Is “Study Group” Based On A Webtoon?

Surprise, surprise! Study Group is actually adapted from the webtoon of the same name, written by Shin Hyung Wook and illustrated by Ryu Seung Yeon.

And if you think the drama is intense, trust me, the webtoon cranks it up even more—it’s got all the action, all the grit, and plenty of “what did I just read?!” moments that had me gasping out loud.

The webtoon is part of YLAB’s Blue String Universe, which basically means it’s made for anyone who loves seeing high school students fight for their lives in between study sessions. And yes, you can binge it right now on WEBTOON if your curiosity (or obsession) demands it.

How Does The K-Drama Compare To The Webtoon?

Adapting a webtoon into a K-drama is kind of like turning a 500-page novel into 10 episode K-drama—it takes some serious restructuring.

So, what got shaken up in the process? Because let me tell you, it wasn’t just a simple cut-and-paste adaptation.

1. The Drama Paces Like It Chugged An Energy Drink

Webtoons take their sweet time unraveling character arcs and backstories. K-dramas, on the other hand, have a set number of episodes, so Study Group had to cut the fluff and deliver the action fast. Some scenes got reshuffled, condensed, or left on the cutting room floor to keep things moving.

2. A Brand-New Character Joins The Chaos

Say hello to Lee Han-kyung, played by Han Ji-eun! If you flipped through the webtoon expecting to find her—spoiler alert—she’s not there.

In the drama, she’s a teacher with a mysterious past (because of course she is) and once tutored Ga-min. Her character adds more depth and gives us another perspective on the war zone that is Yusung Technical High School.

Her addition is also a classic example of how K-dramas modify webtoon plots to add emotional depth.

Her addition is also a classic example of how K-dramas modify webtoon plots to add emotional depth. In Korean dramas, teachers often play a guiding or transformative role, reflecting the respect for educators in Korean culture.

The mentor-student relationship is a common theme in K-dramas, reinforcing the idea that guidance and discipline shape a student’s future.

3. Some Characters Got a Makeover

With limited screen time, some character backstories were trimmed or tweaked. The core personalities are still there, but expect a few surprises if you switch from the drama to the webtoon.

Another thing I noticed?

K-dramas often tone down character extremities from webtoons, making them more palatable for a broader audience. This means that some of the most over-the-top or brutal characters might be softened a bit for TV.

4. Violence & Tone Tweaks

Let’s be honest, webtoons can be brutal. But when you’re airing on TV, some of that raw intensity gets toned down (thanks, broadcasting regulations!). Study Group still delivers high-energy fights, but some of the grittier moments may have been softened to keep things accessible for a wider audience.

In South Korea, violence in school settings is a highly sensitive topic.

Dramas that depict school fights or bullying often tweak the intensity to avoid controversy, ensuring that the message focuses on resilience rather than glorifying violence.

Dramas that depict school fights or bullying often tweak the intensity to avoid controversy, ensuring that the message focuses on resilience rather than glorifying violence.

This is why Study Group balances its action-packed sequences with moments of camaraderie and personal growth.

Should You Read The Webtoon If You Loved The Drama?

Uh, absolutely?

If you thought the drama was good, the webtoon is like getting the director’s cut—more fights, more backstory, and maybe even a few twists that didn’t make it to the screen.

And let’s be real, I love going full detective mode and picking apart every tiny difference between the two. It’s practically a sport at this point.

Final Verdict

Study Group proves once again that webtoons are the gift that keeps on giving. Whether you prefer the drama or the original source, one thing’s for sure—Ga-min’s journey from study geek to underground brawler is one wild ride worth taking.

Also, if you’re new to K-dramas, this adaptation gives a perfect glimpse into Korea’s competitive academic culture. The obsession with education, the strict hierarchy in schools, and the immense pressure to succeed are all deeply ingrained in Korean society.

Watching Study Group with this in mind makes the story hit even harder.

So, tell me, what’s the verdict? Webtoon or K-drama? Or are you just here for the high school fight scenes and the sheer absurdity of it all? Drop your thoughts below!