Could ‘Stove League’ really return for a second season? Fans got a glimmer of hope mixed with a dose of humor from lead actor Nam Goong Min.
“Just Give Up”—Nam Goong Min Jokes About ‘Stove League’ Season 2
On June 12, Nam Goong Min sat down to reflect on his hit dramas ‘Stove League’ and ‘The Thousand Won Lawyer’ during a feature on the official SBS YouTube channel. When asked by the production team to share a message for fans eagerly awaiting Stove League Season 2, he didn’t hold back:
“Just give up,” he joked prompting laughter from staff and fans alike.
But then, he gave a more heartfelt answer:
“If I do well, maybe it will work out someday. Please wait for the day I return as General Manager Baek Seung-soo. Thank you.”
A Quick Recap: Why ‘Stove League’ Struck a Chord
Premiering in late 2019 and concluding in February 2020, ‘Stove League’ was an unexpected ratings success, defying the long-held belief in the Korean broadcasting industry that sports dramas don’t perform well.
The series followed the Dreams, a bottom-ranked professional baseball team, as they undergo a dramatic transformation under the leadership of Baek Seung-soo (played by Nam Goong Min). Blending sports, office politics, and realistic team dynamics, the drama captivated audiences and achieved ratings nearing 20% a major feat for its genre.
What the Writer Said About Season 2?
Back when the finale aired, writer Lee Shin-hwa hinted at the potential for a sequel. At a press conference, she shared:
“I don’t want to hear people say, ‘I shouldn’t have come back.’ I think we can do Season 2 again when I feel like I have a lot of ideas.”
That cautious optimism left fans hopeful—but nothing has been officially confirmed since.
So… Will There Be a Season 2
While there’s no official green light yet, Nam Goong Min’s comments half-joking, half-promising suggest that the door is not completely closed. If the stars align, and if the script and timing are right, General Manager Baek might just return to the dugout.
Why Do Fans Want More?
- The show delivered compelling characters and smart storytelling rarely seen in sports dramas.
- Its mix of real-world baseball management and office drama struck a unique balance.
- Many viewers feel there’s more to explore in the world of the Dreams.
While Nam Goong Min told fans to “just give up”—he might have meant the opposite. As long as passion for Stove League burns bright, Season 2 could still hit the field.
