“High School Return of a Gangster”: A Blend of Comedy, Drama, and Fantasy

It’s never too late for self-improvement, and for some, that means finally getting a high-school diploma. This is the premise of “High School Return of a Gangster,” a webtoon adaptation featuring Kim Deuk-pal (Lee Seo-jin, Behind Every Star), the second-in-command in a criminal organization, who seeks to solve problems with his mind rather than his fists at the age of 47.

Deuk-pal’s physical prowess is undeniable, as evidenced by the opening brawl scene. However, his gang boss, Seo Chil-sung (Lee Kyoung-young, The World of the Married), eyes him as a potential successor, pushing Deuk-pal to hit the books. Despite his dedication and respect for his young tutor, his test scores remain low.

One fateful evening, Deuk-pal witnesses a teenager, Song Yi-heon (Yoon Chan-young, All of Us Are Dead), about to jump off a bridge. Rushing to save him, Deuk-pal catches Yi-heon but is then hit by a car, resulting in his spirit inhabiting Yi-heon’s body while his own body ends up in the morgue.

Deuk-pal’s gang members, unaware of the soul switch, confront Yi-heon, demanding an apology. As Deuk-pal navigates his new life in Yi-heon’s body, he realizes he has gotten his wish to attend high school, though not in the way he expected.

“High School Return of a Gangster” blends elements of high school and gangster dramas with a touch of fantasy. The plot recalls earlier works like the 2001 film “My Boss, My Hero,” where a young gangster goes undercover in high school. It also mirrors the 2019 hit “The Dude in Me,” which features a similar body-switch scenario.

Deuk-pal’s journey reveals Yi-heon’s privileged yet troubled life, marked by bullying and a strained family relationship. His newfound confidence surprises his tormentors, though he struggles with Yi-heon’s weaker physique. Deuk-pal also encounters Choi Se-kyung (Bong Jae-hyun, Twinkling Watermelon), a classmate with a mysterious connection to Yi-heon.

Despite its intriguing premise, the show lacks the comedic flair of “The Dude in Me” and the intensity of high-school bullying dramas like “Weak Hero Class 1.” The limited budget and lack of originality in its storytelling are noticeable drawbacks. The familiar tropes are engaging, but the series could benefit from more creative effort to truly capture viewers’ attention.

“High School Return of a Gangster” offers a diverting watch, particularly for those who enjoy seeing an underdog rise against adversity. It streams on Viu, providing a unique mix of comedy, drama, and fantasy.

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