Yoo Soo-bin Initially Refused Role in “Weak Hero Class 2” Because the Director Is His Brother

At the press conference for Netflix’s upcoming drama “Weak Hero Class 2,” actor Yoo Soo-bin surprised fans by revealing he initially declined his role because the director is his own brother.

Held on April 21 at Hotel Naru in Seoul’s Mapo District, the production team and cast gathered to discuss the much-anticipated second season of the intense youth drama. Cast members Park Ji-hoon, Ryeo-un, Choi Min-young, Yoo Soo-bin, Bae Na-ra, Lee Min-jae, and Lee Jun-young were joined by director Yoo Soo-min and chief producer Han Jun-hee of “D.P.” fame.

“Weak Hero Class 2” follows honor student Yeon Si-eun (played by Park Ji-hoon), who transfers to Eunjang High School while dealing with trauma after failing to protect a friend. The series delves deeper into the themes of violence, survival, and growth in a brutal high school environment.

Yoo Soo-bin plays Choi Hyo-man, a student who desperately wants to join the school’s delinquent alliance but finds himself at odds with Yeon Si-eun. “He’s a typical bully—strong to the weak, weak to the strong,” Yoo Soo-bin explained.

Though his performance promises to be memorable, Yoo Soo-bin confessed he initially declined the role multiple times, citing discomfort about wearing a school uniform and, more importantly, working under his older brother. “It felt burdensome. I thought, ‘Isn’t it awkward to be directed by my own brother?’” he admitted. Still, he praised director Yoo Soo-min for shaping the character with unique emotional nuance: “There’s a slyness and griminess that only Hyo-man can have. My brother gave me a lot of ideas that helped bring him to life.”

Chief producer Han Jun-hee added, “Yoo Soo-bin refused the role many times. But I’m glad we cast him. He fits the character perfectly.” Han Jun-hee also mentioned how returning D.P. actors like Lee Jun-young, Bae Na-ra, and Yoo Soo-bin adapted seamlessly despite the high school setting.

“Weak Hero Class 2” is set to premiere on Netflix on April 25.