Kim Hae-il (played by Kim Nam-gil, left), the protagonist of the drama "The Fiery Priest" Season 2, punches a gangster. Courtessy of SBS By KTimes SBS TV’s "The Fiery Priest" Season 2 is sparking renewed discussion about the portrayal of vigilante justice and societal accountability in K-dramas. Centered on the unconventional and comedic exploits of Father Kim Hae-il (played by Kim Nam-gil), a former intelligence agent turned Catholic priest, the series has drawn keen attention for its mix of humor, social critique and vigilante themes.
With its first episode earning an impressive 11.9 percent viewership rating — marking the highest premiere for a mini-series on terrestrial TV this year — the drama reflects the anticipation built over the 5 years since the original "The Fiery Priest" aired in 2019. However, the series’ blend of over-the-top comedy and pointed social commentary has drawn both praise and critique online.
Detective Gu Dae-young (played by Kim Sung-kyun) dressed as the panda Fu Bao in the drama "The Fiery Priest" Season 2 / Courtesy of SBS. Comedy meets social critique While "The Fiery Priest" Season 2 is packed with parodies and ad-libs that lighten its serious undertones, it doesn’t shy away from addressing societal issues. The story delves into the spread of drug crimes targeting students, as Father Kim investigates the case of a middle schooler forced to take drugs.
The show also tackles the rising culture of online "witch hunts," with the priest de.
