Inspired by the Korean drama fandom phenomenon of a side character who comes to take center stage, Second Lead Syndrome unites Kay and Emily, two doctoral students with a burning desire to discuss both k-pop and anthropology. To challenge the idea that academics should only be devoted to their research subjects, Second Lead Syndrome takes an ethically non-monogamous approach to combine smart talk with fervent fangirling. Our main squeeze is anthropology, but we believe an academic vocation is compatible with our undeniable attraction to k-pop and k-dramas. Each enhances the appreciation and understanding of the other. We ditch the notion of a guilty pleasure and turn it into true love.