24-Hour Health Club Episode 3: Lee Jun-young's Struggle to Save His Gym Amidst Plummeting Ratings

The Battle to Save the 24-Hour Health Club

In the third episode of KBS2's Wednesday-Thursday drama '24-Hour Health Club,' which aired on May 7, 2025, viewers witnessed gym owner Do Hyun-jung (played by Lee Jun-young) fighting desperately to save his position as the gym's manager while attempting to attract new members. The episode showcased Hyun-jung's determination and passion for fitness, even as he faced significant challenges including competition from a new large-scale gym and the potential loss of existing members.

The episode began with Lee Mi-ran (Jung Eun-ji) in despair after showing her worst side to her ex-boyfriend Yeom Jun-seok (Jung Wook-jin). Despite trying to comfort herself with food, she ultimately requested a refund and attempted to give up on her 'Total Life Care' program. This development threatened the already struggling gym's finances, pushing Hyun-jung to take drastic measures to save his business.

A Manager's Position at Stake

When Hyun-jung informed trainers Rosa (Lee Mi-do) and Alex (Lee Seung-woo) about Mi-ran's refund request, Rosa, concerned about the gym's financial difficulties, proposed targeting the 'Sman-pa' (Skinny Man Fighting) group of thin-bodied members. She challenged Hyun-jung with a deal: if he failed to attract these members, he would have to step down as manager and leave the gym.

The situation became even more urgent when Hyun-jung's rival, Roy (Kim Kwon), opened a large fitness center directly across from the 24-Hour Health Club. Fearing that even their existing members might leave, the training team was relieved when Kang Cheol-nam (Jo Jung-chi), a 'Sman-pa' member, appeared. Hyun-jung immediately began intense training with the thin-bodied Cheol-nam, determined to prove his worth as a trainer and manager.

Mi-ran's Transformation Journey

Meanwhile, Mi-ran, who had given up on exercise and fallen into a state of self-abandonment, experienced a moment of revelation when she was the only one who didn't fall during a sudden bus stop, thanks to her newly developed core strength. This physical change prompted her to seek out Hyun-jung again.

However, due to her pride, Mi-ran registered at Roy's gym instead of returning to Hyun-jung's. The episode humorously portrayed her missing the intense 'fitness maniac' style training that Hyun-jung had provided, suggesting that despite her decision, she recognized the value in his approach to fitness.

Food and Friendship: The Path to New Members

In his all-out effort to attract members, Hyun-jung asked Mi-ran for help with Cheol-nam, who had lost his appetite. Mi-ran introduced her 'Great Food Map' featuring various foods like pork trotters and grilled shellfish. Their 'eating class' added another layer of entertainment to the show while stimulating viewers' appetites.

Mi-ran also provided emotional support to Cheol-nam, who blamed himself for being pushed around by others due to his weak physique. She shared her personal experience, telling him, 'I didn't realize my body was changing after exercising,' offering warm encouragement that resonated with many viewers who might be struggling with their own fitness journeys.

Sweet Reconciliation and Business Success

In a touching moment, Hyun-jung stopped Mi-ran from leaving with a sweet, direct comment: 'Don't go. Come to me.' This romantic gesture brought the two back together to restart their fitness journey.

By the end of the episode, thanks to Cheol-nam's positive review, the 24-Hour Health Club gained a reputation as a 'workout hotspot,' and Hyun-jung successfully attracted new members, securing his position as manager. However, the victory was short-lived as Hyun-jung confronted Rosa, saying, 'Teacher, you'll have to leave,' creating tension between the two characters and leaving viewers curious about the future direction of their relationship.

Ratings Challenge: Success On-Screen, Struggle Off-Screen

While Do Hyun-jung successfully saved his position as manager and attracted new members within the show's narrative, the drama itself is facing its own battle with viewership. The May 7 broadcast recorded a nationwide Nielsen Korea rating of just 1.5%, a decrease of 0.3% from the previous episode's 1.8% rating, marking the show's lowest viewership to date.

The drama had maintained a consistent 1.8% rating for its first two episodes, creating hope for an upward trend. However, the ratings decline in the second week has raised concerns about the show's future performance. Industry observers are now watching closely to see if '24-Hour Health Club' can attract viewers just as Hyun-jung managed to attract gym members in the storyline.

Behind-the-Scenes Drama and Character Development

The production team released preview stills before the broadcast showing Mi-ran battling fat and the trainer trio-Hyun-jung, Rosa, and Alex-struggling to save the gym. Particularly intriguing was a scene showing Hyun-jung consulting with a new potential member rather than Mi-ran, adding an element of mystery to the plot development.

The episode also hinted at deeper character development for Hyun-jung, who has primarily been portrayed as a fitness-obsessed trainer. His leadership abilities are being tested as he transitions from simply being a 'fitness maniac' to becoming a true leader who can save the business and inspire his team.

The Rivalry Intensifies

The introduction of Roy's large fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment created a significant threat to the 24-Hour Health Club. This rivalry not only affects the business but also appears to influence personal relationships, as suggested by scenes where Hyun-jung follows Mi-ran in disguise, seemingly jealous of her friendly interaction with Roy.

This comedic stalking sequence not only provides humor but also reveals Hyun-jung's complex feelings toward Mi-ran, adding depth to their developing relationship. The contrast between the old-fashioned 24-Hour Health Club and the modern, well-equipped rival gym also serves as a metaphor for traditional values versus modern convenience in fitness culture.

Viewer Reactions and Community Response

Despite the declining ratings, online communities have shown mixed reactions to the drama. Many viewers appreciate the chemistry between Lee Jun-young and Jung Eun-ji, with particular praise for Jung Eun-ji's comedic acting skills, which have been described as 'upgraded' and 'lovable' in this role.

Fans of the show have expressed support for the unique premise that combines fitness with romance, appreciating the positive messages about body transformation and self-confidence. However, some viewers have criticized the slow plot development and predictable storyline, suggesting these might be factors contributing to the ratings decline.

What's Next for '24-Hour Health Club'?

As the drama continues, viewers are curious about several developing storylines: Will the relationship between Hyun-jung and Mi-ran evolve beyond trainer and client? What is the secret agreement between Hyun-jung and Rosa, and how will it affect the gym's future? Can the 24-Hour Health Club compete successfully against Roy's modern facility?

Most importantly, can the show itself overcome its ratings challenges and attract more viewers in upcoming episodes? The production team and cast will need to demonstrate the same determination and creativity as their fictional counterparts if they hope to turn around the show's fortunes and build a loyal audience base for this unique fitness-themed romantic comedy.