The show introduces Reinhold (Chris Diamantopoulos), Juergen's brother leading the same German study group who appeared in Foosball and Nocturnal Vigilantism (2011). Nick Kroll, who portrayed Juergen, could not reprise his role in this episode due to his commitment on his own show, Kroll Show (2013).
Lukas says "That must be nearly 100 luftballons", which is a clear reference to the top hit 1983 protest song 99 Luftballons (English translation "99 AIR Balloons") by the German pop-rock band Nena. One balloon does eventually pop, leaving behind 99 luft balloons.
As Jeff begins his speech referencing "Hogan's Heroes," a slow, inspirational-speech-type version of the Hogan's Heroes (1965) theme song plays quietly underneath.
Reinhold says "English is my second language" since he was portraying a German student. Chris Diamantopoulos (the actor who portrays Reinhold) was born and raised in Canada but his first language is Greek so that statement was actually true for him well.
Alex Schemmer, who plays Karl, also guest starred as Trent on an episode of Cougar Town (2009), which is one of Abed's favorite shows.