With its heartfelt storytelling and charming leads, ‘Crushology 101’ has quickly become one of 2025’s most talked-about K-dramas. The romantic youth drama captures the sweet ache of young love, tangled emotions, and the growing pains of relationships. At its core is the story of Bani, a spirited university student, and the people who shape her journey, each carrying their own secrets, pain, and affection. With its compelling chemistry, strong plot, and emotional depth, the series has struck a chord with audiences around the world.
In an exclusive interview with Namaste Hallyu, the cast of ‘Crushology 101’ opened up about their characters, the emotional nuances behind the scenes, and their love for fans in India.
Roh Jeong-eui, who plays the optimistic and lovable Bani, reflected on her character’s most defining moment in the series, sharing, “As she returned from studying abroad, I think Bani came to better understand the sincerity of her feelings for Yeol and realized how precious he was to her. That’s why she was able to find the courage to call him first and run to him to finally express everything she had been holding in.”
While Bani is open-hearted and honest, her dynamic with Hwang Jae-yeol, played by Lee Chae-min, adds layers of tension and intrigue. Jae-yeol, a mysterious and emotionally complex figure, balances Bani’s vibrant energy with a quiet intensity. Reflecting on what draws Bani to Jae-yeol, Lee Chae-min said, “I think Jae-yeol’s tsundere charm came across as more sincere to Bani, which made her see him in a positive light. Though Bani and Jae-yeol constantly bicker, I believe their chemistry stands out because of that instinctive attraction they share.” Bringing Jae-yeol to life wasn’t always easy, especially given the emotional baggage he carries.
Jae-yeol is someone who carries emotional wounds from his ex-girlfriend Yeoreum, and he also harbors loneliness and sensitivity because of his relationship with his mother. It was definitely challenging, so I tried to empathize with him and understand his feelings from his point of view. I spent a lot of time thinking through each situation and analyzing what he might have been feeling.
– Lee Chae-min
Adding further depth to Bani’s world is Cha Ji-won, the gentle and dependable second lead played by Cho Jun-young. Ji-won’s emotional struggles bring a quiet heartbreak to the story, especially as he grapples with his feelings for Bani and his role as Hye-won’s brother. “I think he felt deeply for Hye-won’s pain as a family member,” Cho Jun-young shared. “And when Bani began to feel burdened by his presence, and all he could do was watch her stay close to Jae-yeol without being able to approach her himself—I believe that was the hardest moment for him emotionally,” he added. Despite the emotional complexities, the cast’s off-screen camaraderie played a key role in bringing these relationships to life.
Since Bani and Ji-won are classmates in the same department, with Bani being his junior, they naturally spend a lot of time together. I talked a lot with Roh Jeong-eui on set, we joked around, and shared ideas about the scenes, which helped us grow close. I think that natural rapport showed up well on camera. Also, since Ji-won is endlessly kind to both Bani and Hye-won, I tried to treat everyone warmly off-screen too.
– Cho Jun-young
As ‘Crushology 101’ continues to gain popularity around the world, the cast made sure to express their gratitude, especially to their fans in India. Cho Jun-young said, “Thank you so much for showing interest in ‘Crushology 101’ from afar. I’m truly happy to show you a new side of myself through the character Ji-won. I really hope I get the chance to visit India someday. Until then, please keep supporting and cheering for us!” Lee Chae-min added, “Thank you so much for enjoying ‘Crushology 101’ all this time. I’ll continue showing you many different sides of myself, so please look forward to it!”
Hello to all our Indian fans! Thank you so much for loving ‘Crushology 101’! I’ll keep working hard to return with more dramas that you’ll enjoy. I’d be so grateful if you continue supporting a wide variety of Korean dramas! Until the day I can visit India and meet you in person, I’ll do my very best! Thank you, and I love you!
– Roh Jeong-eui
With a stellar cast, emotionally resonant storytelling, and undeniable chemistry, ‘Crushology 101’ is a series that resonates with anyone who has ever been in love, lost, or simply growing up.
You can catch all episodes of ‘Crushology 101’ exclusively on Channel K via Amazon Prime Video India.
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