I don’t often recommend movies to people, but there is a Korean movie called King of Pigs that focuses on school bullying. We all know that bullying is harmful and can have long-lasting effects on victims, sometimes leaving them unable to recover. This movie perfectly illustrates that reality. The central characters suffer various degrees of abuse at the hands of their privileged classmates, and the situation becomes so severe that one of them loses his life.
One of the central characters, Hwang Kyung Min, is the first to be abused because his father runs a motel, and his parents are not financially well-off. The title King of Pigs symbolizes the less privileged students in the school who are constantly bullied by their wealthier counterparts. Another central character, Jung Jong Suk, is a close friend of Hwang Kyung Min. The two attend school together and share a similar fate. At first, Jong Suk tries to defend his friend, but he eventually becomes a target himself. His mother is a fish seller, which leads to humiliation when she is invited to speak to the students about career goals.
The bullying continues for a long time until Kim Cheol steps in to protect them. He fights on their behalf multiple times and wins on several occasions. However, his reign as the King of Pigs is short-lived. After losing his father to death, he becomes emotionally vulnerable, and the bullies take advantage of his weakened state. Overwhelmed, he contemplates suicide and informs his friends of his intentions. Though he initially changes his mind, his emotional struggles take a toll on Jong Suk. Eventually, Kim Cheol tragically loses his life in what is perceived as a suicide, making a dramatic statement to the entire school.
Hwang Kyung Min, the most timid of the three, carries the trauma with him into adulthood. Twenty years later, he decides to take matters into his own hands and avenge his friend. Meanwhile, Jong Suk becomes a police officer, now responsible for handling crimes committed by others.
King of Pigs is a suspenseful and gripping series. It keeps viewers engaged, with many unresolved issues coming to light toward the end. One of the standout aspects of the show is that it does not focus on romantic relationships, making it a unique and intense viewing experience. If you enjoy psychological dramas with deep themes, this is a must-watch.