Study Group (2025)

Resurrected my love for the genre

Over the years, I have always loved watching the delinquent/troubled highschoolers/found family/unlikely friendship genre.
That being said, it is very easy for this story trope to get repetitive. There are only so many things that can be done to make the story interesting (and to be honest, Gokusen has probably done it all anyways). That's why I haven't found any drama of this genre interesting to watch for a long time.

Study Group managed to grab my attention, though. With everything it brought to the table - the perfect blend of absurdist comedy, serious topics usually present in "school" dramas that just make you /feel/ things and, of course, fights.

First, let's briefly address the allegations of this drama being unrealistic. Yes, not many highschoolers are able to throw a human across the room. Yes, regular highschoolers probably don't have 5 liters of spare blood to bleed so much. Yes, one 17-year-old probably can not rule over the whole city district... That's not the point of this drama, though. The exaggerated situations (be it superhuman fights or the fact the main lead actually studies and fails at school where majority doesn't care about studies) are one of 3 key elements of the success for this drama. I think especially the comedy gags are able to shine and have a greater impact when executed like this. The absurdist/dry comedy is, for me, the highlight of this drama. If this show was any more normal, it would be just another Gokusen/School 2013.

The second pillar of this drama are, of course, the characters. The found family/dream team trope is so fun in this show and characters AND actors mesh together amazingly. Characters are interesting and fun to root for. I really appreciate that everyone, be it villains or main leads, had some amount of depth and development. This is, of course, the testament of how well written the original story (probably) is.

Last, but definitely not least, is the fight choreography. I think nearly 50 % of the screen time was dedicated to fight scenes and I just want to note; the fights were so much fun. Together with great videography and fun OST (including that one song that was NOT Darude - Sandstorm :( ) the fight scenes fulfill the teen fantasy of being the badass shonen manga main character to a T.

Even though it is just February, I am not afraid to claim this is one of the top 10 dramas of 2025. I am deducting 0,5 points in my rating for a slightly muddled story telling. Now I'm off to read the webtoon, because even if we ever get a season 2, Hwan MinHyun will be back from the military only at the end of 2025 and I can't wait that long.

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“I create opportunities even in hellish situations.”

If you have decided to watch this series just watch it with one thought this is pure comedy with amazingly done action scenes which have nothing to do with realism. Then you’ll find this drama fun.
I have not read Manhwa so my review will only be for this show.

What I like-
1. Choosing Rap OST for this drama was such a great move. Specifically the Back Packer song. I loved it.
2. The depth of each character of the study group was shown so nicely.
3. The action scenes are amazing and knowing the fact that Hwang Min Hyun did most of the stunts by himself makes it more impressive.
4. The fight choreography is amazing. The visuals are amazing.
5. In my opinion, this series has shown the best character development.
6. At first, I thought this was another Weak Hero Class 1 but it was much much more than that.
7. The friendships in this drama are just amazing. The bond they share with each other and the teacher makes this drama praiseworthy. The level of trust they had in each other even in the most difficult situations makes this drama more special.
8. Ga Min’s mom stole the show, even in just a few minutes. Now we know why Ga Min fights so well. It's in his blood. He gets it from his mother.

What I didn't like-
1. The pacing of the drama started great but it went mediocre in the middle.
2. Everything revolved around Ga Min so much that it felt weird in later episodes.
3. Pi Han Wool was the villain but he did something big only in the last two episodes. The depth they showed for study group members I wanted that same thing for Han Wool as well.
4. Lack of Seon Yeop’s screen time. I never read Manhwa so I thought he was the villain because of his sudden appearances at the right place right time. He was a complex character in my opinion.

Some of my favorite quotes from this drama-

“The moment a person stops learning, their life stops too.”

“I create opportunities even in hellish situations.”

“It doesn't have to be a great victory. What comforts you from losing isn't the perfect score test result… one circle is enough.”

“To steal someone’s time, you don't threaten them. You ask for understanding.”


All in all, the story and plot are very predictable like any other K-drama but it's fun to watch. This drama had everything… comedy, amazing cast, banger OST, clap-worthy action scenes, friendships that you will envy to have in real life, best character developments… you just name it.

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study group is an absolute masterpiece—no debate.

seriously, this drama has me in a chokehold, and i'm only three episodes in. THREE! if it’s already this wild, i can’t imagine what’s coming next.

the action uh 🙄 it's off the charts. every fight scene, every move feels like it could break your screen. gamin’s not just throwing punches; he's putting on a full-on performance. the slow-motion shots? chef’s kiss. idc if it’s exaggerated or over the top,it works. and it’s pure adrenaline.😂😭

then there’s the humor. gamin, the guy who’s terrible at studying but won’t stop trying, is just hilarious. he’s got tutors, online lessons, and he’s even taking notes during church sermon and while pooping lmao... like, bro, you’re trying so hard but still failing 🤓i’m wheezing 😭

oh, and the music. "backpackers" is straight-up a bop. gunwook and matthew killed it with the track. it’s just the right vibe for this high-energy show..pumps up every scene 🔥

andd haha the show’s pacing is like a roller coaster. i mean 40 minute episodes should NOT fly by this quickly 🤷🏻‍♀️ one minute, you’re deep in the drama, and the next, the screen is asking if you want to watch the next episode. study group knows how to keep you on edge.

i can’t get enough of the overall vibe of this drama. it’s got everything - a perfect mix of humor, action, and heart. it reminds me of boyhood and whc1 and this drama is more fun, less gritty, and equally satisfying. the characters might be trying to survive school, but they’re also thriving in bringing something new to the screen.

final rating? 1000000/10. no questions, just pure hype. if you haven’t started watching yet, you’re missing out BIG time.

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Study Group or Fight Club?

Disclaimer: This is a subjective review that is not intended to offend anyone. It reflects my personal perception of the drama, which may differ from yours. Whether to watch it or not is your choice.


The first half of the drama captivated me—I couldn't wait for new episodes. But I barely made it through the second half. I think this happened because, at first, I was intrigued by the plot and characters, but over time, the story started repeating itself, and the fights seemed endless.

The drama lacked an emotional component that could have truly moved me. I also felt there wasn't enough motivation or development for the main character—he seemed to be stuck in one place. I wanted to see more of his academic achievements or something that would better explore the theme of education in this story.

I want to praise the director’s work—it was top-notch. The fight choreography was decent, though far from realistic. And the OSTs were absolutely the best—Bang Yedam, my ultimate of all ultimates, contributed to this drama, which makes me incredibly happy. I also liked the other members of the study group. This unusual bunch added an interesting contrast to the story.

The ending was fine but nothing special. By the middle of the drama, I had already gotten used to the plot twists, so they stopped evoking any emotions in me.

I think this drama will appeal to those who don’t expect a strong storyline and enjoy action-packed fight scenes. It’s a decent story, but it didn’t feel special to me.

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No character growth, missing scenes, and overall felt rushed and disconnected. (spoilers)

No character development, a lot of scenes felt out of place or completely missing, and overall, the drama felt disconnected from reality. (spoilers)

1. There was a scene where I think it was Kim Se Hyeon or Choi Hui Won who said that Yun Ga Min and the teacher had “changed the school.” I was just sitting there wondering… what exactly did they change? Did I skip some episodes? Or am I dreaming?

2. The scene where the teacher is about to be attacked—possibly mauled to death—by the YB gang, and suddenly the detention team and several others (who made no significant impact earlier to the group) show up to help... I was just like, what is going on? When did these random bonds and relationships even form?

3. Pi Han Ul’s father's role was almost insignificant for someone who’s supposed to be a gang lord. Are you telling me he couldn’t easily stop the bullying/violence committee? Please make it make sense. For someone in such a high position, his impact was about as important as the glasses Yun Ga Min wore.

4. Hwang Min Hyun did a great job, but Yun Ga Min as a character was soulless. He showed literally no emotions and at some point felt like a puppet. (Maybe that’s how he is in the webtoon?) But still, he felt too empty.

5. The drama severely lacked depth and connection to the characters. This basically summarizes my whole review:

a) Kim Se Hyeon – I couldn’t relate to his sob story. It wasn’t well-executed; it felt half-baked. Him leaving the group also came out of nowhere. I’m guessing the webtoon explored this more, but in the drama it was seriously underdeveloped.

b) Pi Han Ul’s statement that the school wouldn’t even change without Kim Se Hyeon feels 100% true—according to the drama’s plot, since it lacked so much depth.

c) Showing multiple scenes in the final episode—scenes that should’ve been spread throughout the series—just felt like a rushed attempt to justify the “Study Group’s” close bond.

d) What was even Park Geon Yeop’s role or importance to the plot? I thought he’d join the group or help fight to protect the teacher... but nothing happened. What the heck?

e) Lee Jun joined the group so Yun Ga Min could teach him how to fight—and they didn’t show any of that until the end. I’m just lost. What’s really going on?

f) Choi Hui Won – this role was just too empty. No backstory, no context, no development. Nothing.

The only truly relatable and well-delivered sob story was Kim Sun Cheol (yellow hair). His story and his performance were phenomenal. I genuinely felt bad for him.

The drama started off great but quickly spiraled downward. It felt rushed, sloppy, and lacked the emotional depth needed to connect with and understand the characters.

I’m sure the webtoon tells the story way better than the drama did (I haven’t read it, but I’m assuming—because books/webtoons are usually more detailed and in-depth than their adaptations). So much was lost from the plot—it felt incomplete, rushed, and just... off.

At some point, I seriously felt like I had skipped a few episodes.

I would have given it a 0/10, but “yellow hair” carried the entire series so "2"

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10/10 Drama fa sho!

This is what I am talking, this Kdrama should serve as a perfect example of how a drama should be, it has everything that makes a drama a good drama. Perfect combination of comedy, seriousness, emotions, and entertainment all combined into one, I am at the edge of my seat every time I am watching an episode anticipating what's going to happen next, I love this drama, it's a 10/10 for me no doubt.

I love the main characters interactions with ea other, how their relationship were all built around the same foundation, once you watch it you'll know what I mean, this drama is a good watch, if you're not watching it, what are you waiting for?!? seriously get to it.

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From Exams to Epic Fights: Study Group is the School Drama We Didn't Know We Needed!

If you’re looking for a drama that keeps you entertained from start to finish, Study Group is the one. It’s got everything—comedy, crazy fight scenes, heartwarming friendships, and just the right amount of chaos. The show takes the usual high school setting and flips it on its head, giving us an adrenaline-packed story about a student who doesn’t just study hard but fights just as hard to survive in a gangster-ridden school.

The way this drama manages to incorporate the webtoon is insane. The fight scenes all feel directly out of a comic book or an anime, giving everything a fun and interesting feel. Also whenever Ga-Min used his uncle's forbidden fighting techniques, it felt too surreal and amazing (yes I barely have words to describe this😅😭)

>Plot & Concept

Yoon Ga-min (played by Hwang Minhyun) might look like your typical nerd, but he’s anything but ordinary. He believes in the philosophy that a strong body means a strong mind, so while other students hit the books, he’s also hitting the gym—and his opponents. Studying in the infamous Ancheon High, where fists matter more than grades, Ga-min trains to protect himself and his friends while still aiming for academic success. This unique combination of school life and martial arts makes Study Group stand out. It’s not just about exams; it’s about survival, teamwork, and outsmarting enemies in the most thrilling ways.

>Perfectly Paced (But Too Short!)

One of the best things about this drama is its pacing. Unlike the usual 16-episode, hour-long format that sometimes drags, Study Group keeps things tight with 10 episodes at 45 minutes each. It never feels slow or stretched out, and every episode has a purpose. That said, it ended way too soon! Just when I was fully invested in these characters and their crazy schemes, the drama wrapped up, leaving me wanting way more.

>Characters That Absolutely Slayed

The cast of Study Group is honestly one of its biggest strengths. Every single character brings something unique to the table, and the actors nailed their roles.

-Yoon Ga-min (Hwang Minhyun) – Our main guy is a total paradox: book-smart yet street-tough. His dedication to both studying and fighting makes him such an interesting lead, and Hwang Minhyun plays him with the perfect mix of determination and vulnerability.

-Pi Hanul (Cha Woomin) – Let’s talk about Pi Hanul because wow. He had that cold, psychotic energy that made every scene he was in instantly better. His intense gaze, his confidence, and the way he carried himself? Absolute perfection. I need to see Cha Woomin in more villainous or unhinged roles ASAP!

-Lee Hyunwoo (Park Yoonho) – Now, here’s where I have a complaint: Hyunwoo deserved way more screen time! He was such a cool character, but we barely got to see him shine. Definitely one of my favorites, and I really wish the drama had given him more to do.

-Choi Heewon (Yoon Sang Jung) – The cutest member of the study group, hands down. She brought a fun, lighthearted energy to the series and made everything feel more real.

-Ga-min & Se-hyeon’s Friendship (Lee Jonghyun) – Their bond was honestly so wholesome. They had each other’s backs in such a genuine way, and their dynamic made the drama even better.

>The Amazing OST
First of the OST by zb1 was so good?! Like the minute it came on I was hyped up and was ready to enjoy the drama. It was just so good!

>Final Thoughts

Study Group is one of those dramas that hooks you in and doesn’t let go. It’s got just the right balance of action, humor, and emotional moments, and it introduces a bunch of talented actors who deserve way more recognition. The only real downside? It ended too soon. If they ever announce a second season (which they totally should), I’ll be first in line to watch it.

If you want a school drama that’s not just about romance and exams but also has insane fight scenes, epic friendships, and a fresh take on survival in high school, Study Group is an absolute must-watch!

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The Action Packed Series I Needed In My Life

I had been down a c-trauma spiral, so Study Group was exactly what I needed to break up the sadness and get myself excited about a series. The action is *chef's kiss* -- hello the flaming backpack?! I really enjoyed the chemistry between the cast too, you're rooting for them right from the start. My only minor issue with this show is that I can't believe it took a substitute teacher to take down Lil Tony Soprano over there. I know this is a group of students who are typically overlooked, so people turned a blind eye to what was happening, but still, good lord. Overall, I loved this series and I wouldn't be mad if they picked back up and gave us a college study group adventure!

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A Hidden Gem in the Action-Drama Genre

This drama is truly one in a million. From the gripping storyline to the intense action sequences and powerful soundtrack, Study Group delivers a thrilling experience that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

STORYLINE
It’s a fresh and unique take on the typical school drama. Instead of focusing solely on academic struggles, Study Group turns high school into a battlefield where survival is just as important as passing exams. The mix of action, friendship, and determination makes every episode worth watching. With 16 episodes, the pacing is perfect—never too slow, never rushed—just enough to keep you at the edge of your seat.

CAST
The entire cast was perfectly chosen, from the main leads to the supporting characters. Their chemistry felt natural, making every interaction believable. The way they portrayed their characters brought the show to life, especially the main lead, whose performance was off the charts. The bond between the study group members felt real, making their victories and struggles even more impactful.

OST
The soundtrack in this drama was an absolute masterpiece. It fit the high-energy fight scenes and emotional moments perfectly, enhancing every scene. Whether it was a heart-pounding action sequence or a heartfelt moment between characters, the OST made it all hit harder. Definitely a playlist-worthy soundtrack!

OVERALL RATING
A solid 9.0/10—this drama is an underrated gem. In the long run, Study Group has all the makings of a classic, standing out among other high school dramas with its raw action and emotional depth. If you haven’t watched it yet, you’re seriously missing out!

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