Weak Hero Class 2 Episode 3: The Union's True Power Emerges and Si-eun's World Gets Darker

Recap: The Calm Before the Storm

Episode 3 picks up right after the explosive fight from last time. Si-eun, Jun-tae, Hyun-tak, and Baku are forced to do volunteer work together as punishment, which unexpectedly helps them bond. For the first time, we see Si-eun let his guard down, even cracking a rare smile, though he still finds his new friends a bit much. This new camaraderie is short-lived, as the looming threat of the Union gang casts a shadow over Eunjang High.

The Villains Take Center Stage

While Hyo-man was once the main bully, Episode 3 makes it clear he’s small fry compared to the real threats: Seong-je and Baek-jin of the Union. Seong-je, following Baek-jin’s orders, tests Si-eun and openly threatens Baku, but it’s Baek-jin who truly steals the spotlight. When Hyo-man tries to regain his place by attacking Baek-jin, he’s effortlessly humiliated-Baek-jin dispatches Hyo-man and his cronies without breaking a sweat, establishing himself as a terrifying new antagonist. The choreography of this beatdown has been widely praised for its intensity and realism.

Si-eun’s Inner Struggles and New Bonds

Amid the chaos, Si-eun’s character development shines. He’s still haunted by his past and Su-ho’s condition, but his interactions with Jun-tae and Hyun-tak show him slowly opening up. There’s a memorable moment where Jun-tae tries to comfort Si-eun about the rumors that he ruined someone’s life, highlighting how the group is starting to care for each other. Baku’s playful antics-like patting Si-eun’s head-bring levity but also foreshadow future tension between these strong personalities.

Union’s Threat and the Stakes for Eunjang

The episode’s second half is all about raising the stakes. The Union, a collective of high school gangs led by Baek-jin, sets its sights on Eunjang. Seong-je stalks Si-eun to the hospital where Su-ho lies in a coma, ominously telling Si-eun to follow him. The implication is clear: the Union is willing to use Su-ho as leverage to force Si-eun into betraying his friends and joining them. This threat transforms the series from a simple school brawl drama into a high-stakes psychological battle.

Viewer Reactions: Rising Tension, Strong Ensemble

Fans and critics alike have praised Episode 3 for deepening the show’s villain roster and for the chemistry among the main cast. International viewers have singled out Baek-jin’s introduction as a highlight, noting how his calm brutality raises the tension. Many also love Si-eun’s blunt honesty and vulnerability, with comments like “I love the way he says exactly how he feels and doesn’t let anyone stand in his way.” The growing friendship between the four main characters is another fan favorite, with some calling it the emotional core of the season.

Critical Reviews: Strengths and Minor Critiques

Critics have noted that the episode balances character moments with escalating plot stakes. The fight choreography, especially Baek-jin’s scenes, is a standout. Some reviewers, however, miss the more cerebral “brain action” of season 1, feeling that the new focus on larger gang politics and brute force, while thrilling, sometimes overshadows Si-eun’s unique strategic approach. Still, most agree that the new villains add much-needed depth and danger.

What’s Next: The War for Eunjang Begins

The episode ends with the sense that peace at Eunjang is over. Si-eun is reluctantly being pulled into a much bigger conflict, with the Union threatening everything he cares about. With Baek-jin and Seong-je now in play, the stakes have never been higher. Fans are eager to see how Si-eun and his new friends will stand up to the most dangerous enemies they’ve ever faced.