Study Group, a K-drama that premiered on January 23, quickly became a hit, attracting viewers with its unique blend of action and character development. The series, based on a popular webtoon, follows Yoon Ga-min, a student known for his fighting rather than his academic skills, as he navigates the harsh world of entrance exams at a ruthless school. Along with his fellow students, Ga-min forms a study group to survive and pursue their university dreams.
The series captivated audiences with its compelling character relationships and spectacular action sequences. It garnered top spots on streaming platforms like Viu in several countries, including Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia, and ranked in the top ten in Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Philippines. Despite its “not suitable for teenagers” rating, Study Group quickly gained popularity for its fresh narrative that focuses not only on Ga-min’s growth but also on how the supporting characters evolve through their interactions with him.
Director Lee Jang-hoon, who previously directed Be With You (2018), expressed surprise at the show’s success, especially since it did not receive much promotional support before its release. Initially unsure of its potential due to the cast and rating challenges, Lee began to see a positive response after the first week. Hwang Min-hyun, who plays Ga-min, added to the show’s appeal, with his dedication to training for the role, even during his military service, leading to speculation about a potential second season.
The series stands out in the K-school drama genre by focusing on the growth of characters surrounding the protagonist. Unlike many shows that center on overcoming personal trauma, Study Group highlights the transformative impact Ga-min has on those around him. Additionally, the show carefully avoids glorifying school violence while still addressing it in a heightened, stylized manner. The portrayal of female characters in meaningful roles was also widely praised, breaking away from the typical stereotypes often found in such dramas.
As the series continues to receive acclaim, the possibility of a second season remains uncertain. Director Lee, who initially did not plan for a sequel, is now open to the idea if they can make it even better than the first season. However, the most important factor remains the script.
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