The highly anticipated series Crushology 101 debuted on April 11, 2025, captivating audiences with its engaging narrative and charming characters. The initial two episodes introduce us to Ban Hee-jin, affectionately known as Bunny, along with her three potential love interests. These episodes are filled with comedic misadventures that arise from Bunny’s interactions with each suitor.
Starring Roh Jeong-eui as the lead, the drama features a talented cast including Lee Chae-min, Cho Jun-young, Kim Hyun-jin, and Hong Min-ki. Crushology 101 is an adaptation of the webtoon Bunny and Oppas by author Ni Eun. Each episode runs approximately 70 minutes long. Originally scheduled for an April 4 premiere, the show was postponed by a week due to coverage surrounding President Yoon’s impeachment.
Episode 1 Recap: Initial Encounters
The first episode of MBC’s Crushology 101 opens with an introduction to Bunny, a gifted sculptor studying at Yein University, currently in a relationship with the unassuming Ko Bong-su. While Bunny perceives her boyfriend’s qualifications beyond mere appearances, her friends express disapproval, believing her to be settling. However, Bunny’s fondness for attractive men becomes evident through flashbacks, showcasing her tendency to be enamored by good looks.
In a pivotal moment, Bong-su invites Bunny on a weekend getaway. During a call with a friend, he inadvertently reveals that he is only interested in her for physical reasons, which leads to a public humiliation and a painful breakup for Bunny. Heartbroken yet resolute, she decides to seek love based solely on appearances.
The introduction of two significant male characters follows: Cha Ji-won, a first-year sculpture student, and Hwang Jae-yeol, a senior in the Visual Design department. Ji-won captivates Bunny with his gentle demeanor, while Jae-yeol emerges as a more brooding presence with an abrasive attitude.
The following day, Bunny’s fascination with Ji-won deepens as they cross paths, leading to an unexpected partnership for their studies. This budding friendship is juxtaposed with Bunny’s harsh encounter with Jae-yeol, culminating in a disastrous incident involving a dropped tablet and a regrettable dinner party where Bunny accidentally vomits on him. To repay her debt, Bunny reluctantly agrees to take notes for Jae-yeol, who remains aloof and unfriendly despite his friends’ suggestions to warm up to her.
Episode 2 Recap: New Developments
Episode 2 sees Bunny determined to clear her debt to Jae-yeol. She secures an internship for Sculptor Jay’s exhibition, where she surprises a visitor with her profound insights into art. Unbeknownst to her, this individual is the renowned Sculptor Jay himself, who soon expresses interest in her.
In a bid to repay Jae-yeol, Bunny participates in a strength contest, ultimately winning a tablet. When she presents it to Jae-yeol, she insists they can cease their interactions, much to his displeasure, sparking daydreams about her during class. As the episode progresses, an interesting twist occurs when it’s revealed that Jay is indeed a guest speaker at Bunny’s university, leading to a flirtatious exchange that makes Ji-won visibly jealous. The episode closes with Jae-yeol expressing his desire to continue seeing Bunny.
Review of Episodes 1 & 2
The opening episodes of Crushology 101 effectively establish a light-hearted yet romantic atmosphere, making it appealing for viewers who enjoy slice-of-life dramas. While certain plot elements may seem predictable or clichéd, this series provides a delightful escape for fans of romantic comedies. The preview for Episode 3 hints at Bunny’s burgeoning confusion among her three suitors, with the introduction of Ji Hyeon-oh, the third male lead, anticipated soon. Episodes 3 and 4 are set to air on April 18 and 19 respectively.