A High School Drama Rated 19+: Meet 'Study Group,' Korea's New Action-Comedy Series
A new Korean drama featuring high school students but rated strictly for adults is set to make waves. 'Study Group,' premiering on January 23 on the OTT platform TVING, is an action-packed high school comedy based on the popular webtoon of the same name.
The story revolves around Yoon Ga-min (played by Hwang Min-hyun), a student with dreams of getting into college despite having no aptitude for academics. Ironically, he possesses exceptional fighting skills, which he uses to protect his friends in a notoriously delinquent school. Determined to succeed, Yoon Ga-min forms a study group, leading to a series of entertaining and dramatic episodes.
The drama stars Hwang Min-hyun as Yoon Ga-min, along with Han Ji-eun, Cha Woo-min, Lee Jong-hyun, Shin Soo-hyun, and Yoon Sang-jung.
Yoon Ga-min: Despite his studious appearance, Yoon Ga-min struggles academically and embodies the term “no study brain.” Yet, his unrivaled talent in fighting makes him a unique hero who defends his friends and strives for a brighter future. Lee Han-kyung: A substitute teacher at Yoon Ga-min’s school who once taught Yoon while he was in college. Their reunion sparks amusing and heartfelt moments. Pi Han-ul: The school’s de facto ruler and son of a gang leader, Pi Yeon-baek. He becomes one of Yoon Ga-min’s main adversaries, driving much of the show’s tension.
Though 'Study Group' initially seems like a story about model students, it incorporates gang dynamics and gritty action sequences, offering unexpected twists.
The original 'Study Group' webtoon, which closely aligns with the drama’s plot, debuted in 2019 and is currently in its third season. Praised for combining the school action genre with a study-focused narrative, it delivers not just fights but meaningful life lessons.
The webtoon has gained international popularity, with translations available in Thai, Indonesian, Chinese, Japanese, English, and French, highlighting its global appeal. Unlike the drama, the webtoon is rated suitable for ages 15 and up.
The teaser for 'Study Group,' released on January 6, has sparked excitement among fans. Comments like “Hwang Min-hyun is the perfect Yoon Ga-min,” and “It feels like the webtoon has come to life,” reflect viewers' high expectations.
Praise for Hwang Min-hyun’s portrayal is abundant, particularly for his intense yet subtle acting that perfectly captures the character’s duality. Director Lee Jang-hoon remarked, “When I first met Hwang Min-hyun, I saw the 'clear-eyed madman' vibe that fits Yoon Ga-min. He’s a diligent and smart actor with excellent scene interpretation and expressive skills.”
'Study Group' promises to be a compelling blend of humor, action, and heartfelt storytelling, making it a must-watch for fans of both dramas and webtoons.