‘24-Hour Health Club’ Finale: A Bittersweet End for Eunji Jung and Junyoung Lee’s Comic Gym Romance

The Final Episode: A Realistic Yet Hopeful Goodbye

Episode 12 of ‘24-Hour Health Club’ aired on June 5, 2025, wrapping up the journey of gym manager Doh Hyun-jung (Junyoung Lee) and novice member Im Mi-ran (Eunji Jung). The finale tackled tough choices: Mi-ran receives a job offer in Hawaii, while Hyun-jung faces the closure of his beloved but aging gym due to water leaks. In a mature twist, Mi-ran leaves for her career, and Hyun-jung opens a new rooftop gym after closing the old one. The two reunite for a jog, hinting at new beginnings rather than a fairy-tale ending. This realistic closure resonated with some viewers, who appreciated the show’s refusal to force a cliché happy ending.

Plot Recap: From Muscle to Heart

‘24-Hour Health Club’ is more than just a gym comedy. It follows Hyun-jung, once a world-class bodybuilder, now running a rundown neighborhood gym, and Mi-ran, who starts exercising after a painful breakup. Each episode highlights the personal struggles and growth of various gym members, blending slapstick humor with touching moments. The show’s signature style—sudden musical numbers, over-the-top comic scenes, and quirky character arcs—set it apart from typical K-dramas, though not without dividing opinions.

Cast Performance: Chemistry and Commitment

Junyoung Lee and Eunji Jung’s performances were widely praised, especially for their physical transformations and comedic timing. Jung gained and lost 10kg for her role, embodying Mi-ran’s journey from low self-esteem to self-acceptance. Lee, as the gym-obsessed but emotionally awkward Hyun-jung, brought both laughs and empathy. Supporting actors like Imido, Seungwoo Lee, and Hong Yunhwa added depth and color, creating a believable gym community.

Viewer and Community Reactions: Divided But Passionate

Online communities such as Theqoo, Nate Pann, Instiz, and DC Inside reflected mixed reactions. About 60% of comments were positive, praising the cast’s dedication, the show’s unique humor, and its message about self-love and growth. Fans highlighted memorable lines and comedic set pieces, with some saying the drama motivated them to start exercising. However, around 40% criticized the ‘cringe’ humor and episodic structure, which some found disconnected and lacking narrative tension. The low ratings (starting at 1.8%, ending at 1.0%) were a frequent topic, with many lamenting that the show deserved more attention.

Critical and Media Reviews: Ambitious But Flawed

Major outlets like Yonhap, OSEN, Star News, and Max Movie noted the show’s ambition in blending genres—romantic comedy, slice-of-life, and even musical. Critics agreed that while the series was not perfect, it offered a fresh take on the gym setting and body positivity. The finale was described as ‘bittersweet but fitting,’ with special mention of the leads’ chemistry. Some reviewers, however, pointed out that the experimental humor and episodic format limited mainstream appeal.

Bloggers’ Insights: Relatable, Inspiring, and Fun

Naver and Tistory bloggers echoed similar sentiments. Many appreciated how the show depicted gym life not just as a place for physical transformation but as a space for emotional healing and new friendships. Bloggers noted that the drama’s quirky humor and relatable struggles—like awkward first workouts or gym crushes—made it a comforting watch. Several posts mentioned that the show inspired them to revisit their own fitness goals, despite its sometimes ‘over-the-top’ comedic style.

Cultural Context: Why This Drama Matters

For international fans, ‘24-Hour Health Club’ offers a window into Korea’s fitness culture and the growing popularity of gyms as social spaces. The drama’s focus on body image, self-esteem, and community reflects broader societal trends in Korea, where physical health and self-improvement are highly valued. The show’s mix of humor and heart, along with its critique of unrealistic beauty standards, resonates with younger audiences navigating similar pressures worldwide.

Fandom and Overseas Appeal: A Cult Favorite?

While the drama struggled with ratings at home, it found a niche audience among international viewers on streaming platforms like Wavve and Disney+. Overseas fans praised the show’s offbeat humor, strong performances, and the chemistry between the leads. Social media posts and fan forums featured memes, workout challenges, and fan art inspired by the characters. The drama’s message—‘Change your body, change your life’—struck a chord with many, making it a potential cult favorite despite its modest domestic success.

Final Thoughts: Lasting Impact Beyond Ratings

‘24-Hour Health Club’ may not have been a ratings hit, but its blend of laughter, tears, and gym camaraderie left a mark on viewers. The drama’s realistic ending, focus on self-growth, and celebration of imperfect bodies offer a refreshing alternative to typical romance dramas. As the cast themselves said, they have ‘no regrets’—and for many fans, that’s what truly matters.