Captivating and fun
I usually avoid the high school themed in a drama because I feel like it might too simple for my liking and my personal expectations.However, I don't know what happened to me but I've just decided to start this one and surprisingly, in a really good way, it has captured my heart. I know, honestly, it has some "cliches" or slightly predictable moments or even characters itself but I've just found myself being immersed in characters' journey till the end. It eventually has some weak points but after all, it has everything that I love in general.
I like the main character and of course the side characters but for some, I wish they could introduce more details but yes, it was so fun and entertaining to watch. It might just me but I still think it targeted mainly young men but I'm glad that Lee Ji Wu's character exists for us but still the vibes.. I mean, I don't properly explain this.. Well, anyway I still loved this drama as a woman in my late twenties and I assume haha
I think it became one of my favorite drama of the year along with similar vibe such as Weak Hero class, Boyhood and High school frenemy.
Some scenes were amazingly done, I really like the visual effect, the development of each episodes and how they unveiled the story. In addition, I'm addicted to the OST, especially the ending song "Hood" by Haon.
Was this review helpful to you?
Super fun ride from start to finish!
I've been caught fully off guard by this show...to think that I'd completely overlooked this drama when it first started airing because the summary on MDL didn't sound interesting. But then I randomly decided to give it a go and oh my god, what a FUN watch. Best example of execution >> concept.So engaging right from the first episode, fantastic OST, the perfect length of episodes, not too long, not too short, GREAT casting, each of the new faces I'm seeing are so good at their individual roles. They all have such natural chemistry between themselves. And I totally overlooked Minhyun this whole time since Alchemy of Souls...he was made to do this role. Brings a natural innocence to his character but his stunts are equally convincing. The screenplay holds up to the last episode and keeps delivering twists and comedic moments and there's not a slow moment throughout.
I don't think I've enjoyed an action/comedy as much as I enjoyed this one since Bad and Crazy. I'd been looking for something along the same vein, combining light hearted moments, crazy humor and wonderfully choreographed fight scenes with a solid cast and chemistry.
I think the best shows are ones that make you feel like they ended too soon and should've had more episodes, and this one checks it all.
(But if there's a season 2 👀, I'll be here first!)
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
I loved everything about it
DisclaimerWhat I am writing here are my views and thoughts about this series. Some of you may not like it. That does not give you the right to try to come at me with your opinions on why this series should get a higher or lower score and why it is better/worse than I think it is. You have your own opinions, and I have mine. Kindly respect that.
It's been a while since I actually binge-watched a series in less than one and a half days and thoroughly enjoyed it. The length of each episode was good, as I didn't get bored while watching them. The actors were phenomenal in their roles, portraying their characters in a way that made me cry/ be happy/be sad/ angry with them as well as for them. The music for this series was, of course, top-notch, making me bob my head along with it as well as (try to ) sing along with it.
I would have liked to get to know more about the ML's father as well as at least see the face of the person who trained him, but I guess those aspects add to the flair of this series. And, who knows? Maybe they might touch on these aspects in the new season when Hwang Min Hyun finishes his military enlistment this year.
I believe I like this series as it shows people that in a bad situation, you can still have a dream where you can better yourselves. That they should at least continue fighting for these dreams when there are negative things around them and in their lives- that's what I got to take from all of these characters. This was truly a wonderful and surprisingly entertaining series. Even though I originally watched this series for the MDL 2025 Watch challenge, I am glad that I did, and I highly recommend this series to other people who are wondering if they should give it a watch.
Was this review helpful to you?
Loved every bit of this!
Okay, I was bored after some continuously bad ending k-dramas like reborn rich, check in hanyang etc. and then I watched this show.And I loved it so much. One may think the over the top scenes are not good in a show, but believe me, those are so well used here that you never feel detached.
It's undoubtedly the best k-drama I have watched.
Waiting eagerly for the next season. Hope all the cast members return because all of them are just perfect!
Was this review helpful to you?
One of the best action drama
I really enjoyed watching Study Group. It was such a well-balanced series—full of suspense, humor, and surprisingly thoughtful references that kept me engaged from start to finish. What stood out most was how consistent it was; there wasn’t a single episode that felt dull or like filler.The action scenes, in particular, were outstanding. They were sharp, dynamic, and added an exciting layer that made the story even more gripping. At the same time, the lighthearted moments and clever touches of humor gave the show a nice balance, so it never felt too heavy.
Overall, it’s a series I would definitely recommend, both for its entertainment value and the way it blends action, comedy, and meaningful themes so seamlessly.
Was this review helpful to you?
A Brilliant Blend of Humor and Heart — "Study Group" Delivers Unforgettable Entertainment!
The show was FANTASTIC— not a single moment felt boring! I understand some might have differing opinions, but for me, after experiencing a series like 'Weak Class Hero,' I was skeptical about finding another show that could capture that same essence of friendship amidst the challenges posed by a gang of bullies. 'Study Group' shattered those expectations in the best way possible.What I truly appreciate about this series is how it maintains focus on the story without losing its way. Why can’t high schoolers study?! The show masterfully balances the comedic elements with intense action sequences, and let me tell you, the peak moments had me on the edge of my seat. The intro theme complements every climax perfectly, enhancing the emotional weight of each scene.
Kudos to the entire cast for their outstanding performances, particularly Hwang Min-hyun, who portrays Yoon Ga-min. His dedication is evident, especially after training in martial arts for seven months—his fight scenes are nothing short of spectacular!
This series, adapted from a webtoon, seamlessly translates the source material's charisma onto the screen, and the chemistry between characters brings the narrative to life beautifully. I found myself laughing, holding my breath during intense moments, and cheering on the characters every step of the way.
In a world where we often forget the importance of studying amidst high-stakes drama, 'Study Group' serves as a poignant reminder, encapsulated perfectly in the phrase: 'When you stop studying, your life stops.' Bravo to everyone involved in making this gem! I can't recommend it enough!
Was this review helpful to you?
Heartwarming and a masterpiece
I didn’t expect for this drama to deliver. I started watching it because the premise seems fun, a student whose obsessed with studying with limited progress at all. But upon watching it, I was caught by surprise with its brilliance. It’s a balance of action, comedy, friendship, redemption and heartfelt moments. The story seems simple but the way it was told is a masterpiece and with much depth. Kudos to all the cast. They have amazing chemistry. I am actually hoping for a season 2. Perhaps if they are in college. I look forward to the future dramas of the cast. Hope they’ll get lead parts. Love them!Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Peter Parker meets Superman meets Bruce Lee in this ridiculously fun action school drama
That’s exactly what Yoo Ga-min was a school kid who was passionate about learning but also about protecting the weak and doing the right thing. The way he miraculously appeared when his friends were in trouble along with his super human strength ie kicking through steel doors, jumping off of buildings, running at super human speed and crashing through walls without getting so much as a scratch, he was indeed a super hero. All he needed was a cape.The idea that his ultimate goal was to form a study group, so that he could improve his grades and go to college was original and served as a great way to bring the misfits that were the study group together. The group was a nice mix of brains, brawn , and kids from varying backgrounds. Though none of their lives were particularly similar they all formed a strong bond of friendship and loyalty.
This show was entertaining and had many hilarious moments but did have a very dark undertone, which was the ever present theme which pops up in k-dramas, severe bullying. It was infuriating to watch kids get bullied at school, bullied walking home from school, bullied when walking to the local store or just hanging out with friends, and no adult stepping up to help. The school was strait up pandemonium, but save for one teacher, administrators weren’t doing anything create order. It was ridiculous (and unrealistic) that there were no parental complaints about the chaos at the school ( or their kids coming home with black eyes, bloody noses and other bruises) while crimes were going on daily on school grounds without any recourse from the administrators or local law enforcement.
Pi Ha Wool’s reign of terror at the school made sense in that he wanted to control his “kingdom”. What didn’t make sense is that control entailing terrorizing kids who wanted to study, learn and make something of themselves. Another plot hole, it was implied that Geon Yoop’s mom was murdered by Pi Ha Wool and/or his gang of thugs but that story thread was dropped and seemingly given to Ms. Lee. Not a plot hole but though Ga min’s focus was learning not fighting, I wanted him to teach his friends a few moves that would help them defend themselves when he wasn’t around. It difficult to watch them repeatedly get slapped, kicked and beat down (rarely fighting back) until Ga-min miraculously came to the rescue.
Despite some flaws, this was a great show. Good cast with great chemistry. Min-Hyun was perfect as Ga-min. This was by far his best role to date. Would I recommend this show? Absolutely! Would I rewatch it? Absolutely!
Was this review helpful to you?
Beat Drama
The drama was awesome, one of the best I've ever seen.Perfect cast, perfect music, perfect acting and perfect action. Perfect in every aspect. Must watch.
Storyline: The best, the way the story and dialogues is written, it's a masterpiece.
Acting/Cast: They chose the perfect cast for the drama, no doubts. From protagonist, to antagonist to side characters, everything was great and the actors portrayed each and every scene so well. They worked so hard for the action scenes.
Music: I could never skip the intro, zerobaseone never disappoints, one of my favorite ost of all time. The outro music was really great too.
Overall, it's a great drama, needs even more hype and recognition. Expecting a season 2 soon because 10 episode weren't enough. The only bad part of the drama was that it ended.
Kudos to all the cast and crew working on and off screen ❤
Was this review helpful to you?
very hip show
feels like watching an anime or reading a manga really,, very concise, and the camera framing is interestingthe plot s very hip and funny with an undertone of tragic that they could v expanded on to make the show longer.. but they chose to keep it light and i respect that.
despite all the cool side characters, the show is more focused on the main guy. i can totally envisage more seasons comin out, like chronicles of his life
the OST is baaanging, the acting is very playful with anime like reactions
Was this review helpful to you?
For younger audience
Everyone was raving about it so I decided to give it a try but this was not it! It felt too comical after coming from Weak Hero class this was just not it ! It started out fun but then it became more and more ridiculous. You can understand if children like it but honestly more than can't saying anything about it. You can watch it if you want to pass time. For an action drama the action itself was quite disappointing and weirdly directed, story wasn't too bad but making us like the good guys was too forced and cringey. Not bad but not good too!Was this review helpful to you?
Thrilling, comedy, action
Talking about delivering, acting, action, music, story, foes, friends everything is perfect in this series. You want action, comedy, Friendship, thrilling, foes to friends, Gangs, strongest male lead. You will have everything in this series. This is one series after a long time that was very well directed. It is just so fun to watch.Was this review helpful to you?
