Study Group—a 2025 South Korean action thriller based on Shin Hyung-wook’s webtoon—reached the top five across more than 140 countries within weeks of its debut. Production company YLAB confirmed on January 27, 2026, that Season 2 is happening, with Hwang Min Hyun returning as Yoon Ga Min.

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Release Year: 2025 · Based On: Webtoon by Shin Hyung-wook · Lead Character: Yoon Ga Min (Minhyun) · School Setting: Yusung Technical High School · Season 2 Status: Filming TBD

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
  • 10 episodes aired January 23 – February 20, 2025 (Binge Cove (YouTube))
  • YLAB confirmed Season 2 on January 27, 2026 (AllKpop)
  • Hwang Min Hyun returns as Yoon Ga Min (AllKpop)
2What’s unclear
  • Exact Season 2 release date
  • Season 2 episode count
  • Whether new cast members join
  • International streaming rollout beyond TVING
3Timeline signal
  • January 23, 2025: Season 1 premiere
  • February 20, 2025: Season 1 finale
  • January 27, 2026: Season 2 officially announced
4What’s next
  • Filming begins “soon” per YLAB
  • Release date and scheduling still TBD
  • TVING remains primary platform

The table below summarizes the key production details and specs for Study Group.

Attribute Detail
Genre School Drama, Action Thriller
Premiere January 23, 2025
Finale February 20, 2025
Episodes 10
Episode Length 42–43 minutes
Platform TVING (primary), Rakuten Viki, Apple TV
Based On Webtoon by Shin Hyung-wook
Production YLAB
Directed By Lee Jang-hoon, Yoo Beom-sang
Written By Eom Seon-ho, Oh Bo-hyun
Lead Minhyun as Yoon Ga Min
Viki Rating 9.6/10 (97,240+ viewers)

What is Study Group K-drama about?

Plot Summary

Yoon Ga Min is not your typical high school student. Enrolled at Yusung Technical High School—infamously regarded as one of Korea’s worst—the struggling teenager channels his energy into two unlikely pursuits: forming a study group and fighting anyone who threatens his classmates. The plot hinges on his determination to ace college entrance exams despite abysmal grades, using his fists as a shield for the school’s underdogs. It’s a blend of underdog academia and street-level action that resonated globally, landing the series in the top five across more than 140 regions worldwide (Binge Cove (K-Drama YouTube Channel)).

Main Characters

At the center sits Hwang Min Hyun’s Yoon Ga Min—a character who reads up on exam strategies while simultaneously mapping out brawls. Han Ji-eun plays teacher Lee Han-kyung, caught between institutional pressure and genuine investment in her students’ futures. The ensemble rounds out with classmates Pi Han-wool (Cha Woo-min), Kim Se-hyun (Lee Jong-hyun), Lee Ji-woo (Shin Su-hyun), Choi Hee-won (Yoon Sang-jeong), and Lee Jun (Gong Do-yu) (Asian Drama Wiki).

Webtoon Origins

The drama adapts the webcomic of the same name created by Shin Hyung-wook, who built a following through the story’s premise: what if academic ambition and combat skills shared the same locker? The adaptation, co-written by Eom Seon-ho and Oh Bo-hyun, and directed by Lee Jang-hoon and Yoo Beom-sang, stayed faithful to the source material’s tone while adding cinematic choreography for the fight sequences (Asian Drama Wiki).

What to watch

The series runs 42–43 minutes per episode—standard K-drama length—making it a manageable binge across its 10-episode season. Watchers who enjoy underdog sports dramas or revenge narratives tend to find the study group premise surprisingly addictive.

How many episodes are in Study Group TV series?

Season 1 Episode Count

Season 1 comprises exactly 10 episodes, each averaging 42–43 minutes. The show dropped weekly on TVING, beginning January 23, 2025, and wrapping with the finale on February 20, 2025 (Asian Drama Wiki). This compact structure kept pacing tight—no filler arcs, just escalating confrontations leading to a dramatic showdown that left the door wide open for continuation.

Season 2 Expectations

YLAB has confirmed Season 2 is in development, but specific episode counts remain undisclosed as of early 2026. Given Season 1’s successful formula, industry observers anticipate a similar 10-episode run, though nothing is official yet (AllKpop (Entertainment News Outlet)).

Bottom line: Season 1 delivered 10 tight episodes over four weeks. Season 2 will almost certainly follow a similar format, but the episode count is unconfirmed until production details emerge.

Who is in the cast of Study Group TV series?

Lead Actors

Hwang Min Hyun leads the ensemble as Yoon Ga Min—the scrappy protagonist whose fighting prowess masks a genuine drive to succeed academically. Minhyun, known both as a solo artist and member of the NU’EST boy band, delivered a performance that earned praise for balancing physical intensity with vulnerability in study scenes (AllKpop).

Supporting Cast

Han Ji-eun rounds out the core cast as Lee Han-kyung, the teacher navigating institutional constraints while rooting for her students. The supporting lineup includes Cha Woo-min (Pi Han-wool), Lee Jong-hyun (Kim Se-hyun), Shin Su-hyun (Lee Ji-woo), Yoon Sang-jeong (Choi Hee-won), and Gong Do-yu (Lee Jun). For Season 2, YLAB confirmed the original cast returns intact—no recasting announcements, no additions disclosed (Asian Drama Wiki).

Ages and Roles

The cast skews young, reflecting the high school setting. Hwang Min Hyun, born in 1995, plays the oldest of the student cohort—a deliberate choice that amplifies Ga Min’s desperation about college entrance timelines. Han Ji-eun, born in 1997, portrays the young teacher whose own career hangs in the balance if her students fail. This age dynamic adds tension: Ga Min is running out of time in ways his classmates aren’t (Asian Drama Wiki).

Why this matters

Keeping Hwang Min Hyun as Yoon Ga Min is a strategic win. The original cast’s return signals narrative continuity—Season 2 won’t waste episodes on re-establishing character dynamics. Fans already invested in Ga Min’s arc can pick up right where the finale left off.

Is Study Group getting a season 2?

Season 2 Filming Updates

Yes—officially. On January 27, 2026, production company YLAB confirmed Season 2 with a straightforward announcement: the original cast, including Hwang Min Hyun, returns without changes (AllKpop). Filming is slated to begin “soon,” though an exact start date hasn’t been disclosed. The production team has signaled confidence by locking in the lead actor rather than leaving fans in suspense.

Release Timeline

Here’s the gap in the timeline: Season 2 has been announced, but the release date remains TBD. YLAB stated that “release date and scheduling strategy have not yet been finalized,” per their January 2026 announcement (AllKpop). TVING will remain the primary platform for Korean audiences. International availability hinges on deals with Rakuten Viki and Apple TV, which carried Season 1 globally.

The catch

Fans hoping for a quick turnaround—similar to Netflix’s rapid sequel releases—may need to adjust expectations. YLAB’s decision to prioritize “soon” filming over immediate release suggests they want quality over speed, especially given Season 1’s international performance.

Is Study Group K-drama worth watching?

Pros and Cons

Upsides

  • Unique premise blending action and academia
  • Hwang Min Hyun’s physical performance
  • Compact 10-episode season—no bloat
  • International reach: top five in 140+ regions
  • Viki rating of 9.6 from 97,240+ viewers (Viki (Streaming Platform))
  • Faithful webtoon adaptation by Shin Hyung-wook

Downsides

  • Season 2 release date still unknown
  • Korean-language dialogue may require subtitles for non-Korean speakers
  • Action-heavy tone may not suit traditional romance K-drama fans
  • Finale ends on a cliffhanger

Ending Details

Season 1 concluded with a dramatic showdown that resolved Ga Min’s immediate conflict but left narrative threads dangling. The finale aired February 20, 2025, and fan forums immediately lit up with theories about what a second season might address (Binge Cove). This deliberate ambiguity worked as a hook—viewers weren’t left with closure, they were left with anticipation.

Viewer Reviews

The numbers speak for themselves. Rakuten Viki users rated Study Group 9.6 out of 10 based on over 97,000 ratings—a remarkably high score that suggests strong viewer satisfaction despite the cliffhanger ending (Viki). Common praise in reviews: the choreography during fight scenes, Ga Min’s relatable struggle between brute force and academic discipline, and the ensemble’s chemistry.

Bottom line: If you enjoy K-dramas with action, underdog narratives, and compact pacing, Study Group delivers. The 9.6 Viki rating reflects consistent viewer satisfaction—but be prepared for a Season 2 wait.

What people are saying

The popular drama ‘Study Group’ is returning and is drawing major attention after confirming a second season without changing its lead actor.

— AllKpop (Entertainment News Outlet)

With the original character and narrative structure fully intact, many see the decision to move forward without a lead cast change as a clear sign of confidence from the production team.

— AllKpop (Entertainment News Outlet)

Study Group, based on the popular webtoon, has officially been confirmed for season 2 and is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated K-drama returns in 2026.

— Binge Cove (K-Drama YouTube Channel)

Where to watch Study Group

Three platforms carried Study Group Season 1: TVING for Korean audiences, Rakuten Viki for international subscribers (with English subtitles and a free ad-supported tier at $7.99/month), and Apple TV for rental or purchase (JustWatch (Streaming Aggregator)) (Apple TV (Streaming Platform)). Season 2 will likely follow a similar rollout, with TVING as the exclusive initial window and secondary platforms following later.

Editor’s note

Streaming availability varies by region. Check JustWatch or the respective platform directly for the most current library listings.

Related reading: Lincoln Lawyer Season 4: Release Date, Cast & Netflix Status · The Little Nyonya Emerald Hill: Story, Cast, Where to Watch

Additional sources

asianwiki.com, mydramalist.com

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Frequently asked questions

Is Study Group K-drama 18+?

Study Group carries a typical K-drama rating suitable for teens and older audiences. The series includes fight scenes and school-based violence but avoids explicit content. Parental guidance is recommended for younger viewers due to thematic intensity.

Is there a season 3 of Study Group?

As of April 2026, only Season 2 has been confirmed by YLAB. No announcement regarding Season 3 exists. The focus remains on producing and releasing Season 2 before any discussions about continuation.

Did Study Group have a happy ending?

Season 1 ends on a dramatic showdown rather than a definitive happy ending. The immediate conflict resolves, but narrative threads suggest future storylines. Fans expecting closure may feel the finale leaves more questions than answers—which sets up Season 2 nicely.

Is Study Group available in Hindi dubbed?

Hindi dubbed availability has not been officially confirmed. The series is available with English subtitles on Rakuten Viki and Apple TV. Korean-dubbed versions may reach Hindi-speaking audiences through regional streaming partnerships that haven’t been announced yet.

What is the ending of Study Group season 1?

The Season 1 finale resolves Ga Min’s immediate school-based crisis through a climactic confrontation. However, the ending intentionally leaves character arcs open, particularly regarding Ga Min’s college entrance exam results and the fates of supporting characters, setting up anticipation for Season 2.

How does Study Group compare to other school K-dramas?

Unlike traditional school dramas that focus on romance or slice-of-life, Study Group blends action choreography with academic stakes. The webtoon foundation gives it a more serialized, manga-esque pacing compared to typical Korean high school narratives. Its international performance (top five in 140+ regions) suggests the hybrid genre resonates beyond typical K-drama audiences.

Will Season 2 be on Netflix?

Netflix distribution for Season 2 has not been announced. Season 1 was not available on Netflix; it streamed on TVING (Korea), Rakuten Viki (international), and Apple TV. Unless TVING negotiates a Netflix distribution deal, viewers should expect similar platform exclusivity.

For K-drama fans, the calculus is straightforward: Season 1 delivered a tight, action-driven underdog story that earned a 9.6 rating from over 97,000 Viki viewers. Hwang Min Hyun returns as Yoon Ga Min, and filming is slated to begin soon, meaning the wait has a light at the end of the tunnel.