Korean Drama Review: "Class of Lies" (미스터 기간제 2019)

Korean Drama Review: "Class of Lies" (2019)

(미스터 기간제 / "Mister Temporary")
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, School Drama
Episodes: 16
Starring: Yoon Kyun-sang, Keum Sae-rok, Choi Yu-hwa
Director: Sung Yong-il
Writer: Jang Hong-jae

Plot Summary

A disgraced lawyer, Gi Moo-hyuk (Yoon Kyun-sang), takes a job as a temporary teacher at an elite high school to investigate the mysterious death of a student. As he digs deeper, he uncovers a web of corruption, bullying, and dark secrets among the privileged students and powerful parents.

Detailed Review

1. Characters & Performances

✅ Gi Moo-hyuk (Yoon Kyun-sang) – A morally grey protagonist who starts as a money-driven lawyer but evolves into a relentless truth-seeker. Yoon’s performance is compelling, balancing wit and intensity.

✅ Yoo Beom-jin (Keum Sae-rok) – A student who becomes Moo-hyuk’s ally. Her emotional depth and resilience make her a standout.

✅ The Antagonists – The wealthy, manipulative students (especially Joo Hyeon-woo played by Lee Jun-young) are chillingly believable.

2. Themes & Tone

Dark Academia – The school setting contrasts with its sinister undertones.

Social Inequality – Explores privilege, corruption, and the lengths the rich go to protect their status.

Moral Ambiguity – Even the protagonist isn’t purely "good," making the story more complex.

3. Pacing & Storytelling

Fast-Paced & Engaging – Each episode reveals new clues, keeping viewers hooked.

Twists & Turns – The mystery unfolds unpredictably, with shocking revelations.

Some Plot Holes – A few loose ends aren’t fully resolved.

4. Cinematography & Atmosphere

Gritty & Moody – The dark color palette matches the show’s tone.

School as a Battlefield – The elite academy feels like a war zone where students fight for power.

5. Music & Soundtrack

Suspenseful OST – Enhances tension in key scenes.

Minimal but Effective – Doesn’t overpower the drama’s intensity.

Comparison to Similar Dramas

Drama Similarities Differences
Sky Castle Elite corruption, dark academia More family-focused, less mystery
Extracurricular High school crime, moral dilemmas Grittier, more violent
Solomon’s Perjury School mystery, courtroom drama Slower burn, less action
Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

Engaging mystery with unpredictable twists

Strong performances, especially Yoon Kyun-sang

Critique of privilege and corruption

Fast-paced with little filler

❌ Cons:

Some underdeveloped side characters

Ending feels slightly rushed

Not for viewers who prefer lighthearted dramas

Final Verdict: 8.5/10

"Class of Lies" is a gripping, dark thriller that exposes the rot beneath elite society. With sharp writing, intense performances, and relentless suspense, it’s perfect for fans of mystery and social commentary.