You a Lesson, a drama about supervisors from the School Authority Protection Bureau who side with victims and clean up real-life school environments.
Despite controversy surrounding the original webtoon, the series racked up 6.4 million views within just three days of release, shooting to No. 1 on Netflix’s Global Top 10 for Non-English TV. It also hit No. 1 in 10 countries including South Korea, the Philippines, and India, and placed high on the charts in 48 countries worldwide — undeniable proof of its viral power.
"It still doesn’t feel real, but I’m grateful viewers recognized the heart and essence of the work," Hong said. "I hoped the show would spark conversations, and judging by the buzz on social media, it seems to be landing that way — which is rewarding."
Hong showed strong resolve about the possibility of Season 2. "Nothing concrete has been discussed yet, but I really want to make Season 2," he said, joking, "I’ll need the reporters’ help," drawing laughter.
He also revealed casting backstories. The role of Na Hwa-jin was initially offered to Kim Nam-gil, but he ultimately did not join the project; the part then went to Kim Mu-yeol. "Offers and declines are common in casting," Hong explained. "I really like Kim Nam-gil and still root for him. If there’s a good project in the future, we can definitely work together."
Hong expressed deep gratitude to Kim Mu-yeol for fully embodying Na Hwa-jin. "Having worked together on ‘Juvenile Justice,’ I knew the range of Kim Mu-yeol’s appeal — he can do emotional acting, comedy, and action," he said. "On this project, he synced beautifully with the rookie actors and poured in multiple times more energy. That effort clearly paid off."
He also praised Jin Ki-joo and Pyo Ji-hoon. About Jin Ki-joo as Lee Han-lim, Hong said, "We built the character together, and I’m 100% satisfied with how she brought it to life. Her eyes are captivating — innocent yet delightfully quirky." On Pyo Ji-hoon as Bong Geun-dae, he added, "He served as a bridge character that lets viewers step into the story with ease. Pyo Ji-hoon himself is lovable, and it fit the role perfectly."
Hong shared heartfelt sorrow over the late Song Young-kyu, for whom this became a final work. "I heard the sad news while editing Episode 1," he recalled. "He was an actor who truly enjoyed performing on set and gave it his all, so I wanted to capture him the best I could. It’s heartbreaking."
Hong also broke down the message behind Teach You a Lesson. "The series asks what it means to be a good adult," he said. "Within the story, the School Authority Protection Bureau reaches out to victims at eye level. I hope we see more of those kinds of ‘good adults’ in real life, too." He continued, "Even if they aren’t our own family, people who can extend a hand to children — that’s what I think a good adult is. I’m still a work in progress, but I’m trying to become a better one myself."
Meanwhile, Teach You a Lesson premiered on Netflix on June 5.