No, Hierarchy is not a direct remake of the Spanish series Elite. Instead, it is widely described as the "Korean version" or a Korean counterpart to Elite, sharing similar thematic elements and target demographics rather than a direct plot-for-plot adaptation.
The Nature of the Comparison
Hierarchy is a South Korean high school drama that explores themes common in shows like Elite, such as wealth, power, social hierarchy, dark secrets, and the struggles of elite students in a prestigious institution. While it aims to capture a similar essence and cater to a global audience interested in such narratives, it presents an original story set within a distinct cultural context.
The comparison stems from the premise of a new, ordinary student entering an exclusive, elite high school filled with privileged and often problematic heirs, disrupting the established order and uncovering hidden truths.
Key Aspects of Comparison
While not a remake, the two series share a thematic DNA that leads to their frequent comparison.
Similarities:
- Elite High School Setting: Both dramas are set in highly exclusive, private high schools attended by the children of the ultra-wealthy and influential.
- Social Class Dynamics: They heavily feature the stark contrast between the privileged lives of the elite students and the struggles of characters from less affluent backgrounds.
- Mystery and Secrets: Both series weave intricate plots around dark secrets, scandals, and sometimes even crimes that affect the student body.
- Power and Privilege: The narratives explore how wealth and power influence relationships, justice, and personal integrity within the school's closed ecosystem.
- Teen Drama Elements: They incorporate common teen drama tropes such as love triangles, friendships, betrayal, and coming-of-age challenges.
Differences:
- Cultural Context: Elite is set in Spain, reflecting Spanish culture and societal issues, while Hierarchy is firmly rooted in the South Korean educational and social environment.
- Specific Plotlines: Although themes overlap, the individual storylines, character arcs, and mystery elements are unique to each series.
- Pacing and Tone: While both are thrillers, their specific narrative pacing and overall tone can differ, influenced by their respective production styles and cultural storytelling nuances.
Series Comparison Overview
To further clarify the distinction, here's a brief overview:
| Feature | Hierarchy | Elite |
|---|---|---|
| Origin Country | South Korea | Spain |
| Primary Language | Korean | Spanish |
| Genre | Teen Drama, Mystery, Thriller | Teen Drama, Mystery, Thriller |
| Core Premise | Transfer student disrupts an elite high school's established order | Working-class students enter an elite school after their own is destroyed |
| Relationship to Other | Often called the "Korean Elite" due to thematic similarities | Original series; not a remake of another show |
Critical Reception
The intention for Hierarchy to be perceived as the "Korean Elite" was clear. However, critical reception has varied. Some reviews suggest that while it attempts to tackle similar themes of class disparity and teenage angst within an elite setting, it struggles to fully live up to the standard set by Elite or even older, more engaging K-dramas that have explored similar concepts. Critics have noted that, for some, Hierarchy might feel less compelling, lacking the intricate plot or character depth to make its conclusion feel truly rewarding over its seven-episode run.
