I love this drama already; Episode 1 delivered just what I’d hoped for, and what I wanted. I’ve watched a lot of high school shows — an embarrassing number, actually — and if the rest of the series maintains the premiere’s moody atmosphere and underdog narrative, I think it can rank up there with my favorites.

True, we will be losing Lee Min-ki soon since he’s just an extended cameo, and he’s definitely one of the best, most charismatic aspects of the show so far. But I like what I see of the rest, even the newbies, and if the smooth directing can continue to showcase the strengths, I’m not too worried for the other cast members. Lee does have a star power that’s practically overwhelming, and I feel like the others will be able to shine more once he’s gone. (Hey, that glass is half-full, okay?)

Lee Min-ki – “Tonite, Tonite” [ Download ]

Even with the numerous character posts I’ve done on this show, the names tended to get confusing — there are just so many of them — so here’s a cast list, off the top:

• Lee Min-ki: BYUNG-HEE, leader, vocals.
• Sung Joon: KWON JI-HYUK, guitarist.
• L: LEE HYUN-SOO, second guitarist.
• Lee Hyun-jae: JANG DO-IL, drummer.
• Yoo Min-kyu: KIM HA-JIN, bassist.
• Kim Min-seok: SEO KYUNG-JONG, keyboardist.