The first episode of SBS’s new Friday-Saturday drama ‘The Fierce Priest 2’ (written by Jay Park/directed by Boram Park), which aired for the first time on the 8th, soared to 12.4% in the metropolitan area, 11.9% nationwide, and up to 15.4% based on Nielsen Korea, ranking first in the same time slot and broadcast on Friday. It won first place overall in the program.
This first episode is about Kim Hae-il (played by Kim Nam-gil), a hot-blooded priest whose blood boils over the punishment after a mysterious drug case broke out in Gudam-gu, which was enjoying a peaceful time five years later, and Gudams, who helps Kim Hae-il and foreshadows their reunion again. It contains the members’ stories.
First, Kim Hae-il transformed into a monk to put an end to the atrocities committed by the ‘one-way faction’ at Gudamsa Temple, and beat down Shin Ho-dong (played by Na Seon-wook) and his subordinates who were harassing the monks. Meanwhile, Sister Kim (played by Baek Ji-won) became a senior nun with a tazza temperament, Father Han (played by Jeon Seong-woo) became a head priest with growing anger, Songsak (played by Ahn Chang-hwan) became an honorary police officer of Gudam-gu and the king of the riders, and Yo-han Oh (played by Ko Kyu-pil) grew up to be a convenience store manager on a monthly salary system with hearing loss due to an electric shock. Park Kyeong-seon (played by Lee Ha-nui) left for training at the Los Angeles (LA) federal court, and Goo Dae-young (Kim Seong-gyun) was promoted to the head of the violent crime team at Gudam Police Station and shows no welfare during the day, but fights injustice with Kim Hae-il at night. He boasted about Guy’s abilities.
However, while chatting with a flirtatious man at a restaurant in LA, Park Kyeong-sun is in danger of being arrested by armed police officers who arrive to arrest the man, and during a peaceful mass, Lee Sang-yeon (Moon Woo-jin), a copyist whom Kim Hae-il is fond of, suddenly collapses. It gave me an ominous feeling. Moreover, it was shocking to learn that the cause of Lee Sang-yeon’s shock after being taken to the emergency room was poisoning with Hapanyl, a type of drug. Kim Hae-il and Koo Dae-young offered to help, but they were enraged when people from the Supreme Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Investigation Headquarters arrived and took over the case, and they were suspicious that the news of the Gudam-gu Haepaniel incident was completely taken down the next day.
Afterwards, Kim Hae-il got a hint by listening to the name of the person Lee Sang-yeon spoke to on the phone the day before she collapsed, and Koo Dae-young went looking for evidence with Songsak. Kim Hae-il showed a resolute attitude, saying, “It’s the same as five years ago. It’s because of people not doing what they should do,” and the rest of the ‘Old Avengers’ also pledged to work together. Next, Kim Hae-il, Koo Dae-young, and Songsak staged a situational play with the concept of Kim Hae-il being a bride possessed by the evil spirit of death. They overpowered Iljin, who led Lee Sang-yeon to addiction to Hapanil, and later discovered Gudam-gu’s drug distribution plan.
Kim Hae-il, Koo Dae-young, and Song Sak overpowered a group of 18 people, and after threatening them with an ’upside down’, they got the decisive hint called ‘Busan Fire Eel’. However, Kim Hae-il, who was showing his doubts, said to the old Avengers, “What would Father Lee Young-jun do in this situation?” and said, “The Busan fire eel must be in Busan.” Next, expectations were raised with a resolute ending in which Kim Hae-il arrived at Busan Station wearing Lee Sang-yeon’s headphones.
Above all, ‘The Fierce Priest 2’ heightened the sense of pleasure by containing a harmless narrative of punishment by writer Jay Park that constantly made people laugh, surprise, and move people. Director Park Bo-ram showed off his sensuous directing skills with action scenes that are the essence of pleasure and dreamy emotional scenes.
Meanwhile, season 1 original members Kim Nam-gil, Lee Ha-nui, and Kim Sung-gyun showed fantastic chemistry through their portrayal of famous characters. In particular, Seongjun, Seo Hyunwoo, and Kim Hyungseo raised curiosity by showing their strong presence as new faces.
Episode 2 of ‘The Fiery Priest 2’ airs at 9:50 PM on the 9th.
Economy Queen Reporter Kim Kyeong-eun Photo News 1
Interview Between Time.News Editor and SBS Drama Expert
Editor: Welcome! Today, we have a treat for our audience as we delve deep into the latest cultural sensation, “The Fierce Priest 2.” We’re joined by drama expert and critic, Dr. Yoo Min-Jae. Thank you for being here!
Dr. Yoo: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to talk about this striking continuation of the series.
Editor: The show premiered with impressive viewership numbers, soaring to 12.4% in the metropolitan area. What do you think contributed to this thunderous start?
Dr. Yoo: The first episode does an excellent job of blending compelling storytelling with engaging characters. The character of Kim Hae-il, portrayed by the charismatic Kim Nam-gil, sets the stage for intrigue. Additionally, viewers are drawn in by the high stakes involving drugs and crime in a seemingly peaceful community.
Editor: Absolutely. The transition of Kim Hae-il from a priest to a monk signifies deeper themes at play. Could you elaborate on that?
Dr. Yoo: Kim Hae-il’s transformation symbolizes a quest for justice and redemption, fighting against the corruption that threatens his community. This duality in his character creates a dynamic narrative; he embodies the struggle between morality and the harsh realities he faces. It invites viewers to consider their own notions of justice and duty.
Editor: And we see a range of characters that support Kim Hae-il. Can you talk about their evolution from the previous season?
Dr. Yoo: Certainly! Each supporting character has grown in their own right. For instance, Sister Kim evolves into a senior nun with a strong temperament, while Father Han’s growth into a head priest imbues a blend of anger and compassion. This evolution helps to paint a richer picture of the community and provides layers of complexity to the storyline.
Editor: The plot thickens when we witness a shocking event involving Lee Sang-yeon collapsing due to drug poisoning. This is a major narrative twist. How does this set the tone for the season?
Dr. Yoo: The collapse of Lee Sang-yeon introduces an urgent crisis that not only escalates the narrative but also galvanizes all the characters into action. It raises the stakes significantly, reinforcing that while Gudam-gu may seem peaceful, it’s rife with underlying issues. This event acts as a catalyst for the characters to join forces, invoking themes of camaraderie and vengeance against injustice.
Editor: It seems the show’s producers have maintained a blend of humor and seriousness, a signature of the first installment. Is that balance upheld in this new season?
Dr. Yoo: Yes, the balance is maintained beautifully. Despite the darker themes, the show allows moments of levity through its character interactions, especially with the group affectionately referred to as the ‘Old Avengers.’ These moments not only add humor but also highlight the strength of their bond, making the characters relatable and engaging.
Editor: Given the show’s strong start, do you think it will continue to capture the audience’s attention?
Dr. Yoo: I believe it will! Audiences are hungry for dramas that not only entertain but also provoke thought about societal issues. With its potent mix of action, character growth, and relevant themes, “The Fierce Priest 2” has a solid foundation to keep viewers invested.
Editor: could you give us one thing that viewers should look out for in the upcoming episodes?
Dr. Yoo: Definitely! I’d say pay attention to the relationships between characters. As they navigate this turbulent world, their alliances and conflicts will evolve, revealing deeper motivations and personal struggles. It will undoubtedly add more depth to the already rich narrative.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Yoo! Your insights are invaluable as we anticipate what’s next in this gripping drama.
Dr. Yoo: Thank you for having me! I look forward to seeing how the season unfolds.