Netflix's 'True Education' hits Global Non-English #1 in 3 days; director Hong Jong-chan speaks

True Education (참교육) reached No. 1 on Netflix's Global TOP 10 Non-English Shows within three days of its release.

Director Hong Jong-chan sat down for an interview on June 11 in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, his first extended comments since the show began trending. "Viewers understood the essence and sincerity of the work," he said, calling that recognition meaningful from a director's standpoint. He also singled out the show's rookie cast, saying their strong reception made him "very pleased."

The casting of the lead role drew pre-release attention after it emerged that actor Kim Nam-gil had received an offer in 2024 but was ultimately not cast. Hong addressed it directly: the process of finding the right actor for any project involves considerable deliberation, he said, and this was simply part of that. He described Nam-gil as "a very good actor" and said the two continue to support each other, adding that another collaboration is possible if the right project comes along. Nam-gil, for his part, said he believes that if a project makes him uncomfortable, it is better not to take it than to work around potential issues.

Hong said he was not upset or angry about the scrutiny the show faced before its premiere. (At the production presentation, co-star Muyeol had already said actors speak through their work — Hong echoed that framing.) On the show's subject matter, he noted that similar real-world incidents are numerous and asked viewers to treat the story as one built from imagination.

Reactions have come from teachers, parents, and general viewers alike. Hong said he welcomes the range: "Various opinions being expressed is a good thing."