Jinx: Effective 👼 Anguish 😭😈

1. Why Anguish?

Feel like dropping Jinx? Perhaps you’ve reached chapter 50, and the weight of the narrative feels too heavy to bear. Yet, despite the urge to abandon ship, you shouldn’t. Why? One might say, that’s how life is: harsh, painful and unfair. On the other side, others might argue about this perception, as people can experience happiness too. Besides, anyone knows the idiom “to look on the bright side”. Nonetheless, people can only enjoy life to its fullest, when they experience sadness and agony either.

This article explains why sadness and heartache are necessary in life. And this rule also applies in the world of Jinx, especially since the Webtoonist is promoting Positive Psychology. Chapter 50 was so painful for both Joo Jaekyung (chapter 50) and Kim Dan. While the former was tormented by his challenger directly (chapter 50) and indirectly, the other had to witness how the members from Team Black turned their back on him in the locker room. (chapter 50) Interesting is that on X, hamster Dan received more affection and attention than the champion. Though I have always pointed out the doctor’s flaws, in episode 50, I couldn’t help myself being upset and heartbroken for Doc Dan too, until I had a revelation. Many readers were disappointed or mad, when they saw him in this panel. (chapter 50) They could put themselves in his shoes: he was left behind. On the other hand, the reaction from Joo Jaekyung was totally understandable. (chapter 50) He acted on instinct. Moreover, he had a match, therefore they had no time to discuss or investigate the matter. (chapter 50) And everyone knows this saying: Time is money. Yes, the hyungs didn’t decide to postpone the fight, because they would have to pay huge fees, and this could have affected the Emperor’s reputation. It exposes that the fight as such the show was more important than the well-being of their star. As a conclusion, money played a huge role in their decision. On the other side, the annulation would have brought more trouble to Kim Dan, as it would have caught the attention from journalists and fans, though it can still happen later. Under this new perspective, it becomes comprehensible why they left the locker room and didn’t argue with Kim Dan. They were under pressure. Nevertheless, the readers had a different reaction, for they knew the truth: Doc Dan was the victim of a new scheme. Therefore they judged the whole situation as unfair. Some were mad at the manager for yelling at the physical therapist. (chapter 50) Yet, we shouldn’t allow our emotions cloud our judgement, for this image displays the doctor’s metamorphosis. Notice that he talked back. Though his sentence is still not complete, the thickness of the writing and the point of exclamation are indicating that he was not whispering. He was speaking loudly and clearly. He was talking back firmly. Moreover, he was not avoiding his counterpart’s gaze contrary to the argument in the penthouse. (chapter 45) In other words, the scene in chapter 50 exposes the doctor’s growing strength and resilience. That’s the second reason why anguish is necessary in Jinx. Through their suffering, the characters can change, and Jinx-philes have the opportunity to witness their growing maturity. At the same time, the author is able to underline the other figures’ flaws thanks to torment. Between the essay My hero (full version)” and chapter 22, my perception of Park Namwook changed totally. While in the beginning, I judged him as a hero, I came to consider him as a naïve and blind man. Chapter 50 proved my interpretation correct. In episode 50, his superficiality and hypocrisy became so obvious that he was resented by Dan’s stans. On the other hand, his behavior didn’t surprise me at all. The irony is that his behavior is actually improving too 😮, though the manager is still far from being a hero. Episode 50 represents an evidence. To sum up, Mingwa is using anguish for three reasons:

  1. The characters should accept sadness, agony and anger in order to be able to enjoy life and discover happiness. (chapter 44) Now, the doctor is no longer associating sex with prostitution and corruption, but with love.
  2. Through painful events, the characters are encouraged to face their fears and overcome their trauma. Anguish helps them to metamorphose.
  3. Finally, terrible incidents serve as a tool to expose the characters’ true personality and as such their flaws.

Interesting is that I had selected the title “Effective Anguish” even before the release from episode 50! My follower and friend @Milliformemes can vouch for it. How come? It is because I discovered two patterns.

2. Pain and wounds

2. 1. The painful awakening of the dragon

First, I noticed that the champion’s wounds are coming to the surface. In the beginning, the injury on his shoulder could only be detected thanks to Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). (chapter 27) But only Dr. Lee and Kim Dan got to see the results(chapter 27), not Park Namwook. He just overviewed the medical file quickly. But for that, the manager needs to be capable of understanding medical terms. Thus I doubt, he could visualize the seriousness of the situation. (chapter 27) Then, after the match in the States, the manager asked his “boy” how his shoulder was. (chapter 40) Here, he chose to rely on the celebrity’s words, (chapter 40) while the manager had witnessed how Dominic Hill had targeted his shoulder. He should have realized that his star’s shoulder had been damaged. Nevertheless, we shouldn’t overlook that the athlete’s statement was corroborated by the medical checkup from MFC. That’s how he got fooled. Hence there was no treatment. However, doc Dan could detect the champion’s lie not only through observations (chapter 41) but also through touching. (chapter 41) As you can see, the wound was slowly coming to the surface. Thus I consider the incident in episode 43 as a metaphor for the shoulder injury. (chapter 43) It was exposing the damage in his body. Consequently, when the champion’s foot got wounded by the pepper spray, (chapter 49), I realized what was happening. Mingwa is forcing the Emperor to admit his suffering. Hence his wounds are becoming more and more visible.

Chapter 40Chapter 41Chapter 42Chapter 49 Chapter 50

First, he let transpire his pain more through his grimaces. Secondly, his moans are getting louder and louder. The point of exclamation and the facial expressions are indicating the increasing pain. But why? Don’t forget that in the past, the champion used to reject any assistance from a physical therapist,. (chapter 5) for he was simply relying on the prostitutes due to his jinx. Thus I consider this argument in the penthouse as a huge step for the athlete: (chapter 45) He can not win, if he is not receiving the help from a PT. That’s the reason why he didn’t mention the jinx at all. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why the athlete is suffering more and more. The goddess of Jinx is cornering the athlete: the latter has to admit that he doesn’t just need the assistance of any PT (chapter 45), but the help from the angel Dan.

Finally, during the fight with Baek Junmin, the athlete’s foot is bleeding. (chapter 50) So far, he just had a cut above his eye, nothing serious. (Chapter 40) However, the wound on the foot is different, for his skin is damaged. The recovery will take longer. It is relevant, because Park Namwook can no longer feign ignorance about his star’s wounds. He is less susceptible to manipulations.

On the other side, through the injuries, the champion’s mental health gets boosted. He can sense his own strength and appreciate all the punches he could give to his opponent despite his injuries. (chapter 50) That’s the reason why he turned into a dragon at the end of the chapter. [For more read the essay “Color Clash: Decoding MMA Posters] The blue is exposing that he is not controlled by his emotions (rage, anger or fears), he is totally rational. As the suffering pushed him to become the better version of himself, his victory can only appear even sweeter than before. In other words, the easier his victories were, the more he came to doubt his talent. (chapter 5) And now, you comprehend why he got so nervous and angry, when he imagined that Kim Dan had blocked him. (chapter 5) This shows that his belief in his jinx had been reinforced after his first night with Kim Dan.

On the other hand, Kim Dan could be held responsible for his injuries, similar to this scene. (chapter 31) He could take the fall for everything. The main lead is put in such a position so that he has no other choice: he needs to clear his name! (chapter 1) He shouldn’t accept his fate like in the past, but fight for his rights and reputation. In other words, the painful incident serves another purpose: Kim Dan is incited to develop a fighter’s spirit. That’s the reason why the situation is quite similar to the past.

On the other hand, we should question why the champion felt a pain in his ankle during that morning. (chapter 50) From my perspective, this is the result of the overexerting. (Chapter 50) Even the coach is noticing that the athlete is overtraining himself. Remember that the athlete refused to listen to his PT. (chapter 42) In addition, he would return home late, a sign that he would train even more than before. (chapter 48) Finally, we shouldn’t overlook the fact that after his match in the States, he never visited the hospital due to the law suit. (chapter 41) According to me, the MFC medical checkup was not reflecting the verity. Hence he never got a real check-up and MFC could definitely say that the athlete was definitely fine. (chapter 41) This shows that the more the champion refuses to his PT’s advice, the more injuries he will substain. That’s how it dawned on me why Joo Jaekyung is now getting more and more wounded during the fights. It forces him to take a rest! However, in the past, he had a reason not to listen: he got barely injured. He needed to treat his body roughly in order to prove his effort and strength. This observation reinforces my conviction that there is a second group manipulating the champion’s matches: MFC itself. For me, Heo Manwook and Choi Gilseok are rather puppets. How so? It is because someone knew about the champion’s sexual habits, hence he was supposed to take an aphrodisiac in the States. But neither the loan shark nor the director from King Of MMA are aware of this. To conclude, the champion’s anguish is necessary to expose the deceptions and the schemers as well.

2. 2. The pleasant Park Namwook, Tolstoy and pain

What caught my attention is that in the locker room, the manager didn’t make the decision for the fight. (chapter 50) How? Through a question, he let the coach Jeong Yosep give the answer. Through their words and actions, Jeong Yosep and Joo Jaekyung called shots, and Park Namwook just followed. The darkness around his forehead and the drop of sweat indicate his torment. But he can not voice his suffering, for it is nothing compared to the star’s. Hence if something were to happen to the celebrity, I can already predict that the manager will put the blame on others. Mingwa already left many clues about his lack of responsibility. First, the manager (chapter 27) refused to force the champion to take a day-off by saying that the protagonist would never listen anyway. With such a statement, he pushed Kim Dan to make the decision and announce it to his VIP client. Moreover, the manager didn’t stop his “boy” from exposing his injured shoulder to the public. (chapter 41) However, by doing so, he was exposing his vulnerability to his opponents, though I am still suspecting that MFC leaked information too. So far, the headlines are not indicating which shoulder is wounded. Yet, the moderator knew which one: (chapter 50) So why was the manager so shocked with such an attack? (chapter 50) It was clear that during such a match, the challenger would use the opponent’s weakness. What did he expect in the end? The panel exposes his stupidity and his immaturity. He should have anticipated such a move. These observations lead me to the following conclusion: the champion needs to realize that his hyung will never recognize his suffering, as long as Joo Jaekyung is in denial. Until now, he hasn’t been protecting Joo Jaekyung’s interests, rather his own comfort. His MO was to put the whole responsibility on the athlete. But it was his duty as his manager not to accept the new challenge. (chapter 41) Observe that he is just asking questions once again, when he voices his doubts. He is not making a statement. However, the manager is changing. While in the past, the manager was not treating the celebrity like real family, though he was called hyung, I detected a switch, when Park Namwook sent messages from his family for his birthday. (Chapter 45) In other words, his loyalty towards the star is improving. (chapter 46)

On the other hand, the nature of their relationship is still rather like a boss or employee. Thus he is his advisor or superior. It depends on the situation. I noticed the ambiguity of Park Namwook’s position. First, he introduces himself as the star’s manager (Chapter 9) and coach for Team Black, but he acts like the director of Team Black. (Chapter 49) This explains why he claimed that Team Black was his gym, (chapter 22) yet the reality is that this power comes from the champion, as the latter is the real owner of Team Black. Therefore the captain warned the two hyungs. (Chapter 46) Thus I deduce that the role between the star and his hyung must be redefined because of Kim Dan’s presence. But wait… the heading is referring to the Russian author Leo Tolstoy. So what is his connection to the manager from Team Black?

The reason is that I found an interesting article about Tolstoy entitled: “How to live with purpose: Leo Tolstoy’s 5 secrets after his existential crisis”. The Russian writer noticed the existence of 4 different types of people: Ignorance, Epicureanism, Strength and Energy and Weakness. The moment I read his descriptions, I couldn’t help myself connecting these types to characters from Jinx: Park Namwook, Halmoni, Joo Jaekyung and Kim Dan. Interesting is that Tolstoy suffered immensely before he was able to give a meaning to his life.

The latter advice reminded me of the champion’s philosophy. He definitely preferred the breakfasts (chapter 41) to the golden keychain. (Chapter 45) As you can see, the famous writer is connected to Positive Psychology, for he was also promoting meditation and experiences. This fits our story, as both main characters are on their way to give a meaning to their life and as such to find happiness. But let’s return our attention to the manager Park Namwook as a representative of “ignorance”.

This description corresponds to Park Namwook’s mentality, as the latter is always seeking the easiest way out. He is always avoiding discomfort. Hence not only he closed an eye to the doctor’s wounds in episode 11 (chapter 11), but also he never tried to correct the star’s false conclusion. (Chapter 11) He just got angry giving the impression that he was siding with Kim Dan. But the reality is that he did nothing for the poor doctor at all. He remained passive and silent. His “ignorance” explains as well why he is not questioning events and his athlete’s success. (chapter 43) Through the two examples, Manhwaphiles can sense that his “ignorance” is a mixture of willingness to close an eye and real naivety. Under this new approach, it dawned on me why the manager used to beat his star so brutally. (Chapter 7) (Chapter 31) It is his way how to deal with uncomfortable situations. He stands for social norms and conformity. It is not surprising that the manager proposed to use Kim Dan as compensation for Heesung’s fake injury. (chapter 32) Furthermore, he forced Joo Jaekyung to take the blame without investigating the matter. (chapter 31) That way, he avoided to get into trouble. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why he is gentle and polite, when he is not under stress. (chapter 43) The latter triggers his anxiety and nervousness. Thus when there is a problem, his MO is either to threaten, (chapter 22), to scold (chapter 36) or to let others make decisions. I would even add, he often delegates things to others: the manager from the Entertainment company (chapter 27), the MFC manager, the lawyer, the advisors, coach Jeong Yosep (chapter 46), Kim Dan [f. ex. He should accept the bad mood from his VIP client] (chapter 36) However, he is not trying to solve the problem himself. Yet, he can not keep such an attitude in the long run, for his passivity and blindness are the reasons why the main couple can be targeted so easily. Park Namwook is failing to protect his champion and his team. However, I detected a positive change despite the heartache in episode 50. He stopped using violence after episode 31. He learned that he needed to treat the champion’s body more kindly, hence we have this confession: (chapter 43) Furthermore, compare his behavior towards the celebrity and the doctor: (chapter 46) and (chapter 50) Mingwa didn’t use any red in the last picture, a sign that the manager’s anger was controlled. So he is trusting the physical therapist. Consequently, his words at the bar were not empty. (chapter 43) Nevertheless, I am expecting Park Namwook’s effective anguish at some point. He needs to be confronted with his biggest fears and pain. And who will act as his mirror of truth?

While Park Namwook stands for ignorance, the champion embodies fire!

This description reflects the fighter’s mentality. Therefore, it is normal that he is suffering. Under this new light, readers can grasp the severity of the star’s situation. Kim Dan is there to save him from self-destruction. I would even say, the hamster’s love represents his safety belt and salvation. As for Kim Dan, the latter is destined to suffer, as he has always considered himself as powerless. And until he realized his grandmother’s mortality, he acted, as if she was his goddess. Hence he was willing to sacrifice himself for her sake. (chapter 16)

And now, you know why the doctor had not projected himself into the future. He was simply surviving. Though the champion had paid off his debts, Kim Dan had not dropped his life principles: money was important, and it should be spent as quickly as possible, as if there was no tomorrow. Why? It is because he had internalized that his earnings would immediately get wired to a different bank account. That’s why he needed to be confronted his biggest fears: the loss of his job as PT. The incident would not only ruin his career, but also turn the efforts of his grandmother into meaninglessness! Don’t forget that she supported him to become a PT! He was her pride and reward! (chapter 47) And what was the halmoni’s wish? He should give his all to Joo Jaekyung, (chapter 41) and he should assist him during his matches! (chapter 41) Therefore I believe that in the locker room, Kim Dan must have recalled her words. She became his source of strength once again. That’s why we have parallels between these three scenes: (chapter 21: he was criticized by Kim Miseon, he feared to lose his halmoni) (chapter 47) and finally (chapter 50) That’s the reason why Kim Dan could become a star. Contrary to Joo Jaekyung, we didn’t assist to the birth of the yeouiju. It is no coincidence that birth is connected to pain and happiness. Mothers forget the suffering of the delivery, as their child can procure them a lot of joy and happiness.

3. The Overman Kim Dan

Striking is that Psychology and Literature are not the only fields advocating negative emotions and suffering. I have to confess that while reading Painter Of The Night, I noticed parallels between Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophy and the Manhwa. And since Mingwa’s writing is very similar to Byeonduck’s, I am not surprised that the readers are exposed to heartache and misery. Friedrich Nietzsche, a German philosopher from the 19th Century, developed complex ideas about pain and suffering, as well as the concept of the “Übermensch”, or “Overman.”

  1. Pain and Suffering: Nietzsche believed that pain and suffering were inherent aspects of human existence. Nonetheless, he did not view them solely as negative experiences to be avoided. Instead, he argued that ache and hardship could serve as sources of growth, strength, and self-discovery. Nietzsche famously stated, “That which does not kill us makes us stronger,” suggesting that overcoming adversity can lead to personal development and resilience.
  2. Transcend Conventional Morality: Nietzsche critiqued conventional morality and values, arguing that they often inhibit individual freedom and self-expression. He described it as herd mentality. “Madness is rare in individuals – but in groups, parties, nations, and ages it is the rule.” This quote highlights Nietzsche’s critique of herd mentality, suggesting that individuals are less prone to madness or irrational behavior when acting alone, but when they become part of a collective group, they are more likely to adopt the behaviors and beliefs of the group, even if they are irrational or detrimental. To find one’s real self, he suggested transcending societal norms and conditioning, questioning traditional beliefs, and forging one’s own path based on personal values and principles. As he provocatively declared, “God is dead. God remains dead. And we have killed him.”
  3. Strive for Self-Overcoming and Übermensch (Overman): The concept of the Übermensch is central to Nietzsche’s philosophy. The Übermensch represents an idealized individual who transcends conventional morality and societal norms. Nietzsche saw the Übermensch as someone who creates their own values, embraces life’s challenges with courage and creativity, and strives for self-mastery and self-realization. The Übermensch is free from the constraints of traditional morality and embraces the full spectrum of human experience, including joy, suffering, and struggle. In relation to pain, Nietzsche believed that the Übermensch would not shy away from pain and suffering but would instead confront them head-on as part of the process of self-overcoming. By embracing pain and integrating it into their existence, the Übermensch achieves a higher state of being and transcends the limitations of ordinary human existence. Nietzsche wrote, “I teach you the overman. Man is something that shall be overcome.”
  4. Embrace Individuality: Nietzsche celebrated the uniqueness and individuality of each person, urging individuals to embrace their authentic selves without conformity or compromise. By embracing one’s individuality and embracing one’s unique strengths, weaknesses, and experiences, individuals can cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and authenticity. Nietzsche emphasized, “Become who you are.
  5. Create Meaning and Values: According to Nietzsche, individuals have the power to create their own meaning and values in a world devoid of inherent meaning. By engaging in creative expression, pursuing passions and interests, and embracing life’s challenges with courage and resilience, individuals can discover and affirm their real selves. Nietzsche famously proclaimed, “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.”

In essence, Nietzsche’s philosophy offers a provocative perspective on finding one’s real self in the face of suffering, pain, and adversity. This reminds us of the famous sparring in episode 26. (Chapter 26) By embracing misfortune, transcending conventional morality, striving for self-overcoming, embracing individuality, and creating meaning and values, individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-actualization, ultimately becoming the architects of their own lives. At the heart of Nietzsche’s vision lies the concept of the Übermensch, or Overman, who embodies the pinnacle of human potential and serves as a beacon of courage, creativity, and self-mastery. Through the pursuit of the Übermensch ideal, individuals can transcend their limitations, confront their fears, and forge their own destinies, thereby finding their true selves in the process.

If you watched the video, then you know why doc Dan (chapter 5) or Heesung drank alcohol (chapter 35). Both were trying to numb their pain, though they shouldn’t have according to the German philosopher. The soju stopped them from becoming the better version of themselves. I am suspecting that doc Dan copied this poor habit from his grandmother, who drank in secret. Don’t forget that in all the memories, the halmoni is smiling (chapter 47), though she must have struggled a lot. Her smile is a sign that she tried not to burden her grandson. However, her toxic positivity had the opposite effect.

And now, you are wondering how chapter 50 is linked to Overman and Kim Dan. From my perspective, when we look at this scene, ‘ (chapter 50) we shouldn’t see it as a betrayal, rather as an opportunity for Kim Dan. He is not following the herd, because he needs to reflect on the incident. (chapter 50) The latter forced the doctor to question his identity and his desires. What does he want to be in life? Let’s not forget that he selected PT because of his grandmother. (chapter 47) In other words, he had selected this job, as he was following traditions and expectations. Only in episode 47, he realized that she was his real motivation. Yet, he discovered shortly after that she is about to die. Thus he needs to find a new motivation for his job, or better said, he needs to question himself about his profession. Does he truly want to be a physical therapist? Since the beginning of the story, doc Dan has never identified himself as a physical therapist. Thus he accepted to be judged as a whore (chapter 16) or as a tool for the jinx, therefore he mopped the floor (chapter 36), acting like an errand boy. Then he doubted Heesung’s words and admiration (chapter 31) (chapter 31). Furthermore, he took a side gig in order to buy the champion’s present and finally, he rejected Choi Gilseok’s praise and offer. (chapter 48) He was always diminishing himself as a doctor. Therefore in the locker room, he was confronted with his biggest fear: is he really a physical therapist? (chapter 50) He injured his patient. The spray is there to let him see that he has power in his hands. He should trust himself and his magical hands. Don’t forget that this request was made by Joo Jaekyung. (Chapter 49) He never asked him for his expertise and advice. He practiced self-medication in the end. Thus his karma was to be betrayed by the drug, since he keeps mistrusting people. In other words, because of the switch, Kim Dan is encouraged to become brave, to see his job as a great chance: his power is in his hands and nothing else. Heesung described it as magical touch. Doc Dan is talented and he is the champion’s private physical therapist (chapter 50) And from my point of view, the locker room became the doctor’s new temple. There, he must have recalled his grandmother’s wishes. She would like to see him on TV. For me, the light over his head symbolizes Enlightenment. He has become the champion’s yeouiju. Thus I deduce that Kim Dan is on the verge of proving his worth to Team Black. I am anticipating, he will approach the ring, and even treat him during a break, something he denied to his halmoni. (chapter 41) This signifies that he has to become strong and determined, for he has to impose himself in front of the other hyungs. By intervening, he would not only prove his innocence, but also earn his right to be viewed as a hyung! So far, the doctor was always excluded from the meetings, though the manager and advisors should have asked for his opinion. Don’t forget that till episode 42, he relied on the recommendations from other physicians and therapists. If this theory comes true, Joo Jaekyung would show to the public that he is trusting him. This would stand in contrast to this image. (chapter 50). Let’s not forget that MFC doctors can not intervene during a match, but only before or after. Like in the video above, I am expecting that Kim Dan will distinguish himself from the others! PArk Namwook only appeared in the spotlight after his boy’s victories. (chapter 5) (chapter 40) I am expecting a surprise in the next episode. Kim Dan will no longer stand in the shadow, he will no longer follow the “herd”. But there is another reason why I am hoping for such an intervention. It is because neither Baek Junmin nor Choi Gilseok are not expecting the intervention of the physical therapist during the fight, for it never happened before. Besides, the demon could see that their trick had worked. (chapter 50) It is relevant, because through such an intervention, hamster Dan would teach the champion an important lesson. He is not alone in the ring, the doctor is watching his physical condition and helping him. For me, chapter 50 announces a new start! Interesting is that the number 50 is associated with the planet Mercury which stands for poison but also medicine! And now, you comprehend why I consider the painful chapter as treatment sessions. The two protagonists are forced to redefine themselves. Joo Jaekyung might be injured, but he no longer sees himself jinxed! (chapter 50) And keep in mind that the poster was portraying the two fighters looking at hamster Dan (as Dan means red and sweet in Korean). (chapter 48) So the moment you perceive this moment )chapter 50) as something positive, Kim Dan is on the verge of turning over a new leaf, similar to the one in episode 19, (chapter 19), this signifies that Potato was acting like a true friend in the locker room. (chapter 50) He had truly grasped what Kim Dan was going through, and he was giving him a good advice. He was not abandoning his hyung, he was taking care of Kim Dan in his own way. His words were actually showing genuine care and true interest. To conclude, anguish is there to turn Kim Dan into a hero! But so far, he was standing in the shadow! (chapter 37) (chapter 40) (chapter 42) In the first part of Jinx, the doctor was the star’s companion of the night, but since the incident with the birthday present, he stopped being the night partner. Now, he is about to become the famous private physical therapist acknowledged by the public and media. In other words, his destiny contrasts to Baek Junmin’s, a shooting star, it will last longer. Why? It is because the main lead is Saturn! He brings fortune and karma to the evildoers. This interpretation corresponds to Übermensch from Nietzsche, which is sometimes translated as “Superman”. Under this new light, you comprehend why I added the protagonist’s pink angel wings. It was an allusion to his transformation, he is destined to become an “Overman” or Superman. And this brings me to my next observation. The doctor’s pain is exposing his recovery! Weird, right?

4. Healing

But discomfort and pain are strongly intertwined with healing. What? Another video! Yes, watch this while thinking of Kim Dan and Joo Jaekyung.

I have to admit that I will use mostly Kim Dan as an illustration in order to prove his recovery, as the essay is already getting very long.

1. You allow yourself to feel your emotions. In chapter 47, the doctor accepted his halmoni’s imminent death (chapter 47) and his agony. He was no longer under the influence of toxic positivity. While he cried, he admitted his flaws making him realize that he had never been abandoned by his grandmother. (chapter 47) That’s how he overcame his abandonment issues.

2. You’re getting better at expressing and maintaining boundaries. I could use the following panels as illustrations that Kim Dan is getting better at setting boundaries. (chapter 27) For the first time, he rejected a suggestion from his lover and even slapped his hand. (chapter 37) He wanted the party to continue. It shows that he was having a good time with Oh Daehyun and Potato. He has no problem to stop kissing his soulmate, when the latter shows his discomfort. (chapter 44)

3. You accept that you’ve been through difficult experiences . (chapter 36)

4. You’re less reactive and more responsive. Before the incident took place, he made sure that everything was fine. He was meticulous and proactive. (chapter 49) He didn’t wait for an order from PArk Namwook or the champion.

5. You realize that healing is not linear. Therefore it is normal that the relationship between the two protagonists is progressing or regressing. (chapter 50) They are trying to find themselves, therefore they must constantly adapt to each other. While the image gives the impression that the trust between them is vanishing, it is in reality an illusion. People should pay attention to the color of the speech bubble. It is white, there is no point of explanation. It reveals that the champion is not raising his voice. He is rather calm. In reality, the champion was not truly mad at Kim Dan. He was restraining himself. Jinx-philes should compare this image to the following two panels: (chapter 34) (chapter 45) As you can see, Joo Jaekyung is not glaring at the poor doctor. He didn’t yell at his lover too, and he never took the spray away from his lover and threw it like the golden medal! (chapter 45) And now, you comprehend why I stated earlier that he acted rather instinctively. For me, he still trusts the physical therapist.

6. You begin to step out of your comfort zone. Despite the rejection, he didn’t run away. He still went to the arena. (chapter 50)

7. You easily accept disappointments and take them in stride. Though he was scared and hurt, he answered to Namwook. He never apologized for the incident. (chapter 50) He is no longer blaming himself. He refused to admit his wrongdoing. He didn’t commit any mistake.

8. You have more inner peace. (chapter 44)

9. You welcome help and support. In this scene, he accepted the assistance of Potato. (chapter 49) After watching the video, I realized what Kim Dan’s next step should be: asking for help! In the beginning of Jinx, he was always relying on himself. He rejected any help. (chapter 18) When the champion paid off his debts, he saw it as meddling. Interesting is that he came to accept the champion’s support, but he never asked for Joo Jaekyung’s help directly. In addition, Jinx-philes should notice that in the interrogation room, he thought just about the champion and not himself. (chapter 40) It never came to his mind that he should ask for assistance. Finally, observe that after he got drugged in the States, he let the champion deal with the problem. (chapter 41) He accepted the statement from his boss. Nevertheless, doc Dan was the real victim. He should have become more involved in the matter. Besides, he was a witness. And this brings me to my next thought: if Kim Dan gets into trouble, he should remember Heesung’s words: he should give him a call! (chapter 35) For me, the incident is there to teach Kim Dan that he can ask for help! This would show him that he is no longer alone. He wouldn’t appear weak at all. That’s how he would end up to gain his first friends. Let’s not forget that Heesung’s relationship with the doctor is no longer tainted by money or by lust or greed. In fact, thanks to him, he found his soulmate. What unites Kim Dan and Heesung is the heart and the desire to help. Heesung stands for brotherhood, so he could be the one outlining the problems to Team Black. Finally since Potato likes Doc Dan very much, there is no doubt that Heesung and Potato will work together to assist the main lead. This image still exposed doc Dan’s loneliness. He needs to have a true friend. And Heesung would be the perfect person, for he is cunning and quite perceptive about people’s true nature. In fact, he already possesses certain features that Nietzsche admires. He is disregarding social norms (chapter 33). He is not hiding his sexual orientation, he is greedy, but in a good way. Hence he tried to win the doctor’s heart. He never gave up, till he was properly rejected by the doctor. (Chapter 35) Interesting is that after his confession, he still chose to come clean with the doctor. He revealed the truth to Kim Dan, though he could have lost the protagonist’s respect. He admitted his lie and manipulation, (Chapter 35), but Kim Dan’s reaction was not to scold his future friend. In fact, he appreciated his honesty. In front of Kim Dan, he could show his true self. He was not entirely a good guy, but he didn’t get rejected. But so far, the actor is not present in the arena. Therefore Potato could be the first person Kim Dan asks for help. He shares some similarities with his soulmate. He doesn’t fear people’s gaze, hence he raised his voice under the tent. (chapter 35) he doesn’t represent the herd mentality, for he never thinks and acts like others. (chapter 31) While the fighters all liked the actor, he judged him in a different light. Then he was not present during the champion’s birthday. Therefore he possesses all the qualities to become a hero. He could cause a scandal, (chapter 49) similarly to his idol and hero in the States. He noticed the issue right away: the security didn’t do his job properly. To sum up, Potato would follow his foot steps and that’s how he would get noticed by MFC!

But there exists another evidence that the cute hamster is healing. For the first time, he asked WHY! (chapter 50) The word is displaying that the doctor is not accepting the incident simply like that. It is showing that the doctor is slowly losing his naivety. Before the incident with the spray took place, he still trusted the words from people. (chapter 49) Naturally, he can not get rid of his naivety totally, for keeping a certain purity is necessary in life too. On the other hand, it becomes clear that his naivety is the result from his education. The halmoni is herself quite too trusting. Hence she ended up being harassed by loan sharks. On the other hand, the incident was like an eye-opener for the physical therapist. He should stop judging people based on their words (chapter 43) but on their actions.

The vanishing of his naivety is caused by his constant suffering. Because he got deceived twice (chapter 1) (chapter 1) by bosses, it becomes comprehensible why he didn’t fall into the trap a third time. (Chapter 48) He is pushed to question impressions and people’s motivations. As a conclusion, anguish is a tool to push people to become wiser and happier. And this leads me to my final part.

5. Painful pattern und fortunetelling

I discovered another pattern, which is strongly intertwined with suffering and purpose. For the first match, Joo JAekyung, his coach and his manager left to Busan without him. However, due to a pain, Kim Dan had to join them. Thus he came running. (chapter 14) But back then, Kim Dan didn’t mind staying in Seoul. (chapter 13) Furthermore, after having sex in the locker room, Kim Dan was left behind. (chapter 15) And notice that this pattern was the same in the States. For the second match, Team Black left without him, hence Kim Dan arrived late. (chapter 40) Therefore he was running once again. However, back then, no readers felt angry at the team, though it could also be perceived as a betrayal and abandonment! Kim Dan was not perceived as necessary, neither for Joo Jaekyung nor for Park Namwook. Hence the bedroom could be judged as the place of the betrayal: “ (chapter 40) That’s how I realized why the Webtoonist never showed the athlete’s caring gesture. He moved him in the middle of the bed! It is because the celebrity was still not treating his soulmate as a physical therapist. The second reason for the absence of anger is that Kim Dan had been drugged and as such was not fit. In addition, he needed to rest after having sex for the whole night. And now, you comprehend why the doctor could get dragged away by the MFC security guards, and no one from Team Black intervened. (chapter 40) It was to outline their previous disregard and betrayal! Thanks to Potato, Joo Jaekyung got informed, hence he could rescue the physical therapist. (chapter 40) But he never revealed the hamster’s role in the team! This explains why Kim Dan was used by Choi Gilseok. He needs to expose his role in Team Black to the world. He is the champion’s private PT!

Chapter 13-14-15Chapter 40/41Chapter 49-50
1. Match: Randy Booker2. Match with Dominic Hill3. Match with Baek Junmin
They left without himThey left without himThey left without him
He arrived late to the arena. He had to run. He arrived late to the arena. Hence he had to run , but no one was expecting him except Potato. He arrived late in the arena. Contrary to the two previous fights, the match has already started, when the doctor reaches the stadium. Thus he didn’t see the shoulder injury. But this time, he is not running. Once again, only Potato is expecting him: “Take your time, doc Dan”.
He was left behind in the locker room. He was left in the bedroom behind. He was left behind in the locker room
He has no uniform of Team Black, hence Joo JAekyung gave him his own jacket. But the latter was taken away later He has just his blue uniform.He has now his own jacket which he is carrying with the blue uniform.He has the jacket and uniform
He was interrogated by a MFC security guard He is interrogated by MFC security guys and they are framing.
There was a checkup from MFC doctors , for both characters.
(chapter 41)
Joo Jaekyung went to the MFC medical center Hence he could get into trouble! The MFC could report the incident to the authorities!

Since I detected similarities between the three matches, I can’t help myself thinking that Kim Dan will be interrogated again. He could end up dragged away after the match. But this time, the champion can not save him, as he is himself badly injured. Therefore expect another anguish in the next episode! Since my theory is that MFC doctors are corrupted, there’s a high chance that the doctors will frame Kim Dan. And now, you comprehend why Kim Dan needs more than ever a friend who can help him! Potato is the witness of the doctor’s innocence (chapter 49) in both cases! He was present, when Kim Dan drank the drugged beverage. (chapter 38) To conclude, it was not in Kim Dan’s interest to run away or hide! This would have been judged as a sign of his culpability and complicity. He needs to face the problems so that he can shape his destiny with his own hands and not remain the playball of dark forces! Yes, this chapter announces a huge change at Team Black, the start of a real friendship between two puppies. 😉

I hope, this long essay gave you the strength to keep reading this terrific Manhwa! Let’s us become a better version of ourselves and embrace the pain, as it means that we are not indifferent and even changing.

Feel free to comment. If you have any suggestion for topics or manhwas, feel free to ask. If you enjoyed reading it, retweet it or push the button like. My Reddit-Instagram-Twitter-Tumblr account is: @bebebisous33. Thanks for reading and for the support, particularly, I would like to thank all the new followers and people recommending my blog.

Jinx: Dire 😢 Youth 👦 Mystery🔍 Unraveling

1. Clock and past

One might wonder why I selected such a picture for the background. While looking for a symbol for past, I discovered on Canva the clock as symbol for “past”. Why? It is because the clock represents time which includes past. As you can imagine, in the illustration, the clock is representing not only the past, but also Joo Jaekyung and his youth. But before presenting my new observations about the champion’s mysterious youth, I would like to focus on the clock.

There was another reason why I chose this image. I couldn’t help myself thinking of this panel: (chapter 48) Why did the Webtoonist gave us the time, when the next episode starts another day? On the one hand, it exposes that the schemers knew about the champion’s nightly activities. He wouldn’t sleep much and he would keep his cellphone next to him. (chapter 48) It shows once again that the traitor is close to the athlete, for he knows about his way of life. Furthermore, the unknown person could text to the champion, hence this means that his cellphone number got leaked by a person close to him. On the other hand, I am quite certain, the Webtoonist desired to fool her readers making them anticipate a confrontation between the two protagonists. However, nothing happened indicating that Joo Jaekyung didn’t react, like the plotters had anticipated it. Thus they had to create a new scheme. First, let’s not forget that they had used a similar method in the past. (chapter 35) This made me think of Painter of The Night and No-Name’s advice: (chapter 76) “A deed once foiled has no chance of success the second time around”.The criminal was referring to learning through experience. After going through such an event once, the athlete is no longer caught by surprise. We could say that he learned not to jump to conclusions and control his emotions. That’s the reason why in episode 48 he remained level-headed. Because the champion didn’t get angry, he could be more attentive. (chapter 48) Secondly, (chapter 48) contrary to the journalist, the sender of the pictures remained anonymous. He was exposing his personality: a traitor and a coward. So what did the anonymous sender want to divulge with these images? In my opinion, they wanted to create the illusion that Kim Dan was leaking information about the champion’s physical condition. That’s the reason why Choi Gilseok was seen smiling and taking the doctor’s hands. It looked like he was thanking him. (Chapter 48) The irony is that the doctor had been able to treat the star’s injury. For me, the Summer Night’s Dream played a huge role, as during that night, Joo Jaekyung felt treasured and loved. Therefore the pictures could only expose the duplicity of the director of King of MMA. Under this new light, it becomes understandable why the celebrity didn’t fall into their trap and why they had to turn doc Dan into a traitor by giving him a weapon without his knowledge. Finally, I believe that Joo Jaekyung had another reason not to confront the physical therapist. How so? It is because he had sent away his soulmate, while the latter had approached him. (chapter 48) He had missed the opportunity.

Too obsessed with his upcoming match and as such the future, he had neglected the present. But imagine this. If he had gone to doc Dan’s bedroom and questioned him, once he had received the message, the latter would have appeared not only as selfish, rude, but also as indecisive, mistrusting and easily manipulated. However, the athlete’s biggest desire is to look confident, reliable and strong. Because he had missed the timing, he was encouraged to analyze the images and ponder on them. Furthermore, I couldn’t help myself connecting this scene to the one in the bathroom: (chapter 30) Here, he wished to seek the doctor’s closeness. Nonetheless, if he had gone to Kim Dan’s bedroom during that night, he would have achieved the opposite: he would have created distance and caused an argument. The latter could have told him that he was looking out for himself, for Joo Jaekyung had threatened to fire him. Through these observations, it becomes visible why the athlete couldn’t ask Kim Dan at all. Consequently, I come to the conclusion that the clock (chapter 48) was announcing missed opportunity. It is important, because it displays the falsehood of the champion’s belief. (chapter 2) He is not jinxed, but his failures are the result of his bad choices, like for example trusting the wrong people or not listening to the trustworthy ones or keeping secrets. Or we could say that he is just the product of his education and childhood. He is cursed, for he was not properly raised. He refused to listen to his PT, when the latter wished to tell him something. (chapter 48) He had ignored him by not even looking at him. And this brings me to my next observation: REGRET. I am quite sure that after receiving the message, Joo Jaekyung must have felt regret. First, he had yelled at Kim Dan and menaced him to terminate his contract. (chapter 45) Then in the bedroom, he had rejected all his requests (massage, conversation). It was, as if he no longer needed him. He was no longer eating his breakfasts too. (chapter 47) Under this new light, Manhwa-lovers can comprehend why he looked annoyed in the hallway. (chapter 49) The gaze displays not only worry and anxiety, but also regret. It was too late to ask the doctor. For me, he chose silence, for he was regretting his reactions in the penthouse. He feared to ask Kim Dan, because if he brought up the meeting with Choi Gilseok, this could push the hamster to quit his job. However, thanks to Kim Dan, the star’s condition improved greatly. That’s how it dawned on me why the champion became a beast and why he is hiding his past: (chapter 26) It is because the man is full of regrets and resent. But by creating new regrets, the champion is incited to focus more on the present so that he stops missing the timing. Because of his immense regrets and frustration, he was still trapped in the past. So he was unable to move on. To conclude, Kim Dan and Baek Junmin pushed him to face his youth and the source of his own unhappiness. His biggest suffering is a secret, because he would appear as weak and pitiful which would ruin his image as the strongest man in the world.

2. Midnight: the magic hour

Nevertheless, I believe that the author had another reason to create such an image. (chapter 48) It is related to the time. It’s 12: 13 and 47 seconds. I have to admit my hesitation about the minutes: 13 or 14 minutes? But I opted for the first choice, for there are only 13 seconds left, until it is 14 minutes. So the minutes hand had to move closer to 14. Because it is midnight, I couldn’t restrain myself thinking of Cinderella and her transformation, especially when Kim Dan noticed that the athlete returned home just before midnight! (chapter 48) But why is midnight so important? It is because the number 12 carries religious, mythological and magical symbolism, generally representing perfection, entirety, or cosmic order.

This explicates why in the fairy tale Sleeping Beauty from Grimms 12 fairies who are called as “wise women” in the story.

In episode 12, (chapter 12) the couple was supposed to reach Nirvana, but the athlete failed terribly. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why the protagonist chose not to confront Kim Dan in episode 48. It was, as if the champion was closer to the heavens. This represents the champion’s leap of faith. Don’t forget that the star got scared for one moment (chapter 48), when he noticed doc Dan’s presence too late. But nothing happened to him, that’s how he got incited to trust Kim Dan. The latter wouldn’t backstab him. Under the blue light, the champion got transformed. (chapter 48) Observe that Jinx-philes can see the champion’s gaze again, an indication that his “blindness” vanished which contrasts to this image: (chapter 48) On the other side, the fact that the champion is always targeted during the night is a sign that the villains desired to approach him, when he was isolated. So they know not only about his insomnia, but also about his solitude. I would even add that the plotters are aware of his association between the night and danger. Remember how he described relaxation: he would give an opportunity to his enemies to attack him (chapter 29) This new observation reinforces my past theory: he would be suffering from Somniphobia due to traumas. [For more read Twinkle, twinkle … little star] That’s how I realized the role and significance of the nights Joo Jaekyung spent with Kim Dan. One purpose of these nights was to change Joo Jaekyung’s perception of the night. That’s how the Beast could be tamed and even transform into a lovely and cute cat. In other words, he should make different experiences during his nightly activities. But there’s more to it. Thus I listed all the nights where the couple was together.

Chapter 4Chapter 9/10Chapter 12Chapter 13Chapter 19/20Chapter 29
The champion called the doctor, because it was urgent. The reality is that he wanted to have good sex due to his jinx. Yet he enjoyed the night so much that he allowed Kim Dan to sleep in his bed. Kim Dan voiced his loneliness and his longing for warmth. He wished that his grandmother wouldn’t leave him behind. For me, that’s the moment Joo Jaekyung took over Shin Okja’s role.The sex was initiated due to Kim Dan’s request. He needed money: dire situation. Interesting is that he called this night a lucky day! Here, he had restrained himself out of fear that he might endanger Kim Dan’s life. No emergency, but a secret, as he was turning his back to Kim Dan.“I want to fuck”: urgent, hence the doctor had to prepare himself. The champion witnessed for the first time Kim Dan’s ejaculation. He could procure pleasure to his partner. He compared the doctor’s anus to a baby’s mouth.The champion confessed a lot to Kim Dan, before they ended up having sex. Joo Jaekyung brought up the notion “pregnancy”, when Kim Dan expressed the wish that the athlete would use protections. No urgency, but he divulges his secrets: fears and insomnia.
Chapter 33Chapter 34Chapter 39Chapter 44Chapter 45Chapter 48
The sex here was an emergency, for Joo Jaekyung feared that he might end up losing Kim Dan. The doctor didn’t know the cause for such a behavior (secret).Contrary to the previous sex session, the champion directed his fears and anger at Choi Heesung. Another emergency! The actor’s visit was kept a secret.This wonderful night was an illusion, for the doctor was acting under the influence of the drug. Emergency! The doctor had to join his boss during the night: secret meeting.Here, the roles were switched, as now it was the champion’s turn to act under the influence of the soju. The doctor chose to have sex, as he didn’t want to miss an opportunity. But the hickeys threatened to expose the nature of their relationship: secret.The protagonists kept secrets from each other. The champion noticed the departure of his soulmate which could only make him anxious.Like mentioned above, the champion refused to listen to Kim Dan. Since the latter entered silently, he caught his room mate by surprise: secret visit which stands in opposition to episode 29.

By creating this table, I noticed the following parallels: emergency, delicacy and secrecy. What I mean with delicacy is the allusion to babyhood, vulnerability and inexperience (chapter 9, 10, 12, 13, 19, 29, 44). After the “lucky day”, the champion had to hear that he was risking his partner’s life with such a rough behavior. (chapter 13) It is important, because through this terrible experience, Joo Jaekyung came to internalize the connection between sex and danger. This would explain why he has been so rough in bed before. He came to see it as a normality, a sign that his perception of sex had been negatively influenced. And this can only come from bad experiences. It had nothing to do with “enjoying the moment”, until the protagonist met the shy hamster. We can see his gradual transformation. In episode 12, he definitely saw the night as “carpe diem” (chapter 12), until he was confronted with the consequences of his lack of empathy and interest. Due to his selfishness and prejudices, he didn’t notice the bad shape of his partner. Secondly, the fact that sex is strongly connected to urgency made me think that in the past, Joo Jaekyung must have been himself in a dire situation too. And it must have happened during a night, because all his memories with Baek Junmin are connected to darkness. (chapter 49) In the previous essay, I had mentioned the theory that the champion might have been raped and even gangraped which would fit the criteria (sex, danger and urgency). Finally, the recurrence of “delicacy” during the night is an indication that the athlete must have been like Kim Dan in the past! Vulnerable and alone!

And the moment I recognized the role of the nights in Jinx, it is to push the protagonists to open up their mind and heart, I started pondering on the symbolism of the night. The latter can signify:

Fears and dangers: The darkness and shadows of night can evoke feelings of apprehension and vulnerability, as visibility decreases and the unknown becomes more prominent. Therefore the halmoni sang the lullaby “Twinkle, twinkle little star”. (chapter 21) Furthermore, the champion exposed why he could never relax: (chapter 29) He could get assaulted the moment he rests or sleeps.

Reflection and introspection: The quietude of the night often invites contemplation and self-reflection, providing an opportunity for individuals to delve into their thoughts and emotions. This would correspond to the night in episode 29 and 48:

Transformation and rebirth: The transition from day to night can represent a period of transformation or renewal, as darkness gives way to the promise of a new day. Remember how I compared Jinx to the fairy tale Beauty and the Beast [for more read Belle 👸 and the Bear🧸 in the penthouse – part 1] and Summer Night’s Dream. [For more read 🌹A Summer Night’s Dream 🧚‍♂️]

During their evening conversations, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Beauty and the Beast have the opportunity to truly get to know each other beyond their initial impressions. These moments of quiet reflection and intimacy allow them to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, fostering a sense of understanding and empathy between them. For example, in the evening scenes, Beauty and the Beast engage in heartfelt discussions about their pasts, their hopes for the future, and the true nature of love and compassion. These conversations reveal layers of complexity in their characters and deepen their bond as they learn to see beyond outward appearances and appreciate each other for who they truly are. The evening setting adds a sense of intimacy and vulnerability to their interactions, creating a space where they can open up to each other and build trust and affection over time. As they share these moments together, the evening becomes a symbol of the transformative power of connection and empathy, marking the beginning of a profound journey of growth and love for both Beauty and the Beast.

As for “Summer Night’s Dream” by William Shakespeare, the night serves as a pivotal time for the characters, marking the beginning of transformative experiences and the resolution of conflicts. One example of this is the final scene which brings resolution to the romantic entanglements and conflicts among the characters. As dawn breaks, we witness the reunion of Hermia and Lysander, who had been separated by the interference of magic and the meddling of others. Similarly, Helena and Demetrius find themselves united in love, overcoming the misunderstandings and obstacles that once stood between them. Moreover, the fairy king and queen, Oberon and Titania, reconcile their differences, restoring balance to the natural world and the fairy realm. Their reconciliation symbolizes the restoration of order and harmony after a night of magical mischief and confusion. As the sun rises on a new day, the characters emerge from the enchanted forest transformed by their nighttime experiences. The transition from night to day signifies not only the resolution of conflicts but also the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, marked by love, reconciliation, and the promise of a brighter future.

Spiritual connection: Many cultures view the night as a time for spiritual connection or communion, whether through prayer, meditation, or rituals performed under the cover of darkness. So we could see the doctor’s kneeling in the bathroom as a spiritual connection, for he had been recollecting the diagnosis from Kim Miseon and kept thinking of his grandmother. After this painful meditation, he came to recognize his selfishness and his relative’s love and generosity (chapter 47). And what was the main lead feeling after that terrible night? Regret, for he had not been able to notice his relative’s suffering and sacrifice! (chapter 47)

Creativity and inspiration: For some, the night sparks creativity and inspiration which could be observed during the sex sessions: we have sex in front of a mirror (chapter 19) or a new request like swallowing the sperm (chapter 39) or kissing the champion’s ruined ears (chapter 44)

Surrender and release: As the day comes to a close, the night can symbolize a time to let go of worries or burdens, embracing a sense of surrender and acceptance. After his conversation on the couch, the star attempted to seek closeness and intimacy with his fated companion. But he failed unfortunately, as he was not truly honest: (chapter 30) He was rough and used the toothpaste as an excuse.

Temptation and allure: The darkness of night can also evoke feelings of temptation or allure, drawing individuals into the unknown or enticing them with forbidden desires. (Chapter 29)

Endings and beginnings: In literature and mythology, the night often marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, symbolizing transitions and turning points in characters’ lives. The Beast turned into a prince during the night, when Belle’s tears fell onto her husband. And now, if you look at all the nights mentioned above, you can see how they marked a change in the relationship between the two protagonists. I would say that between 30 and 39, the star was forced to question the place Kim Dan had in his heart. In chapter 40, he came to admit that the PT was part of his team. (Chapter 40) That’s the moment he stopped considering the hamster as a prostitute, while from chapter 2 to 18, he viewed Kim Dan as a tool, as a talisman against his jinx. However, I detected a transition after he kissed the physical therapist. From that moment on, the doctor was connected to food and sweetness. (Chapter 18) And now, observe that during the night in the bathroom, doc Dan was associated with a baby receiving food: (chapter 20) As you can see, here the champion started viewing him as a human being. It exposes that little by little, his perception of the physical therapist improved. So from chapter 30 to 39, Joo Jaekyung was forced to question the nature of his relationship with Kim Dan: a PT or a prostitute or a pet? (Chapter 34) Here, he was in denial, he described the main lead as a possession, but he couldn’t fool the actor. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why the nights in chapter 19, 29 and 39 were so magical, they announced a transition or better the end of viewing Kim Dan as an object (tool for his jinx) and possession. From 41 to 49, the champion was cornered to recognize Kim Dan as a physical therapist and not just as a member from Team Black. Don’t forget his attitude in the car, when the main lead suggested him not to train. (Chapter 42) He rejected his advice, a sign that he was doubting doc Dan’s skills and competences. That’s the reason why I come to the conclusion that with the pictures, the champion was pushed to admit that Kim Dan is his physical therapist (chapter 48) and he can not fire him like that. Thus I come to the conclusion that in the locker room, there should be an open conversation between all the members of Team Black. (Chapter 49)

3. Clues about the champion’s youth

But wait… if Joo Jaekyung has been trapped in the past, this signifies that in the present timeline, he has to be confronted with his past. That way, he can overcome his traumas and become happy. And now, you comprehend why his path led him to meet the star Choi Heesung (chapter 34), then the fake star Baek Junmin (chapter 49). These meetings are not random at all, a sign that someone knows about the athlete’s hidden suffering very well. Observe that both characters challenged the celebrity by giving him an order: (chapter 34) “Don’t get in the way” and “make sure you give her a good polish”. (chapter 49) The sportsman is viewed as a hindrance to their dreams, he should clear the way for them. I deduce that in his youth, people must have treated him the same way. He represented an obstacle, therefore these two figures must have challenged him in the past too. Their confidence comes from their past experiences with the athlete. Both must have defeated Joo Jaekyung, but naturally they must have tricked him. (chapter 33) (chapter 49) Then I noticed another parallel between the two plots: the presence of a scapegoat, and the involvement of a third person. Heesung faked his injury by putting the blame on the athlete, while he asked Kim Dan as compensation. In the second plot, the roles are switched. Kim Dan is now the perpetrator, while the athlete is the victim! Baek Junmin is the beneficiary of this scheme. And what do these plots have in common? Joo Jaekyung is the victim of a trick, though Heesung’s manipulation was rather benign. First, he acted on his own. (Chapter 31) Moreover, he utilized the genuine concern and innocence of his surroundings. In other words, he used his image as a good and honest man to his advantage. Thus I come to the conclusion that the artist’s sin in their youth was rather minor, as the artist tends to violate social norms. So though it was no illegal, the actor’s wrongdoing definitely left scars on the protagonist’s heart. (chapter 29) Probably, Heesung utilized Joo Jaekyung’s innocence to his advantage in order to maintain his good reputation, like for example he was not supposed to be smoking or he took away a friend from him, as the topic of their conversation was about the theft of a person (chapter 33) (chapter 34)!! That’s why Choi Heesung had a smile on his face, when he thought of the champion’s future reactions: sour mood. He likes provoking the celebrity (chapter 30), because it always makes him appear as a well-mannered and honest man. He gets fun at his frenemy’s expense. In addition, he could play tricks without getting caught… and the other would appear as the bad guy and take the blame, like we could observe at the gym with the manager’s judgement. (Chapter 30) Another common denominator between The Shotgun and Heesung is their envy and greed. (chapter 49) The actor tried to get the doctor as his lover. The expression “That’s rich” is not random, it indicates that The Shotgun is jealous of his social status.

Furthermore, I am assuming that his scheme is related to gambling and the arcade. (chapter 26) Why would the athlete go there and utilize the punching machine so many times? The arcade is a place for young people, especially for high school students seeking entertainment. So I assume that Joo Jaekyung went there, because he was trying to find someone, and at the same time he wanted to prove something: he was not weak at all. My avid readers will certainly recall this scene: (chapter 5) Joo Jaekyung destroyed the sandbag, when he imagined that doc Dan had blocked him! This signifies that the former could no longer contact the shy hamster. Joo Jaekyung saw it as an affront, a challenge! (Chapter 26) Thus I view this past incident as a challenge which led him to face terrible consequences. He got blacklisted. It made him look like a black sheep. As you can see, I believe that there exists a connection between Baek Junmin and the arcade. This panel (chapter 46) could be seen as a reflection from the arcade and the star’s past. And since Kim Dan wounded Joo Jaekyung in the locker room (chapter 49), I deduce that such an action must have happened in the champion’s youth. He got not only hurt by people, but also betrayed by a friend. There exists many reasons for this hypothesis.

Many Jinx-philes initially thought that Joo Jaekyung was an uneducated brute due to his lack of manners and poor vocabulary. He would constantly swear (Chapter 04) and be rude towards others. (Chapter 7) (chapter 37) But Mingwa left many clues that the celebrity’s personality shouldn’t be judged by impressions. During their first night together, Manhwa-lovers could see books next to the bed. (Chapter 3) Some of them are not written in Korean or English. Moreover, the Webtoonist revealed that one of his hobbies is reading. This explains why he can talk prettily. (chapter 22) This shows that his behavior mirrors the counterpart’s. Consequently, it is not surprising that the champion is rough with his own body, as Park Namwook is not treating him like a delicate child. (chapter 31) But there exists another proof for his intelligence. The celebrity is capable to lead an interview in English on his own. (Chapter 37) Even stressed and filled with anger, he could understand and speak fluently in English. (Chapter 40) Compare Kim Dan’s English skills in the same scene: (chapter 40) Besides, Jinx-philes should question why Mingwa is not divulging his scores as a student contrary to Kim Dan or Jinwon from BJ Alex. It is because she wants to create a certain image about the champion: he is a bad boy. In my eyes, she is playing with prejudices about MMA fighters. People often imagine, they lack social manners and education. They chose this path, for they could do nothing else. And this brings me to my next remark. We know that Kim Dan selected PT because of his halmoni. (chapter 47) So what was the protagonist’s motivation to become a MMA fighter? In my eyes, this question represents the core of the mystery. My idea is that the suffering in his youth led him to become a boxer. It is definitely related to his experienced powerlessness and loneliness. So when he suggested the sparring to Kim Dan, we should see it as a reflection from the past: (chapter 26) Joo Jaekyung was also an amateur in the past, but his motivations were his rage and resent. On the other hand, contrary to his soulmate, the athlete likes sports as well. His other hobbies are jogging and swimming. Thus I am suspecting that Joo Jaekyung might have been part of a swimming club in the past. Striking is that he forgot his passion due to his career as a MMA champion. (chapter 27) I see a contrast between these two sports: swimming which is related to relaxation, pleasure and fun and MMA fighting which stands for challenge, pain and seriousness. This contrast is even more present in the following panel: (chapter 29) The position of the zombies made me think of waves of challengers. I feel like the protagonist’s future was changed and even manipulated. Similar to the way Kim Dan ended up as the champion’s PT. First, he was treated like a prostitute, until the athlete came to value him as a real physical therapist.

Another thought came to my mind when I examine the last image closely. The champion views life as a constant battle, where he is always challenged. It was, as if his masculinity and strength were constantly questioned. If he doesn’t accept these defies, then he will submerged and end up drowning. However, thanks to Kim Dan, the champion was able to touch the ground. He is a champion, hence he never loses. (chapter 49) Is it a coincidence that this Enlightenment took place under the shower? For me, no! I see a strong link between water, swimming and the champion’s job. It looked like swimming represents a source of danger for the athlete’s job, as it is an entertainment! Hence I can’t shake the feeling that in the past, Joo Jaekyung might have shown aptitude for becoming a natation athlete! Let’s not forget that for the calendar 2024, the champion was seen carrying swimming googles and not “MMA gloves”. This detail caught my attention and made me wonder why Mingwa selected these items.

But one detail from this image (chapter 29) caught my attention. He described himself as a prey chased by a pack of hyenas. The expression “nipping at my heels” implies that the athlete is trying to flee, but he is followed by dangerous and voracious animals. Consequently, I consider this confession as a reflection from the past. Note that he doesn’t say “fighters”, but “challengers”. For me, we should include the actor under this idiom. Don’t forget that he challenged him at least twice. And what is the symbolism of “hyenas”?

In African literature and folklore, hyenas are commonly associated with cunning, trickery, and deceit. They are often depicted as opportunistic scavengers, lurking in the shadows and preying on the weaknesses of others. In many African myths and stories, hyenas are portrayed as cunning and sly creatures who use their intelligence to outsmart their prey and rivals. They are sometimes seen as symbols of chaos and disorder, disrupting the natural order of the animal kingdom.

In some African cultures, hyenas are also associated with witchcraft and dark magic. They are believed to possess supernatural powers and are often feared and revered as powerful spiritual beings. In this context, hyenas may symbolize the unknown and the mysterious forces of the spirit world.

In Asian literature and folklore, hyenas are less commonly depicted but still hold symbolic significance. In some cultures, they are associated with similar traits of cunning and deception as in African folklore. However, their symbolism may vary depending on the cultural context and beliefs of the region.

One notable modern depiction of hyenas in literature and popular culture is in Disney’s “The Lion King.” In the film, the hyenas are portrayed as villainous characters who serve as the henchmen of the main antagonist, Scar. They are depicted as greedy and power-hungry creatures who will do anything to serve their own interests, even if it means betraying their fellow animals and causing chaos in the Pride Lands. And how do we recognize hyenas? Through their laugh and as such smirk!

This explains why this animal represents communication. The latter is needed to create a plot. Is it a coincidence that Choi Gilseok has connections and is constantly talking and smirking? (chapter 49) He is a hyena, hence his color is brown. (Chapter 48) And The Shotgun has a similar attitude: (chapter 49) Interesting is that his description of the challengers fits the situation in the new plot perfectly. The Shotgun imagines that he will fight against a diminished champion. His shoulder is injured and they have planned to add a new injury. The hyena stands for balance and cleansing as their task is to remove the weak ones.

And the moment I read gratitude, I was reminded of the fake star’s fake gratitude: (chapter 49) He was thanking the star, as the latter would be delivering the medal on the silver plate. And the moment I made the connection between King of MMA and hyenas, I started laughing because of the athlete’s criticism to the director: (chapter 49) As an old man, Choi Heesung is revealing vulnerability and senility. Due to his old age, he could be replaced by another hyena, a younger hyena!

And this observation brings me back to the champion’s youth. The latter became the target of schemers due to his vulnerability, isolation and probably due to his wealth. For me, the star comes from a chaebol family. The hyenas took advantage of his “innocence, ignorance and solitude” to gain something in exchange. However, there is no ambiguity that karma retaliated. Baek Junmin’s scheme led him to become a criminal, while Choi Heesung’s popularity never reached the same peak than Joo Jaekyung. And because of my association with the hyenas, I come to the following conclusion that the main character was bullied and even physically assaulted. But no one took his side, until he caught the attention from someone: (chapter 26) That’s how he ended up entering MMA. This person knew about his struggles and fears from the past and took advantage from this. Hence I am suspecting Seo Gichan (chapter 5), as he is the only person who has not appeared yet, though the champion has his cellphone number. And this remark brings me back to the present and the night messages and the hyenas.

The latter are working as a team in order to corner the target. In other words, their task is to ensure the prey’s isolation. But what is the point of such a MO? It is to exhaust the prey. The latter is forced to run constantly, until he is too weak to keep fleeing. That’s why the champion described it as an endless running. (chapter 29) And that’s how they are operating with the messages: isolation. We could see it through the article and its impact. The protagonist was in a sour mood (chapter 36) which could only affect the members from Team Black. Their loyalty could waver. Then he got to hear bad comments from the Internet (chapter 36), creating the illusion that he was losing popularity. That’s how the lawyer could convince the champion to accept a new match in such a short-time. Finally he got reprimanded for his outburst. (chapter 36) Under this new perception, Manhwaphiles can grasp why the MFC manager offered him a new defy right away. They needed to exploit his injury! (chapter 41) With the pictures (chapter 48) and the switched spray, they are now attempting to portray the doctor as a member of the pack. He is a hyena himself, a backstabber. Joo Jaekyung shouldn’t trust his soulmate, he is a hypocrite. But what these villains don’t know is that the champion committed wrongdoings against Kim Dan in the past, like for example the sex session with the dildo. (chapter 13) This could have ended badly. Another wrongdoing could be the rejection of his birthday present and his harsh reaction. (chapter 47) At no moment, the physical therapist brought up his misdeeds and asked for an apology. His silence became the symbol for his tolerance and even forgiveness. In addition, the doctor and his halmoni embody both vulnerability and poor health, which is strangely connected to crime and scandal. (chapter 13) (chapter 48) Through them, the champion is learning that hunting weak and pitiful creatures is not only a sin, but also a crime! In the first case, he could be accused of hurting an innocent.

Since the beginning of this Manhwa, I have been presenting theories about the champion’s youth, like for example he could have suffered from Traumatic Brain Injury (for more read the essay Joo Jaekyung, the strongest man in the world) which would explain why he has problems with memories. Then in Shocking discoveries!!” I had pointed out Somatosensory affectionate deprivation, SAD as an explanation for the champion’s attitude. He was deprived of motherly affection. This made me think that he had no female role model in his youth. Then I had described him as a silenced and invisible child due to neglect. This interpretation got validated in chapter 45. How so? It is because he only received the presents from the fans and a text from Park Nawmook accompanied with a short video! (chapter 45) At no moment, the author let us see the celebrity receiving a gift or a message from a family member! It was, as if he was an orphan and had no family. Their absence and silence are the evidences of neglect. But one might argue that his parents could be dead, something I had already envisaged in the past. However, if so, as a teenager and young man, he needed to have a guardian by his side, exactly like the doctor with his halmoni. And Park Namwook is not acting as his guardian, for he doesn’t visit him in the penthouse or calls him there. So where was the guardian in episode 45? Invisible, silent and passive! Like mentioned above, I am suspecting the mysterious Seo Gichan. Thus I consider the champion’s criticism as the expression of deep scars which came to the surface: (chapter 45) He wanted Kim Dan to look at him and take care of him. In other words, he wished to be seen and not neglected! He has not realized it yet, but he is longing for a companion, a playmate. He desires to have someone by his side who would talk to him and listen to him. From my point of view, the champion must have received on his birthdays many presents, but he was all alone. He had no one by his side. The gifts couldn’t replace the warmth from a loving parent. The moment I made this connection, it dawned on me what the nightly desertions could have meant for the star. (chapter 45) He could have been reminded of the behavior from his family (father, mother or guardian) who would abandon him during the night for work or would return home very late due to work. In other words, the doctor’s departure triggered his abandonment issues too. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why Joo Jaekyung rejected the golden medal and why he became workaholic. There was no family celebration like here: (chapter 11) He wished to receive attention and to have a normal conversation. Consequently, I assume that the champion has been copying his role model. That’s how he was pushed to grow up too quickly. For me, he had no childhood at all, hence when he met Kim Dan, he was encouraged to develop his inner child!

We could observe the awakening of the champion’s inner child, when he suggested a sparring to Kim Dan. (chapter 26) For the first time, he had fun sparring. Hence he kept smiling. It is no coincidence that soon after he chose to accept to take a day-off, when Kim Dan made the suggestion. (chapter 27) That’s how he remembered that he liked swimming and he could play a prank on his lover. (chapter 27) Here, he could smile, because it was fun and there was no real expectation. It was not truly connected to money.

There are many reasons to why our inner child gets wounded. Most of us have experienced various forms of trauma. However, trauma does not necessarily have to be as extreme as growing up in a war or being physically and mentally abused. There are many forms of trauma:

Having unavailable parents who withheld their affection from you and didn’t emotionally encourage or support you.

Being the recipient of inappropriate sexual behaviour, including getting subjected to pornography.

Growing up in a home where your parents kept fighting, arguing and eventually ended up divorcing.

Being given inappropriate or burdensome responsibilities such as looking after the family and doing most of the chores.

Being abandoned by one or both parents.

Being rejected by your peers.

Not having a safe home to sleep in, or a clean hygienic environment.

Growing up with parents who would abuse various substances, such as drugs or alcohol, to numb their emotions.

Parents or family members who were overprotective and interfered with everything you wanted to do, which denied you of your confidence.

Judgement of your personality, interests, passions or sexual orientation.

Parents or family members who were excessively demanding and had high expectations or who projected their feelings in unhealthy ways (i.e. anger, verbal attacks and emotional blackmail).

Parents or family members who humiliated you, or did not address any issues you experienced at school (such as bullying).

Growing up with a parent who had low self-esteem and body image issues.

Emotionally unavailable parent/parents who did not know how to hold space for your feelings. Quoted from https://mentalawakening.com.au/the-inner-child-and-its-connection-to-tms/

As you can see, this long list contains a lot of elements which I observed with Joo Jaekyung. Everything is pointing out that the young man suffered in his youth, and feared rejection and condemnation for showing vulnerability and tears. And if his family or guardian was too busy, there is no ambiguity that when the athlete faced a huge problem (bullying, rape etc.), he wouldn’t have confided to his relatives.

Moreover, I had already underlined the great importance of the cellphone in the champion’s life, the fake illustration for “sharing is caring”. Maybe it is because his family or guardian were too busy to take care of him, that they used the cellphone to keep in touch with him. That’s how he internalized this terrible habit: connect with people through the cellphone. I noted that when the doctor was next to him during the night, the champion would never bring his cellphone! This exposes that the item is embodying a “person”. And now, you comprehend why the champion fell for this trick here (chapter 35) and not in episode 48. It is because Kim Dan had paid him a visit during that night, a sign that he was thinking of him as his patient and VIP client. (Chapter 48) On the other hand, I am inclined to think that when a terrible incident in his youth occurred, he couldn’t contact his family or guardian. Hence he keeps his cellphone by his side constantly. Yes, I was thinking of the doctor’s assault in the street and his failed rape: (Chapter 16) Heo Namwook’s minions had confiscated his cellphone. Hence it was impossible for him to call for help. And now take a closer look at this scene: (Chapter 16) Though he had been on the phone and it was daylight, no one stopped the thugs from kidnapping the main lead or reported the incident to the police. Hence I am also suspecting that Joo Jaekyung must have faced a similar situation: he was surrounded by malicious people and no one had assisted him. So he could have been targeting at school due to his grads or his social status. And his isolation at home could push to seek company outside, to look for friends at school.

What caught my attention is that before each scheme, his hyungs were both seen talking over the phone. (chapter 37) (chapter 49) And the anonymous person on the other side of the phone was definitely calling in order to be updated about Joo Jaekyung, for his coach asked him about his physical conditions. (chapter 49) That could be the hidden guardian who has not showed up yet, I am thinking of Seo Gichan. And now it is time to close this long essay.

Since the champion, as a new version of Simba, was chased away by hyenas, I am inclined to think that his bad luck is not the result of a curse, rather the cause of a bad surrounding. He was not raised properly, for the adults failed to protect him correctly. Despite his super living conditions, he was confronted to the cruel brutality of the civilization where he was exposed to violence, schemes, gambling, drugs, prostitution and abuse. He discovered the existence of hyenas among Korean society behind their fake smiles and “gentle gestures”. The problem is that no one has ever detected their presence. That’s how he lost faith in humanity and developed Philophobia. (For more read (Un)Wanted love) But thanks to his soulmate, he is learning to see the positive aspects of life. What appeared as a weakness can become a source of strength. Compassion and love can put an end to the loneliness and misery. And in order to be happy:

Feel free to comment. If you have any suggestion for topics or manhwas, feel free to ask. If you enjoyed reading it, retweet it or push the button like. My Reddit-Instagram-Twitter-Tumblr account is: @bebebisous33. Thanks for reading and for the support, particularly, I would like to thank all the new followers and people recommending my blog.

Jinx: Facing The Shotgun🔫: Embracing Change ☸️

In chapter 49, Jinx-philes could finally face Baek Junmin and perceive his personality correctly. Mingwa left many clues in this episode, like for example his nickname “The Shotgun”. (chapter 49) Under this new light, my inquisitive readers can understand the title of this composition. My focus will be the infamous sportsman and his interactions with the main lead, in the past and present. Consequently, the composition will contain theories about the champion’s past. Nevertheless, since I am examining the present, it signifies that I will explain Baek Junmin’s role in the new scheme too. So who is Baek Junmin in the end? In the essay “Angel(s) of Death: Shadow versus Serenity, I had already painted him as an antagonist and as a villain. I called him a fake Angel of Death. This interpretation got reinforced with his nickname “The Shotgun”.

1. The different reflections of Shotgun

1. 1. The Shotgun’s colors and task

The moment Manhwaworms read his name, I am quite certain that they were all thinking of a firearm. It implies not only the dangerousness of Baek Junmin, but also his resilience to pain. He is as hard and cold as metal. Furthermore, the gun is associated with the shade black, which is often linked to negativity and death (chapter 49) Yet I couldn’t help myself seeing in the following image glimpses of purple (around the eyes). (chapter 49) Interesting is that this color is also associated with death.

I have to admit that this shade even made me think of decomposed bodies or old bruises. It shows the coldness from The Angel of Death or we could say his rotten soul. However, exactly like his boss, Choi Gilseok, he is hiding his true colors. Thus I see grey as his “official” pigment. (chapter 49) It exposes his duplicity. Because of his sobriquet and his color, I assume that the schemers consider the boxer as a weapon. His role is to kill the Emperor, and probably in one blow. He is the executioner of the invincible legend. It should be a quick, merciless “death”. From that fight, Baek Junmin has to ensure that Joo Jaekyung can never come back to the ring. How is it possible? (chapter 49) It is because they know about his injured shoulder. That’s the reason why Baek Junmin is patting him on his left shoulder. Remember what the sports doctor told to the physical therapist: (chapter 42) He was on the verge of getting surgery. Besides, it is important what the manager suggested to his “boy”: (chapter 47) He should make the fight last in order to tire his opponent out. So the plotters thought that during the fight, Joo Jaekyung would ask for a relief spray on his injured shoulder. That would be the end for him. Kim Dan would even deliver him the victory on a silver plate. He would be framed as an anti-fan. The irony is that Kim Dan could heal his VIP client within a short time. Here, the champion looks relaxed and not concerned with his shoulder. (chapter 49) Here, he is almost smiling. He was telling the truth, when he said that he was fine contrary to the States. (chapter 40) I would like the difference between the two statements. He is now utilizing the personal pronoun “I” and not “it’s”. It indicates that the champion’s condition is good. But now let’s return our attention to The Shotgun”

1. 2. The secret meanings of The Shotgun

On the other hand, the idiom “shotgun” has more than the signification “firearm”. First, I am sure that anyone has ever heard the expression “ride shotgun”.

This corresponds to Kim Dan’s position in the car. (chapter 49) He has now taken over the manager’s place. This reflects the doctor’s rising within Team Black. At the same time, this expression lets us perceive the role of Baek Junmin at King Of MMA gym. He is the protector of Choi Gilseok, the “old man”. On the other hand, his position also insinuates his passivity, as he is not the driver, like here. (chapter 42) In my eyes, it reflects his laziness. He lets other people do the dirty tricks, like we could observe it with the incident in the locker room. (chapter 49) The director had to suffer a great humiliation for this trick, while a helping hand had to switch the spray. For me, the expression “The Shotgun” displays the inaction from Baek Junmin. He was catapulted to the top thanks to the assistance of others: Mr Choi thanks to his money and connections with the media and with the CEO of MFC. Then the members from his gym had to gathered intel about his opponents. This was truly palpable in the description from the moderator. (chapter 49) In fact, the idiom “flying up the ranks” and “rising star” made me think of a shooting star. However, this star is just artificial, for the athlete didn’t have to prove really his strength. Beholders can even detect that the Shotgun’s muscles are less developed. Moreover, a shooting star implies that his success will be short-lived and momentary. He is destined to vanish, especially because people helped him. And this association reinforces my interpretation that Joo Jaekyung is a dragon and Kim Dan his yeouiju! As Jinx-addicts can perceive, the expression ” The Shotgun” shows his lack of humanity and cowardice. At the same time, it indicates that he is not the mastermind behind the plot, as he is just a tool. He is not a lucky charm, but bad omen. So when he whispered this to Joo Jaekyung, (chapter 49), in reality he was exposing his own personality, as he was projecting his own thoughts onto the star. Others have to do the dirty work for him (f. ex. polishing the belt, gathering intel) to prepare the battlefield for him. This contrasts so much to the champion and doctor’s attitude, for both embody hard work. Baek Junmin is imagining that the title will fall onto his lap thanks to the tricks and their insight. And now, take a closer look at the negative features of purple.

This quote fits my description about Baek Junmin. He is corrupt, hence he feels no remorse to scheme. Then he believes that the victory is already in his pocket, as everything has been carefully planned. The way he reached the top exposes him as a social climber. And now, I can even validate my previous interpretation: his golden watch and jewels were fake! (chapter 47) Where did I find the evidence for this? It is because Seok (from Gilseok) can signify “brass”! As you can see, thanks to two different notions “shotgun”, I could give a better portrait of the fake star. But this is far from being finished. Funny is that “Shotgun ” can also refer to a position in American football.

Interesting is that we had a similar formation in the locker room. Choi Gilseok and the other minion diverted the attention from Team Black, while the “Quarterback” could pass the frontline to bring the weapon to the other side. (chapter 49) It was, as if the team of King of MMA had scored a goal by bringing the pepper spray to the other side and switching it with the relief spray. (chapter 49) And what is the common denominator between the meaning “firearm” and “American football position”? Attack! But there’s more to it. As adjective, “shotgun” is indicating coercion and duress. And this corresponds to Choi Gilseok and Baek Junmin’s tactics. The director tried to put the physical therapist under pressure, when he met him in the café: (chapter 48) For that, he utilized the grandmother. I feel the need to add here that this scene confirmed my previous interpretation about Baek Junmin and Shin Okja. [For more read Angels of Death: Shadows versus Serenity] The latter was his enemy, and because of her request (Kim Dan should accept her death and stop the treatment), Kim Dan didn’t fall into the trap of the malicious director. Then, the dirty director of the gym reiterated his action in the hallway. (chapter 49) By meeting Kim Dan there, (chapter 49) he tried to sow seeds of doubt and even discord between the couple. It was to give the impression, they were working together. But the champion didn’t fall for it. The reason is that his fated partner was able to heal his injured shoulder. As a hypocrite and arrogant fighter, he utilized his small talk to threaten Joo Jaekyung. (chapter 49) As you can see, these “villains” were targeting both main characters mirroring another signification.

We could include the encounter between the two teams in the locker room as another illustration, for Oh Daehyun, Potato or Park Namwook were forced to become involved. (chapter 49) Interesting is that “shotgun” can also refer to a flat.

This made me think of the doctor’s humble home immediately. (chapter 10) (chapter 10) And what was the couple’s reaction during that night? While Kim Dan wept, as he was longing for his grandma (chapter 10), exposing his abandonment issues, the other looked down first on the physical therapist (chapter 10) before he had a change of heart. Kim Dan’s plea had moved his heart. (chapter 10) The problem is that the doctor couldn’t remember this scene due to his drunkenness. This scene leads us to another meaning of Shotgun.

This definition is not included in the Collins dictionary yet, as it is still under observation. Interesting is that ” shotgun” is not just connected to alcohol, but also to other drugs.

Interesting is that smoking was introduced with Choi Heesung who went to rooftop in order to smoke. It was, as if he desired to keep his image clean. (chapter 31) And this leads me to the following theory that Baek Junmin’s sin towards Joo Jaekyung was linked to drugs. Don’t forget that Mr. Choi is himself symbolizing “drug” due this image: (chapter 48) And both are working together. My hypothesis is that Baek Junmin was involved in drugging the athlete. The sportsman admitted that The Shotgun had schemed against him. (chapter 49) This would explain why Joo Jaekyung would never join the team’s dinner and why he reacted that way, when he drank a glass of soju: (chapter 43) He could recognize the alcohol, a sign that he must have tasted it before. His threat and anger were masking his fears. For me, he had a terrible experience with alcohol. And this brings me to the last signification of “Shotgun”: SEX! This was already brought up with the quote above, but I am quite sure that people have already heard the expression “Shotgun wedding”. Then I also found this description “Shotgun Sex”:

And this corresponds to the champion’s action in the penthouse (chapter 6), when Kim Dan had accepted the deal from the main lead. The erected phallus looks like a weapon and Kim Dan also made the connection, when he saw his huge anaconda with the sex toy: (Chapter 12) The idiom “shotgun sex” suggests a situation where sexual intercourse occurs hastily and impulsively. It has nothing to do with love and warmth. It is something done quickly or without much forethought, which corresponds to the scene in chapter 6. (chapter 6) And what do we see here? Submission!

1. 3. The Shotgun’s possible past with the Emperor

That’s how I came to the following conclusion: Baek Junmin is involved in the champion’s sexual assault in the past. And it has something to do with drugs. I am even suspecting gambling debts, and someone used the athlete’s generosity. Imagine that by combining these elements, I came to reinforce my follower @noteadrinker’s hypothesis. The latter even thought of a gangrape, and associated it with the loan shark’s scene. (chapter 17) Don’t forget that during that night, the soju was present as well. (chapter 17) Because of his nickname and the reflections from episode 10 and 17, I deduce that Baek Junmin was present, but he didn’t help the athlete. He turned a blind eye to the situation. (chapter 49) In other words, he didn’t behave like a hero contrary to Joo Jaekyung. I can’t help myself thinking of this scene: (chapter 11) Though Joo Jaekyung despised the doctor and called him pathetic, he still accepted his request. But let’s return our attention to The Shotgun. Moreover, the fact that he employed the expression “kid” insinuates that Baek Junmin is older than the athlete. So he could have the same age than Kim Dan. I feel like the physical therapist is slowly taking over Baek Junmin’s place. He is on the verge to shine like a star. With the theory of a gangrape or rape (phallus as a weapon), we would have the explanation why the criminal insulted the athlete with “A little bitch ass punk”. He was describing him as a poser and “douchebag”, whereas in verity, he is the coward. Hence he resorts to tricks to achieve his goal. And now, you comprehend why the champion felt the need to clean his hair after meeting the fake star. (chapter 49) He usually takes a shower in the morning, however this scene took place in the evening. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible as well why Joo Jaekyung couldn’t remember the criminal (chapter 49). It is related to a painful but short experience which scarred the athlete’s heart and soul.

No wonder why he was paralyzed after their short meeting. (chapter 49) It is because the latter had repressed his traumatic past. The other reason he didn’t remember him is that the latter had betrayed him. He was not worthy of being remembered and being noticed. Would you remember a poser and coward? No, not really. In my opinion, Baek Junmin stands for immaturity, betrayal, irresponsibility and false manhood.

Finally, we would have an explanation why the champion couldn’t identify the crime in the doctor’s house properly (chapter 18) and why both have no notion of “rape”. Joo Jaekyung must have been told that he was “responsible” for his misery, just like in this scene: “You did this”. (chapter 6) He brought him upon himself. He shouldn’t have drunk or taken drugs, he shouldn’t have been weak, he shouldn’t have been there that night… I see his statement there as an evidence for manipulations (chapter 18) If they are criminals, then the authorities should be informed, because the latter need to stop them, to make things worse for them. It was, as if he was advocating loansharking, though it is illegal. One might argue about this theory, for I deduced it simply from the name The Shotgun and its different reflections. However, Mingwa left us two other clues for this hypothesis.

2. The Jinx: the hidden line

The first one is the absence of sex. Many readers were caught by surprise. They wondered why Mingwa didn’t create any sex scene and how the couple treated each other during the sex session before the match. The answer is simple. The jinx of Joo Jaekyung had changed. It didn’t truly matter, if he had good sex or not with his physical therapist. 😮 And the evidence is this image: (chapter 49) He never loses! He sounded so confident and sure. His words contrast to his confession in his bedroom: (chapter 02) Never contradicts the idiom “I need”. He feels no need to have good sex in order to boost his ego. But how did this happen?

The reason is simple. By triggering the champion’s memories, Baek Junmin didn’t realize that he committed a huge mistake. He pushed Joo Jaekyung to meditate. The latter was silent in the car and looked through the window. (chapter 49) Secondly, once home, he went to the bathroom and the latter is the place for insight and reflection, like I explained it in the essay The duck and the dragon in the bathroom. One might argue that reflection in the bathroom is strongly intertwined with the mirror, like in this scene: (chapter 20) But contrary to the physical therapist, the champion had never denied the existence of his body. He didn’t need to look at his reflection to see any change. The pondering was triggered by The Shotgun’s words. Baek Junmin saw the protagonist in a different light: weak and pitiful. (chapter 49) In English, the MMA boxer portrayed Joo Jaekyung as a crybaby, while in the Spanish version (“Dabas much pena, miserable de mierda”) the translator referred with pena to shame, pity, sorrow and hurt. Through his words, the champion was forced to recall his past and how he was younger. He had to visualize himself, when he was a teenager. That’s the reason why in the bathroom, the champion was pondering under the shower, lost in his thoughts (chapter 49) and not looking at his own reflection. Here we were witnessing the birth of the champion’s third eye. In addition, this scene corresponds to the one in episode 3: (chapter 3) As you can see, the moment you connect these two scenes, it becomes clear that there was no sex. In episode 3, the doctor was fetched and had to have sex, while in episode 49, the PT waited for a signal from his boss, but it never came. Furthermore, the bathroom is the only place where the athlete doesn’t bring his cellphone! And the latter represents a huge hindrance to his meditation, like Jin-philes could observe it in chapter 35: (chapter 35) But there is more to it. The departure from the restroom corresponds to the doctor’s realization at the hospital.

Chapter 47Chapter 49
In the bathroom, the doctor spent the whole night crying, recalling the conversation from the oncologist. We have the same colors in his memories than in the altercation between the two fighters. Gradually, Kim Dan came to accept the truth: his grandmother couldn’t keep her promise, as she would never recover from her illness. He went on his knees, too devastated by the terrible news. However, he didn’t question the doctor’s action and behavior. Nonetheless, he was able to move on. He was forced to mature and become more independent. Here, the fighter must have spent a lot of time under the shower too. Nonetheless, he didn’t get devastated like his soulmate, for the simple reason that Baek Junmin had mocked him and even challenged him. This had triggered his anger.

The restroom symbolizes more than reflection, it stands for privacy, purification, transformation, transition, vulnerability and intimacy. There, he could cry internally (chapter 49) without getting disturbed. But don’t misunderstand me. I am not saying that the athlete was weeping. What I meant is that he was admitting the existence of his pain and suffering. This represents an important step to treat his own body with kindness. (chapter 43) He used his hand to protect his gaze, a sign of vulnerability. His shower in episode 49 is full of symbolism. He is cleansing himself, moving on from the past. Hence I deduce that this scene (chapter 49) corresponds to the doctor’s baptism in the swimming pool. (chapter 28) Because of this special day and night, Kim Dan came to accept sex and sensuality in his life. (chapter 29) (chapter 36) As you can see, all the scenes reflecting the bathroom scene in episode 49 contain SEX. Hence I see it as another evidence that the sex during that night had a different meaning: it was more a habit than a real need. And don’t forget that in the States, he had already complained about the timing. (chapter 39) He didn’t feel like “fucking” and it must have been the same during that night before the match. And if he had been sexually assaulted, anyone would comprehend why he didn’t feel any desire. Under this new light, Manhwaworms can understand why the title is “Embracing change”. The star is gradually dropping his old belief. He is one step closer to realize that he is not jinxed, he is strong enough to win the next fight. My avid readers should keep in their mind that when the couple argued on his birthday (chapter 45), he never brought up the jinx, a sign that he was already forgetting his old principles. This match represents a turning point in the athlete’s life, for from that moment on, he will perceive fighting differently. He is no longer pushed to take any challenge, for deep down, he felt that he was still weak and vulnerable. He was still trapped in the past.

On the other hand, Kim Dan must have been waiting for a signal from him. However, nothing happened. Hence the next morning, the physical therapist chose to take precautions! That’s why he brought the cream. (chapter 49) which was used for the sex session at the gym. (chapter 24) Moreover, he even took an ointment in case his anus would tear, for they didn’t have sex for a long time. (chapter 49) While searching for a treatment for skin irritation due to pepper spray, I discovered lidocaine topical.

Hence I am suspecting that the doctor took topicals in case. Imagine that they didn’t have sex for quite some time. So what pushed the champion to overcome the shock and his suffering? It is because Baek Junmin’s words helped him to canalize his anger and rage at the right person, the one responsible for his wounds! (chapter 49) But Baek Junmin was not alone in this. Due to his traumatic past, Joo Jaekyung came to resent and mistrust humans, for he never got the chance to get justice from his tormentors. That’s the reason why he rejected social norms. As time passed on, he repressed the incident and buried the identity of the persons responsible for his wounds, whereas his pain couldn’t vanish. Hence he was still boiling inside and his anger was directed at anyone. It would come to the surface at the slightest provocation or rejection. That’s why he was still trapped in the past. He had the impression, he could get assaulted at any time. Therefore he needed to prove his strength. And this brings me back to the whispered confession: (chapter 49) Baek Junmin forced the star to recall the past and face his deepest anxieties. I see another evidence in this panel that The Shotgun must have faced a crime. How so? It is because pity has for synonyms “catastrophe, crime and sin”. But it doesn’t end here. The Shotgun’s description made me think of this scene: (chapter 37) When the athlete saw the doctor’s reaction, the latter was looking away, (chapter 37) the VIP client got so angry that he sent Kim Dan away. And now, take a closer look to this image. (chapter 49) The characters are placed in the same position. The comparison between these two scenes reinforces my hypothesis that Baek Junmin mocked Joo Jaekyung, resented him and refused to help the younger fighter back then, as Kim Dan was looking away. On the other hand, by using the expression “baby” in English, Jinx-philes could sense parallels with the fight with Randy Booker. (chapter 14) Interesting is that this image represented a distorted memory from the main lead, and it happened again after meeting his old “acquaintance”. (chapter 49) This is the sign that Joo Jaekyung repressed a terrible incident, and the expressions “baby” and “pitiful” triggered his fears and repressed memories. And by confronting him with his past, The Shotgun shot himself in the foot! 😉 The reason is that Joo Jaekyung is now drawing a line under the past, which was reflected in the red poster.

(Chapter 47) The names are in the middle indicating that they won’t be able to switch places. The line represents the boundary which the fighters can not cross. In addition, the color was already implying anger, but also energy and action.. In my previous analysis about the poster Color Clash: Decoding MMA Posters, I elaborated that the red in the eyes was the doctor’s reflection. He is facing them, but he is caught in the middle. So while Baek Junmin saw in him a tool to wound the athlete, the protagonist is not seeing Kim Dan, but The Shotgun, for Kim Dan is the mirror beyond the clouds. He exposes the monsters. This means that in the long term, they will be able to expose the schemers and cheaters. Furthermore I have another reason to believe that his past relationship with the Shotgun will affect his with Kim Dan. It is because Joo Jaekyung remembers The Shotgun’s nature, he is a cheater and traitor. (chapter 49) Anyone can see the doctor’s shock and fear. (chapter 49) On the other side, this match has another signification for The Shotgun. How so? It is because he needs to win. He claimed that he would take away his belt. He believes that since Choi Gilseok paid a lot of money, he bet on his victory. Besides, the director of the gym even got humiliated himself. However, he is deluding himself, for he was just a tool to ruin the Emperor. A shotgun is an firearm and as such it is dispensable. Furthermore, this panel displays Junmin’s jealousy towards the celebrity. (chapter 49) Joo Jaekyung has been in the spotlight for a long time (chapter 49), whereas The Shotgun was relegated to fight in the shadow! He was fighting in the underground fighting ring, but since it was illegal, he couldn’t become famous and rich. He couldn’t be exposed to the spotlight. This shows that deep down, Baek Junmin was also trapped in the past. He came to resent the protagonist, for the latter had been able to rise the ranks. That’s why he couldn’t forget him contrary to the celebrity. The latter was not only successful professionally, but also admired as a hero. It looked like he had been able to move on from the past, whereas for The Shotgun, it was the exact opposite. He became more and more involved in crimes. Don’t forget that he is helping the director from the King of MMA gym to launder money. Thus I deduce that Baek Junmin is underestimating his opponent. (chapter 49) First, he has this image of the young main lead from the past. In his eyes, he is still a little crybaby. Secondly, don’t forget that all the games from The Shotgun were rigged, so in his mind, the star must have been doing the same. He views himself as a Shotgun, in verity he is just a pepper spray, a big mouth which can lead to irritations and tears, but the wound is rather superficial. It can not cause real damages. On the other hand, the pepper spray is harmless, as long as the other can not talk. Consequently, I am expecting The Shotgun’s defeat. He won’t get scot free from this match. One reason for this positive outcome is that Joo Jaekyung has been able to free himself from that darkness. He is slowly able to see the light. Furthermore, since my hypothesis is that Kim Dan utilized a pepper spray in the locker room, I couldn’t help myself of viewing this as a talisman. Surprised, right? First, there was no witness of the incident except the members from Team Black. Hence the doctor can avoid troubles with the authorities. But there exists another reason.

As you can see, this weapon is derived from red peppers. Interesting is that in Italy, red chilly is considered as a luck charm.

Hence I believe that this terrible incident will remain a secret within Potato, Joo Jaekyung, Park Namwook, Jeong Yosep. As for Joo Jaekyung, the afflicted pain in the ankle can only increase the rage and resent towards the scheming, but blinded Baek Junmin. This can only reinforce Joo Jaekyung’s determination to defeat The Shotgun. The latter should realize very quickly that he is not a firearm, but a human too. He is not made of metal, but of flesh and blood. So he could cry tears of blood or even get injured. The athlete won’t show any mercy. The Shotgun is not capable to adapt himself to new circumstances. He is no all-rounder, for he adapts his tactics based on the intel. With no insight, it was, as if he had become a blind man. He lacks strategies and experiences, for he is a new comer and a cheater. This explicates why the fight ended up in a tie, (chapter 51) they had never planned to turn the new comer into a champion, people would have questioned the outcome. The real intention was to tarnish the champion’s reputation, to isolate him, to make him lose his stans. And they almost achieved it. Baek Junmin never realized his true position. He was just a middle-man, a hit-man that they would discard right after his “victory”. Hence he is no longer in the media, because his name is now linked with the incident with the switched spray.

Feel free to comment. If you have any suggestion for topics or manhwas, feel free to ask. If you enjoyed reading it, retweet it or push the button like. My Reddit-Instagram-Twitter-Tumblr account is: @bebebisous33. Thanks for reading and for the support, particularly, I would like to thank all the new followers and people recommending my blog.

Jinx: Plotting Shadows: Enigma❓ of a Mysterious Collage🧩

1. The first piece of the puzzling plot

If you read my essays “Agent Blue – part 1 (Second version) and Agent Blue – part 2“, you already know about my theory that Heo Manwook was involved in the drug incident. And this hypothesis got proven correct: (chapter 46) I had even truly perceived his motivations: (chapter 46) He desired to get revenge on the celebrity. But from my point of view, there exist other reasons for his trick. He was seeking validation for his statement: (chapter 17) Such fights are fake. The irony was that his perception got discredited once again. And now, we know why he thought like this. He is involved with the underground sports gamblers. (Chapter 46) His computer screen is indicating that Heo Manwook is gambling himself. (Chapter 46)

However, the loan shark was just the peak of the iceberg, for he is working for someone else: Mr Choi! (chapter 46)

Before examining this new character more closely, I prefer determining their relationship, as my focus is first on the moneylender. The way Heo Manwook saved the contact under Mr Choi indicates a certain respect and distance. He doesn’t call him by his first name. Additionally, though the moneylender calls Mr Choi “Boss” (chapter 46), their work relations are not official. Yes, they are bound to each other by an oral contract and as such by loyalty. And how do I know this? Mingwa left two important clues: Mr Choi is using his wireless telephone, though there is a normal telephone on his desk. (chapter 46) This shows that this call is private and even secret. No one should know about his connection to the thug. From my point of view, Mr. Choi doesn’t want to interact with Heo Manwook too often, as this could expose the true origins of his wealth and fame. He is not a real self-made man, rather a criminal who could climb the social ladders thanks to his cunningness and connections.

Secondly, Jinx-philes should recall how Kim Dan had wired the 14.000 $ to Heo Manwook’s personal account. (chapter 16) And this raises the following question again. (chapter 17) To which account did the champion send the money? Heo Manwook’s or a different one? If this is the second case, this signifies that Heo Manwook has been embezzling money from Mr. Choi through the poor physical therapist. The latter was sending the money to his personal account. (chapter 16) This would explain why Heo Manwook would harass the main lead, though he had paid the interests on time. (chapter 1) Under this new light, it dawned on me why the moneylender interrogated Kim Dan later. (chapter 11) It is because the doctor had paid a huge amount making it impossible for the loan shark to filch it. And now take a closer look at the infuriated thug: he employed the expression “laundering money”! He was projecting his own fears onto Kim Dan. For me, this scene exposes the true nature between Mr. Choi and Heo Manwook. He is laundering money for Mr. Choi. This explicates why their work relations is not official, as they are engaged in illegal activities. Thus their labor relations can not be known to others. On the other hand, if the champion paid the loan to the same account (chapter 16), then Joo Jaekyung has a way to track down the moneylender. 😮 Moreover, remember how I had underlined the importance of business account and personal account. If the loan shark were to get sued, he would be held responsible personally for any damage. He could go himself into debts.😉 And Mr. Choi could act, as if he has nothing to do with him. Since I detected the presence of “respect and distance” with the contact registration, it seems doubtful that the criminal would steal from his “boss”. Yet, we shouldn’t overlook the fact that the moneylender used his “boss” to achieve his own goal: getting revenge on the champion. (chapter 46) He had to convince him to bet on Joo Jaekyung’s defeat. The thug could use the interference of the champion on his side business, as this secret “laundering money” could come to the surface. His actions prove us that his “respect” towards his boss is just superficial. He is prioritizing his own interests. Hence he could have definitely taken advantage of his own position to earn more money through side “hustles”. (chapter 45) Yes, the negative reflection from the physical therapist’s. So should the broker indeed have embezzled money, that would be the end between him and Mr Choi. He would be abandoned. However, since my assumption is that the moneylender is laundering money for Mr. Choi, it signifies that the latter is dependent on him as well. However, he could choose to replace him. We could detect through the years that the thugs were switched. (Chapter 5) (chapter 1) Thus I come to the following conclusion: We are assisting to the gradual disintegration of their secret relationship. I am already envisaging that Heo Manwook could end up not only losing Mr. Choi’s favor, but also getting switched by this man. (Chapter 37) And the starting point of their estrangement is the suggestion made by Heo Manwook which led to the loss of the bet. Mr. Choi trusted his „underground assistant“, hence he wagers a huge amount of money. (Chapter 46) The sum reflects the faith he had in Heo Manwook. Yet, the conversation displays the increasing mistrust between them. Note that the usurer is not taking responsibility for the failure of his scheme: „on their end“. (Chapter 46) It was because of the others. Moreover, observe that the moneylender was looking at his screen, a sign that he is slowly getting addicted to underground sports gambling. (Chapter 46) There’s no doubt that the moneylender will act on his own. (chapter 46) He won’t listen to his boss’ request. Why? First, the thug never got his revenge, but it was his main motivation for his last trick. We could say that it is a matter of pride and money  (chapter 46). Secondly, since Mr. Choi is now taking the matter into his own hands, this signifies that the criminal won’t be involved in the next scheme, so he won‘t gain anything. (chapter 46) Consequently, it implies that Mr. Choi won’t inform him… Yet, keep in mind that Heo Manwook is looking at illegal sport bets, and the champion’s next fight is scheduled in two weeks, which the moneylender must definitely know. Therefore I am envisaging a new bet on the athlete from his part. And this brings me to my second piece of the “collage”.

2. The drug incident and its consequences

For that, it is time to return our attention to the last scheme. Mr. Choi had not organized himself the drug incident, he had just been informed about the plot. (chapter 46) That’s the reason why the thug had hired the man himself. This confirms that this man (chapter 37) met the moneylender, but he was not in touch with Mr Choi. Hence the man in black could not reveal the incident in the States to Mr Choi. The latter has no idea what truly happened there: they missed their target and afterwards they involved MFC security guys to cover up the incident by framing the physical therapist.. What only mattered to Mr. Choi was that the champion had not drunk the drugged beverage. And we know for sure that Mr Choi is left in the dark concerning this (chapter 40). How so? It is because Heo Manwook doesn’t explain how the plot failed!! (chapter 46) At no moment, he elaborates that someone else drank the poisoned nutrition shake. Besides, Heo Manwook has no idea about the identity of the drinker. From my point of view, Mr Choi is unaware of the involvement of MFC security guys. Yes… though this chapter was painful for Jinx-philes, it still gave me hope, for the author is showing that the villains are not communicating to each other. They keep information from each other which represents the exact opposite to the argument in the penthouse. (chapter 45) Their reason for not sharing their secrets is simple: they don’t want to expose their vulnerabilities, mistakes and problems. That’s the reason why their plots can only fail in the end. They didn’t possess all the information. Simultaneously, it displays their cowardice, for they are acting in the shadow, behind people’s back.

We have the best evidence of miscommunication with Kim Dan. The latter never interacted with Mr. Choi directly, but he was connected to him through the debts. Moreover, he was not the borrower of the loan (chapter 5), thus I doubt that Mr. Choi is aware of the connection between the physical therapist and Heo Manwook. The curriculum vitae sent to him certainly doesn’t contain any information about Kim Dan’s past financial situation. (chapter 46) Moreover, the CV can be seen as a source of information, just like the photos. As you can see, Mr. Choi gathered insight through others, I would even add through indirect channels. Another common denominator is that this intel is on paper. He is not interacting with the celebrity or the doctor. It is important, because he is judging the situation from the distance. He is put in the same situation than Potato: (chapter 23) Back then, he initially denied the existence of intimacy between them, until he was confronted with reality. (chapter 25) Hence he envied the doctor for his closeness with the celebrity. (chapter 25) Thus from my point of view, Mr. Choi must have come to a different perception than the maknae: (chapter 46) The champion not only must trust the doctor, but also exposes his attachment towards the physical therapist by opening the door and sharing the burden with his fated partner. The fighter is seen gentle and caring. Hence it becomes clear that Mr. Choi is now targeting Kim Dan. His goal will be to separate the couple. I didn’t come to this conclusion just through deductions, but Mingwa also left a clue: the “stalker” took a picture of Kim Dan alone, a sign that the photograph was now following the physical therapist. But if Mr. Choi had showed the picture to Heo Manwook, the latter would have revealed that Kim Dan was “selling his body” for “Team Black”. The documents are the proof of miscommunication, though they are conversing over the phone. This stands in opposition to these short messages from Park Manwook: (chapter 45): sincere congratulations from a family, as he showed his kids to the celebrity. Finally, observe that during the phone conversation, Mr. Choi refused to listen to his minion. (chapter 46)

Furthermore, I would like to outline that when the fake MFC guy brought the poison, he saw Kim Dan wearing an uniform with the tag Team Black. (chapter 37) However, the man with the cap couldn’t determine Kim Dan’s true identity based on his uniform. Who was he exactly? A fighter? Or a coach? He could jump to the false conclusion that it is an uniform for the members of Team Black and not for the physical therapist. The unknown man could only recognize him by his face and hair. That’s how he got denunciated to the MFC security guys (chapter 40) Therefore you comprehend why the “fake” agents for order tried to determine his identity. (chapter 40) But the champion’s response couldn’t give them any satisfaction: (chapter 40) He only declared that he was part of his team. They had no idea who the person actually was. However, Joo Jaekyung didn’t realize that through his action, he was bringing attention to the company “TEAM BLACK”. That’s what the criminal saw on the uniform and the jacket! Thus I come to the following deduction: the hired man will report to Heo Manwook the existence of Team Black and its connection with Joo Jaekyung. (chapter 16) (chapter 16) Thus there’s a high chance that they will try to ruin the champion by tarnishing his company. It is a hidden brothel. Imagine Park Manwook’s reaction, when he gets to hear that his gym is a whorehouse. (Chapter 45) Another possibility is that they decide to target the members from Team Black, especially Potato, and rig his games. (chapter 46) But here is the thing: (chapter 30) Choi Heesung has been promoting the athlete and his company. (chapter 31) That’s how the actor’s reputation would get affected. As you can see, the actor and Mr. Choi share the same family name. So are they related or not?

3. A star against evil versus a overseer of a mountain

Before answering this question, I would like to portray him first, based on the clues Mingwa left in the chapter. Who is this man?

He is definitely a new villain, as he wagered on the champion‘s loss. Interesting is that Mingwa didn’t reveal everything about this character. First, she never showed his eyes! (chapter 46) Don’t forget that eyes are the mirror of the soul. Secondly, the readers can only see his chin and nose, while the top of his head remains in the shadow. For me, the Webtoonist didn’t truly expose Mr Choi’s face. Why? The purpose is to keep his identity a mystery. Some people came to think that this person was the fan at the restaurant, for he was wearing similar clothes (green shirt). (chapter 43) Besides, on his desk, there were photos of the protagonists. But in my eyes, these two persons are totally different. How so? (chapter 46) The form of the hair on the neck diverges: round versus square. Moreover, both men are wearing the cell phone with a different hand: left versus right. But why did the author create such a confusion? It is because she is working with positive and negative reflections. This means that the admiration of the fan at the restaurant was genuine, whereas Mr Choi is just a hypocrite. He had been spying on Joo Jaekyung and Kim Dan. (chapter 46) I also don’t think that it’s a coincidence that Mr Choi is left-handed. The association between being left-handed and being considered a jinx or unlucky is rooted in historical superstitions and cultural beliefs. Throughout history, left-handedness has been viewed with suspicion or negativity in various cultures.

He owns a huge company, for his desk is covered with files. Besides, the small red box looks very expensive. First, I thought that it was a cigarette etui, until my friend @m1n_m1n_07 suggested a box for a stamp seal. The latter is the symbol for identity and ownership. Thus I deduced that Mr. Choi is running a business. In my opinion, he is the CEO of the Entertainment agency. Yes, this would fit the description about the „fake admiration“ for Joo Jaekyung. Then this would signify that the entertainment agency would launder money by receiving payments from the moneylender Heo Manwook that are proceeds from illegal activities, such as loan sharking or extortion. The agency might then use its legitimate business activities, such as concert promotions or talent management, to disguise the illicit origins of the funds. That‘s why they needed the athlete as their client! Behind his games, they could mask the illegal activities, thus the lucky streak!!

And remember what the actor said at the club: (chapter 33) He employed the personal pronoun “our” (even in the Korean version), a sign that he was identifying himself with the owner. From my point of view, Mr Choi and Choi Heesung are related, I would even say father and son. I know, when I presented my theory on X, people argued about this, for in South Korea, Choi is a common surname, just like Kim Miseon is not related to Kim Dan. (Chapter 5) Yet, I can refute their objections with the following points. Jinx is about emancipation and maturity, the leads are encouraged to become responsible and mature men. This signifies that they need to cut off ties with their parents and become strong mentally and emotionally.

Moreover, the moment you compare the introduction of the two Chois, you can detect huge contrasts. It indicates that the author is once again working with positive and negative reflections. First, the actor was not introduced as Choi Heesung, but as Heesung. (chapter 29) Note that the comedian is promoting himself with Heesung and not his surname. (chapter 30) It was, as if he didn’t want to be connected to this Mr. Choi. Moreover, contrary to the mysterious director, readers could see his face and identify his “job”: an actor! (chapter 29) Yes, the Webtoonist introduced the actor the opposite way. However, in this scene, Jinx-Philes were intrigued by him, as they had no way to determine his role in the story: antagonist or second lead? His personality was quite mysterious which stands in opposition to Mr. Choi. Readers can already judge him as a bad guy. The latter oozes ruthlessness, greed and dishonesty. His words are represented by the color “dark grey”. (chapter 46)

These notions stand in opposition to the actor. (chapter 31) The latter hates conventions, discipline and even control. (chapter 33) In addition, Grey embodies boredom, neutrality and compromise, while the actor is always trying to “take a side”, to earn people’s admiration. As you can see, through this contrast, it becomes obvious that these two characters are related. The darkness from the relative rubbed off on the actor, for he is able to scheme. Moreover, Mingwa still created some similarities: both faces were first covered. (chapter 29) (chapter 46) And finally, the actor was seen wearing a similar shade on the rooftop: (chapter 33) Green, whose negative features are greed, jealousy and envy. And what had Heesung done during that day? A prank at the champion’s expense. He wanted to have the doctor for himself. Furthermore, we can grasp why Heesung’s manager complained about this: (chapter 31) His words expose the greed and selfishness of the CEO from the agency. They are accountable for Heesung’s actions. In my eyes, this condition was made in order to control Heesung, so that the latter would feel responsible for his manager and other employees. It was to push him to „work“. Under this new approach, it dawned on me why Heesung would sponsor lunches to the members from Team Black, (chapter 30). It was his way to get acceptance and recognition. From my point of view, he occupies a special position at the agency, as if his moves are supervised there. Hence he asked from his manager that the latter would keep the fake injury a secret. (Chapter 33) His laziness was already implied by the champion. (Chapter 31) As you can see, I sense that Heesung had an ambivalent relationship with his „father“. On the one hand, he rejects him due to his cold-heartedness and high expectations, on the other hand, he was still relying on him and his connections through the agency. In my eyes, he will be forced to choose between love or money in the end.

From my point of view, Heesung and his relative are not close, they have an estranged relationship. Finally, I would like my inquisitive readers to recall the way the actor appeared at the club: he was wearing slippers. (chapter 33) My initial theory was that he had been stalked. But he could have left the family house after a huge quarrel. And Mr. Choi is indeed acting like a stalker, though he did not do it himself: the pictures! (chapter 46) On the other hand, these pictures corroborate my previous observation: Joo Jaekyung had been followed during that evening. (chapter 33) This was the “stalker” working on Mr. Choi’s account. So it dawned on me that Heesung might have been living with his father in the huge building (chapter 32), until he chose to move out and live on his own. And now, we have the perfect explanation why his house is so clean and impersonal: (chapter 33) It is because his father probably meddled in his life constantly. I have the impression that he must know about his father’s past and the true origin of their wealth. The fact that he introduces himself as “Heesung” is a sign that he wants to deny his origins, Choi.

Since people questioned my theory about their parentage, I chose to look into the signification of Choi. This is what I found:

This quote explains why this mysterious man was introduced as Mr. Choi!! He is an antagonist and even villain of our beloved couples, while the actor had to be introduced as Heesung, for his role in Jinx is different. Moreover, since Mr. Choi is portrayed as a man obsessed with money and with no integrity, Manhwalovers can grasp why Heesung was obsessed with his search for a „soulmate“. (Chapter 33) He had been missing love and warmth too because of his family, exactly like the champion. Both came to a similar conclusion: fame served as a replacement. It was to get recognition and „affection“. The problem is that this type of attachment is rather superficial and temporary, as none of their „admirers“ or „fans“ has to become responsible for them. Moreover, their fortune played a huge role to undermine their relationship.

Then I found on a different website this information:

This indicates Mr. Choi’s role in Jinx. He acts like a general or governor, and gives orders to his minions. He has the impression that he owns the world. Hence he can bet on the champion‘s defeat. He is treating people like „pawns”. That‘s the reason why I included a building below Mr Choi in the illustration.  The house stands for power and propriety. But Choi has another signification.

As you can see, this surname is associated with stars and lucky charms. It is important, because it implies the involvement of Mr. Choi with the champion‘s jinx. Is it a coincidence that the actor knows about the athlete‘s jinx? (Chapter 32) Note that when he was conversing with the celebrity at the bar, he never brought up his jinx. (Chapter 33) He only criticized Joo Jaekyung for his poor sexual behavior. So where did he hear it? Interesting is that 6 months ago, the champion signed a contract with the Entertainment agency, and this is what Park Namwook confessed to the physical therapist: (Chapter 43) His success felt almost unreal, as it was too beautiful to be true. And this would coincide with the signature of the contract between the athlete and the Entertainment agency. The lucky streak is to cover up the illegal activities. He is already envisaging an injury, because he was convinced that this is the fate of such celebrities. (Chapter 43) However, if he pondered a little more, he would realize that it is a lie. How so? Coach Jeon Yosep is the evidence that not all athletes are destined to end their career because of an injury. Yosep is still a fighter.

And the connection between Choi and the 5 stars reinforces my previous interpretation about the characters in Jinx. They are all associated with stars and as such planets: Saturn, Moon, Sun, Mars, Venus, Jupiter, Neptun and Mercury. Interesting is that number 46 corresponds to the sun. So we could say that Mr-Choi and Joo Jaekyung are represented by the huge star, and Mingwa placed Mr Choi next to the main lead as an indication of a future collision between the 2 suns. There will be a conflict of interests.

Interesting is that this number is linked to scandal and family. Then the latter is used to achieve a goal displaying selfishness and heartlessness. As you can see, I am quite certain that very soon, we will have a new uproar. Moreover, I would like to outline that the mysterious man is wearing a watch! (chapter 46) It was, as if he was owning time. And we have the evidence that he is the one behind the timing, as he called Heo Manwook first, and this for one reason. he wanted to announce him that he should stop seeking “revenge” on the celebrity on his own. But he only did it after receiving the CV from Kim Dan and the pictures. (chapter 46) The desk is also referring to time, like we could observe it in this situation: (chapter 43) The package arrived right on time.

And naturally, this panel (chapter 46) raises the following questions. Who took the pictures without being noticed? I mean, they were in front of the gym, so they could have sensed the presence of a third person, unless the latter acted as a deliveryman. Then, how did Mr. Choi get the résumé from the main lead? Did the latter send it to find a new job? Or was the curriculum vitae delivered to Mr. Choi by someone else? Like for example… a hospital! Let’s not forget that the physical therapist has been blacklisted by all the hospitals. (chapter 1) I doubt that the incident with the perverted hospital director was leaked to the outside world, so the main lead must have been badmouthed. So if this rumor about Kim Dan reached Mr- Choi’s ears, then he will definitely see in him the perfect scapegoat for covering up his own involvement. He would even appear as a righteous person. According to me, he is the CEO from the Entertainment agency and the latter had pushed the champion to press charges against the hospital. (chapter 36) In fact, he could decide to leak the information about the physical therapist to the hospital so that the latter can put the blame on the free-lancer! (chapter 42) That way, the agency would divert attention from its own responsibility and even receive support from the clinic. Then we have this rumor circulating that people are sending spies to gyms. (chapter 46) Is it a coincidence that this terrible gossip reached the blind manager Park Manwook at this moment? No, nothing is random in this story. They could frame the physical therapist as someone who tried to “leak” information in order to rig a game. He could be portrayed as a gambler. Yet, Mr Choi is not aware that Kim Dan offered a golden keychain to the champion and even risked his health to buy the expensive present.  

However, we shouldn’t overlook that because the MFC matchmaker was involved in the plot, (chapter 36), he must have wagered too and lost money. This would explain why he asked the doctor from MFC to give it a go right after. He needed to create a new game in order to cover up the last losses. The problem is that since Mr. Choi wasn’t informed about the incident with the security guys from MFC, I don’t think, he is truly aware of the celebrity’s physical conditions. If he knew about the real diagnosis, he wouldn’t need to investigate Kim Dan. He would rely on time… within such a short time, Joo Jaekyung wouldn’t be able to recover. In fact, he would even bet on the athlete’s defeat once again. Since he saw these pictures, I am quite certain that he is misjudging the relationship between the two protagonists. They are close, hence he needs to sow discord and even plant a seed of doubts on the athlete’s mind.

Finally, I would like to outline that the first plot started with the publication of Shim Yoon-Seok’s article: (chapter 35) The athlete was pushed to prove the “wrongfulness” of this article by accepting a fight. (chapter 36) Hence I am suspecting that one of Mr. Choi’s intentions is to portray Kim Dan as a fraud, as a bad and immoral PT. They could even question his skills and competences, for MFC authorized the fight and the champion is now no longer treated by the famous hospital. They could imply that the main lead isolated the athlete on purpose and even aggravated his injury. But like mentioned above, Mr. Choi only knows half of the story. He has no idea about the connection between Cheolmin and the athlete and the former assisted him. Besides, he judges the poor uke based on his prejudices and past experiences. Exactly like the loan shark, Mr. Choi is also projecting his own thoughts onto the doctor. If the latter sent his CV, it signifies that the CEO imagines that Kim Dan is ready to “betray” the champion. Yet, the doctor doesn’t resent the main lead. In addition, from my point of view, the mysterious “general” received the résumé through connections.

Finally, once the characters make a connection between the drug incident and the agency, there is no ambiguity that the agent will have to take the fall, though he definitely followed the directives: (chapter 36) He acted on his own. The MFC matchmaker can even deny his involvement, for he didn’t contact the champion himself. (Chapter 36) Don’t forget that the man has his phone number. (Chapter 5) Imagine the consequences for the manager. The latter would not only lose his job, but also face a lawsuit for breaching the contract. There’s no ambiguity that Mr. Choi would feign ignorance. Finally, since Mingwa is using karma as punishment, the readers should expect that Mr. Choi’s papers will get leaked too. Heo Manwook plotted out of revenge and greed, the result was that he lost a lot: his boss‘ trust, his money and his „sanity“. Since Mr. Choi is now taking matters into his own hands, we have to envision that his actions will affect his company… and as such Heesung. The latter could become suspected as „spy“ or in the worse case as theft, he is „stealing talents“. All his past actions would appear in a different light: his generosity was fake. (Chapter 31) Yes, appearances would now play in Heesung‘s disfavor. Finally, an incident with the agency would push Heesung to fight against his relative… and to regain control over his life.

Feel free to comment. If you have any suggestion for topics or manhwas, feel free to ask. If you enjoyed reading it, retweet it or push the button like. My Reddit-Instagram-Twitter-Tumblr account is: @bebebisous33. Thanks for reading and for the support, particularly, I would like to thank all the new followers and people recommending my blog.

Jinx: 🐍 Serpentine🎗 Harmony in Dan’s Dynamic

When my inquisitive readers contemplate the illustration for this analysis, they can detect the presence of a fragile balance between three people: Joo Jaekyung, Kim Dan and Team Black. The latter is represented by the snake. I selected beads for each group, because they imply movement and change. Naturally, the physical therapist is caught in the middle. It is because since episode 7 we have been witnessing a subtle fight between the captain of Team Black and the other sportsmen. But why?

1. Sharing and jealousy

First, it is related to the champion’s jealousy. (chapter 7) In the essay Lucky loser and jinxed winner (full version)” , I detected how Kim Dan affected the champion’s relationship with his members. For the first time, Joo Jaekyung shared the shower room with Oh Daehyun and the other fighters. (chapter 8) Secondly, in the analysis “Sharing is caring“, I elaborated how the champion had never had a family dinner, but thanks to the second main lead, Joo Jaekyung discovered home-made breakfasts and was encouraged to eat with the staff from Team Black. Note that till the birthday dinner in chapter 43, he never ate the same dishes than the coach and the fighters. (chapter 43) As a conclusion, the physical therapist embodies “sharing” which is strongly connected to eating. Furthermore, the symbol for giving is the hand which fits Heesung’s description about Kim Dan: “Magic Touch”. (chapter 31). It is important to recall that the artist came to discover the angel, for the latter offered his assistance unrequested. (chapter 30) As a conclusion, Joo Jaekyung is taught how to share through the doctor. This means that at some point, the champion will realize that he has to share the main lead too, if he wants to become truly happy. How so?

Like the quote above is indicating it, jealousy is not simply a negative emotion. In fact, this feeling serves as a reminder for the jealous person. The latter should improve their relationship.

Thus I deduce that on the one hand jealousy is strongly intertwined with modification and adjustment. The latter stands in opposition to routine and old habits. On the other hand, the condition for a positive change is that the person can identify this emotion and ponder on its causes and consequences. This signifies that the person has to be more rational and calm. Mingwa exposed it in chapter 35, when the athlete questioned his change of behavior and trick:  (chapter 35) This scene represents the first step of the athlete’s meditation. Interesting is that this self-reflection got interrupted by the text from the journalist. Consequently, the athlete’s old habits resurfaced. Thus the athlete began neglecting the doctor again. Additionally, identifying jealousy and its cause means that emotional intelligence is necessary. However, Joo Jaekyung possesses a low EI… yes, he really has the mind-set of a baby.

These are the signs of low Emotional Intelligence.

This list corresponds to the champion’s personality: his “jinx” exposes his pessimistic attitude. In these two panels, the beholder can view his poor emotional self-control (chapter 7), self-centeredness, poor social skills (chapter 43), low empathy, how he is blaming others. Thus I come to the conclusion that one of the doctor’s role is to encourage the celebrity to develop empathy, as the latter is necessary for a high EM. The other task is to let him experience mistakes and learn from them. Like mentioned in the previous essay, Joo Jaekyung is Mister Perfect and Kim Dan Mister Mistake. Through the mistakes, the athlete is experiencing the positive side of errors. This brings me naturally back to “sharing” which is also a synonym for compassion and love.

As you can see, jealousy is linked not only to love, but also to action and change. Therefore it is no coincidence that the champion felt the need to punch the sandbag, after Heesung expressed his desire to date Kim Dan. (chapter 34) He was presented as a hindrance to the artist’s happiness. (chapter 34)

2. The causes for the champion’s jealousy

But why is the champion so jealous and possessive of Kim Dan? It is related to his undetected low self-esteem and trust issues. Distrust is an important determinant in experiencing and expressing jealousy. This explicates why in the beginning of the story, the athlete was so rude to the doctor. (chapter 7) He didn’t know Kim Dan at all. Thus he utilized the contract as reminder (chapter 8), as he felt that he had no other tool to keep his partner by his side. In addition, in order to control his jealousy, he always employed the same method: SEX!! (chapter 34) Consequently, as long as Joo Jaekyung could not control his possessiveness and jealousy, he was shooting himself in the foot. Which corresponds to the metaphor with too much salt in the food. Mingwa gave us many examples for this situation. When the champion became jealous in episode 7, he forced the physical therapist to have sex with him. Thus his karma was to be perceived as a man obsessed with sex. Then, in episode 9, he provoked Kim Dan with the drink.  (chapter 9) It was, as if he wanted to steal the show from the physical therapist. His punishment was to take care of the physical therapist, but the latter never witnessed his caring side due to his high intoxication. When he challenged the comedian (chapter 34), he deceived the doctor, imposed his will on Kim Dan out of fear that the latter might not choose him. The result was that the doctor came to view himself as a tool for the athlete’s jinx again. Then at the hotel, he poured the coca cola on the physical therapist’s head (chapter 37) giving the impression that he was resenting Kim Dan the most. However, in reality, he was jealous of Oh Daehyun and Potato, for the latter were having a good time with his lover, while he was left alone in his bedroom. While they were happily laughing with Kim Dan, he was totally excluded. (chapter 37) He was envious that they were the source of Kim Dan’s happiness, whereas he was not. Finally, when the athlete confronted them, the doctor sided with them. (chapter 37) In other words, sharing happiness is triggering his jealousy.

3. Jealousy and happiness

Manhwaphiles can observe this phenomenon in episode 7 and 22. Note that the boxers were all in a good mood, when the doctor was treating Kim Changmin.  (chapter 7) The same happened, when Oh Daehyun expressed his envy at dinner: (chapter 22) Each time, the star put an end to this happy mood. In the break room, Joo Jaekyung threatened them, because he considered their suggestions as a threat. Their comments imply that he would have to share Kim Dan, if they came to the penthouse. It looks like the celebrity is in reality jealous of happy people. It was, as if he was going after “happiness and rest”. Therefore it is not surprising that he accepted the next fight. (chapter 41) He looks grumpy again. It shows that he is not truly enjoying his recent success. After the birthday party at the restaurant, the champion felt jealous again. (chapter 43) His gaze was betraying him. Though he was the star of the evening, the fighters didn’t invite him to the second round. Yet, he didn’t mind, until he heard them asking the physical therapist. But contrary to the past, episode 7 and 37, Joo Jaekyung acted more gently. (chapter 43) He didn’t vent his anger on the doctor, as he embraced him gently. Why? In my opinion, there exist different causes. One reason is the phone call and the long conversation. Another cause for this change of behavior is that the time spent with Kim Dan at his penthouse. Through the breakfasts and their days-off, the celebrity got to know Kim Dan better. The champion’s jokes (chapter 27) and smiles are an evidence that the protagonist is feeling more and more comfortable around Kim Dan. (chapter 41) Yet, he was still crossing his arms while talking to the physical therapist. This shows that he has not completely lowered his guard yet. Finally, Manhwaworms shouldn’t overlook the doctor’s drunken confession accompanied with kisses and embraces. (chapter 39) Consequently, I could observe that the athlete is gradually capable to manage his jealousy, the longer he is living with the main lead. Simultaneously, I believe that the recent transformation of the physical therapist (exhaustion, skipping dinners) incited Joo Jaekyung to observe his lover and meditate. (chapter 43) However, I would like to outline that in this scene, he didn’t feel jealous, as Kim Dan was excluded. Hence he had no reason to claim the doctor as his. As you can see, the star’s jealousy was the trigger to change his behavior in front of the members. Thus I come to the deduction that we were witnessing the positive aspect of “jealousy”. He was not questioning the doctor’s integrity and trust. Therefore it is no coincidence that contrary to episode 7, 9, 22 and 37, he didn’t look grumpy, when he stated that Doc Dan is coming with him. (chapter 43) He had almost a smile. Why? His words were revealing his intentions. Here, he wanted to make the members from Team Black jealous of him. Let’s not forget that his statement implied that he would have a good time with the physical therapist. However, his attempt failed, for the members expressed their surprise and happiness. (chapter 43) It was seen as a miracle that Joo Jaekyung was showing such a care for someone. Kim Changmin, as a representative of Team Black, was not at all envious, because they are used to sharing (dinner, dormitories, etc). The boxer felt that he just witnessed a wonder. It is important, because through this scene, we have an explanation for their passivity in the States. They thought that the athlete didn’t really care for Kim Dan. (chapter 40) The champion has always hidden his care for Kim Dan in front of Park Namwook and the others. Don’t forget that the athlete was even particularly rude towards the main figure before the match. (chapter 37) I could also include the scene with the new jacket. (chapter 36) When the sportsmen were all fighting against each other to give their new cloth to Kim Dan, the champion intervened by throwing his jacket to Kim Dan. He was not smiling at all. In fact, he gave the impression that Kim Dan was causing trouble. (chapter 36) At no moment, Oh Daehyun and the others could detect the main lead’s jealousy. That’s how it dawned on me why Kim Dan was not informed about the surprise birthday party. (chapter 43) He was as astonished as Joo Jaekyung. I deduce that they desired to protect him, in case the celebrity would react so negatively. (chapter 43) Since the athlete had been so impolite and rude towards the doctor in front of Oh Daehyun and the other members on so many occasions (7, 9, 11, 36, 37), they imagined that Joo Jaekyung was treating him the same way than them: if he was not rough, then he was indifferent. (chapter 22) When he announced to the staff that Kim Dan was cooking for him, his facial expression and words are indicating that this is no big deal! He was not smiling and voicing his admiration for doc Dan. He created the illusion that the physical therapist was just living at the penthouse for the celebrity’s comfort. It was to do his job and nothing more. But this was only partially true. That’s the reason why I come to the assumption that this miracle in episode 43 will change the dynamics at the gym. Kim Changmin, Oh Daehyun and the others know now that the celebrity not only cares for the doctor, but also has become his friend. Thus they could seek Kim Dan’s closeness in order to get his advices and assistance.

On the other hand, the fighter was still ordering his lover. (chapter 43) Note that he had intervened at the same time than the doctor’s.  (chapter 43) So he never took the doctor’s choice into consideration. Although Joo Jaekyung is no longer dragging the doctor like in the beginning of the story, he is not truly respecting Kim Dan’s decisions. But how did this rivalry between Joo Jaekyung and his team start?

4- The origins of the rivalry

Here, I won’t focus on the champion’s feelings, rather on the way the doctor entered the gym. His contract diverges from the other members’. (chapter 7) He occupies a special position, for he is only working for the alpha as doctor. But note that doc Dan crossed the line, the moment he started taking care of Kim Changmin’s problematic shoulder. (chapter 7) By treating him, he acted, as if he was the physical therapist of Team Black. Secondly, observe how he got introduced to Team Black. (chapter 7) Park Namwook is employing the expression “joining us”, he is insinuating that he is a member from Team Black. Therefore it is not surprising that the doctor decided to share his talent and give a treatment to Kim Changmin and others. (chapter 7) This short introduction could only encourage him to treat the other fighters too. As you can see, though the doctor has a contract, his duties and position among Team Black were not clear. Moreover, the moment the boxers discovered that the main lead had his own physical therapist, they asked if they could have one too. (chapter 7) Thus I deduce that Kim Dan still needs to find his own place at the gym. This can only generate tension. Moreover, it dawned on me, neither the champion nor coach Jeon Yosep nor Park Namwook recognized the consequences of his arrival at the gym. (chapter 7) First, they made the mistake not to bring Kim Dan to Busan. (chapter 36) After that event, they learned their lesson. However, note that the champion refused that the physical therapist would follow Oh Daehyun and the others to their fight. (chapter 23) On the one hand, he was reminding his companion that he was only working for him, on the other hand, the uniform and the treatment from the members were giving the impression that he was also part of Team Black. (chapter 23) That’s how he discovered the ritual with high five!! This is something he could share with his lover! By using this gesture, they would not only become closer, but the gap between the fighters and Joo Jaekyung would be reduced. On the other hand, by hindering Kim Dan to follow the group, Joo Jaekyung was hindering the main lead to do his job. This shows as well that they are slowly developing a new routine, but it is not fully deployed. The doctor is bringing the real changes due to his special but unclear position.

Besides, as a hyung and physical therapist, he should be part of the management, hence he should get the right to voice his opinion about a match. Yet, in chapter 36, he was not invited to the meeting (chapter 36). Moreover, by mopping the floor, he acted like an errand boy, as if he was the lowest member. I doubt that he got consulted for the next fight too. (chapter 41) On the other hand, Kim Dan is a freelancer, hence he could have simply joined the conference. That’s how I realized that until Kim Dan met the champion, he had always been working as an employee. (chapter 1) This indicates that the doctor has not the mind-set of an entrepreneur and free-lancer. He allowed Choi Heesung and Joo Jaekyung to determine his work. (chapter 31) (chapter 32) And now, you comprehend why Kim Dan chose to become a courier (chapter 42) and didn’t look for new patients. He needs a role model as entrepreneur and doctor. In my eyes, that’s where Cheolmin comes in. The latter should become Kim Dan’s mentor. Moreover, I would like to outline that by intervening in the doctor’s life and career, the champion was blurring more and more the boundary between private life and profession.

Another source for the tension between the captain and Team Black is that the doctor was treated like a full member by Team Black. Therefore he received an uniform (chapter 9) and the welcome elixir. (chapter 9). But like pointed out above, he is actually just his private physical therapist. For Kim Dan, the famous athlete is just a VIP client. (chapter 25) It is relevant, because the doctor is not technically involved with the other members. He is attached to them, because they are very nice to him. (chapter 9) There exists no contract between them either. Their relationship is simply based on the goodness from the characters. And now, you comprehend why the champion had to come to this welcome party. It is because he feared that the doctor would feel closer to them than to him. His money was already competing with the heart from the fighters. Is it a coincidence that the champion felt the need to remind them that he was the one paying for the party? (chapter 9) Funny is that for his birthday party, money was no longer rivaling with the fighters. Furthermore, he was joining the table for real. (chapter 43) Finally, he had another reason for not becoming furious during that evening. He had shared the goblet with the doctor, something that none of the fighters had done before. (chapter 43) To conclude, the causes for the tension between the alpha and his members are the undefine position and duties of Kim Dan.

In addition, I noticed that the captain and Team Black are both associated with dinner. Whereas the champion stands for healthy but tasteless dinner (chapter 13), Park Namwook and Oh Daehyun are representing the other extreme: junk food (too salty, greasy, too much sugar) (chapter 22) (chapter 37) or fasting!! Notice that Park Namwook preferred Kim Dan resting than eating dinner with them! (Chapter 43) Joo Jaekyung listened to his hyung, as he had already heard such an advice before. But actually by skipping dinners, the doctor is living like in the past. This could lead to malnutrition again. As you can see, I sense here a new source of problem.

Another interesting aspect is that the champion desired to spare with his lover, but the former got punished by his hyung. (chapter 26) He proposed this idea after seeing his lover learning moves from Potato. In other words, due to his jealousy, he offered his sex partner the possibility to learn from him. (chapter 25) This was the positive aspect of jealousy. It is not surprising that the champion smiled during this little game. (chapter 26) It helped them to become closer. Striking is that none of the boxers noticed the true meaning of this sparring.  (chapter 26) The members didn’t recognize how gentle the celebrity was towards his partner, therefore Park Namwook imagined that Kim Dan had been coerced to spare and the punch was the expression from anger and frustration against the alpha. Thus he came to misjudge the situation. That’s how Kim Dan got excluded from the ring. And this observation brings me to the following conclusion. Till episode 43, none of the fighters realized that Kim Dan was receiving a special treatment from Joo Jaekyung. They were totally oblivious of the truth, even during this incident! (chapter 43) The boxer on his right was not shocked how quickly the athlete calmed down after realizing his mistake. They only got aware of this, when the athlete tried to make them jealous: (chapter 43) That’s how it dawned on me why the champion will be forced little by little to expose his sexual orientation to the members from his gym. It is because the nature of the competition is changing. He is fighting with the members with his heart and no longer with his wealth and fame!! Joo Jaekyung made the discovery during that night: (chapter 29) A puppy needs care and protection!!

This signifies that each decision from Kim Dan will affect the relationship between the alpha and his team. Imagine that the physical therapist decides to become a full member of Team Black and learn fighting. He would definitely work with Potato. (chapter 23) In addition, I would like to outline that Potato had been favored by his hyungs (chapter 22), because the latter was somehow neglected by the champion. They were compensating for the lack of interest from the captain. Interesting is that no one was missing Potato during that day and party except the readers. Why? It is because little by little, his adoration for the champion is vanishing. He is starting to have a life on his own. It is important, because Kim Dan could receive now more attention from the members than before, especially because he is receiving the good grace from his boss. Don’t forget that Park Namwook never protected them from his bad mood. (chapter 36) He could become their speaker, their lawyer… a new version from this scene: (chapter 37)

So far, Kim Dan has always viewed himself as different from the sportsmen, because he was just standing by the side (chapter 36) or he was sitting in the office. It is not surprising that he kept his distance at the hotel, when the champion was taking his meal. (chapter 37) But it started changing, after the athlete declared him as a part of his team. 8chapter 40) The problem is that he met the green-haired uke which reinforced his insecurities and low self-esteem. Observe that while returning home, he was only remembering all the champion’s words (chapter 43) before his intervention with the MFC security guys. Hence I believe that this statement and embrace (chapter 43) can only move Kim Dan’s heart. Finally, I would like to outline that the champion was asking his lover to become responsible for him. (chapter 43) He should bring him home. If you read the essay “The Art Of Loving“, you already know that responsibility is one of the conditions for love. The others are trust, respect and knowledge! And this brings me to the final conclusion. Since no one among Team Black knows about the doctor’s past and second gig, it becomes comprehensible why Oh Daehyun, Potato and the others can not take care of Kim Dan properly. (chapter 43) But the more the champion is revealing about his relationship with the doctor, the more the latter will receive recognition and protection from Team Black. Though the manager recognized that Kim Dan had been beaten (chapter 11), he chose to close an eye to this. Thus he remained passive.

To conclude, the doctor is there to bring harmony and happiness at the gym. This can only happen through changes (like introduction of new rituals) and as such mistakes. His presence is little by little affecting the champion’s mentality. The latter is showing more and more concern for his fated partner. (chapter 43) Though the doctor’s hands had been bleeding, Kim Dan chose to treat his patient first before taking care of his own wounds. His selflessness could only catch Joo Jaekyung’s notice. Doc Dan’s benevolence can only make him realize that fame can never be a source of joy and adoration is totally different from true love and warmth.

Feel free to comment. If you have any suggestion for topics or manhwas, feel free to ask. If you enjoyed reading it, retweet it or push the button like. My Reddit-Instagram-Twitter-Tumblr account is: @bebebisous33. Thanks for reading and for the support, particularly, I would like to thank all the new followers and people recommending my blog.

Jinx: Hidden Echoes 🔊 (podcast)

ChapterTopics
1. – The doctor was watching a video indicating that he was a huge celebrity. FANS/FAME
– Joo Jaekyung used work as justification, whereas in reality, he wanted to have sex with the main lead.
WORK and SEX
5. – Once again, the protagonist called the physical therapist.
– Once again, he used work as justification, but in reality he desired to ensure Kim Dan as his definitive sex partner.
WORK and SEX
He is hiding the truth from his hyungs: SECRET/ SECRECY
Interesting is that the main lead received a phone call from his future boss at the hospital.
WORK, SEX, SECRET/SECRECY and HOSPITAL
11. Here, the call was related to his moving out.
HOME
13. Here, the champion called his friend for help. The latter works at the hospital, but he was asked to give a treatment home, as the fighter desired to protect his reputation and as such his career (job). No one knows about the doctor’s intervention.
HOME, HOSPITAL, SEX, SECRET, SECRECY, and WORK
17. Once again, we have the following topics: HOSPITAL, HOME and WORK. Kim Dan failed to do his job, as he didn’t appear at the gym. However, a new topic comes to the surface: MONEY.
19 In this episode, we have two phone calls. The doctor desired to rent a truck, for he was moving out. (HOME) Then the champion called his lover, as he wished to have sex.
HOME and SEX
Kim Dan was ordered to prepare himself. This made it look like WORK. Interesting is that he was talking at the gym loudly, as if this is no secret. NO SECRECY/NO SECRET. He felt comfortable.
To conclude: WORK, SEX and HOME.
20 A call from the hospital because of his grandmother. Sex got interrupted.
The champion discovered a secret (the real existence of the grandmother).
HOSPITAL, SECRET and HOME (as a synonym for family)
21The nurse called the grandmother’s guardian from the hospital.
HOSPITAL, WORK and HOME (family)
22. Here, the champion was staring at his cellphone, but we have no idea what he was looking at. Yet, note that during this scene, Kim Dan was drinking coca cola (which contains caffeine). Moreover, during the dinner, the athlete announced to his team that Kim Dan would live at his place. But the moment Oh Daehyun expressed the wish to go to the penthouse, he was silenced. They should go back to work.
EATING, DRUG, HOME and WORK
Hence I am suspecting that the athlete was looking at comments from fans (popularity), as this scene mirrors the one in episode 36. Moreover, this topic (FANS, POPULARITY) was alluded in episode 13 (scandal).
24. Potato called the champion in order to do his first errand properly: WORK.
Both protagonists were having sex during the conversation, but the maknae didn’t realize it: SECRECY and SEX. Finally, observe that this call is related to coffee (drug, beverage).
WORK, SEX, SECRET, SECRECY, and DRUG
30.Here, Choi Heesung was using the phone in order to maintain his popularity. WORK and FANS/FAME.
32.The champion called his lover during lunch because of WORK. When the physical therapist arrived at the penthouse, he was staring at his cellphone. But we know that during the doctor’s absence, Joo Jaekyung had purchased sex toys. In other words, work was used as an excuse, yet the moment Kim Dan expressed the wish to return to Heesung’s side, the champion was forced to use sex to keep the doctor by his side.
WORK, SEX and EATING.
33. The champion made a phone call, but no one saw it except the readers. However, the identity of the person was never exposed. It is definitely related to the champion’s career and reputation, as the actor’s injury could have created a buzz. Moreover, observe that the comedian revealed a secret to his manager. The readers discovered the artist’s addiction: nicotine (drug).
DRUG, WORK, SECRET/SECRECY, FANS/FAME
Hence back then, I came to the deduction that the athlete was calling a doctor.  (chapter 13) Interesting is that the athlete sought the rooftop to make the phone call, a sign that he was also seeking privacy/secrecy.
34. The cellphone was used for a trick. Yet, it is related to WORK and SEX. At the same time, the purpose of the message from the main lead was to reveal a SECRET. Kim Dan belongs to him!! But the actor chose to feign ignorance. Kim Dan has no idea that he saw them together.
WORK, SEX, SECRET, SECRECY
35 The champion received a message from the reporter Shim Yoon-Seok. It was related to the athlete’s injured shoulder. The article implied that the hospital had leaked information : SECRET/SECRECY, WORK, FANS/FAME and HOSPITAL
36. The cellphone was not present in this scene, but it was implied through the comments from the social medias.
WORK, FANS/FAME, HOSPITAL
38 The champion sent a message to his lover. Yet, the text was very short so that no one could discover the real reason for their encounter. In that scene, the doctor was already under the influence of the aphrodisiac.
DRUG, SEX, WORK and SECRECY
Chapter 42 Kim Dan looked for a side gig. But before looking at work offers, he was searching in the penthouse for a present.
WORK, MONEY and HOME

I forgot to say that it can not be the journalist Shim Yeon-Seok, as the latter stands for work, fame and fans. However, like I said, the scene at the restaurant already contains these elements through the selfie. (chapter 43) In the podcast and in the list, I omitted one recurrent topic on purpose: REJECTION!!, We have this topic in chapter 1, 5, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 30, 32, 34, 35, 36, 37 and finally 43. (chapter 43) The doctor was invited for the second round and he could have agreed, but the athlete intervened fearing that the doctor would prefer the company of the fighters. This exposes his low self-esteem. However, Kim Dan was already rejecting their invitation.

Here he is not acting as the tough guy, he is passive and attentive. This contrasts to this scene, where he looked like a tiger. (chapter 13) He was acting, as if he hated kisses, foreplay and embraces. At the same time, he is showing his face, yet this is just acting. Thus the hyung replied the same way. He faked his anxieties and submission.

Feel free to comment. If you have any suggestion for topics or manhwas, feel free to ask. If you enjoyed reading it, retweet it or push the button like. My Reddit-Instagram-Twitter-Tumblr account is: @bebebisous33. Thanks for reading and for the support, particularly, I would like to thank all the new followers and people recommending my blog.

Jinx: Trapped Butterfly🦋 in Deceit’s Web 🕸️ – part 1

In episode 40, the Manhwaphiles assist to the return of the doctor’s faith and hope. (chapter 40) This signifies that in this moment, Kim Dan decides to cross the line, especially since he likes the emperor. He is accepting that he means much more to Joo Jaekyung than being his toy. Because the champion called him “his person”, he felt moved and indebted. Consequently he started considering himself not only as being a part of the champion’s life, but also as a part of Team Black. (chapter 40) Don’t forget that the athlete is the face of the gym. Thus the gym put a huge poster of the athlete outside. (chapter 1) The reference of belief in two panels from episode 40(chapter 40) led me to associate Kim Dan with a butterfly, for the latter symbolizes faith, hope, change and rebirth. And now, you comprehend why this illustration contains blue-black butterflies. They are alluding to the physical therapist. The latter is wearing his blue uniform with the black jacket from Team Black. (chapter 40) And the butterfly got unfortunately caught by a spider. (chapter 409. Yes, the hand from the MFC security guard reminded me of a spider. But there exists another reason why I came to connect the MFC security guys with the spider. It is because both are related to the web. There is no doubt that the MFC security guards wove a web of lies to Kim Dan. And how can we detect this? There exist different methods to expose the men in Black as manipulators and hunters. First, the MFC security guys are wearing glasses. Another method is to compare the interrogation scene with episodes from Jinx. Finally, it is important to examine their words and as such their speech bubbles. But let’s start with the glasses.

1. The sun glasses

If you read my essay about the significance of masks in Manhwas, you are already aware that spectacles in Manhwas are indicating deception, hypocrisy, ignorance and blindness. Why? It is because the Webtoonists used them as masks. Thus it is no coincidence that the coach Park Namwook is wearing them. (chapter 40) I have long outlined his flaws. Imagine that he only informed his star about the incident with the drugged beverage after the match, but he knew about it before. However, his words are implying that it was not his fault, for he had been informed too late (“I only found out this morning”). He was not responsible for the incident due to his ignorance.

(chapter 31) Moreover, he was unable to detect the truth, when the artist faked his injury. He chose to put the blame on his athlete, while the one asking for the sparring had been Choi Heesung. Joo Jaekyung could not be held responsible for any injury occurring during a sparring. It was the artist’s choice and responsibility. This scene is important, because outside the ring, the coach, the artist and the other manager not only accused the champion of a wrongdoing, but also sentenced him. They acted like cops, victims, lawyers, doctors and judges! (chapter 31) The coach’s attitude exposed his partiality. Funny is that while the goddess justice has her eyes covered, , she embodies impartiality, because she is able to detect the truth through the testimonies. She is not blinded by prejudices (origins, social background, gender…) contrary to the characters in Jinx.

And this is exactly what we are witnessing in the interrogation room. (chapter 40) The MFC guys are biased, they are acting like cops, prosecutors (chapter 40) and judges. And this without hearing any testimony from the doctor. This shows their blindness and their hypocrisy. But wait… the MFC guys are different from Park Namwook, for they are wearing sun glasses. Why would most of them do that? (chapter 40) Don’t forget that they are not outside, but in a close room. First, such glasses are connected to spying. People should not recognize them, they are hiding their identity. The eyes serve to identify people, this explicates why there is this saying, the eyes are the mirror of the soul. For me, the sun glasses have a symbolic meaning. Three MFC guys were wearing sun glasses (chapter 40), but two were acting as the main accusers. (chapter 40) It was, as if the latter had no soul. Thus this security ward (chapter 40) manipulated his colleague with his rhetorical question. As for the other, he bit his lip, the moment Joo Jaekyung entered the room (chapter 40), a sign of his anxiety, nervousness and anger. It was, as if he had been caught. This little detail displays his knowledge. He knew that Kim Dan was innocent in the end. These two men wearing sun glasses were extremely ruthless and calculating, as if they had sold their soul to the devil. They were determined to frame Kim Dan, for he was new. Moreover, I believe that the sun glasses have another symbolism. According to my interpretation, Joo Jaekyung is represented by the sun, so wearing sun glasses indicates that they are trying to protect themselves from the champion. I will elaborate about this further more. Finally, wearing sun glasses is a sign for coolness and confidence. It looked like this item gave them the assurance to act like the tough and hardworking security agents. In other words, the sun glasses are strongly connected to acting! Yes, we were witnessing a fake investigation and trial! This leads me to the second method, the comparison of panels and scenes.

2. Reflections

What caught my attention is the similarity between this image (chapter 40) and this one: (chapter 11) Yes, the MFC security guys are mirroring Heo Manwook and his minions. And not just once, but twice!! (chapter 16) Their position is not only very much alike, their behavior is the same. They use coercion and force in order to break the protagonist’s will. Both characters “kidnapped” the main lead. They are using an isolated place and the number of minions in order to pressure Kim Dan to admit his wrongdoings. Each time, the thugs threatened to go after the halmoni (chapter 11) and (chapter 16). In the interrogation room, the MFC security agents accuse him to have plotted against the celebrity. (chapter 40). As you can see, Joo Jaekyung is utilized the same way than the grandmother. Moreover, I would like to outline that in episode 16, the main lead got kidnapped in broad daylight, and no one stopped them. (chapter 16) And the same happened in the arena. (chapter 40) Though the stadium was plunged in the darkness, the Manhwa lovers shouldn’t forget that the match took place at 11.00 am. So it should have ended around lunchtime. To conclude, the kidnapping and sequestration from the security agents is a combination of episode 11 and 16, therefore we have the same elements: blue and black reminding us of the night and the time as an indicator for the day. But let’s return our attention to the physical therapist in the arena. He was approached from behind, for the mysterious man touched him by the shoulder. (chapter 40) Secondly, the moment doc Dan turned his head, he could see two people. (chapter 40) By the way, these two unknown men were not wearing sun glasses in order to avoid raising suspicions and mistrust. This explicates why the gentle doctor followed them without protest. He trusted them. The most surprising is that though the latter was approached by 2 men, Potato didn’t intervene. (chapter 40) Even, when Park Namwook is informed that the security took away the physical therapist, he showed no concern. For him, it was legal and normal due to the dubious nutrition shake. The Jinx-philes can sense the same passivity from people in Seoul and in the States. Why did no one from Team Black feel the need to follow the physical therapist? In my opinion, it is related not only to their blind trust, but also to a certain indifference. Kim Dan has a special status at the gym. Technically, he is just the private physical therapist from Joo Jaekyung.

Finally, both Heo Manwook and the MFC security agents believe to have the right to act that way. In the first case, the main lead had to pay off his debts. (chapter 11), hence he was not allowed to move away. He was even forced to expose his private life to them: his job, his home, his family. It was, as if they were entitled to know everything about him and give their consent about each action. This explains why the loan shark thought, he was allowed to abuse Kim Dan physically. (chapter 11) or even trespass his house and rape him. (chapter 16) Striking is that MFC has a similar attitude in the end. They control their stars’ life through their regulations: the weight categories and weight cutting . (chapter 37), they supervise their food (chapter 37), and finally they take blood samples or urine tests in order to ensure that the fighters didn’t use any drug. (chapter 29) This explicates why the man with black glasses asked him about his relationship with the physical therapist. (chapter 40) It was, as if they had a right to know about his entourage. Joo Jaekyung had no right to have a private life. It was, as if the champion had to justify Kim Dan’s presence and indirectly why he had hired him. The reality is that they were trying to spy on him, dig up more information. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why the thugs questioned Kim Dan like the MFC security agents. The moneylender desired to know the origins of his income. (chapter 11) Funny is that Heo Manwook suspected the main lead to earn his money through illegal means, while in reality, the former is actually the one using illegal means. As you already know, for me, he is involved in the set up against the two protagonists. But it doesn’t end here. MFC guys are acting like legal authorities, thus they are wearing black suits and glasses (chapter 40) reminding us of FBI agents.

FBI agents typically wear professional attire that allows them to blend into various environments while maintaining a polished and authoritative appearance. The standard FBI attire includes dark-colored suits (navy, black or charcoal gray), dress shirts, conservative ties, and dress shoes, when it comes to special events like court appearances or important meetings. However, despite their appearances, the MFC security agents exposed their true nature. They are fake.😮 (chapter 40) How so? They are not wearing any badge and credentials!! 😉 Compare it to these scenes: (chapter 15) (chapter 40) This means what they did was illegal. Moreover, these guys are working for MFC which is a private organization. These agents are not working for the government or for the department of justice. They have no “legal authority” in the end. This explicates why they didn’t provide any translator to the physical therapist (chapter 40), why they pressured Kim Dan to confess a crime. (chapter 40) They acted like cops and judges which they are not. Since this image (chapter 40) resembles a lot to the one from the hospital, (chapter 5) I couldn’t help myself thinking of a death sentence. (chapter 40) However, contrary to the hospital, the doctor was not abandoned. His lover came to his rescue chasing away the darkness from the “spider”, the MFC security agents.

But why did they remove their badges? It is because the criminal had been wearing one of their badges and clothes!! (chapter 37) That’s how Kim Dan assumed that this additional nutrition shake came from MFC! We have here different possibilities. Either they saw the CCTV in the hotel showing the criminal dressed like their security agent (similar to the one in episode 15) after Park Namwook informed them or (chapter 40) the coach informed that someone from MFC had brought the drugged beverage and they imagined that they could get framed by the physical therapist. Or there exists another possibility: they got tipped off by someone else. With no badge, Kim Dan can not blame them later.

2. MFC agents and Park Namwook

And this brings me to the following observation. Though the MFC agents initially described Kim Dan as a witness (chapter 40), the man leading the interrogation changed quickly his tone and accused him of being a criminal targeting the champion. (chapter 40) This explicates why Mingwa changed the colors of the speech bubbles. First, they were light blue before turning into grey and black. (chapter 40) The pigment reflects the tone and as such their darkness. It becomes obvious that they were trying to frame him. But why? In my opinion, it is related to a law suit!! First, the Jinx-philes will certainly recall that in episode 11, the doctor got himself threatened with an indictment. (chapter 11) Secondly, Mingwa created scenes, where someone would take action against a person or organization: (chapter 36) (chapter 31) In the first case, the hospital got sued for leaking the information, though it was not properly investigated. The lawyer claimed that the journalist had not contacted the agency… but it was not verified. As for Choi Heesung’s fake injury, Park Namwook proposed to pay in order to cover up the incident, until the actor made the following request: Kim Dan should take care of him!! He became part of the compensation. That’s the reason why I believe that the coach Park Namwook played a huge role in the framing. He could have complained to the MFC manager about the incident saying that Kim Dan had got ill because of the drink. The investigators knew about his name, but not his function in the team. (chapter 40) The coach could have even threatened MFC with a lawsuit. Don’t forget that for the coach, Joo Jaekyung is his payroll and pays a lot attention to money. (chapter 30) Under this approach, it becomes comprehensible why they were wearing sun glasses, they served as a shield for a trial. No ID and no eyes means no identity.

But then, it occurred to me that episode 11, 16 and 37 have all another denominator: the phone call!! (chapter 11) (chapter 16) (chapter 37) Here, the coach Jeong Yosep was calling someone, maybe Team Black or the MMA manager. As you can see, I am suspecting that as soon as the coach Park Namwook was informed about the doc’s illness and vanishing, he must have made a call and complained! Park Namwook, as an experienced fighter, could have suspected the existence of a drug, especially since Potato and Oh Daehyun came quickly to the conclusion that his “illness” was related to the drink. And he had to frame “someone”, for he had also failed his duty. He should have verified the origins of this additional nutrition shake, but he didn’t. He remained passive. As a conclusion, my theory is that Park Namwook’s complain and menace of lawsuit set a new scheme in motion. For me, he must have called the MFC manager, as the latter appears in Joo Jaekyung’s cell phone. (chapter 5)

According to me, the MFC manager is involved, for he got informed about the shoulder injury in Busan. (chapter 14) And that’s how the schemers discovered that their trick had failed. But this could have consequences for MFC, for the reputation of the MFC security guys would have been tainted. That’s why I believe that the manager had to find a way out. He must have advised the MFC staff to find a scapegoat in order to avoid a scandal… Kim Dan had to be framed… because he is the one who said that the nutrition shake came from the MFC!! (chapter 37) That’s how the MFC guys got informed that the nutrition shake was drugged. (chapter 40) How could they know that the beverage contained prohibited substances, since they got informed about the incident just in the morning? It takes time to analyze a drink. Secondly, how did they come up with the idea of a conspiracy? (chapter 40) The word “set up” and “operation” seems to display their involvement. They know something, but they are hiding the truth, for MFC could get involved in a scandal. I doubt that they were involved from the start… but since the scheme failed, they had to find a solution. And that could only be Kim Dan… the victim of the poisoning, though Potato was a new face too. (chapter 40) It is because his name was brought up. However, I doubt that Park Namwook explained who Kim Dan was. He is not enlisted as a MMA fighter. Hence he knew nothing about his relationship between Joo JAekyung and the doctor.

Another detail caught my attention. (chapter 40) He wanted to know about his eating habits and his medication. The reason is simple. If the doctor had been under medication, they could have said that it was not related to the MFC drink!! This fake interrogation is reinforcing my theory that the MFC manager is an accomplice of the scheme. Honestly, the fact that they took a blood sample is worrying me. (chapter 40) MFC is a private organization, so they are not supervised. So they could do anything with this blood sample, like for example fake results.

The most infuriating is that they tried to act like “saviors”, when the champion entered the room. (chapter 40) Like Joo Jaekyung pointed out, this trick was exposing their lack of security. They had failed their duty. (chapter 40) (chapter 40) They backed off, but note that the “fake investigator” still asked the star about his special relationship with the target: (chapter 40) It exposes that someone desired to know more about the private life of the star. The man with sun glasses was tasked to dig up information in the end. In other words, the persons involved in the conspiracy is increasing. The MFC security agents are no longer innocent. But I doubt that they will investigate the matter any further. In my eyes, they will try to sweep the incident under the rug.

Finally, I would like my avid readers to keep in mind that this incident could have had terrible consequences for the athlete, if he had drunk the drugged beverage. He could never have proved that he had been the victim of a plot!! (chapter 40) He would have been forced to pay compensations. Even if they had noticed the drug quickly, (chapter 40), there is no ambiguity that MFC could have questioned the authenticity of the champion’s claim. He have never taken any drug on purpose.

And now, you comprehend why Park Namwook didn’t show any concern for Kim Dan in the end. It is because for me, he had called someone and delegated the matter to this person. And this can only be the MFC manager. While the coach embodies naivety and superficiality, the MFC guys with sun glasses are closer to Heo Manwook, for they are more corrupt and ruthless. This shows that MFC is not a proper and reliable organization, it is like a Deceit’s Web.

Feel free to comment. If you have any suggestion for topics or manhwas, feel free to ask. If you enjoyed reading it, retweet it or push the button like. My Reddit-Instagram-Tumblr-Twitter account is: @bebebisous33. Thanks for reading and for the support, particularly, I would like to thank all the new followers and people recommending my blog.

Jinx: Tough Life Lessons 👨‍🎓 – part 2 (second version)

1. Why is Jinx so painful?

In the first part, I examined Kim Dan and his interactions with the other characters, it is now time to turn our attention to Joo Jaekyung. Once again, Mingwa chose to upset her readers by showing him as a brutal and rude punk. (chapter 37) This explains why more and more manhwaphiles are dropping this story. But here is the deal. Jinx can only be enjoyable, as long as the readers try to grasp the Webtoonist’s intentions. It is the same for Painter Of The Night. In my eyes, this can only happen, when Manhwalovers are able to understand the champion’s personality. Here, I am not talking about finding excuses for his misbehavior. And this brings me to the topic “life lessons”. Exactly like the physical therapist, Joo Jaekyung needs to be taught life lessons, but for that he needs to commit wrongdoings. Consequently, he needs to experience pain and regret so that he doesn’t make the same bad decisions again. At the same time, these life lessons are also destined to the readers, for this fiction works like a “fairy tale”. I have already pointed out the similarities between “Sleeping beauty” and “Belle and the Beast”. One of these lessons would be: “Don’t judge people by looks or by rumors” (chapter 36) Mingwa is here criticizing the attitude of netizens writing hateful and gloating comments behind anonymity. This is no coincidence that since certain BL-readers came to hate this character, they start transferring their resent towards the author or Jinx-philes. If the latter like Joo Jaekyung, they must be deranged or they are advocating rape or violence. They are confusing fiction and reality. However, the purpose of stories or fairy tales is to reflect and internalize life lessons. And now, you are wondering what Mingwa has planned for the champion. For me, chapter 37 was important, because it outlines the champion’s flaws which are linked to his mindset. He can only change through tough life lessons.

2. Joo Jaekyung’s life lessons

2. 1. To have an open ear

What caught my attention is the professionalism and perseverance of Joo Jaekyung which was even noticed by doc Dan. (chapter 37) He embodies the positive reflection of Kim Dan. The latter lacks experiences and proper guidance. Besides, when the physical therapist makes decisions (chapter 15) (chapter 22), (chapter 35), he often changes his mind. He doesn’t stick to them. Why? It is because he listens to others. Consequently, he doesn’t appear as a competent physical therapist. This signifies that the champion is the exact opposite. Once he makes his choice, he won’t change his mind. Therefore he can only appear as stubborn and selfish. Consequently, one of his previous lessons was to listen to Cheolmin and accept his advices concerning his sex life. (chapter 13) He learned that he could ask for his help in a case of an emergency. (chapter 13) Notice that there was no scandal after this incident. So since Kim Dan drank a drug (chapter 37), Joo Jaekyung is now incited to listen to Oh Daehyun and Potato, and as such to trust them. He needs to figure out how the physical therapist got poisoned.

2. 2. Life is a game

So what is he supposed to learn through the other incidents in episode 37? (chapter 37) (chapter 37) (chapter 37) One might reply that he needs to respect people. In other words, he has no notion of politeness. He behaves like a tyrant outside the ring. The manhwaphiles shouldn’t forget his nickname: “Emperor”. (chapter 14) Thus I deduce that the champion is making no distinction between inside the ring and outside the ring. (chapter 1) This signifies that he views life like a fight which never ends. This would explicate why Joo Jaekyung can never relax. (chapter 29) He needs to be constantly on his guard, and at the same time, this means that he judges everyone as his “enemy” or “rival”. Only the hyungs are exempted, for they are no longer fighting in the ring. Besides, they were the ones who helped him to become a legend. Under this new perspective, it becomes comprehensible why Joo Jaekyung listens to Jeong Yosep and Park Namwook. They don’t represent any danger for him. Therefore it becomes comprehensible why the champion was always so rough with the other members, when he was sparring in the ring. (chapter 1) Why should he restrain himself, when his life and career are always on the line? If he were to lose during the sparring, he imagined that people would question his talents or position. For him, sparring was a synonym for fighting and not playing! This explicates why he is not resting in the end. (chapter 29) Under this new light, the Manhwa lovers can comprehend why the champion refused to invite the members from Team Black to his penthouse. (chapter 22) It was, as if he was invited a competitor to his place. Therefore I come to the conclusion that one of his life lessons is that he needs to differentiate between life inside and outside the ring. Moreover, he has to internalize that life is like a “game” in order to be able to enjoy life. Yes, he is taking things too seriously. Hence the physical therapist’s suggestion for the day-off was not bad for a start. (chapter 27) This let him reconnect to his past and how he liked swimming. Moreover, we have the best example for “life is a game” in chapter 26. (chapter 26) He had fun here with Kim Dan, he was restraining his strength. Therefore it is not surprising that after his defeat, he had no problem to accept Potato as his sparring partner!! (chapter 26) And because life is like a battle for him, it is not surprising that Joo Jaekyung is not capable to say (chapter 37) “thank you” or “please”, like Park Namwook outlined it. Furthermore, it explains why Joo Jaekyung is not voicing his suffering to others. If he had complained here, then he would have appeared weak. The absence of complain explains (chapter 37) the doctor’s reaction. He is feeling for him. (chapter 37) Consequently, it is not surprising that Joo Jaekyung is not complimenting the doctor either. The former is not receiving encouragements and support from his hyungs. In the ring, the fighters are silent too.

2. 3. Sharing is caring

(chapter 37) Moreover, imagine that he barged in the room of the maknaes. He was actually an intruder, for he had not been invited to the party. Naturally, if one of the characters had criticized him for his trespassing, there is no doubt that the champion would have replied that he had paid for their stay at the hotel. This explains why he could open the door, though for each room at a hotel, you need a different keycard. Striking is that this was not his first intrusion. He had already done it in the past. (chapter 30) However, he was violating the doctor’s privacy. This explicates why he had to find an excuse for his sudden appearance. (chapter 30) And now, what is the common denominator between these two scenes? SHARING!! Observe that in episode 37 they were eating together, and they were sharing the chips. In the bathroom, Kim Dan was forced to share “his toothpaste” to his roommate. And what is the common points between all these scenes? (chapter 9) (chapter 18) (chapter 21) (chapter 22) (chapter 37) The champion is never eating with others!! He is not sharing his meals to others. This signifies that he has no notion of a family dinner. This was perceptible in this scene as well. (chapter 13) Joo Jaekyung had prepared two plates, but in South Korea the tradition is to put all the dishes in the middle of the table, and people take bits from the plates, like at the restaurant. (chapter 9) This is important, because once again, it outlines the coaches’ flaw or bad decision. Neither Yosep nor Namwook tried to convince Joo Jaekyung to assist to the meals. I am quite certain that his abstinence (chapter 9) and the argument “he never messes with his weight” (chapter 36) were used as excuses not to intervene. I am not saying that these two hyungs had bad intentions or excluded him on purpose. It is just that they simply didn’t bother. They could say that he wouldn’t listen anyway. (chapter 27) So why bother to invite him? Moreover, if he were present, he would represent a source of trouble. Under this light, it becomes comprehensible why he had to use the company card for his appearance. (chapter 9) But this interpretation exposes the hyungs’ hypocrisy. They are not truly caring for the athlete. The irony is that in the same chapter, the champion “shared” his drink with the doctor. (chapter 37) Consequently, Team Black has now an interest to investigate the matter, for this could happen to the other fighters. Thus I conclude that Joo Jaekyung will learn to share Kim Dan. However, he needs to differentiate between private and professional life. And that’s how his obsession for the physical therapist will become visible. Little by little, the physical therapist will change the atmosphere at Team Black’s. We could see this through Heesung’s meddling. (chapter 31) Thanks to Kim Dan, the fighters’ life improved.

And this brings me back to the doctor’s first day at the gym. (chapter 7) Joo Jaekyung got jealous, for the doctor was asked to treat the other members. By taking him away, he refused to share him with the other members. And note what happened in the next chapter. Joo Jaekyung accepted to share the shower room with the other sportsmen. (chapter 8) Interesting is that each time, Kim Dan was focused on others, he took the initiative to approach them. (chapter 7) He would even talk to them. (chapter 30) As you can see, I see a strong link between sharing and communication. Why? It is because conversing is sharing thoughts. (chapter 29) Because the champion had shown an interest in the doctor during the day, the latter reacted the same way during the night. Spending time together is like sharing time.

Since my interpretation is that Joo Jaekyung has been treated as a silenced and invisible child, I doubt that he could learn the notion sharing. Besides, this can only be taught, if a child has friends and is not isolated.

And this brings me to the following interpretation. When Joo Jaekyung left the door open of his penthouse (chapter 2) (chapter 34), it symbolizes that he was willing to share his home to someone. This is no coincidence that later, he proposed to Kim Dan to live with him. Thus I deduce that Heesung will also become Joo Jaekyung’s real friend, as he had been invited to enter his penthouse.

2. 4. Rest is important and not partying the night away

Therefore it is now necessary to examine this scene again. (chapter 37) Don’t forget that each message has 4 sides. Why was Joo Jaekyung so upset? It was not just about the junk food! It is because Joo Jaekyung was alone in his bedroom and couldn’t sleep. (chapter 37) In reality, he was feeling lonely, and probably hungry. Then he suddenly smelled the ramen , (chapter 37) which could only make him feel more excluded. But the final straw was, when he heard that Kim Dan was having fun with the others. Not only he was not sleeping like usually, but also he had decided to chat with Potato and Oh Daehyun. (chapter 37) He could only get envious of the other fighters. Kim Dan had not tried to visit him… like during this night. (chapter 29) He had not been seeking his company. Thus I deduce that he got envious of the chow chow and the eagle! This was the reflection of the doctor’s thoughts. (chapter 37) Moreover, it is important to recall that each time Kim Dan spent time with his partner, he would often fall asleep so easily or sleep for a long time. (chapter 12) (chapter 28) However, with Potato and Daehyun the physical therapist behaved differently. (chapter 37) As you can see, this episode exposes the lack of communication between the couple. Why? It is because both are relying on Park Nawmook. (chapter 37) (chapter 37) Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why Joo Jaekyung has no manners or acts like a spoiled child. It is because he is reflecting Park Namwook’s behavior. (chapter 37) This panel exposes the tyrant Park Namwook who is drawing an invisible line between the athlete and the members. This means that the coach has the same impact on the protagonist’s life than the grandmother on her grandchild! Both ended up without friends due to the surrogate parent. I have long portrayed the athlete as a mirror of truth, and the best evidence is the halmoni. (chapter 21) Joo Jaekyung was gentle and well-mannered, because the grandmother was nice and polite to him. But we all know that the athlete is not a hypocrite.

2. 5. Karma

However, Joo Jaekyung is also responsible for the increasing alienation between him and the doctor. Remember how he treated his lover in front of Choi Heesung. (chapter 34) It was, as if the latter was an object, a plaything. He didn’t treat him like a human. Moreover, later he utilized him as sex toy. (chapter 36) This scene contrasts so much to this picture: (chapter 37) Coldness through the shades, day, no food, no sharing, silence and pain versus food, warmth through steam and the bright colors, sharing and happiness. This was his punishment for his mistreatment towards the doctor. Back then, the doctor had shown concern and had brought him water, but he got rejected. (chapter 36) Therefore it is not surprising that Kim Dan was no longer seeking his company or was distancing more and more from him. And now, the legend is confronted with reality. Kim Dan is not an object, for he is now sick. (chapter 37) In fact, the drug could have terrible side effects on him due to his weak constitution, like for example it could affect the heart or the liver.

By learning to share Kim Dan, he can get real friends. At the same time, he can ensure a better protection for himself and his loved one. Only through that way, he can change. However, until now, he only experienced sharing through Kim Dan and the halmoni. First, it happened, when the main lead begged the athlete for his help. (chapter 11) He exposed his vulnerability to the protagonist. Then the grandmother gave him one yoghurt. (chapter 21) Striking is that the athlete received the drink after chatting with the elderly woman. As you can see, the meal is strongly intertwined with conversation. (chapter 13) Both scenes are the perfect illustrations for sharing is caring. Thus I deduce that this “family dinner” was fake (chapter 22), for there was no sharing. No wonder why the champion was not conversing with the others. Nonetheless, in order to happen, he has to realize that he needs to communicate properly to Kim Dan. He needs to give his partner compliments and encouragement. (chapter 37) He remained silent contrary to episode 1. It is not just Park Namwook’s task to compliment him. However, as long as he doesn’t give any feedback to the insecure physical therapist, the latter won’t open up to him. Why does Kim Dan feel close to Potato and Oh Daehyun? It is because they are sharing their thoughts and emotions. But why is it so important for the champion to share the doctor? It is because through him, the doctor can get recognition and advance in his career. If he secludes him, Kim Dan is bound to make no progress. That’s the reason why I consider Joo Jaekyung’s intervention here as inappropriate. (chapter 31) It was not his place to decide for the main lead. Kim Dan could have had another client, even though it was just an excuse. (chapter 31) Because he treated Kim Dan like an underling, he received the same treatment later. He was not allowed to defend himself (chapter 31), just like he replied instead of the doctor! Thus I conclude that the moment he sees Kim Dan in pain, this will remind him of his lover’s human nature (chapter 37) and as such his vulnerability. In my eyes, this will move his heart… exactly like in that scene. (chapter 21) In other words, the champion has to recognize that all his actions have consequences. As long as he is not treating Kim Dan properly, he is doomed to suffer and as such face adversity. But this perception is also valuable for the doctor. As long as he neglects his job due to his low self-esteem, he is fated to be treated like an errand boy. To sum up, both characters have to recognize their own flaws and misbehavior. Furthermore, I deduce that as long as Joo Jaekyung doesn’t expose his true position within the company in front of Park Namwook, he is bound to be treated like a prize. To conclude, Joo Jaekyung needs to confront his hyungs for their negligence. How come that they let Kim Dan fetch the drink and no one questioned its origins? Why was Yosep Jeong on the phone? (chapter 37) In my opinion, the coach is not involved in the conspiracy, for it looks like Mingwa has no intention to turn the members into bad guys. Nevertheless, this man was not talking to his wife, for the latter had blocked him. This raises the question. Who was he talking to? I have the feeling, that the person on the other side of the phone must have involved in the scheme in order to distract Jeong Yosep: MFC manager or the agent from the entertainment company?

As you can see, I am siding with no one in the end. They all have their flaws which make them human!

3. Prediction

Since I outlined the importance of sharing in episode 37, I come to the following deduction: Joo Jaekyung will share a room and probably his bed with Kim Dan. Remember that he was seen alone here (chapter 37), just like the athlete had carried the physical therapist to his bed after their sex session in the swimming pool. (chapter 29) Observe that here, the main lead was sleeping in the middle of the bed… he had been placed exactly like Joo Jaekyung would sleep. (chapter 13) That’s the reason why the champion didn’t share his bed with Kim Dan. This means that I am expecting a new version of this scene (chapter 4), but I don’t think that the doctor will sleep in a cocoon. At the same time, we have the explanation why Joo Jaekyung felt so refreshed after his first night with Kim Dan. He had been able to sleep, for he had shared his bed with the doctor. No wonder why the champion got so upset afterwards. However, since the doctor is sick, I doubt that he would sleep next to him. So my idea is that the champion could give his bed to Kim Dan, while he sleeps on the floor. I noticed that the carpet of his bedroom is red (chapter 37) And red or pink is the color that brings them together. Secondly, when he was trying to lose weight, he looked like someone sleeping on the floor. (Chapter 37) Finally, this panel (chapter 37) reminded me of the champion’s kiss, when he left the swimming pool. Kim Dan has a similar position. (Chapter 27) Additionally, both were on the floor. Finally, we shouldn’t forget that Joo Jaekyung has been learning to take care of the “weak” doctor. He is already experienced how to treat him. Taking care of him in his room is no novelty. Moreover, if Kim Dan notices that the champion could fall asleep despite his presence, he could suggest to Joo Jaekyung to share a bed. (chapter 37) So don’t give up hope! Joo Jaekyung still has his own merits.

Feel free to comment. If you have any suggestion for topics or manhwas, feel free to ask. If you enjoyed reading it, retweet it or push the button like. My Reddit-Instagram-Tumblr-Twitter account is: @bebebisous33. Thanks for reading and for the support, particularly, I would like to thank all the new followers and people recommending my blog.

Jinx: Tough Life Lessons 👨‍🎓 – part 1

First, it is necessary to define the term life lesson. Life lessons learned early allow people to make the most of their life by not repeating the big mistakes people repeatedly make throughout their life. This signifies that people learn life lessons through mistakes and bad choices. Because of the stress and pain they brought, life lessons won’t be forgotten. They will remain present in the mind. However, this can only happen, when people are on their own or better said, when the parents can no longer take the responsibility for their children’s wrongdoings or bad choices. The one is forced to bear the burden of his errors or bad decisions. As you can see, life lessons are strongly intertwined with maturity and growth. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why episode 37 portrayed all the characters in a bad light.

1 . Between pity, sympathy and empathy

Episode 37 exposed the flaws of all characters, for they all misbehaved. Not just Joo Jaekyung committed wrongdoings like here (chapter 37), when he snatched the towel from Kim Dan with force without saying thank you or when he poured the coke on Kim Dan’s head. (chapter 37) One huge mistake from Kim Dan was for example looking away while wiping his client. (chapter 37) Joo Jaekyung was actually put in a similar situation than the grandmother’s. Due to the weight cutting, his body is exposed to mistreatment. Now, imagine that Kim Dan had acted the same way towards his own halmoni. It would have hurt her, for no sick person wants pity and as such sympathy. Why? The reason is simple. Sympathy makes the counterpart feeling inferior, lonely and abandoned. How so? It is related to passivity.

Feeling sorry for someone is never helpful, for it doesn’t change the situation. Thus in medicine, it is recommended to have empathy, and not sympathy for the patients. This is an important condition for healing persons suffering from traumas.  (chapter 37) No wonder why Joo Jaekyung sent away the doctor. (chapter 37) The latter made him feel worse than before. (chapter 37) What the boxer needed to hear or see was recognition and encouragements and not sympathy or pity. He should tell him what he hasn’t been hearing so far: “I admire your determination, your strong will, your professionalism”. (chapter 15) But when Kim Dan was wiping his client, he was not acting like a professional doctor. Thus he got hurt by his rejection, for this felt him more unworthy. (chapter 37) There is no doubt that Joo Jaekyung was hurt too. The only difference is that the athlete is not allowed to cry or to complain, for he made the decision to take the challenge. (chapter 37)

Besides, it is important to distinguish between sympathy and empathy. (chapter 37) What is Kim Dan feeling here? Sympathy or empathy?

This means that in the panel above, the physical therapist was sympathetic towards Joo Jaekyung and his outburst. Nonetheless, psychologists make a distinction between 3 types of empathy: cognitive empathy, affective/emotional empathy and finally compassionate empathy. Sympathy is a synonym for “cognitive empathy“. This means that the person can take another person’s perspective, can also imagine what it’s like to be in another person’s shoes. Thus he can understand someone’s feelings. However, this doesn‘t imply that the person will feel these emotions as well. The person just knows how to perceive what the counterpart is feeling and thinking, while in emotional empathy, the person will share an emotional experience, he will be feeling distress in response to someone’s pain. As for the compassionate empathy, the person will experience a willingness to help someone, because they feel the same distress. https://www.verywellmind.com/cognitive-and-emotional-empathy-4582389

As you can see, there‘s a slight nuance between cognitive and affective empathy, but this small difference has great consequences in reality. How so? It is because the person only feeling sympathy will always put a distance between himself and the counterpart. There‘s a “I“ and “you“, but no „we“. This indicates the presence of an invisible line which is perceptible in the doctor’s words: I versus he. (chapter 37) The person might come to pity the other, yet he won‘t intervene and help. He will just understand and that‘s it.

Quoted from https://www.themedicportal.com/blog/whats-the-difference-between-sympathy-and-empathy/

As the manhwaphiles can detect, sympathy is linked to passivity and words, while empathy pushes someone to become more proactive, especially compassionate empathy.

Graphic created by Psychologist Robert Shelton

Like the graphic is indicating it, the engagement increases, the closer you get to compassion. (chapter 37) Striking is that here, the physical therapist employed the expression “think”, a sign that he is feeling cognitive empathy which explains his passivity. To conclude, the more compassionate Kim Dan becomes, the more proactive he will become towards his fated partner. But for that, he needs to open up his heart and as such to accept the feelings he has for Joo Jaekyung. I am not really referring to romantic feelings, rather to empathy and compassion, like Dr. Lee from the hospital. (chapter 27) As long as Kim Dan sees himself as the champion’s tool for his jinx, he won’t be able to become a great physical therapist. (chapter 37), for he is drawing a line.

And now, it is time to return to this scene. (chapter 37) When Joo Jaekyung entered the room of the hoobaes and criticized them, the latter apologized. Yet, the doctor’s apology was slightly different. How so? He just apologized for the sound, but with his words, he implied that they would keep eating ramen. Imagine what it means for the champion thinking that once he leaves the chamber, they will keep eating junk food. They have the chance to eat at all, but his companions chose to eat unhealthy food. That’s the reason why the champion was so upset (chapter 37), but no one understood his message. They thought that they were reprimanded for eating, though it was more about bad nutrition (“garbage”, “stuff yourselves”) and eating in excess! (chapter 37) Because Kim Dan insinuated that they would keep eating such unhealthy dishes, his sex partner replied this: (chapter 37) The doctor’s excuse could only sound fake to the athlete’s ears. In fact, in that moment, Kim Dan showed no real sympathy for the champion. He was drawing the line between the athlete and himself. However, after getting humiliated, (chapter 37), he changed his attitude a little. Yet, notice that he was still thinking about his insomnia and not the unhealthy food.

And the coaches are responsible for this!! They allowed Oh Daehyun and Potato to buy Korean food (chapter 37), while Joo Jaekyung is put on a diet. Moreover, Kim Dan is a physical therapist. Hence he is well aware of the impact of bad nutrition and we are here talking about professional athletes. (chapter 22) It was, as if he had forgotten his knowledge and his past decisions. Then the next day, Kim Dan pities him, something he also hates!! (chapter 37) It makes him look like a hypocrite. What Joo JAekyung needed the most here was support and compliments, like in Busan!! (chapter 15) But the irony is that no one encouraged or complimented the champion at all except the reporters at the event. (chapter 37) This discovery led me to the following conclusion. Park Namwook embodies sympathy and as such cognitive empathy. He can grasp people‘s feeling, as he is able to see from people‘s perspective. (chapter 37) This explicates why he allows the fighters to buy ramyeon and sodas behind the captain’s back. (chapter 37) By exposing the champion to this food, they made him realize that Joo Jaekyung was truly alone with this issue.

This means that this incident made the champion realize that the fighters had unhealthy eating habits. Until now, he never paid attention to their alimentation! The coach only reprimanded them before the match. (chapter 22) Back then, the champion only showed disinterest to their situation. (chapter 22) But imagine that they were actually put in the same situation than the athlete. 😶 The coaches and Kim Dan were eating hamburgers and fries in front of the others. (chapter 22) No wonder why Oh Daehyun and Potato had a similar attitude towards Joo Jaekyung in the States. (chapter 37) The only difference is that they wished to hide this from the sportsman. They knew that this was not right. One might say that they showed a certain sympathy towards their hyung, while in the break room, Park Namwook had a clear conscious. (chapter 22) He was even more ruthless towards the other members, until Kim Dan made the following suggestion: eating elsewhere. This is applied in the States. The champion’s past indifference reflects the negative influence from Park Namwook. Observe that the latter asked from the physical therapist only “pity and sympathy” (chapter 36) He was encouraged to remain passive (“be patient”). He is treated like an errand boy (chapter 37), like holding the towel or pouring the hot water. (chapter 37) (chapter 37) Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why Park Namwook or the coach accepted the suggestion from the agent so easily. (chapter 36) They are passive, because they only feel sympathy in the best case. Thus I come to the conclusion that Kim Dan’s low self-esteem was reinforced by the manager’s attitude and advices. At no moment, he acknowledged his work (chapter 37) and as such gave him compliments contrary to Doctor Lee. This means, the lawsuit against the hospital is detrimental for Kim Dan’s career. He needs some guidance from a hyung.

As you can see, as time passed on in the States, the doctor became more and more depressed, for he was given more and more insignificant tasks and his real interventions were simply ignored. Therefore I conclude that Kim Dan can only have a change of heart thanks to Joo Jaekyung’s influence. For me, the latter stands for emotional empathy. This might be surprising, for many readers resent him more and more for his outbursts and brutal honesty. However don’t forget that he defended the doctor from the loan shark, paid his debts (chapter 18) and even cooked a meal for him. He was really proactive. Right now, he can not take care of him, as he is himself under immense stress. Don’t get me wrong: he is no saint either. On the other hand, Kim Dan needs to grasp the negative influence from Park Namwook and Yosep Jeong, for they represent a hindrance to his development as physical therapist. But for that, he needs to make a bad experience because of them directly. He needs to learn the difference between cognitive, emotional and compassionate empathy. He needs to recognize that a true doctor should feel empathy at least. The physical therapist experienced it, when Oh Daehyun and Potato complimented him. (chapter 37) Hence I believe that the closer Kim Dan get to the members, the more he will experience empathy and compassion. This is already perceptible, for the fighters wanted to offer their own jacket to the doctor. (chapter 36) The hand is the symbol for compassion and empathy. No wonder why Mingwa is focusing on the hands of the boxers. (chapter 37) They are the helping hands for the couple.

2. Don’t judge people by their looks

 Episode 34 confirmed the existence of a conspiracy. One man disguised as a MFC member offered a beverage containing an aphrodisiac. (chapter 37) Kim Dan thought that this person belonged to MFC, for he was wearing an ID MFC, a cap with the logo MFC and he was wearing black clothes like the other officials. (chapter 37) This means that he judged this man by his looks. A terrible mistake! This situation mirrors the scene where one agent from MFC questioned Kim Dan about his identity. (chapter 15) I had already explained in the previous analysis that here he had been mistaken for an agent from MFC. However, the doctor misunderstood the red-haired man. He thought that staff was referring to Team Black.

Interesting is that Mingwa created a similar situation in the same episode. Someone was judged by his looks. (chapter 37) The protagonist saw the fighter as weak, for he had slimmed down. He was comparing him to their first meeting. (chapter 1) However, he was making a mistake, for Joo Jaekyung was just losing water, and not muscles! In my eyes, he was underestimating Joo Jaekyung’s strength.

And it is very likely that their enemies will jump to the same conclusion, for he looked quite tired and thin during the weight-in. (chapter 37) In other words, they are underestimating their opponent’s physical condition. This panel exposes that Joo Jaekyung can recover very quickly. (chapter 37) Thus I deduce that the schemers are judging the fighter based on his “looks”. My assumption is that their scheme is based on the following information: injured shoulder (“incident in Busan”) and the request from Kim Dan that the champion needs to take a day-off!. (chapter 27) However, he was here speaking on the behalf of the doctor. And who would make such a mistake? Naturally the manager from the entertainment agency. 😉 He had been informed by Park Namwook. This reinforces my theory that he is involved in this scheme. The latter would automatically judge his client as “injured”, for he was changing his way of life. For the first time, he was taking a day-off. But the manager is getting paid for the events he organizes, like Heesung’s manager exposed it! (chapter 31) If the athlete works less, the manager gets paid less! I would like to point out that Joo Jaekyung’s agent was never seen at the gym! He was never present during his training. Thus he had every reason to think that his client Joo Jaekyung has already reached his zenith! Therefore I am wondering if the manager came to believe the manipulations from the article. (chapter 36) That’s why there was no interview to deny the allegations. It was, as if he didn’t detect the fake news. The manhwaphiles should pay attention to his words. It was all about the leaking of private information, but not about the content of the article. (chapter 36) In other words, the manager judged his client by his “cover”! He was tasked to book less events!! Consequently, neither the lawyer nor the manager should be trusted, though they are well-mannered and educated. (chapter 36) In reality, Park Namwook should have focused more on their words and their body language! However, he judges people based on their manners! The irony is that the coach is himself a “wolf”. (chapter 7) He is beating his star, yelling, insulting him, he doesn’t allow him to complain or protest (chapter 31), he never says thank you (chapter 37) or “please”. (chapter 37) I doubt that he has ever apologized to him. He is only nice and well-mannered towards his celebrity, when the latter fulfils his expectations. (chapter 5) (chapter 15) Hence I deduce that Park Namwook will have to learn through bad experiences that the champion is a poor reflection of himself. He spoils the fighters (chapter 26), then he scolds them (chapter 36), when he is under stress. Why did he not protect the members from the champion’s bad mood? (chapter 36) It is because he thought that he couldn’t change the situation. That way, he was avoiding trouble as well. He was clearly a drawing a line: you and me! (chapter 36) There is no We at the gym in the end.

3. Stop listening to people

What caught my attention is that during episode 37, Kim Dan always listened to others, in particular Park Namwook (chapter 37) and Oh Daehyun. Thus he didn’t object to Oh Daehyun’s suggestion to have a late snack party. (chapter 37) (chapter 37) Therefore it is not surprising that he followed again his advices. (chapter 37) Kim Dan is learning through the hard way to develop critical thinking, his so-called third eye. Why shouldn’t people listen to others?

It is because people tell others what to do, what to think, what you do right or wrong. How to be better, live your life, and further your career. This explicates why Kim Dan’s career is not improving right now. At the same time, observe that the suggestions made by Oh Daehyun were concerning food. The nice fighter will learn through the physical therapist the significance of a good and proper meals. Just because he had not been eating properly, Kim Dan shouldn’t just eat anything! And this brings me to the following observations. The physical therapist had started starving himself due to the champion’s heavy diet! But this is not what Joo Jaekyung desired from him.

4. The secret behind the jinx

Now, it is time to focus on the purpose of the plot. First, they planned to drug Joo Jaekyung. (chapter 37) Striking is that the criminal faked sympathy, when he gave the beverage to the doctor. Through his mistake, the physical therapist should realize that there is nothing free in this world (“extra nutrition shake”). Secondly, concerns and sympathy can be fake. This should help him to recognize the divergence between cognitive sympathy and empathy too. Above, I had explained that this drug should be an aphrodisiac. This interpretation is based on the physical reactions of the main lead: he is trembling, blushing, (chapter 37), moaning and feeling hot. (chapter 37) Therefore I made some research about the drug. This is what I found: Dextroamphetamine. [Note: I am no doctor]

Observe that this medicine is prescribed for sleeping disorder. (chapter 29) This was brought up in connection to the drug test. Therefore I deduce that the schemers are quite close to Joo Jaekyung. First, they are aware of his insomnia, but more importantly they know about his sex habits, his jinx! They had two reasons to give him such a drug. First, under the influence of the aphrodisiac, the champion could become even more rough than usually, a new version of this scene (chapter 13). Moreover, remember that his jinx is based on the following idea: he needs to feel satisfied! (chapter 2) It is all about a good fuck. But under the influence of the aphrodisiac, the champion would never get this feeling. Therefore I conclude that the drink was there to destabilize the champion mentally. Secondly, remember that the athlete is famous to fuck, until his partners pass out. (chapter 33) Hence under the influence of the drug, he could call for a second partner, like he did in episode 2. (chapter 2) In other words, he would hire a prostitute. Anyway, their plan is to cause a new scandal. The moment he ingurgitates the nutrition shake, he will get tested positive.

Therefore all his past achievements would be questioned. And imagine that it is combined to a sex scandal: prostitution and sexual assaults, for he was too rough. Not only he would lose his title, but he would lose his name and integrity. He would become a criminal! That’s the reason why the nutrition shake contains a drug which has aphrodisiac side effects. And because the schemers knew about the jinx, I can only deduce that one of the masterminds is the green-haired man as well. (chapter 2) Notice that till this night, Kim Dan believed in the existence of Joo Jaekyung’s jinx. (chapter 37) However, the drugged beverage is the evidence that the champion is not jinxed, he is the victim and target of criminals. He will start questioning the origins of this belief. Moreover, the physical therapist noticed that the unknown man spoke Korean. (chapter 37) But he should have spoken in English like in Busan. Therefore, I come to the conclusion that Kim Dan will learn the following lessons. Don’t swallow drinks from strangers and he should ensure that he keeps an eye on the champion’s food (chapter 37) and beverage. Be more suspicious of people, don’t trust people so easily. The other conclusion I made is that this pink beverage will work like a love potion. (chapter 37) I am hoping that through this life lesson, the doctor will realize that he is the champion’s lucky charm! Thanks to him, he will be able to fight and defeat the other legend! The plot will fail, and if there is a scandal, then Joo Jaekyung won’t be affected. How am I so sure about the emperor’s victory? Simply because the Webtoonist made many allusions to episode 1!

Chapter 1Chapter 37
He is drinking an energy drink instead of eating properly. He is acting the same way.
He is feeling insecure and nervous, a sign of his low self-esteem IT was, as if he wanted run away, like in episode 1.
An apology : Fear in front of Joo Jaekyung This time, he is not lowering himself. He is no longer fearing the athlete. You can see the transformation. He really trusts the fighter.
The loan sharks at the door For me, it is one of Heo Manwook’s minions. Kim Dan can not recognize him, for the loan shark had many thugs. I am suspecting the one wearing a black suit, for he had his hands in the pants. Moreover, the hand and chin from Heo Namwook is different.
Eating ramen now, he is no longer eating alone.
The doctor’s tears Here he had no reason to cry.
Running away: This time, he was evicted, but the way he left the room, showed that he was fleeing the scene.
: looking at Joo Jaekyung’s body Like mentioned above, he is also starring at the champion’s body. The difference is that he is worried. He feels pity and sympathy, hence he doesn’t act like a good physical therapist contrary to episode 1, where Joo Jaekyung gave him a compliment.

And what could the manhwaphiles see in episode 1? The physical therapist is the champion’s reward. He is his yeouiju. Like I wrote before, the pink drink is a blessing in disguise. Thus this (chapter 37) hand should be considered as a helping hand, though the intention was the opposite. Yes, the night before the match will become a total new experience for the champion and the doctor. Don’t forget that this episode was focused on empathy and sympathy… so I am expecting a huge change in the athlete’s behavior, more precisely the return of the athlete’s affectionate empathy. What will he do then? One thing is sure. He will have to make a tough decision, when he sees the physical therapist’s condition: (chapter 13) Calling for an ambulance? Bringing his doctor to the hospital? Calling his hyung? Or something else? As you can imagine, I am opting for the “something else”. 😉 And because Kim Dan was seen affected by Potato and Oh Daehyun (chapter 37), there is no ambiguity that this incident will bring them closer to the couple. How so? It is because Joo Jaekyung will be forced to admit his homosexuality to them. I am suspecting that they will cover up for him! (chapter 25) A new version of this scene. In other words, I am sensing the start of “WE” and as such family. They are now bound by secrecy.

Feel free to comment. If you have any suggestion for topics or manhwas, feel free to ask. If you enjoyed reading it, retweet it or push the button like. My Reddit-Instagram-Tumblr-Twitter account is: @bebebisous33. Thanks for reading and for the support, particularly, I would like to thank all the new followers and people recommending my blog.

Jinx: Agent Blue 🔵💙  – part 2

In this second part, I would like to present a new theory concerning the persons organizing the mismatched fight. Only after releasing the first part, it dawned on me that other people could be involved. In other words, my idea is that there exists other Agent Blues. Like the chemical weapon used during Vietnam War, the Agent Blues are corrupting the MMA world. My previous hypothesis was that MFC match manager, the agent from Entertainment agency and the lawyer were involved in the conspiracy. And now, you are probably wondering about the identity of the other persons.

1. The identity of the 4th Agent Blue

First, this mysterious schemer must resent Joo Jaekyung the most, for the latter is pushed to slim down within one month. (Chapter 36) Striking is that the manager described the match as an urgency. Why should the fight take place a month later, when it is a non-title match? (Chapter 36) Besides, why should it take place in the US? The purpose is to weaken him… Yes, the match was organized to put him in disadvantage. Far away from home, he would have less supporters. (Chapter 15) Moreover, he is fighting an experienced MMA fighter. And with the weight cutting, his performance could be affected. So now, it is time to reveal his identity: (Chapter 14) Yes, Randy Booker! Let’s not forget that this fighter had tried to enter the higher weight category (Chapter 13) But he failed terribly. Note that the athlete is put in the same situation than the butcher (same weight, travelling). He has to fight in a foreign country. Secondly, he mocked the athlete for his age. (Chapter 14) He had become a champion, because he had not met any real opponent so far. He had fought only against younger rivals. And this coincides with Dominic Hill’s profile: an older MMA fighter. (Chapter 36) Thus I am wondering if Randy Booker doesn’t come from the same gym. The blond haired guy is called a butcher, and I would like to point out that the future competitor of Joo Jaekyung has two cuts on his face, a sign that he must have a similar attitude than Randy Booker. If this is true, then the involvement of the agent would get exposed, for he didn’t reveal this information. How did the American boxer look like at the end of the fight in Busan? (Chapter 15) He had an injury above the eye. And this observation brings me to the following remark. Why did the blond-grey haired sportsman call the athlete a baby? (Chapter 14) It is because he had a baby-face! His fights left no trace on his pretty visage! Even certain manhwaphiles complained that such fighters usually have scars on their face. And the moment I noticed the scars on Dominic Hill’s eyebrow and cheek (chapter 36), it reinforces my prediction that Joo Jaekyung could have cuts on his face, which were symbolized by the broken sandbag (chapter 34) and the doctor’s cut (chapter 36). Under this perspective, the punches from Kim Dan (Chapter 7: elbow) (chapter 26) were there to train Joo Jaekyung to get accustomed to be punched. Despite his cuts, he shouldn’t lose focus or become scared. He should keep fighting. But now let’s return our attention to my initial theory: the involvement of Randy Booker. Why would he do that? It is not just out of revenge.

Randy Booker has an interest to destroy Joo Jaekyung. Once he loses this fight, his title will be questioned. Finally, the moment the protagonist is no longer called the emperor, Randy Booker’s chances to get the crown increase. Besides, (chapter 14) I would like to outline that Randy Booker accused the athlete of being a coward. For me, his words reflect his own mentality. He is a coward himself, who would use tricks to achieve his goal. He would use his colleague to get rid of an opponent. As for Dominic Hill, the latter would get the opportunity to maintain his reputation. Despite his age, he can still fight. The manipulative attitude from Randy Booker was perceptible, when he faced the champion for the first time. He provoked his opponent in order to enter his mind so that the latter would be destabilized. Under this new perspective, it becomes comprehensible why the shoulder injury was not mentioned with the incident in Busan. It is because Randy Booker would appear as a big loser. He got defeated, though the champion was injured. As you can see, neither MFC nor the American boxer had an interest to expose this incident. Thus they needed to find a scapegoat: the hospital. On the other hand, Park Namwook and the coach could have used the fight as an evidence to prove the article wrong! That’s why the schemers had to propose a fight very quickly in order to divert attention from Randy Booker. Because if this was exposed, the blond-grey haired fighter would become a laughing stock and this would mean the end of his career. Finally, such a theory would corroborate my other hypothesis: the involvement of the MFC Match manager. Yet, someone has to sponsor such an event. I doubt that MFC would finance such a match, for it is a non-title match. Hence I came to the following conclusion that there exists a 5th Agent Blue.

2. The identity of the 5th Agent Blue

Since neither Randy. Booker nor the agent nor the lawyer are aware of the existence of Kim Dan, I assume that this person was determined to target the two main leads. First, this puppet master has to know that Kim Dan has Joo Jaekyung as patient, like the article implied it with the expression “Anonymous source”. (Chapter 35) Secondly, this person must have resented Joo Jaekyung so much that this schemer wanted him to lose his title for good. It was to “ruin” him. Hence, like Randy Booker, he must have imagined that the weight cutting would weaken his body and mind. This means that he must have come to fear Joo Jaekyung’s strength. And now, it is time to reveal the identity of this mysterious sponsor. . (chapter 11) Yes, it is Heo Namwoook. And note that he is also connected to blue!

I have to admit that I came to develop this theory, the moment I recalled this scene: (Chapter 17) Joo Jaekyung made a reference to the hospital in front of the loan shark. So he knew that Kim Dan had Joo Jaekyung as patient. Besides, there is no doubt that the moneylender is aware of the main lead’s formation. He is a physical therapist. But since the champion wanted his sex partner to accompany him to his med check, he gave the impression that the physical therapist was working at the hospital. Moreover, note that the champion is never mentioned as the owner of Team Black in the article. (Chapter 35) I would even add that the gym Team Black is not promoted properly. (chapter 13) The name of the gym is not visible in the poster. This promotion explains why the fans are screaming only Joo Jaekyung (chapter 15) and the boards are only referring to him. Note that (chapter 30) the name Team Black isn’t brought up in the covers either. It is only about Joo Jaekyung. This explicates why the loan shark’s minion didn’t connect Team Black to the protagonist. (Chapter 16) As for the loan shark, he associated it with a club providing escorts. (Chapter 16) Team Black only appears on the jacket (chapter 36) So the moment you imagine that Heo Namwook is behind the event, it makes sense why Dominic Hill was selected. First, he saw how the athlete could (Chapter 17) overthrow someone weighting heavier than himself. He was clear-minded and far from being emotional, when he fought Heo Namwook and his minions. (Chapter 17) But with the scandal and the weight cutting, it is different. The “enemy” is messing not only with his body, but also with his mind. If my theory is true, then the loan shark would be actually acting as a fight promoter:

One might object that Heo Manwook is just a loan shark, therefore it is impossible for him to have connections in the United States of America. But don’t forget that this man is connected to pro wrestling. First, one of his minions was a wrestler. (Chapter 17) Secondly, Heo Namwook called MMA as fake, for he thought that it was like wrestling. (Chapter 17) Since Park Namwook is a former wrestler, I can only deduce that Heo Manwook has a common past with the champion’s coach. He was also a wrestler. I would even say, the new Agent Blue is his negative version. But if he had such a profession in the past, how could he have connections in America?

It’s because USA is the country where professional wrestling is very popular. He must have gone there in the past. Thus he had the opportunity to create connections and he was trained to organize events too. And since Heo Manwook was constantly referring to “fake” and “real” during their battle (chapter 17) (chapter 17), I can only imagine that the former loan shark created this event for one reason: Joo JAekyung should get destroyed! It looks like a show, but the fight will be real. Dominic Hill has been tasked to kill the champion figuratively. (Chapter 36) This match should end the athlete’s career. He gets so wounded that he can never recover from this. Since Heo Manwook has the means (skills, connections and money which he received from the main lead himself), it is very likely that he is involved. He could have simply contacted the MFC Match manager. Moreover, by organizing the event there, none of the main leads would suspect his involvement.

2. Team Black and the jackets

So if these theories are true, then it exposes Park Namwook as a bad manager! It exposes his naivety despite his age and experiences. He is unable to detect tricks. Then he claims that Team Black is his gym (chapter 22), but why is the name Team Black not known by the public? It is because the coach is passive. First, he is relying on Joo Jaekyung’s popularity and publicity. In fact, he delegated this task to this agent!! (Chapter 36) He truly believes what he had been told: (chapter 30) This explicates why the main lead’s schedule had been so full in the end. (Chapter 17) He is a hot commodity, because his agent at the entertainment agency is “promoting” him. He is making him work, because the more schedules he gets, the more the agent gets paid. However, it is not the manager’s task to promote Team Black!! This explicates why the other fighters are not famous! In other words, the loan shark is exposing Park Namwook’s lazy nature. Under this new perspective, it becomes comprehensible why the coach spoke about free PR. (Chapter 30) It is because the coach and manager with the glasses has nothing to do! However, even in this panel, Namwook never realized that Choi Heesung was not promoting Team Black, but Joo Jaekyung! Why did Potato, Oh Daehyun or the others join the gym in the end? It is because of the protagonist’s fame and talent!! In other words, right now, Joo Jaekyung is Team Black! Should he get wounded, the gym is bound to vanish. (Chapter 9) Interesting is that the man with the red t-shirt only describes himself as the coach of Team Black. So who is the manager of Team Black? And this brings me to the following observation. Why does the coach consider Team Black as his gym? It is because he is managing the bank account of Team Black. Hence we see him ordering new jackets (chapter 36) or bringing food. (Chapter 26) Yes, he occupies a similar function than Heo Namwook in the end. The coach is like a book keeper. Yet, there exists a huge difference between them. First, the athlete is separating his private account from Team Black’s contrary to the moneylender. (Chapter 16) But Park Namwook has been just relying on Joo Jaekyung to promote the gym. Contrary to the creditor, he sent his athlete first, while the other would first send his minions. (Chapter 5) One might say that he promoted Team Black through the clothes. (Chapter 15) But the problem is that the name Team Black was not visible here. (Chapter 14) Furthermore, in episode 23, the fighters left the gym without wearing any uniform!! (Chapter 23) They all had different clothes, a sign that Namwook had been neglecting them. As you can see, the new clothes made me realize that the coach hadn’t been promoting Team Black properly, until Kim Dan joined the team. And it started with this: (chapter 9) The name was written on the left side. However, it is not visible, as soon as Kim Dan wears a jacket. (Chapter 14) It resembles too much to scrubs from a hospital. Therefore the schemers thought that he was working at the hospital. Because the physical therapist had no ID and his uniform was different (chapter 15), Joo Jaekyung lent him the black jacket. However, the logo of Team Black was the snake and not the name!! It was MFC!! Thus the guard asked him if he was staff!! It was, as if he he belonged to MFC! 😂 This made me laugh, because it shows how bad Park Namwook is for promoting Team Black! First, only the coach Jeong Yosep, Joo Jaekyung and Park Namwook had similar tee-shirts. (Chapter 14) Secondly, their clothes were similar to the ones created for the staff belonging to MFC. (Chapter 14) The man on the left side is not part of Team Black, for he is wearing an ID, whereas the fighter next to the coach is a member of the gym, though he is not wearing any black clothes. The choice for the clothes were truly bad.

And now, take a look at this! (Chapter 36) First, the name Team Black is visible on the side, while MFC vanished. (Chapter 36) Striking is that on the back of the jacket, the name of the owner is not written! The manhwaphiles can’t read Joo Jaekyung! So how could Park Namwook know that this was the champion’s cloth? (Chapter 36) It is because of the number! Joo Jaekyung is number 3! And who are number 1 and 2? Naturally the hyungs!! Park Namwook and Jeong Yosep! This means that through the number, he is downgrading the protagonist. (Chapter 36) At the same time, this signifies that slowly, he is giving the other fighters more attention. The face of Team Black is changing. It is no longer reduced to Joo Jaekyung. This signifies that the dragon is gradually sharing his burden to others. On the other hand, such a jacket exposes the coach’s arrogance. (Chapter 36) It was, as if they were taking over the champion’s company. Yet, the latter is the real owner. On the other hand, Park Namwook’s decision represents a blessing. How so? (Chapter 36) It is because Kim Dan has become the owner of this jacket. He is now Number 3 of Team Black! He is also a hyung! Hence his position within the gym has changed. He belongs to the top and can make decisions! On the other hand, since the jacket is too big, people will think that the one who gave the order for the jackets was pretty bad. How could he give an oversized jacket to number 3? Thus it dawned on me that this could be misinterpreted: Kim Dan is somehow “bullied”, mocked for his small size by Park Namwook. Or they are too poor to offer him the correct jacket 😂 To conclude, the coach is about to receive his karma. If his jacket has number 1, people will question his decisions about the fight!! How could he push his athlete to accept the fight? Why did he not speak up before, if he was number one and as such if he was the owner of the gym? Thanks to this jacket, the doctor has become an official member of Team Black. He is no longer the private physical therapist for Joo Jaekyung. (Chapter 7) He is the physical therapist of Team Black de facto, especially if he is seen in company of other members.

And this brings me to the following observation. Why didn’t Park Namwook ask Joo Jaekyung to go to the fighters’ event in episode 23? (Chapter 23) One might say that he had another appointment before. However, I believe that he had many reasons to separate the athlete from the rest of the staff. That way, Park Namwook can appear as the owner of Team Black. He is the coach and manager of the other fighters. However, if he had gone there, the champion’s fame would have benefited to the other fighters. This shows that the manager from the entertainment agency represents a huge burden to Team Black. Neither Park Namwook nor the agent had an interest to bring the members closer to the athlete. On the other hand, I am suspecting that this “encounter” was not random. (Chapter 23) Potato has already planned as the champion’s successor. To conclude, this match in the USA should expose the manager’s selfishness and the corruption. But since Kim Dan has now such a jacket, I am expecting that with his magic touch (chapter 36) he will get the attention from the MMA world: reporters, fighters and MFC manager. Something that the schemers didn’t expect… As a conclusion, in the next chapter, pay attention to the jackets and the numbers. There were all XXL, except the one for Potato. (chapter 36) But the question is if their jackets have numbers on the back. For me, it becomes clear that Joo Jaekyung will become a man in a suit. (Chapter 32) He will become a real MMA manager promoting his own company and his fighters.

Feel free to comment. If you have any suggestion for topics or manhwas, feel free to ask. If you enjoyed reading it, retweet it or push the button like. My Reddit-Instagram-Tumblr-Twitter account is: @bebebisous33. Thanks for reading and for the support, particularly, I would like to thank all the new followers and people recommending my blog.