This review may contain spoilers
a successful adaptation?
This review is from the perspective someone who read and knew about study group before the adaptation. I started the drama very invested and enjoyed it for the most part but felt rather unsatisfied with the ending. This might be because of my love for the Webtoon and having been reading it since I first found it about 3 years ago but I do think my issue can be applied in general.Starting from the intro the series immediately had me hooked. Study Group thrives on its cartoonish and humorous depiction of the plot and the characters. Even when the plot thickens and the suspense is building up the drama doesn’t fail to make you laugh. Gamins character plays a big part in this. Though he might appear to be smart and even calculated he more often than not is very unaware of his surroundings, his desire to study being his focal point in life. This is a personal opinion but I particularly appreciate the female characters. Different from other shows of this genre there are multiple female characters deeply involved in the plot and not just on the side lines. All of them are able stand their own and fight for themselves and others. Additionally, there is no unnecessary romance added. The general plot stays mostly to the source material, though it was heavily shortened. Cutting out a lot of the drama is an understandable means to creating a coherent and not overbearing adaptation, especially since the original has more than 200 chapters. reason why the drama was able to match the vibe of the Webtoon so well, was because of the editing of the camera work. Adding a lot of slow-motion and effects certainly helped create a comic-like and entertaining vibe. I usually never watch the intro of a show but, I think a lot of people would agree, the really nice animation complimented by the catchy music had me watch it every single episode. I also want to give the actors and the casting team their credit. All the actors fit the characters incredibly well and are delivering a solid performance. Especially, SeHyeon’s actor had me deeply involved in the character and his storyline.
*disclaimer: this part contains spoilers for the drama and Webtoon*
As I said, my biggest issue with the drama was, that the ending left me feeling unsatisfied for multiple reasons. The first being the character of Pi HanUl. I loved his character in the Webtoon because he wasn’t your generic one-dimensional villain. Admittedly, I don’t remember all the details from back when I read the Webtoon but HanUls and the stories surrounding his chracter stuck with me. He never got a redemption arc but you learned about his backstory and motivations. Something you never get to do in the drama. For one, he had a deeper connection to the former teacher than it might have seemed like to others. Different to the drama it wasn’t him who had her killed. Though the drama hints at their relationship and his backstory one or two times, the scenes are left to be ambiguous and never explained. I was waiting for a deeper exploration of his character but felt disappointed when he got arrested and was left as a rather surface-level character who was simply kind of a bad guy. I think the feeling of there being more to him than just a horrible person isn’t exclusive to people who know the Webtoon. There are moments when he talks with his father and it seems like there is more to their relationship but it never is brought up. It is also never explained why he does the things he does. On the surface it seems like he is a recruiter for his father’s gang and therefore established the ranking system among students, putting himself at the top. But is that really all there is to him? He never really loses his cool or shows emotions leaving the viewer with only a surface level of understanding.
The other issue I have is connected to the storyline of the former teacher who died, or more specifically her son. There isn’t any closure to the story and the involved characters, especially Geonyeop. Originally, he is a morally ambiguous and inscrutable character. It is difficult to tell where is priorities lie and if he actually is a friend to the study group. This made him very interesting to read about. I was excited to see him come to life but was left disappointed. His character was more of a tool to the plot, coming to the rescue whenever needed and disregarded otherwise, than his own person. The best example might be his ending which doesn’t really exist. Though it was his mother who got killed, he doesn’t get the chance to show his anger, grief or confront the perpetrator. When arrested HanUl and GeonYeop do look at each other but it’s nowhere near an appropriate end to the son finally finding and arresting the killer of his mother. There is barely any attention on his character outside of his ability to fight, which I find really sad as he was one of the most interesting to read about originally. As he is a side character I understand that he won’t have as much screen time as others but I still think that he should have gotten more attention from the writers as he is the most involved in the backstory.
* spoiler end *
While I acknowledge that knowing the source material might have made make me overly critical, I do believe it also helps highlight the dramas shortcomings. Things that maybe don't really stand out when casually watching but become noticeable when paying attention. All the shortcomings considered, I still very much enjoyed watching study group and I believe it is an amazing watch for people looking for light action and enjoy a comic-like touch. The charm of the drama definitely lies in its characters and ability to lighten the mood without taking away from the action. The story could have been tied up better with two or more episodes and more attention to the side characters and their backstories. Especially, since these sidestories were included or at least hinted at a deeper exploration could have added a lot to the complexity and general flow of the series. Despite it's shortcomings, the series is able to convey the essence of the chracters and the story of Study group.
If there is a second season, I hope they explore all the characters a bit more and give them their own purpose and backround outside of their relation to the study group. Still, I enjoyed watching Gamin and his friends fight for their right to study and a chance at a better life than what might be expected of them and would call this a solid adapatation.
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Delivers a fresh mix of action, comedy, and strong group dynamics
Study Group offered an interesting blend of action and comedy within a high school setting—a mix I haven’t seen often.The drama maintained a solid pace without any moments that felt unnecessary. It was hilarious watching Yun Ga Min’s relentless efforts to keep his study group together, staying completely unfazed by everything except his studies. Each member of the group also had their own moment to shine through individual subplots, adding depth to the story. The strong chemistry among the group members made their dynamic even more enjoyable to watch.
The casting was well done, with Hwang Min Hyun anchoring the drama as Yun Ga Min. The rest of the study group—Lee Jong Hyun, Shin Su Hyun, Yoon Sang Jung, and Gong Du Yu—also delivered solid performances, contributing to the drama’s charm.
Would highly recommend this!
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This show really had everything!
So glad I watched this! The drama had GREAT comic timing, the action scenes were EPIC!The music was on point, the camerawork too!!
The main study group casting and all the supporting roles did an fab job and Hwang Minhyun absolutely nailed it, he is such a crazy puppy! I absolutely loved this one!! AMAZING!
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Never Give Up On Learning
The story is about a man who's going into a bad school where the students have a ranking apps which make it as their position or status on that school. The higher rank have a power to beat their lower rank. The main character just want to learn to become smarter but He think that He need a partner to do it. That's how his journey begin on that bad school.Was this review helpful to you?
A refreshing plot
it's It’s actually so nice to have a K-drama that helps students appreciate how valuable and meaningful studying can be.It’s a nice and funny k-drama, but I don’t think I’ll rewatch it. Still, I’ll definitely recommend it to my friends.
I was actually waiting and hoping to see more of Geon Yeop’s character, since it felt a bit lacking. Maybe we’ll see more of him in Season 2 — if there will be one.
Minhyun did so well in showcasing his innocent yet charismatic character. I love how passionate his eyes are.
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Good but Different from the WebToon
As some who read the webtoon I couldn't help but feel like they rushed through everything. I had high expectations and as some of them were met I can't help but think this show could've been better. Of course it could have a lot to do with the fact that Korea refuses to pursue more the 1 season of a show but I believe this show could've maintained a good audience for multiple seasons. There were many little details and quick fillers that they could've explored but failed to realize or just ignored that would've either furthered the plot or expanded the character development. Again it was good but it could've been better if they followed the original content. If you read the webtoon you'll know that even if they make a second season it'll be a bit confusing introducing the many characters that are in the webtoon. Still if you don't know the original content it is a very fun watch that most would enjoy, especially if you're a fan of old school kung fu style movies.Was this review helpful to you?
if you haven't watched it you need toooo
this is the most unique drama ive seen in a while.its the perfect mix of action and comedy, most high school fighting dramas are thrilling or survival, but study group has much more of a plot rather than this guy trying to study in a violent school.
yoon gamin is such a perfect ml, and the way hwang minhyun acts him is perfect. he's the perfect choice for him and portrays him so well -- overall, its a great webtoon adaptation and matched the characters accurate to the manhwa
gamin is the type of character everyone loves, you literally just can't hate him ♡
the characters are accurate representations of teenagers too, because lets be real, realistically no 10th grader is strategical like seong sooji or yeon sieun.
the best thing is that gamin doesn't focus on trying to survive or fight off the bullies - he focuses on his study group the most, he will always put the study group first and this guy only fights off kids for his study group.
no matter how brutal the fighting scenes are, they made the show so that you'll be happy watching it no matter what.
but aside from that, the casting is perfect
when I found out they had 10,000+ auditions for the roles I immediately understood.
the way hwang minhyun trained and maintained his diet for 9 months for this show shows his dedication and it definitely pays off in the show.
yoon sangjeong usually plays office roles, but the 10th grader role suited her so much?? she presents heewon as such a likeable and adorable character and her face fits her personality way too much.
but the most impressive casting of all was the lee twins.
the way they arent even related in real life is insane because they look identical.
you can definitely see how much effort was put into this drama, and not watching it is wasting your time because an action drama doesn't get any better than this
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Let’s talk
This show was a marvel of its own from the dynamics, the story, the plot, the characters just everything was written to perfection. When I seen everybody giving it 10’s I was just thinking it was being overhyped but trust me when I say they were not lying. The way this drama had me on a chokehold where I didn’t want to do anything but finish it and just watch another episode was definitely me these past two days. If you want to watch a show that’s action packed with some actual plot this is the show but if you have anything planned you might forget just cause when your watching this drama it’s like your not even paying attention to the time and just watching and now let’s talk about the actors. They played their parts to a T and when I say to a T I mean it like they really did their thing with this drama so I highly recommend watching.Was this review helpful to you?
It is perfect. No one is exaggerating.
It hurts so much to part ways with this show that i even delayed watching the finale (what comforts me is that mayyyybe we'll get a second season when Minhyun returns).And let's start with him: Minhyun! Definitely one of my favorite characters of him now, he did such a good job as Gamin and with those many rookie actors. Their chemistry is insane. I loved how he brought his character to life, you simply cannot love Gamin and wish to protect him from the world!!
Everything about the story is well connected: the characters, the action scenes, the funny scenes, the soundtrack (and this one i think plays a huge part on the watching experience)...
Study Group is a easy watch while still being a masterpiece. Can't wait to re-watch it again in the future!
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The physics test is not the most dangerous thing in school.
Imagine being a teenager, you want to study with your friends, but a bunch of people keep getting in your way. That’s the gist of this series in one sentence. You know what? I had the best time watching this series. It’s super fast paced and easy to understand.I will say the whole thing was a bit predictable but the whole show was so entertaining that I honestly didn’t mind. This felt very anime style and I’m here for it! The whole thing watched like you were a anime movie - funny, entertaining, absurd, touching and sometimes painful. I would hands down recommend this if you love a wacky and weird anime. It has a crazy vibe.
The series is full of action from beginning to end. It may not be entirely realistic, but it certainly is thrilling.
This is so close to being a ten star show but it fell flat in the high-tension moments. I'm sorry to say. Just a little bit more and some of the scenes could have been epic.
The other bit that I didn't love was the ending. I need more. I need a second season right now!
Тhis is a story about survival (at school), friendship, and dreams.
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This review may contain spoilers
It will be my favorite action drama!
5 years ago, I thought Hwang Min Hyun is just a idol. When I watched Live On, I changed my mind. He is a good acting skills. It is very good. I watched twice. Then I heard he was joined Alchemy of Souls cast. I was little bit very worry because drama is action genre and also fantastic. I didn’t think that he can handle this kind of drama. But I was wrong. He played amazing. He can handle Seo Yul’s cold but also kind heart. Action scenes were amazing. He was so coool.I don’t want to lie but I dropped My Lovely Lier but not because of Min Hyun.
And I didn’t have any expectation about Study Group. I didn’t see trailer. I just saw Min Hyun and said let’s look. But It’s SOO GOOD. Funny, and action. Cast is amazing. I think drama world earn new talents with this drama.
They make you curious. What happens next???? Why he is obsessed about study? When will they fight with Han Ui? Who is his uncle to teached him fight? And teacher’s story …
Min Hyun can change to mood immediately. You just look a naive boys and then you can see the fire in this eyes. Their fight scenes never disappoint to you.
**
I feel like season 2 will come, but I’m a little scared because Korean drama season 2s usually give me a headache.
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Fists, Friendship, and Finals: How Study Group Delivers a Knockout
If there were ever a drama that perfectly captured the duality of a golden retriever who turns into a direwolf when provoked, Study Group would be it. On the surface, Yun Ga-min (Hwang Min-hyun) looks like the last person you'd expect to be a fighter. With his round glasses, studious demeanor, and innocent smile, he could easily be mistaken for the quiet kid in class who always returns library books on time. But when push comes to shove—literally—he transforms into a whirlwind of fists and fury, an unstoppable force who throws down with the best of them.Study Group is a drama that blends schoolyard brawls with heartfelt aspirations, proving that even the worst high school in Korea can't crush the spirit of someone determined to rise above their circumstances. Ga-min, who desperately wants to excel in academics but is cursed with an unfortunate talent for fighting, forms a study group in a place where books are often used as weapons rather than for reading. When his friends face relentless bullying, Ga-min does what any self-respecting protagonist in an action drama would do—he throws his glasses aside, tightens his fists, and delivers one of the most exhilarating beatdowns seen in K-drama history.
What makes Study Group so enjoyable is that it never loses sight of its heart, even as it leans into its exaggerated fight sequences. Yes, we get students flying through walls, concrete floors cracking under the force of a well-placed kick, and an absurd yet beautifully choreographed display of combat. But underneath all of that is a story about resilience, friendship, and refusing to let your circumstances dictate your future. Ga-min isn’t just fighting for the sake of violence—he’s fighting for his dreams, his friends, and a future where he can finally sit in a classroom without having to dodge a punch.
One of the drama’s strongest aspects is how tightly packed it is. With each episode clocking in at around 45 minutes, there isn’t a single wasted moment. The pacing is sharp, the fight scenes are meticulously crafted, and there’s no unnecessary fluff to distract from the core story. Every battle serves a purpose, whether it’s reinforcing Ga-min’s growth or deepening the bonds between his ragtag group of misfits. There are no pointless subplots, no illogical twists—just straight-up, well-executed storytelling with a clear direction.
Hwang Min-hyun is a revelation in this role. His portrayal of Ga-min perfectly balances wide-eyed innocence with ruthless determination. He’s the kind of character you instinctively want to protect, even though he clearly doesn’t need it. His unwavering optimism and genuine desire to study, despite his dismal grades, make him all the more endearing. He’s not a traditional action hero—he’s an awkward, good-natured boy who just happens to have the ability to knock out anyone who stands in his way. It’s a contrast that works exceptionally well, making every scene with him an absolute delight.
The supporting cast also shines. Lee Han-gyeong (Han Ji-eun), the teacher who once tutored Ga-min, returns to his life as a faculty member at his school, bringing her own layers of complexity to the story. The study group members—each with their own distinct strengths and weaknesses—form a compelling ensemble that makes their bond feel genuine. From Kim Se-hyun (Lee Jong-hyun), the school’s top-ranking student who has no physical prowess, to Lee Ji-woo (Shin Soo-hyun), the judoka with a sharp tongue, everyone adds something valuable to the mix. Their camaraderie and dynamic relationships help elevate the drama beyond just its action-packed sequences.
And let’s talk about the OST—specifically, Backpacker by Seok Matthew & Park Gunwook. This high-energy rap track, with its pounding bass lines and techno influences, is unlike the usual melancholic K-drama OSTs. It’s bold, it’s aggressive, and it perfectly encapsulates the relentless energy of Study Group. The intro sequence featuring this track sets the tone brilliantly, making it impossible not to feel hyped every time it plays.
If there’s one gripe to be had, it’s that the episodes feel too short. While the tight pacing works in its favor, some plot points could have been explored in more depth. Episode 10, in particular, features one of the best fight scenes I’ve ever seen, but I couldn’t help wishing it lasted just a bit longer. However, this minor flaw is hardly enough to detract from the overall brilliance of the drama.
The best part? Study Group understands the importance of a satisfying season structure. While it leaves the door open for a sequel (which seems inevitable given the popularity of the webtoon source material), it still wraps up its first season in a way that feels complete. No frustrating cliffhangers, no unresolved storylines—just a promise of more to come, should the showrunners decide to continue Ga-min’s journey.
At the end of the day, Study Group isn’t just about throwing punches. It’s about perseverance, loyalty, and the unshakable belief that even the underdogs can carve out a future for themselves. It’s an absolute blast from start to finish, packed with heart, humor, and some of the most jaw-dropping fight scenes ever put to screen.
Honestly, any criticism I have feels like nitpicking because Study Group was simply that good. This is the most fun I’ve had with a drama since I started watching K-dramas last year. It knew exactly what kind of story it wanted to tell and delivered it with remarkable confidence and precision. Every episode was packed with tightly woven storytelling, exhilarating action, and characters that felt alive with chemistry and heart. The fight scenes—the very foundation of the drama—were masterfully choreographed, balancing raw intensity with stylish execution, making every clash feel thrilling and memorable.
Yet, what truly sets Study Group apart isn’t just the action, but its ability to infuse a surprising amount of depth and emotional weight into such a fast-paced format. The drama respected its audience, wrapping up its first season in a satisfying way while still leaving the door open for more. Hwang Min-hyun’s portrayal of Yun Ga-min was an absolute standout, making him one of the most lovable yet lethal protagonists in recent K-drama history.
Verdict:
With its perfect blend of action, humor, camaraderie, and an underdog story that hits all the right notes, Study Group has rightfully earned its spot as my Best Drama of February 2025. There’s really no need to read any more reviews—just go watch it. Absolutely, wholeheartedly recommended.
9.5/10 (and that 0.5 deduction is only because I wanted more).
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