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If you pay attention to the title, you might have noticed the joker, diamond and the heart as emojis. This signifies that I will examine this panel once again. (chapter 27)
The 3 cards and its significance
Yes, a thought occurred to me, while I was writing the last analysis about this scene. In Daily Jinx Advent Insight 7, I interpreted that Joo Jaekyung had been in reality on the verge of winning the game, but due to the Joker, a wild card, he thought, he had already lost. Then I had added that the Joker card could be perceived as a metaphor for Kim Dan. The champion had lost his last game, for he didn’t utilize his PT properly. He mistrusted him, therefore he didn’t talk with him about his meeting with director Choi Gilseok. In addition, he did nothing to protect him from the public eyes. He never realized that this man was the synonym for secrecy and information. The protagonist knows everything about the athlete’s health and injuries (not just his bad joints, but also his insomnia). Therefore he should have been guarded and protected, making sure that nothing would be leaked. However, I believe that the Joker could represent another character from Jinx. The moment I saw these cards (Joker, 3 Diamond, 3 Heart) as a symbol for a character, I suddenly realized that both main leads were defeated by their enemies, because both didn’t use their cards properly.
The other person behind the Joker
And now, you might be wondering about the identity of the other Joker. The fact that Joo Jaekyung is holding the Joker in his hand implies that he has this person on his side. He is close to him. In my eyes, it is the mysterious doctor from chapter 13. According to me, it is Cheolmin hyung. The fact that he called him, when the celebrity desired to avoid the headlines with a scandal, is a sign that he is trusting this man. (chapter 13) He is definitely sure that this man won’t betray him. He is not judging him for his job or “sexual preferences”. He embodies fairness, tolerance and impartiality. And since in his cellphone, Doctor Cheolmin is registered under the name Cheolmin hyung, it exposes his closeness with this cute doctor. He is like a “brother”. (chapter 13) The conversation between these two characters in episode 13 shows that Cheolmin is not only a reliable person, but also a good friend. He assisted the star in a time of needs without expecting anything in return. There was no exchange of favors, hence Mingwa showed us his hand, when he said his goodbye. (chapter 13) This gesture with the hand implied not only that he was just looking forward to meeting him again, but also generosity. And if there was a request from Cheolmin, it was just about an information: (chapter 13) It had nothing to do with money and promoting his hospital.
As soon as I came to associate the Joker with Cheolmin Hyung, Joo Jaekyung’s only true friend, I suddenly realized why this mysterious doctor no longer showed up in season 1. He was treated like the Joker in episode 27. He was not used properly, and this in two occasions. (chapter 33) According to me, the man was calling his friend Cheolmin, because he truly believed that the actor had been hurt. The fact that he went to the rooftop in order to call the person is indicating that he desires to hide his contact from Park Namwook and Jeong Yosep. In other words, he was seeking secrecy, exactly like the actor. As you can see, the dragon and the gumiho had a similar attitude. They thought that the rooftop was the perfect place to hide a secret. So by calling Cheolmin who is working at a hospital, the MMA fighter was making sure that there would be no scandal. However, when he called him, he discovered the truth. Choi Heesung had faked his injury. Therefore how could he use his connection with Cheolmin, when there was no emergency? In his eyes, he would have abused his busy friend’s generosity. That’s the reason why the star chose not to intervene. If he had revealed the truth and as such accused the actor of deception, he would have no one by his side to prove the truth. It was one man against two. Secondly, by revealing his presence on the rooftop, he would have been forced to mention his close friend: Cheolmin hyung. His connection with the athlete would have raised some question. And because he didn’t utilize the Joker in that situation, he became a victim of a trick. It is important, because the champion’s decision to hide Cheolmin’s existence from Jeong Yosep and Park Namwook is a sign that deep down, he is not trusting his two other hyungs. In my eyes, it is related to his homosexuality. But there could be other reasons as well, for example he met this doctor, before he became a celebrity.
As for the second occasion, it took place at the restaurant. (chapter 33) For me, the doctor was the person Joo Jaekyung was talking to. Interesting is that contrary to episode 33, he didn’t leave the inn in order to talk to his acquaintance. In fact, he did it in front of the door. By acting that way, he didn’t attract the attention from the members. No one questioned the celebrity why he was talking on the phone for quite some time. They just imagined that it was work-related due to the selfie with a stan. (chapter 43) They didn’t even bother to wait for him to arrive before drinking and eating, though the man was the birthday child. He was actually the guest of honor. (chapter 43) This exposes violation of social norms and even the disrespect towards Joo Jaekyung. He is just seen as a cash cow, hence there was no thank you from them or even a short invitation for him, like Park Namwook and Kim Changmin had done it in episode 9. (chapter 9) (chapter 9) In fact, Joo Jaekyung was totally neglected at the restaurant, no one even paid attention to his actions. Under this light, I recognized why Mingwa created this incident: (chapter 43) It was not just to bring the two main leads closer, but also to expose the wrongdoers. If they had waited for him, the champion wouldn’t have drunk some soju from the glass of water, for Kim Dan couldn’t have used his glass. (chapter 43) That’s why the manager got red, a sign of embarrassment. He realized that they should have all waited for the birthday child. Moreover, don’t forget that the star was even paying the bill. And now, you are wondering if I didn’t diverge from my original topic, the Joker and Cheolmin hyung. No, as this new interpretation helped me to understand why Joo Jaekyung talked to his hyung in front of others. He already sensed that no one was observing him or waiting for him. (chapter 43) Moreover, it is possible that the mysterious caller desired to congratulate for his birthday or even to thank for his donation. Let’s not forget that just before his real birthday, the celebrity organized a charity event, and it could be related to Cheolmin’s work place. (chapter 41) Because I detected ingratitude, selfishness and rudeness from Team Black, I couldn’t help myself thinking that the other person must have behaved differently, which put the young man in a good mood. Therefore he overlooked the incident with the switch of glass: (chapter 13) Here we have a threat from the champion to which Cheolmin replied with a joke. Here, we have the same situation: a threat, but people got scared (chapter 43) before Park Namwook tried to relativize the incident. (chapter 43) Thus it dawned on me why Cheolmin was not introduced to Kim Dan in season 1. He didn’t belong to Joo Jaekyung’s inner circle, his only true friend. He didn’t trust him enough to introduce him to this peculiar doctor. And now let me ask you this? What is a joker?
The Joker has held various roles throughout history, rooted in society’s need for humor, critique, and balance. Historically, the Joker or court jester was a figure in royal courts who entertained through wit, music, or physical comedy. Yet, their symbolic role extended beyond entertainment; they served as a unique voice of truth, able to mock power and question authority without punishment. Their ability to navigate sensitive topics under the guise of humor made them essential figures for revealing societal flaws.
Symbolically, the Joker represents duality: humor and tragedy, order and chaos. It reflects society’s hidden truths and contradictions, often acting as a mirror to human folly. In a broader sense, the Joker embodies freedom and the subversion of norms, often challenging rigid structures or oppressive systems. This duality persists in modern interpretations, where the Joker is both a symbol of liberation and an agent of chaos, reflecting society’s shifting values and inner struggles. In other words, he rejects herd mentality and hypocrisy. He embodies seriousness, but also fun and laughs. And that’s exactly how Cheolmin appeared in chapter 13. He is a non-conformist, he treats his job seriously, but if he sees something wrong, he has no problem to voice his opinion and criticize the person: (chapter 13). Hence I believe that the other reason why our cute PT didn’t meet Cheolmin in season 1 is that he was not ready to interact with him. Kim Dan needed to mature, to free himself from social norms in order to accept such a man as a “role model”. That’s the reason why I am expecting the return from this mysterious doctor in season 2. In my opinion, he will play a central role in dethroning the king Park Namwook at Team Black, but also in helping Kim Dan to obtain justice. Keep in mind that according to me, the protagonist was a victim of many crimes committed by doctors. (The hospital director, Kim Miseon, MFC doctors)
The 3 Diamond and 3 heart
Since the Joker represents the only true friend from the Emperor, I came to the following deduction. Because Kim Dan is holding a diamond and a heart card, this means that he has two persons on his side as well. In other words, these 3 diamond and 3 heart represent the physical therapist’s friends. Anyone will immediately recognize the identity of his true friends: Choi Heesung as the diamond (due to his wealth and brillance) and Yoon-Gu as the heart. Let’s not forget that the actor was willing to intervene, if the PT needed help to “tame” the Emperor. (chapter 35) He offered his assistance, but at no moment the main lead thought of even asking for his help. (chapter 46) If he had voiced his struggle to Heesung, the latter would have understood him and “talked” some sense to the dragon. And it is the same for Potato. In the locker room, when Kim Dan was criticized for his sloppiness, (chapter 50) he didn’t ask from Potato to vouch for him. He could have reached to him, requesting from him to testify in his favor. Yes, I believe that not only the actor and the maknae are to blame for their passivity, the physical therapist is also responsible for his own suffering. He is not seeing that he has already gained two friends. However, he didn’t treat them properly. No wonder why Kim Dan ended up alone at the end of season 1. At no moment, he confided to Potato or other members about his struggles, he kept everything to himself which is similar to his soulmate.
But why does the protagonist behave like this? One might reply that he has never had any friend before. Therefore he doesn’t know how to have friends. However, I feel that there exists a deeper cause. In my eyes, it is related to his low self-esteem mixed with pride. Yes, deep down, Kim Dan feels some shame due to his social background and familial situation. This explicates why he only mentioned his grandmother once (chapter 30). Here, I am excluding the scene with his drunkenness. Nevertheless, from his words, Heesung couldn’t detect that he was raised by a single grandmother. He already had a hard time to “accept” the champion’s benevolence (chapter 18) He was brainwashed to rely only on himself. Why? It is related to his halmeoni and his childhood. The elderly woman gave the impression that she raised him without any help. She did everything on her own which is only partially true. The young boy was forced very early on to help her. (chapter 5) (chapter 47) Hence he was taught cooking. In addition, we can already envision that when he was a high school student, he had to take a part-time job. She definitely minimized his assistance, creating a debt towards her.
Observe that though he treated the fighters (chapter 7) and (chapter 23), he just acted as their “PT” and nothing more. In other words, he acted, as if they only had a professional relationship. This explicates why Kim Dan never talked about himself, in other words he never shared any information with them. However, I doubt that he just considered them as his “patients”. He was happy to give his assistance. For me, the fact that he never lowered his guard is a sign of his low-esteem. So they had a strictly professional relationship, except with Potato. (chapter 26) However, even here, Kim Dan never shared his cellphone number with the maknae. If Potato had it, he would have tried to contact him immediately. To conclude, though I criticized Yoon-Gu and Heesung for their indifference and neglect, I feel that Kim Dan is partially responsible for this too. He didn’t take the first step to improve their relationship. Friendship is a two-way Street!
To conclude, the 3 diamond and 3 heart (chapter 27) represents the PT’s friends. The moment he acknowledges that he has these two assets, he should recognize that he is not “poor”. He needs to realize that he is on his own, because he chose to. He simply ignored “people” around him.
On the other hand, it is important to relativize this aspect as well, for Shin Okja played a huge role in this mind-set. The best evidence is that the woman doesn’t have any friend. (chapter 7) She needs to pay a nurse to give her some company. Therefore she is forced to rely on her grandson. Then she doesn’t pay any attention to her grandson’s needs and circumstances, for she is only focused on her own suffering and “unhappiness” chasing after an illusion. (chapter 53) Because she has no one by her side except Kim Dan, she has no problem to move to a different place where she doesn’t know anyone. Her grandchild is her “home”. This move reminded me a lot to a uprooting. It was, as though the male lead was not allowed to settle for good. Don’t forget that her deteriorated home let transpire that she didn’t consider this place as her true home. It was just a stopping-place. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why Kim Dan could never get any friend. Through the cards, I could find more evidences about my past interpretation. The halmeoni is responsible for the protagonist’s self-blame, lack of confidence, suffering and isolation.
But in order to recognize the existence of true friends in his life, Kim Dan needs to find a good role model. And that would Joo Jaekyung with his hidden Joker Cheolmin.
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.
Please support the authors by reading Manhwas on the official websites. This is where you can read the Manhwa: Jinx But be aware that the Manhwa is a mature Yaoi, which means, it is about homosexuality with explicit scenes. Here is the link of the table of contents about Jinx. Here is the link where you can find the table of contents of analyzed Manhwas. Here are the links, if you are interested in the first work from Mingwa, BJ Alex, and the 2 previous essays aboutDaily Jinx Advent Insight 12 andDaily Jinx Advent Insight 13
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The topic of this essay is coach Jeong Yosep. It came to my mind that I had a little neglected this side character, though in a previous essay, I predicted that he could become a couple with Cheolmin. In the following panel (chapter 9), we discover the origin for Yoon-Gu’s nickname, Potato. The coach and sparring partner from Joo Jaekyung is the one behind it. However, this connection reveals a lot about the divorced man. He is actually a soft and tender man. Yes, in my opinion, Yosep’s nickname should be Potato.
Yosep, the real Potato
Is it a coincidence that this vegetable, when connected to a man, often symbolizes simplicity, resilience, and humility? Another important detail caught my attention in episode 9. He bowed to Kim Dan, when he was introduced: (chapter 9) This gesture oozes humility and respect. This contrasts so much to Park Namwook’s behavior during their first meeting: no bowing and no shaking hands. (chapter 1)
Potatoes, as staple foods, represent sustenance and practicality, embodying someone who is grounded, dependable, and essential in their environment. In literature or culture, a man compared to a potato might be seen as unpretentious, nourishing in spirit, or deeply rooted in their values and traditions. At the same time, the potato can represent love. This stems from its association with sustenance and nurturing qualities. Potatoes are hearty, versatile, and grow underground, symbolizing grounded-ness and resilience. Gifting potatoes can convey love, as they represent providing for someone’s well-being. The healing aspect comes from their nourishing properties, historically sustaining populations through hardship. This dual symbolism ties potatoes to the ideas of enduring care, connection, and renewal in relationships or life challenges. Jinx-philes could detect his caring nature right from the start: (chapter 1) He came right away, whereas the manager was busy with his phone-call and never asked later about the incident.
To conclude, potatoes are linked to earthy, “everyman” qualities—hardy, adaptable, and silently enduring through life’s challenges. This description fits the coach perfectly. Only in chapter 5, he exposed the circumstances of his divorce: (chapter 5) At no moment, he claims the champion as his boy or tries to attract attention from people for being the Emperor’s sparring partner. Thus each time the protagonist wins, he doesn’t appear in the ring contrary to Park Namwook. (chapter 5) (chapter 40) Yes, at no moment Jinx-philes can detect his presence. The bearded man embodies humbleness. As you can observe, this man doesn’t mind standing in the champion’s shadow. He already knows that fame and success are no guarantee for happiness, as he lost his wife. In fact, he knows that success means rather loneliness. This remark brings me back to his confession in the office. (chapter 5) If you read my previous analysis, you are aware of the strong connection between the cellphone and vanishing. So why did the ex-wife act like that? I suppose that Jeong Yosep led a similar life than the Emperor. He was racing against time, and was only in touch with his family through the phone. Thus I can imagine that one day, the former champion must have returned home and found his house empty, an older version of this scene: (chapter 53) So when he tried to call her, she blocked his calls. One of the causes for their failed marriage is that they had stopped talking to each other. [As for the other reason, I will expose it below] That’s the other reason why I developed the theory that the coach Yosep was behind this phone call. (chapter 19) He definitely knew about his relationship with Kim Dan, as he was the only one who was not surprised by this revelation. (chapter 22) This observation is relevant, for it indicates that the former champion must have listened to his manager as well. He never questioned the responsibility of his former coach or manager or organization. I am suspecting that he might have already been working with Park Namwook in the past, which would explain their closeness. For his divorce, Jeong Yosep chose to take the whole blame. Hence he kept his failure to himself. However, observe the manager’s attitude concerning this revelation. (chapter 5) He laughed, which indicates a lack of empathy. And if the man was working for Yosep before, then it exposes his neglect, ignorance and indifference. Secondly, he called the former champion “boy”, a sign that the manager feels superior to him. One might reply that the manager is just one year older than Yosep. For me, the scene exposes the true nature of their relationship. Park Namwook has the upper hand. Hence he can claim Joo Jaekyung as his boy (chapter 40) Interesting is that the idiom “boy” has historically been used to mean “servant” or “attendant” in certain contexts, particularly in colonial or hierarchical settings. For instance, it was often used during the colonial era to refer to male domestic workers, typically in a demeaning or racially charged manner. No wonder why though Yosep is the sparring partner of the Emperor, (chapter 37) he acts more like a servant. In my eyes, the last image displays the manager’s three “boys”: Yosep, Kim Dan and Joo Jaeykung. They are the former wrestler’s servants, while he can stand on the sideline and watch as a superior and guardian. (chapter 37)
Therefore such a remark “my boy” (chapter 5) is exposing the man’s arrogance and delusion. With these words, he is actually denying the hard work from Jeong Yosep and the Emperor himself. That’s how it dawned on me that this man doesn’t embody Teamwork at all. He is trying to steal the spotlight and success from others. On the other hand, the absence of reaction from Yosep shows the sparring partner’s lack of critical thinking. Yes, he is also very passive, just like the champion.
Yosep’s gradual maturity
And now, if you pay attention to Yosep’s evolution, you will notice a gradual transformation. He is getting more and more involved. First, he follows Park Namwook’s lead (chapter 26) (chapter 36). He even agrees to everything the man says and decides. (chapter 36) Yet, I see a turning point in the States. For the first time, he is seen talking on the phone, which indicates a certain responsibility. (chapter 37) However, till this scene, Yosep was treated like a “boy”, which I outlined above. The gradual transition can be perceived if you contrast the two following images (chapter 49) (chapter 40) In the States, he was not visible at all, he would even walk behind Oh Daehyun next to Yoon-Gu. In my opinion, he felt the need to be next to the maknae. However, in South Korea, he is standing right behind the protagonist. Moreover, note how Joo Jaekyung entrusted him with the charity event, another indication that the main lead was trusting more and more his sparring partner: (chapter 41) In addition, in the locker room, he is the one who made the decision to let the Emperor fight against Baek Junmin. (chapter 50) For the first time, he voiced his own opinion, yet his choice lets transpire the great influence from his “hyung” and MFC. His decision was influenced by money. Naturally, the high peak of his action is, when he announces to the main lead that he went to different authorities (chapter 52). However, it is important to recall that putting the whole blame on the manager and coach is not right either. How so? As a former athlete, he has more experiences and he should have realized that he should not just trust people blindly. Yes, I believe that his major flaw is that he is too trusting and doesn’t ponder deeply why his relationship with his wife failed. As you can see, he embodies the opposite notions of Park Namwook: faith in authorities and people. This explicates why in chapter 47, he didn’t say anything in the conference room. (chapter 47) He let his “hyung” and the other “experts” who were never in the ring do the talking. (chapter 47) Why did he let it happen? It is simply because he just views himself as a “sportsman”. The others act with their title (managers, advisors), as if they had more knowledge than the sparring partner from the Emperor. Another mistake from him is that he never looked at his sparring partner’s files. He let Park Namwook take care of this, thinking that he would pay attention to their star’s health and security.
That’s the reason why I believe that Kim Dan’s departure must have saddened him a lot. (chapter 52) Since he lost his wife and as such has no family, it is clear that this former champion views Team Black as a family. Therefore he participated in the surprise party. (chapter 43) Consequently, I come to the following conclusion that the last scheme made him realize his own wrongdoing. He didn’t protect his sparring partner correctly. He failed him. However, like pointed out in a previous Daily Jinx Advent Insight, Yosep was manipulated from his colleague. Therefore the coach didn’t meet Kim Dan in the office and couldn’t talk him out of it. This discovery exposes that one of the protagonist’s problem is that he was following his sparring partner’s lead as well. Because Yosep trusted blindly Namwook, his “pupil” did the same. And this remark leads me to the confrontation in episode 46. The true owner of Team Black warned his both hyungs: (chapter 46) This led the manager to give a task to the coach Jeong. (chapter 46) Why did he delegate it to the former athlete? Simply because that way, he could avoid responsibility. If something wrong happened, then “Potato” would take the blame. The hot potato was passed around. I am using this term on purpose. The reason is that “Potato” embodies harmlessness. And because Yosep comforted the manager and didn’t criticize him for his outburst and slap, it displays that the coach has not questioned the manager’s integrity yet. He is not doubting his trustworthiness. This explains why Joo Jaekyung returned home on his own, though he had an injured shoulder. (chapter 53) So we could say that Jeong Yosep is not entirely free from the negative influence from the manager. However, I have still hope for a true change in this gentle and caring man. How so? (chapter 26) It is because he is wearing a bird on his jacket. And what is the natural enemy of the spider which represents Park Namwook? The bird and the fish. For me, this animal announces his future liberation and transformation. According to me, Cheolmin is associated with fish and water (chapter 13) Interesting is that these two hyungs are linked to a similar color: dark green. This shade embodies hope and nature. However, since they are still living in the city and working for corrupted organisation (hospitals, MFC), they are not true themselves.
Consequently, I have the feeling that the cute doctor could help Yosep to emancipate himself from Park Namwook’s shadow. The latter stands for fun, joy and joke, which stands in opposition to the values MFC is promoting: wealth, fame and money at the cost of the own safety. Interesting is that Yosep’s hobby is knitting which he never showed to others. Knitting often symbolizes motherhood, as it evokes the nurturing and protective act of creating clothing or blankets for loved ones. It can also represent patience, creativity, and connection, as the intricate process of weaving yarn mirrors the effort required to build relationships or maintain traditions. Additionally, in literature and art, knitting can symbolize fate or destiny, as seen in mythological references like the Fates weaving the threads of life. Knitting is also associated with healing and comfort, offering a meditative and restorative activity. That’s the reason why I couldn’t help myself comparing Yosep to an obedient wife. This new connection explains why Yosep remained in the shadow of Park Namwook, whom appears so manly, caring and confident in front of others. In addition, this feminine side from Jeong Yosep made me realize that if Yosep came to marry one of his admirers, the wife might have grasped that she had not married a famous fighter, but a gentle and caring potato. In other words, through the marriage, the wife discovered the huge discrepancy between the image of a “hero and champion” and the true self of Yosep: caring, gentle and humble. She might have had other expectations: more strength, charisma and decisiveness. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why the coach chose to remain in the shadow after ending his career as “champion”. He experienced the negative aspects of “fame”: loneliness, illusion and superficiality. However, he didn’t lose hope. He still remained an optimistic person which explains why he trusts people so easily.
Therefore I come to the following conclusion: Team Black can only become a true family and team, the moment Jeong Yosep, Kim Dan, Joo Jaekyung and all the others are working together, protecting each other. Only that way, the “owner of Team Black” can be dethroned. He can no longer treat others as boys or tools. From that moment, they would be all equal, the opposite of this situation: (chapter 7) Note the absence of Yosep in that panel, a sign that his work and position were minimized. Nevertheless, this was just the consequence of his own decision. He chose to minimize his own value and to rely on his hypocrite partner.
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.
It would be great if you could make some donations/sponsoring: Ko-fi.com/bebebisous33 That way, you can support me with “coffee” so that I have the energy to keep examining Manhwas. Besides, I need to cover up the expenses for this blog.
The starting point of this composition is the following image from chapter 53:
Sacrifice and responsibility
While standing in front of the huge window, Kim Dan makes the following resolution. He is sacrificing himself for the champion’s sake. Interesting is that in the same chapter, Kim Dan displays similar self-sacrificial behavior with his grandmother, prioritizing her well-being above his own despite the personal cost. It looks like he is giving up on his career as PT for her. Yet, deep down, he is doing it because he feels like he has no other option. (chapter 53) Nevertheless, this parallel emphasizes Kim Dan’s inclination to bear burdens and deny his own needs for others’ sake. In this chapter, he seems to be undergoing a form of penance, sacrificing himself repeatedly as if to atone for the perceived guilt of being a burden to those around him. His actions reflect deep-seated feelings of responsibility and self-blame, shaping his interactions with both his grandmother and Joo Jaekyung in his life. While he admits his responsibility for the last disaster with the injury and the tie, he was made feel guilty by his own grandmother. With this statement (chapter 53), she implied that she never got the chance to go to the West Coast because of him. It was, as if he had been a burden in her life (“life got so hectic”). This expression made me realize why Kim Dan came to live like a ghost. He embodies “life” for the grandmother: burden, responsibility, missed chance. It exposes her delusional mind-set. She is definitely chasing after an illusion. On the other hand, I detected that despite her words, she was not able to move her grandson’s heart. The latter was actually unwilling to leave the penthouse. (chapter 53) His decision was strongly connected to filial duty and not to “love”. Moreover, by fulfilling her request, he is one step closer to become free from self-blame and accountability.
Then the moment you realize that “sacrifice and responsibility” stand in the center of the final episode, you will realize that there was someone who was not willing to sacrifice himself: Park Namwook. (chapter 53) Neither for the doctor nor for his “boy”. (chapter 52)
I would even add that at no moment, he even thought like this: “It would be better for both of us if I just leave”. Yet, just before he had blamed the star for everything: (chapter 52) If he is that unsatisfied with the main lead and his personality, why doesn’t he “quit”? The thing is that he can’t leave, because he claimed that he was the owner of the gym. But in that case, he could decide to fire Joo Jaekyung. However, it is impossible either, as he is not the true owner of the gym. In other words, his “departure” would expose the truth. As a conclusion, he is trapped due to his lie. He can do nothing except let others take the burden. His deception represents his livelihood in the end.
Under this light, it becomes comprehensible why he can not think like Kim Dan at all. At the same time, the contrast between these two hyungs displays the true nature of the former national wrestler. He embodies self-preservation, selfishness, greed, cowardice and deception. That’s the reason why he had no problem to replace the protagonist immediately. (chapter 53) The latter would take the fall for the incident, a new version from the drug scheme in the States: (chapter 40) Though he lacked awareness in the States, for he was not present in the interrogation room, he can no longer claim to be oblivious. He knows about Kim Dan’s innocence. But why didn’t he call the physical therapist then?
The view and the doctor’s resignation
But before answering to this question, it is necessary to focus on the timeline. (chapter 53) Notice that before leaving the penthouse, the main lead was holding the resignation in his hand. This means that the young man had not informed Park Namwook yet. This gesture exposes that Kim Dan was convinced that the manager was his boss, the master of Team Black. Nevertheless, Jinx-lovers should detect that the “hamster” left the flat during the evening. This signifies that the PT handed out his abdication the next morning, I can’t imagine that it happened during the night, for the man has a family with kids. (chapter 53) By leaving the penthouse before going to the gym, it becomes clear that Park Namwook must have realized or even was informed that the doctor would no longer live with the champion, the opposite of this scene where he was caught by surprise: (chapter 22) That’s how I detected the second lie from the manager, lying by paltering. He just mentioned that Kim Dan was quitting, but kept silent about his departure from the penthouse. As you can see, Park Namwook was trying to reduce the main couple’s relationship to a boss-employee contract, while he was trying to act like a close acquaintance and relative from Joo Jaekyung.
But let’s return our attention to the confession from Park Namwook. (chapter 53) He portrayed himself as active and helpless. Yet the reality was different, for the physical therapist took his time to organize the athlete’s files (chapter 53). This signifies that he must have spent some time at the office. To conclude, the young man didn’t vanish quickly from the gym like a ghost, similar to the PT from episode 1. (chapter 1) Kim Dan didn’t return to the office just to give his termination. He stayed there for quite some time. It exposes not only Kim Dan’s dedication for the athlete but also the manager’s deception. In verity, he didn’t do his best to stop him from quitting. He had time to talk to him, but chose not. He didn’t see it as an emergency. Hence there was no call! The latter symbolizes need and seriousness. (chapter 1) (chapter 13) (chapter 20) I selected only three scenes in order to prove my point, but I could give more examples (16, 17, 19, 35, 48). This new perspective corroborates my previous theory: the manager is not so innocent like he appears.
Moreover, the way the resignation is exposed made me realize that it reflects the doctor’s departure. First, the champion is blamed, then the coach announced Kim Dan’s desertion. However, the doctor gave the letter in delay, not right after hearing the reproaches from Joo Jaekyung in the locker room. Park Namwook used this incident, because all the members could hear the celebrity. (chapter 53) He gave the impression that he was telling the truth. This incident was used to explain the doctor’s resignation. But here is the thing. If the doctor spent some time at the office in order to organize the files, why didn’t Potato stop him or tried to talk him out of it? That’s how I came to the following deduction. When Kim Dan came to the gym, the latter was empty, only the manager was there!! A new version of this scene: (chapter 23) Thus I deduce that all the members from Team Black were busy due to the discovery of the scheme: (chapter 52) Yosep was sent to investigate, Oh Daehyun took care of Potato. In other words, they were sent on errants. Moreover, I would like to outline the absence of Kwak Junbeom in the hospital room. The latter had observed the meeting between Choi Gilseok and Kim Dan (chapter 48), he was an important witness. Yet he is missing here. (chapter 52) Under this new light, I am suspecting that Park Namwook already knew about Kim Dan’s innocence, but he never revealed it to the physical therapist. He made sure that no one from Team Black met the main protagonist Kim Dan so that no one would stop him from quitting. That’s why there was no phone call during that week. As conclusion, I believe that Park Namwook used the members from Team Black at the hospital to have the majority on his side, to hide his passivity. There is no doubt that he feared to be blamed for his behavior in the locker room. (chapter 50) Moreover, he could be blamed for the spray incident, for he failed to protect his own athlete. That’s why there was no apology from his side.
However, he made a mistake, when he manipulated his “boy”, the way he announced the doctor’s departure. First, he blamed the champion, then he revealed his desertion. Observe the athlete’s reaction to this news: (chapter 53) Why would the physical therapist quit, if he is innocent? It is because Park Namwook said that Kim Dan did it because of the champion. It was, as if the man’s pride had been hurt:. The verity is that he was actually projecting his own thoughts onto the doctor.
However, the letter addressed to the champion is exposing the truth: at no moment the main lead blamed the athlete for his harsh words!! (chapter 53) He took his words to heart. Thus I come to the following deduction: Park Namwook already knew about the physical therapist’s innocence, but he chose to keep the truth from his boss to mask his own wrongdoings: his passivity and negligence. The reason is that the discovery of the scheme took place in the evening, and Kim Dan gave his letter in the morning. Moreover, some days had passed, when they showed up at the hospital. Potato’s vanishing injuries are the evidence. They waited for the right time to announce the terrible news, something similar to this: (chapter 48) “If we tell him now, it will only throw him off his recovery or his surgery”. Once again, he chose silence and inactivity. Thus no one called the champion or the doctor.
Yet, the best evidence is that Park admitted this: “I tried to talk him out of it”. With his own words, he revealed that he was the only one who faced the physical therapist. If Potato had been there, he would have tried to stop him either, a new version of this panel: (chapter 50) And what did the manager say to the protagonist? (chapter 52) He should have checked the facts. The letter is exposing the manager’s lie. He is expecting that Kim Dan vanished like the previous PT. However, contrary to the previous one, the “hamster” lived with the celebrity. Thus he left a letter to Jaekyung in the penthouse, and the manager had no way to know the existence of this message. And now, you comprehend why Kim Dan never received any phone call from Park Namwook. It is because he would have to inform him about the existence of the scheme. There was no emergency from his side, for he desired to hide his own wrongdoings (negligence, blindness and stupidity).
The true nature of Park Namwook
This signifies that the hyung copied the behavior from MFC agent in the States. He desired to sweep under the rug his own blame and passivity. But since he is not willing to sacrifice himself and as such to leave, I can only come to the following conclusion: Joo Jaekyung will be the one leaving. It is because he will see it as his responsibility to reveal the truth to Kim Dan. That’s how he will release the young man from his low self-esteem and guilt.
But why would the coach act like this? It is because his motto is to stand on the sidelines. This mirrors his actions at the gym: (chapter 36). No wonder why the man is passive. But his inactivity is the result of his indecisiveness (I had portrayed him as someone suffering from Decidophobia). Interesting is that making no decision is the worst people can do. Why?
This reinforces my interpretation about this character, he is responsible for the champion’s emptiness and “death”. Since in my previous essay, I compared Joo Jaekyung to a leopard, let me ask you this. Which animal represents Park Namwook then? It has to be an animal that embodies gain, self-preservation, death, passivity (standing on the sideline) and selfishness. (chapter 26) Yes, the spider!! Is it a coincidence that Mingwa drew him with a grey jacket with the arachnid? The negative aspects from the spider are the following:
The spider person has two speeds: motionless and lightning strike. The spider person can have a stinging bite when angered. Deceit is the negative side of spider personality. A web of rumors, gossip and lies can easily be woven. The person with spider energy may be ruthless and once incited to attack, the punishment is decisive and lethal.
The lesson of the spider is maintaining balance – between past and future, male and female, spiritual and physical. She teaches you that everything you do and experience now is weaving what you will encounter in the future. Quoted from http://www.pure-spirit.com/more-animal-symbolism/664-spider-symbolism
Fascinating is that Park Namwook acts like the spider, he does not much, but when he strikes, it is sudden and quite violent: (chapter 52) This signifies that the leopard had a spider on his back the whole time 😉. Each time the feline didn’t behave like the manager wanted, he just needed to strike him. At the same time, this metaphor explains the absence of retaliation from the athlete. A spider is so small, yet its poison can kill the heart and mind. Interesting is that the arachnid stands for balance, a sign that it rejects novelty and change. It is no coincidence that Kim Dan was encouraged to leave the gym, the place where Park Namwook spread a lot of lies and rumors about members and Joo Jaekyung: (chapter 46) In addition, this new discovery corroborates my connection between chapter 52 and 40. In my eyes, Park Namwook should be perceived as a representative of MFC. I had already compared the scheme in the States to a web and a spider, indicating that MFC is far from being a good organization. As a conclusion, the manager is an accomplice of the schemers, even if he was not involved directly. The reason is simple. With his inactivity and deceptions, he is assisting the villains. However, like explained in an earlier essay, the spider is not only connected to negative aspects. It represents wisdom, patience, creativity and even rebirth. Hence it is likely that this man will change or come to regret it at some point. Contrary to the halmoni, he has time in front of him and I am counting on the champion’s huge heart (for example like forgiveness).
The hamster and leopard’s maturity
But let’s return our attention to this panel. (chapter 53) Interesting is that this was not the first time that the doctor was standing in front of the window. (chapter 53) Look at this. Back then, he was thinking of taking another job, a sign that he was not taking his job as PT seriously. The cause for this is that he didn’t view himself as a real PT. Nevertheless, this shows that he was not judging Joo Jaekyung as a champion, but as a man obsessed with sex: (chapter 19) This comparison outlines the PT’s metamorphosis. Not only his perception of Joo Jaekyung changed, but also he has become a responsible and dedicated physical therapist. He defines himself as a PT too. Hence he didn’t leave a mess behind with the files (chapter 53). His decision exposes that this was not an escape.
And note that during the night in episode 19, the young man received a call from Joo Jaekyung: (chapter 19) Striking is that this conversation is strongly intertwined with emergency and racing against time. Back then, I had already developed the theory of the involvement of a third person in their relationship. Why would the champion think of sex suddenly after training for 10 days without any break? Jinx-philes can detect two common denominators: Break and responsibility. How so? In that chapter, Kim Dan was asked to become responsible for the “intercourse” (“I don’t feel like doing it myself, so get your ass ready”). As you can see, the contrast between these two episodes reinforces my hypothesis that the champion will be taking a break, though Park Namwook had not this in mind. The fact that he desires to hire a new PT indicates that he is already anticipating the return of Joo Jaekyung. (chapter 53) Since all the PT were treating him at the gym, I doubt that the manager has the intention to send the new doctor to the penthouse. The hiring of a physical therapist implies the return of the champion to the gym. In his mind, everything will return to normality. But he is totally wrong. The champion can’t accept the disappearance from his soulmate. And this raises the following question: Why didn’t the champion call the doctor right away, when he noticed his desertion? Why did he remain passive in front of the window? (chapter 53) It is because the doctor’s words reached his heart and mind. He must have realized that he couldn’t act like in chapter 1 (chapter 1) or (chapter 19) or (chapter 32). Here, he prioritized his own needs and desires, he rushed things. He never took his time to understand Kim Dan or discover his life. The letter made him realize that he knows nothing about his PT. He has only noticed just now that he is reliable and honest. He is trustworthy. He even listens to him, accepts his words (he took his words to heart twice: the blame for the incident and the Wedding Cabinet). The other reason why he can not use the phone is this. He also knows that he could get blocked. This means that he will ponder how to find and approach his fated partner. (chapter 53) Yes, in front of the window, the man recognized that he had misjudged his partner. The latter was not obsessed with money!! Kim Dan felt terrible, though he had become a victim of a trick. The paper let transpire his true nature: he was a lamb. Furthermore, they had more than a boss-employee relationship. Hence I come to the conclusion that the athlete must have grasped that his relationship with Kim Dan has moved to the next level, like with this doctor : (chapter 13)
The other reason for the absence of a call
I discovered another reason why during that night Kim Dan didn’t call the star. (chapter 53) It is because for Kim Dan saying goodbye over the phone is not proper. The reason is simple. He experienced it himself as a child. (chapter 19) And it hurt him terribly. I am suspecting that the person on the phone might have vanished without saying anything.
But my avid readers should go even deeper and ask themselves the following question: why did neither the champion nor the doctor contact each other? Why is there this huge silence between them? It is because Joo JAekyung had other worries: the bad PR, his injury and the tie. Secondly, he had imagined that Kim Dan would still be with the team. He was unconsciously relying on them. As for the doctor, the latter envisions that Park Namwook and the others were taking care of their athlete. Let’s not forget that he was left behind, while all the others followed the champion to the health center. So in his mind, everyone from Team Black would take care of Joo Jaekyung. He was not needed. This means, he envisioned that Team Black acted as a Team. That’s why he never asked anyone. He thought, the others would do their job properly. And now, imagine Kim Dan seeing Joo Jaekyung approaching him alone with his injured shoulder, similar to this scene: (chapter 53) He just left the hospital after a surgery and he is already carrying a heavy bag. No one is assisting him. There is no driver either. As a PT, Kim Dan can only get worried and feel bad. That’s how Kim Dan will realize that he is needed! (chapter 53) Even more than before!! Joo Jaekyung needs assistance and protection. From that moment on, he can grasp that his sacrifice was not the best for both of them, why his sacrifice was in reality pointless. He should have been more selfish and more confident.
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In the last essays I studied a lot the manager and coach from Team Black. Therefore I decided to focus on a different person today. And that will be our beloved Kim Dan.🐹🦆 The starting point of this essay is the following panel:
Chapter 44
Doc Dan’s laugh and its symbolism
In my composition “A Summer Night’s Dream “ I described the doctor’s smile and laugh as a magical moment. The little bubbles of light reminded me of fairies and in particular of Tinker Bell with her pixie dust. Interesting is that this character from Peter Pan and her magical powder symbolize the magic of youth, joy, and the power of belief. Her dust, which grants characters the ability to fly, represents imagination and the freedom that comes from thinking like a child, unbound by adult limitations or fears. Tinker Bell herself often embodies loyalty and playful spirit, sparking wonder and adventure. Her presence reminds characters—and viewers—of the youthful joy, innocence, and boundless possibility that magic can bring into their lives, even in challenging or serious moments.
And that’s exactly what happened during that night, the return of youth and simple joy. Kim Dan’s fears and prejudices vanished immediately. Because the champion had asked for Kim Dan’s consent, the latter discovered freedom. He felt so free that he could voice his desires sensually. (chapter 44) He stroke his soulmate’s face, kissed his cheeks and finally his ears. His actions triggered a singular reaction in the star: (chapter 44) This made the physical therapist’s laugh. (chapter 44) His genuine laugh combined with the following realization (chapter 44) shows that in that moment, the physical therapist rediscovered his youth again. I would even add that Jinx-philes were witnessing in this panel how Kim Dan reconnected with his inner child. (chapter 44) The blushing is an indication of life and innocence. But if this young man’s childish nature was brought to the surface, who was Tinker Bell during this night? Naturally Joo Jaekyung. Under the influence of soju, the man could no longer hide his true nature. He has a childish side too. In other words, he was lowering his guard. Anyone has already heard from the quote “In wine, there’s truth” (the original quote comes from Latine: “in vino veritas”). As you can see, this beautiful night corresponds to this one: (chapter 10)
Chapter 10
Chapter 44
Darkness
Light
Tears
Laugh and Smile
Poverty
Wealth
Stench
Wonderful Smell
Money
Free
And what was the common denominator? Drunkenness. However, back then the champion did not choose to have sex with the young physical therapist: (chapter 10) Under this light, it becomes comprehensible why Kim Dan’s beautiful night became a dream, an illusion. The young doctor had done something wrong from a moral point of view. However, because the young man had treated the champion so well before, his reward was to experience what love is. (chapter 44) Thanks to Tinker Bell, he could fly: he was brought to Nirvana. (chapter 44) The problem is that the physical therapist was reducing love to sex (“making love”). True love has to be expressed in a lot of different ways (spiritual intimacy, experiential closeness, responsibility etc) and not just through sex.
Another common point between these two scenes is the doctor’s longing for companionship. And this brings me back to the protagonist’s laugh and observation. He compared the Emperor to a sulky cat. (chapter 44) Why was he thinking of an animal? Let’s not forget that in chapter 10, the very same person was confusing the celebrity with his grandmother. (chapter 19( The comparison suggests that Kim Dan still hadn’t fully recognized or understood Joo Jaekyung’s true character. Under this new perspective, it becomes comprehensible why Kim Dan still came to misjudge and misinterpret the athlete’s words and behavior later. Yes, even this night outlines the physical therapist’s flaws. Exactly like his soulmate, he still couldn’t love his partner properly. Nevertheless, this thought (“sulky cat”) divulges the doctor’s inner child.
Kim Dan’s sulky cat
Most children desire to have a pet at home, it is often either a dog or a cat. Cats and children often share a unique bond due to their mutual curiosity and playfulness. Cats can offer children a gentle introduction to empathy and responsibility, as children learn to care for a creature with needs and boundaries. The independent nature of cats also teaches children about respect for personal space. For kids, cats provide comfort and companionship, while cats, in turn, appreciate the warmth and attention. This dynamic can foster compassion and self-awareness in children, helping them grow emotionally and socially.
But what does a cat symbolize in literature and cultures? Cats have held various symbolic roles across history. In ancient Egypt, they were sacred and associated with the goddess Bastet, seen as protectors of the home and often honored in death. In medieval Europe, cats became linked to superstition and witchcraft, often seen as mysterious or foreboding. By the 19th century, authors like Carroll and Dickinson used cats as symbols of freedom and intelligence. In 20th-century literature, cats evolved to represent loyalty and companionship (for example French author Colette with The Cat). As you can see, this feline has always been associated with magic, supernatural and mystery (witchcraft, gods, death). So we could say that the cat Jaekyung was the one who helped Kim Dan to discover a lost world; his long forgotten and repressed inner child.
At the same time, cats also symbolize home and protection. This means that in that moment, Kim Dan felt truly at home. (chapter 44) For a brief moment, they were no longer in a boss-employee relationship. Hence I come to the conclusion that we should consider Kim Dan’s laugh and smile as a reflection from the champion’s hug and drunken confession: (chapter 43) Interesting is that in that scene, the protagonist couldn’t see his lover’s face. He couldn’t detect the glimpse of a smile and his warm gaze.
Another point is that he compared the fighter to a sulky cat. (chapter 44) On the one hand, this expression exposes that the main lead was not wearing any pink-tinted glasses and as such he was not delusional. On the other side, this idiom often represents independence, moodiness, and a desire for autonomy. In folklore and literature, cats that appear sullen or aloof can represent mystery, self-possession, or quiet resentment, emphasizing traits like defiance and emotional complexity. They might also convey an inner conflict or unspoken feelings, as their behavior reflects the subtle tension between closeness and detachment. This image often serves to remind us of the value of personal space, boundaries, and the instinct to guard one’s inner self. This means that with this discovery, Kim Dan was encouraged not to become clingy and depend on the athlete. Yes, I see this laugh (chapter 44) as a positive reflection from this night: (chapter 11)
The doctor’s laugh from the past and the present
By comparing both images, Manhwa-lovers can detect the differences. Kim Dan might have a wide open mouth in both pictures, yet there is no sound in the humble home. Secondly, his eyes are wide open contrary to the magical night. What does it mean? The absence of a laughing sound and a blushing are revealing that the little boy was faking his joy. He didn’t want to show his fear and sadness. Like mentioned in a previous essay, during that night, he was acting like a Teddy Bear comforting his grandmother. In other words, this memory from the main figure is exposing his delusion and suffering. A Teddy Bear doesn’t require any attention or care, as it is just an object. This explains why this toy was not treated properly (chapter 21). He was simply put on the floor. Yet small children usually treat such cuddly toys as treasures. While making this contrast, I realized why the halmeoni never took care of her grandchild properly. Observe what happened to the Wedding Cabinet and the expensive scarf she received from her grandson. They were all left behind or vanished, just like the little boy’s Teddy Bear. (chapter 53) They were literally abandoned, as they lost their sentimental value overtime. I am suspecting that they had become “useless”. Hence I am suspecting that by calling him a puppy dog, she didn’t truly mean it. (chapter 47) By saying that he was a puppy dog, she was implying that she would be responsible for him. Keep in mind that pet are linked to care and accountability. However, her wish is strongly connected to one single moment: (chapter 53) She is not thinking about the future at all. For her, it doesn’t matter, for her time is limited. Dog can be abandoned in the end, especially when the responsibility becomes a burden. That’s the reason why I believe that in verity, she was treating the protagonist more like an object than like an animal. Moreover, Jinx-philes should keep in their mind she used to describe him as a little boy, which also represents responsibility and care. Therefore I conclude that this scene didn’t stand for Kim Dan’s true home, it was just an illusion. (chapter 11) He was smiling and faking happiness in order to comfort the grandmother. That’s how he reinforced her mental issues and his own abandonment issues. Everything would be fine, as long as he acted like she expected it. At no moment she desired to be confronted with his own suffering or with reality. This was not a “magical night”, but a night where the boy got “cursed”, like Sleeping Beauty. This night is strongly connected to silence which stands in opposition to the magical night from chapter 44. On the bed, both tried to have a conversation (chapter 44), though the communication failed, for Joo Jaekyung was drunk. Moreover, Kim Dan kept most of his thoughts to himself, a sign that he was still guarded. Hence while Doc Dan felt at home during that night, it didn’t last long. The next morning, they became once again boss and employee. (chapter 45) Moreover, by comparing the Emperor to a sulky cat, he is indirectly thinking and behaving like his grandmother. A cat can be abandoned, the latter can find new owners. Nevertheless, I still think, this night left traces in Kim Dan’s heart and mind. He had grown fond of this place, almost at home. Therefore he struggled to leave the penthouse. (chapter 53) And compare his attitude to the one in chapter 19: (chapter 19) They were no deep lingering feelings towards the grandmother’s house. In fact, before leaving, he remembered an incident, a mysterious phone call which I consider as the moment, which broke the boy’s soul and heart. For me, he was almost glad to leave this place behind.
I pointed out above that one difference between these two laughs (chapter 11) (chapter 44) is the closed eyes from the main lead during the bright night. Since I interpreted the boy with wide open eyes as an allusion to deception, illusion and toxic positivity, the closed eyes should be perceived as the awakening of the third eye. Moreover, the young man’s mind and heart turned towards his inner world. Simultaneously, they also imply the absence of reality. Like mentioned above, Doc Dan is not truly perceiving the fighter for whom he is. This implies that there are aspects of Joo Jaekyung’s personality, motivations, or emotions that Kim Dan is overlooking or misinterpreting, which influenced their dynamic negatively so that they couldn’t relate to each other. However, I still think, Doc Dan was not really far from the truth. How so?
According to Mingwa, Kim Dan is a hamster and Joo Jaekyung is a wolf. So he sensed his animalistic nature. As you already know, I came to associate these two protagonists to other animals: dragon and his Yeouiju, Kim Dan as a DUCK! Hence it is possible that deep down, the celebrity has another hidden nature, like a cat.
The other nature from Joo Jaekyung
In my eyes, the champion is also a feline, more precisely a leopard. 😮 Remember the champion’s pajamas from episode 30: (chapter 30) The pajama pattern in the image appears to resemble a leopard print, which features distinct rosette-shaped spots that are commonly associated with this type of design. He also looked like a sulky “cat”. (chapter 30) And what was he trying to do here? To seek closeness to his new mate!
Leopards are wild animals and are generally not suitable for domestication. Though they are sometimes trained in captivity, they retain strong instincts and can be unpredictable and dangerous. Leopards often haul their kills up into a tree, out of reach of other carnivores, few of which can match a leopard’s climbing agility. They then leave the carcass and return at their leisure, safely enjoying a prolonged meal high up in a tree.
The symbolism and meaning of Leopard resonate through many cultures. Regarding the origin of the word “Leopard”, you’ll find the term comes from two Greek words translating as “Lion” and “Male Panther.” It’s a reference originating from a time when people felt Leopard was the child of both Panther and Lion.
This description corresponds a lot to the champion’s behavior: seeking isolation, bringing his prey to his penthouse (chapter 19), very territorial and disliking surprises. In literature, leopards often symbolize strength, courage, agility, and stealth. They are seen as solitary and powerful hunters, often representing independence or mystery. In totemic traditions, the leopard can symbolize resilience, adaptability, and personal power, often embodying a person’s inner strength and ability to face challenges.
In ancient Egyptian culture, leopards were revered, with priests wearing leopard-skin robes to signify their connection to the divine. Similarly, in African cultures, leopards are seen as symbols of royalty and protection. In the Chinese zodiac, the leopard (or panther) is associated with bravery and assertiveness, often symbolizing fierce guardianship and sharp intuition. Finally, leopards are historically associated with British royalty and heraldry, especially through their depiction as symbols of power and courage. In the British royal coat of arms, the “leopard” typically represents a stylized lion (often called a “lion passant guardant”)—a lion walking with its head turned to face the viewer. These symbols are often connected to English kings, with each “leopard” or lion reinforcing the monarchy’s strength, nobility, and bravery. This emblem has been used in military contexts as well, representing valor and leadership. To conclude, this predator is strongly intertwined with nobility and healing, as the latter was perceived to have a connection to the beyond.
Leopard as a Spirit Guide often comes to you after tremendous suffering. The Animal is a healer and counselor in such times. When all seems lost, Leopard comes to help you take back your Power; this is the time to look at the skills you have and appreciate them. Get rid of negative patterns and embrace fresh approaches on all levels of your being.
That’s exactly how Joo Jaekyung has been affecting Kim Dan’s life. He is bringing luck in his life, he is healing him and the symbol for this healing is Doc Dan’s smile and laugh (chapter 44). He is the only one who can bring him joy and happiness. Note that he smiled for the first time after their first sparring: (chapter 26) One might argue that he laughed with Potato and Oh Daehyun in the States. But are you sure? We never saw him laughing. Only Joo JAekyung heard their laughs, but did it also belong to the hamster? (chapter 37) Moreover, observe that during that terrible night, the athlete was wearing an t-shirt with a feline on it: (chapter 37) Puma was designed on it. As you can see, everything is pointing out that this man is a leopard which was mistaken to a sulky cat or a puma.
And now imagine that the young man is moving to the West Coast in order to watch the sunset: (chapter 44) That’s how the champion should reconnect with his true nature. Interesting is that leopards are adaptable animals that thrive in various environments, from savannas and rainforests to mountains and deserts. They prefer areas with dense vegetation for stalking prey, as well as access to water sources for hydration. Though leopards are not as dependent on water as some animals, they will drink when it’s available. They are often active at night or during dawn and dusk, making them well-suited to both sunny and shaded habitats. Their adaptability to different climates is one reason they have such a broad geographic range. It shows that the champion will adapt himself very well in a new environment. His hamster or duck has become his lifetime companion. He can no longer live without him.
One might reply that I am overinterpreting this story, because Mingwa only associated her characters with the hamster and the wolf. But I would like to remind my avid readers that there was a reference to chapter 30: (chapter 44) So since the champion was naked during this night, we could say that his true nature was slowly coming to the surface. As a predator, his annoyance to the strokes and kisses appears more normal and understandable: (chapter 44) Kim Dan is teaching him how to control his strength and discover playfulness. And now, imagine Kim Dan patting a leopard 😉 (chapter 44) and the leopard fighting a wounded and isolated hyena: (chapter 52) But what had triggered the champion? (chapter 52) Eye-contact! Making direct eye contact with a leopard can be dangerous. Leopards may interpret prolonged eye contact as a threat or challenge, triggering an aggressive response. In the wild, they rely on stealth and avoid open confrontation, so they may react defensively if they feel they are being stared at. This behavior is common among many predators, as eye contact often signals dominance or confrontation. It’s generally advised to avoid direct eye contact and back away slowly if you encounter a leopard in close proximity. Baek Junmin had totally underestimated the true nature of his opponent. This could explain as well why Park Namwook is wearing his glasses all the time and even avoiding eye-contact with the emperor.
To conclude, Kim Dan was slowly perceiving the champion’s true nature, his feline side. However, since leopard can not be domesticated and are extremely territorial, it signifies that the carnivore will be searching for his mate and master. In my eyes, thanks to the physical therapist, Joo Jaekyung will discover his second nature: raising cubs. Potato the chow chow (chapter 24), Oh Daehyun the eagle… (chapter 9)
Leopard mothers raise their cubs with care and caution. After giving birth, they keep the cubs hidden in dense vegetation or secluded rocky areas to protect them from predators which reminded me of the gym. The latter is not famous. The mother frequently moves her young to new locations to avoid detection by other animals. Cubs rely on their mother’s milk for the first few months, after which she gradually introduces them to solid food by bringing back small prey. The mother teaches her cubs essential hunting and survival skills, often for up to two years, until they can fend for themselves. In other words, Joo Jaekyung will train the remaining members of Team Black to develop their killer instincts far away from public eyes.
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.
Please support the authors by reading Manhwas on the official websites. This is where you can read the Manhwa: Jinx But be aware that the Manhwa is a mature Yaoi, which means, it is about homosexuality with explicit scenes. Here is the link of the table of contents about Jinx. Here is the link where you can find the table of contents of analyzed Manhwas. Here are the links, if you are interested in the first work from Mingwa, BJ Alex, and the 2 previous essays about Daily Jinx Advent Insight 8andDaily Jinx Advent Insight 9
It would be great if you could make some donations/sponsoring: Ko-fi.com/bebebisous33 That way, you can support me with “coffee” so that I have the energy to keep examining Manhwas. Besides, I need to cover up the expenses for this blog.
If you pay attention to the illustration, you will notice that I switched the pictures in the photography album. However, assuming that you read all my previous daily insight compositions, you should recognize that I didn’t examine all the panels. The reason why I created a new illustration is that the topic for today was not related to the previous selected images.
And now, you are probably wondering what Keinshorm effect is. The latter describes a cognitive bias where individuals reject ideas simply because they come from people they dislike. This emotional response clouds judgment, leading to a refusal to consider the content’s merits objectively. It often stems from the “horn effect,” where a single negative trait is extended to the entire person, or from cognitive dissonance when new information challenges deep-seated beliefs. This effect can lead to polarization, impeding constructive dialogue and personal growth. Who do you think is suffering from Keinshorm effect in Jinx?
Naturally Park Namwook. He is constantly silencing his boy with his words (chapter 36), slaps (note) and punches. But how do psychologists explain this creation?
That is, we form an unfavorable first impression based on some characteristic that we consider negative – which can even be physical. This means that we are already negatively predisposed towards that person and, therefore, also towards their ideas. Quoted from Keinshorm Effect: why do we reject the ideas of those we can’t stand?
As you can see, it is strongly linked to negative first impressions and as such to appearances. Mingwa let us know how the manager met the protagonist from Jinx: (chapter 26) He would destroy the arcade’s punching machines constantly, which led him to become blacklisted. This means that for the coach from Team Black, the young man was just a brutal and thoughtless thug and nothing more. He judged him based on his appearance and actions. Since he had money in order to open his own gym, he became a spoiled rich brat in the former wrestler’s eyes. But notice that the article is pointing out that the person suffering from Keinshorm Effect rejects any discussion from their counterpart because in truth, they actually dislike this person. This exposes the truth about Park Namwook: he actually resents the main lead. He only accepts him because of his success and fame. At the same time, this biased perception incites him to view himself superior to his pupil.
Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why Park Namwook slapped his boy after the surgery. It symbolizes the summit of the Heinshorm Effect and as such the manager’s dislike towards the champion. Additionally, it is important to recall the trigger which led to such a reaction: (chapter 45) The Emperor had voiced his thoughts and emotions. This shows that he was trying to have a discussion with his hyung. He desired to be heard too: he voiced his powerlessness and questioned the coach’s intention behind his previous reproach.
That’s how I realized that we should see this argument as the negative version from this discussion at the penthouse: (chapter 45) While some readers still judge the athlete as a red flag and bad guy, they fail to realize that in a discussion, it is not about right and wrong. They are probably under the effect of the Heinshorm Effect due to the first bad impressions. 😉 In this discussion, both made valid points, yet both were in the wrong too. In reality, in a discussion, it is relevant to listen to the counterpart’s opinion and words. And that’s exactly what both did, though it hurt them too. But there is more to it.
First, it exposes that the manager never checked the facts about his own “boy”. (chapter 52) Why would he destroy the punching machines constantly? Hence I come to the conclusion that he has no idea about the past from Joo Jaekyung: (chapter 49) Like mentioned in a previous essay, I am suspecting that the athlete was a target of bullying and the perpetrators used his weakness and isolation to their own advantage. In other words, Park Namwook only saw the young man, once the latter had started training in order to protect himself. If he could ruin the machine, then it means that he had developed some strength. Thus I deduce that he never saw the future champion crying. At the same time, his negative perception led him to think that it was not possible to reason with him. He would only understand the power of the fists and nothing else. And this brings me to my next point.
Kim Dan represents the manager’s positive perception. That’s the reason why Mingwa created situations where both would argue. But because the hyung is much smaller and weaker, Joo Jaekyung was encouraged to voice his thoughts and emotions. Through their discussions (heated or not), they developed a mutual respect, which deepened their understanding of each other over time. Therefore I came to perceive these two scenes as a positive and negative reflections.
Chapter 36
Chapter 42
Though both hyungs have the same attitude concerning violence, their response diverges. Kim Dan is not condemning his boss openly. His emotional reaction is more moderate, there is no yelling and threatening. He is teaching gently not to use his fists. With such an attitude, he displays acceptance and tolerance. Thus I come to the following interpretation. The relationship between Park Namwook and Joo Jaekyung was not bad right from the start. Yet as time passed on, the Keinshorm Effect reinforced the negative perception from the manager leading him to silence his star and as such to disrespect him.
In reality, the Keinshorm effect is not so much a rejection of the person or group as of what they represent. Whenever someone rejects an idea, what they are really doing is denying constructive disagreement and mature reflection.
In the long run, the Keinshorm effect distorts our judgment and prevents us from properly evaluating information or ideas presented by people or groups we find unpleasant. However, when we indiscriminately close ourselves off to everything that comes from our antipode, we fall into mental rigidity , which prevents us from growing and making more informed or adaptive decisions. Quoted from Keinshorm Effect: why do we reject the ideas of those we can’t stand?
Hence at the end, he chose not to communicate with him anymore. This explains why the manager didn’t inform him about the desertion of the last PT. (chapter 1) The champion was confronted with this new fact, when he saw Kim Dan for the first time. It signifies that when the story starts, the Keinshorm Effect is already deeply rooted. No wonder why there’s only one message from the hyung during the whole season (chapter 45) This was the sign of a poor connection between these two characters. Whereas the gap between them grew bigger and bigger, the opposite happened between the two protagonists. Under this new perspective, Jinx-philes can grasp why Mingwa created so many scenes with arguments between the two main leads. They should be seen as reflections from the past.
However with the manager, the latter had less patience and understanding right from the start. Therefore he came to choose his hands to turn the sportsman into a “passive and obedient” doll. That’s the reason why I see a connection between these two images:
Chapter 52
Chapter 53
The letter is the highest form for communication. Putting thoughts into words means that the writer took his time to communicate with his counterpart. It stands for rationality and respect which contrasts to the manager’s slap. The latter acted on his negative emotions (anger, fears). The author from the article pointed out that Heinshorm Effect is nowadays widely spread. Why?
Unfortunately, we are living in a true emotiocracy, a dictatorship of emotions that feeds extremism, polarization and, of course, non-thinking. We act by letting ourselves be carried away exclusively by feelings of sympathy or animosity. Without thinking. And when this extends to all levels of society, it becomes highly dangerous. Quoted fromKeinshorm Effect: why do we reject the ideas of those we can’t stand?
The moment I read this passage, it made me think of Choi Heesung and his k-drama: Extreme Worlds (chapter 29) (chapter 30) In the past, I used to think that this title were referring to the existence of two worlds: celebrity versus criminal world. But now I am thinking that these extreme worlds should be seen as “emotions” versus “reason” and “love versus hate” too. Idols are exposed to such extreme emotions (stalking, adoration versus hate). (chapter 36) In the second case, Joo Jaekyung could experience it twice during the first season. Whereas he got upset with the article from Shim Yoon-Seok (chapter 35), in the second one he was more composed. (chapter 52) He was already learning that the media were not reflecting verity. He was already distancing himself from social media. He had slowly realized that his image as star was not his true identity. At the same time, the letter contrasts with the short messages from haters. It outlines that Kim Dan’s admiration and recognition is sincere and deep. He didn’t get influenced by the media.
Hence I come to the conclusion that Park Namwook’s passivity and slap were triggered by the Heinshorm Effect. Yes, he was thinking like the media which distinguishes him from the cute “hamster”. (chapter 52) For him, Joo Jaekyung deserved to be suspended… he had punched his opponent at the hospital. Imagine the irony of the situation. Later, the manager used violence too, but it was excusable: (chapter 52) Consequently, it is understandable why Park Namwook didn’t fight against the suspension or organize a conference in order to save his star’s reputation. He had the same view about his boy. In addition, it exposes the shortsightedness and lack of reflection from Park Namwook. That’s why he shouldn’t be allowed to be the star’s manager. While he accuses his pupil of being hot-tempered, the former never checked the facts either: (chapter 52) Why was Baek Junmin place next to his opponent? Someone will have to confront this man for his negligence, unfairness, stupidity and incompetence.
But there exists another evidence for the presence of the Keinshorm Effect: (chapter 1) Due to his words, Kim Dan came to perceive the Emperor as a brutal and brainless man: (chapter 1) However, despite his biased perception about the athlete, he came to overcome all his prejudices about his boss and came to truly love the fighter. And this brings me back to this comparison:
Chapter 52
Chapter 53
The champion’s reaction made laugh many readers. He was so calm. However, the moment you contrast this image with the one from episode 53, you will realize that his reaction is exposing his final detachment from Park Namwook. He is not upset, but this means that he is no longer seeking his admiration and recognition. The slap puts an end to their ambiguous and toxic relationship. For me, the manager lost his position as his hyung and as such his “family”. This explains why he listened to his coach, and said nothing. (chapter 53) However, later the champion thought otherwise: (chapter 53) This shows that he is now making his own decisions and this in the absence of his mentor. It somehow implies that the champion also stops communicating to Park Namwook. Finally, notice how he reacted after reading the letter: he truly felt bad. He was already attached emotionally and mentally to Kim Dan. As a conclusion, the season ends with the switch of the position between Kim Dan and Park Namwook. The former has already come to replace the manager. Indifference versus guilt and pain.
After making this discovery, it dawned on me why Kim Dan was not included in the discussions concerning the imminent fights. (chapter 36) He wouldn’t have been allowed to voice his opinion. He would have been even suspected of spying and leaking information (lawyer and manager from the Entertainment agency). Kim Dan needed to realize and admit his love and admiration for the athlete. first in order to stop Keinshorm Effect. He needed to be a confident and competent PT and become a friend for the protagonist. Since Kim Dan stands for communication, tolerance, respect and openminded-ness, the former hyung embodies the opposite notions: silence, dislike, clouded judgement and mental rigidity. Thus I deduce that in the future, the discussions about fights will take place differently. Involvement from all the members, opening listening and Kim Dan as a PT will have the decisive right for allowing a fight or not.
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.
It would be great if you could make some donations/sponsoring: Ko-fi.com/bebebisous33 That way, you can support me with “coffee” so that I have the energy to keep examining Manhwas. Besides, I need to cover up the expenses for this blog.
Navigating the Dark Path: Choices and Consequences
The starting point of this essay is an image from episode 26 where Kim Changmin and Kwak Junbeom (chapter 26) are talking about Joo Jaekyung’s past. In this episode, Jinxphiles discover through the testimonies from Oh Daehyun (chapter 26) and Kim Changmin that Joo Jaekyung could have become a thug. However, the confession from the fighter with the beige t-shirt grabbed my interest, in particular the sentence “didn’t go down a darker path”. Notice that the innocent sportsman is employing the adjective dark in the comparative form. The usual expression is to go down on a dark path. So why did he say “darker”? Interesting is that by using the comparative, the sportsman insinuates that the protagonist didn’t make a good choice either. Why? It is because dark implies danger, corruption and chaos. It was, as if the man had still veered off course. It seems to hint that Jaekyung is still involved in some morally ambiguous or risky associations. This subtle implication not only complicates Jaekyung’s character but also suggests a tension between his ambition and possible hidden affiliations. This observation raises the following question: why would the sportsman state this?
Why a darker path?
It becomes clear through the conversation with Kwak Junbeom (chapter 26) that both fighters don’t know the star very well. During the sparring, the former judo champion is surprised the way the celebrity is treating Kim Dan. He is judging his actions based on his observation and feelings (it feels like…). He sees him in a rather positive light, a man amusing himself with a kid. This sparring is associated with fun due to the words “toying” and “kid”. This shows that the sportsman is only now noticing the protagonist’s childish nature.
As for his listener, it becomes clear that this young man is simply repeating Park Namwook’s words. The clues for this interpretation are two expressions: “we should be grateful” and “especially with that personality of his”. Only the manager and coach has been underlining the bad personality from the main lead. He has no manners (chapter 7), he is a maniac, (chapter 9) he is a stubborn workaholic (chapter 27) (chapter 27) (chapter 52) Then in front of Kim Dan, the latter would always voice his gratitude (chapter 9) (chapter 43) The moment this expression “darker path” grabbed my interest, I wondered why the manager and coach would employ such an expression. It implies that he still saw the athlete’s career as a dark path.
On the one hand, it could be related to MMA fighting which the hyung doesn’t view in a good light. It was, as though the athlete should have selected a different career like doctor or teacher. Nevertheless, my avid readers should keep in their mind that on the morning of the protagonist’s birthday the man sent a video with his kids. (chapter 43) The latter seem to be cheering on the star. The video exposes that Park Namwook has been portraying the main lead as a champion and as such as a hero. He doesn’t see his job as MMA in a negative light. If so, he would have never allowed his children to know about his relationship with Joo Jaekyung. In fact, the message and video are exposing the father’s pride. He is the coach and manager from the famous and invincible MMA fighter. Consequently, I don’t think that the man is truly condemning him for becoming a MMA fighter.
This conclusion leads us right back to the start. Why would he say “darker path”? One might reply that the purpose is to outline his role as Joo Jaekyung’s savior and luck. Nevertheless, I doubt that this man realized that with this little addition he was exposing his true thoughts. From my point of view, the comparative is exposing that the manager from Team Black is not totally oblivious of the connection between MFC and the criminal world. Since Baek Junmin’s path crossed the athlete’s in the past (chapter 49), it signifies that Joo Jaekyung could have become involved in this type of games: (chapter 47) And from my perspective, Park Namwook is aware of this. As you know, for me, Joo Jaekyung became the official face of MFC, the one covering up the dark side. He stands in the light to mask the true nature of that organization. For me, “darker” is the indication that the manager is aware of the connections.
Joo Jaekyung, a winner or a target?
And the other evidence for this hypothesis are his words in chapter 46: (chapter 46) In this picture, I detected a contradiction from the hyung. If the star is bringing a lot of money, why would he become a target? In fact, people would rather bet on the man, as his victory seems more probable than his defeat. No one has an interest to bet against him, unless the schemers are malicious and malevolent. The word “target” is not random, it implies the existence of a scheme. Hence the manager should have been even more prudent concerning his star’s safety. Yet, he allowed him to return home alone during the night and he had no guard by his side. (chapter 48) This remark outlines the manager’s neglect. His boy has no protection, though he had already become the target of a “malicious fan” according to the “fake investigation”. Moreover, in the office, Park Namwook is finally admitting the existence of illegal gambling, a topic which was never brought up before. (chapter 46) He is explaining this, as if that was something new. However, even the members from TEAM Black already knew about them. (chapter 47) Imagine that Joo Jaekyung has been fighting for a while, and only after so many years, the topic “illegal gambling and schemes” is brought up. In my eyes, everything seems to point out that the manager was aware of the corruption of MFC and even crimes, but he chose to close an eye to the truth. But please don’t get me wrong. I am not saying that he knew about the existence of the first scheme. From my perspective, the man is a silent accomplice. Moreover, he doesn’t need to know everything, he just needs to know a few facts, but by hiding them from the champion, he becomes an accomplice. Moreover, with this explanation, Jinx-philes can grasp why the coach and manager is portraying himself as the owner of the gym. That way, he can keep his pupil in the dark, a similar attitude than the physical therapist with his grandmother. He never brought up the truth to Shin Okja concerning the physical assault from the loan sharks..
Moreover, why would he avoid meeting director Choi Gilseok the week before the fight? (chapter 49) The drop of his face is not only indicating his discomfort, but also his lie. It is because if he had met the director from King Of MMA, he could have been suspected of being a traitor or a spy. Thus I come to the following theory: Park Namwook knew about the meeting between the director of Choi Gilseok and Kim Dan. Let’s not forget that the physical therapist encountered the villain right in front of the gym and Kwak Junbeom was a witness of their meeting. (chapter 48) This raises the following question: did he know about the anonymous message? (chapter 48) It is difficult to say, but this incident is revealing the manager’s complicity. How so? It is his job as a manager to protect his boy from the public. No personal information should be so easily accessible. He has to make sure that his cellphone number is not given to any random guy. Yes, his cellphone number was leaked not only to journalists, but also to rival gyms. I am suspecting that the leaking could be linked to „favors“ and free PR. One might say that the Entertainment agency could be behind the leak. However, my avid readers shouldn’t forget that the person who pushed Joo Jaekyung to sign a contract with the agency was Park Namwook. (chapter 30) He explained this choice by saying that many athletes would sign such contracts. His justification outlines his herd mentality. That way, he would delegate his responsibility to the agency. Hence Park Namwook is accountable for the signature of this contract. Thus it dawned on me that the manager has played the same role than the halmoni’s in the end. Both put a leash to their “relative’s neck”, though it had never been their intention. There is no ambiguity that these two characters were definitely motivated by their selfishness, greed and dream. Finally, we should question ourselves why the manager and coach is so obsessed with money and is treating his “boy” like a doll. His mentality was definitely influenced by his surroundings. However, at the gym, most of the fighters were portrayed as little kids who got corrupted over time. Since I detected similarities between the two main leads, I can only come to the deduction that Kim Dan is the champion’s emancipator. While the doctor needed money to get liberated from debts, the other needs to find a true family in order to be free from fighting restlessly. But there is more to it.
Park Namwook’s glasses
If you already read my analysis Who are you?”, the significance of masks in Manhwas, you are aware of the symbolism of glasses in Manhwas. The latter should be considered as masks too, where people hide their true thoughts and emotions. Thus the spectacles often embody hypocrisy, deceitfulness but also blindness. (Painter Of The Night, chapter 7) Jung In-Hun from Painter Of The Night is the perfect illustration. The latter had the impression to be superior to others due to his knowledge. He imagined to have fooled Yoon Seungho. Thus he envisioned that he had been able to manipulate the main lead, whereas the opposite had happened. Finally, the scholar had the tendency to dream big, which led him to his doom. On the other hand, since Matthew Rayner from Under The Green Light decided to wear spectacles in order to avoid rejection and fear, I deduce that Park Namwook represents a combination of both metaphors. On the one hand, he is hiding his true thoughts behind the spectacles. He also has high ambitions and he is not entirely honest to his “boss”, like I exposed it in the last composition. On the other hand, there is no doubt that the man is also motivated by fears. (chapter 53) They serve him as shield literally and figuratively. No one would punch or slap a man wearing glasses. Furthermore, he is protecting his own heart and mind that way. It was, as if he was closing his eyes to reality. That’s the other reason why I believe that the coach is not entirely ignorant about the existence of corruption in MFC. Yet, I couldn’t help myself noticing the absence of Park Namwook’s eyes, especially at the end of the season 1. Jinx-philes could only see them, when he voiced his anger towards his “champion”: (chapter 52) After that outburst, they vanished behind the glasses. (chapter 53) Is the author lazy to draw eyes? Or if not, why is this man portrayed eyeless even with glasses?
In literature and visual media, eyeless characters often represent themes of emotional detachment, moral ambiguity, or hidden motives, amplifying the eerie nature of a character who appears soulless or devoid of empathy. When eyes are covered, concealed, or even omitted entirely, it can imply an emotional blindness, a lack of self-awareness, or even a refusal to face reality. The saying “The eyes are the mirror of the soul” underscores that eyes reveal inner truth and vulnerability, allowing us to connect with others. So, when a character lacks eyes, it suggests a separation from these very qualities, making them appear either emotionally empty, sinister, or untrustworthy. Such portrayals can also indicate a person who hides behind a “mask,” unwilling to reveal their true self, as their concealed eyes prevent others from truly understanding or trusting them. In other words, by portraying the manager with eyes, Mingwa is indicating that this man symbolizes mistrust, lack of self-awareness and detachment.
In addition, in a darker interpretation, being “eyeless” can also imply a loss of control or identity, as if the person is a mere shell, lacking an inner life that grounds their actions or connects them with the world around them. And now pay attention to Joo Jaekyung’s portrait in episode 26: (chapter 26) The shadow is eyeless, mirroring his mentor’s mentality. In other words, the man with glasses symbolizes emptiness and lack of compassion and even morality.
To conclude, for Park Namwook in Jinx, this eyeless portrayal, combined with his glasses, intensifies his mysterious and unsettling nature. His glasses serve as a “mask,” hiding his thoughts and emotions, much like how characters in manhwas often use spectacles to obscure their true intentions. This concealment implies that Park is not fully honest or transparent, particularly with those he interacts with in his role as coach. (Chapter 52) By putting them back, he is displaying that he is acting again. His hidden eyes may also hint at an emotional or moral blindness, as though he either cannot or chooses not to see the deeper consequences of his actions or the corruption around him. And now, you comprehend why he stands for fake gratitude and fake compassion. His mouth is not reflecting his mind.
When his eyes are briefly shown during this moment of anger (chapter 52), they reveal a flash of his true feelings, but they quickly disappear behind the glasses again. This momentary exposure suggests that his mask slips only under intense emotion, reinforcing his general detachment and guarded nature. Through Park Namwook’s eyeless depiction, he is portrayed as a character who is both morally ambiguous and emotionally shielded, distancing him from both the audience and the characters around him. This shows that the coach and manager is not Joo Jaekyung’s savior. In reality I am more than ever convinced that the opposite happened. Thanks to him, the coach was able to make a living. Under this new light, you comprehend why the hyung utilized the comparative darker in that context. In reality, he is the one who brought him to the dark path, but he is in denial.
Before closing this essay, I would like my avid readers to remember this scene: (chapter 52) (chapter 52) Park Namwook removed his spectacles, when he cried. However, notice that he still protected his eyes by using his arm. A sign for his dishonesty in my opinion. Moreover, it indicates how guarded and mistrustful this man is. At the same time, it becomes clear why he had to remove them. It is because the glasses are a mask. The tears would not have been visible. I would even add that this man was mimicking a crying person, as his weeping stopped very quickly. He needed to awake compassion or sympathy, for he had acted like a ruffian at the hospital. He had used violence on a patient.
One thing is sure: Park Namwook is neither a savior nor a hero. He is the reason why Joo Jaekyung has not been living at all. Now, Joo Jaekyung is on his way to find the light of his life: Kim Dan, his true companion and soulmate. He chose love and Enlightenment over blindness, greed and ambition.
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.
It would be great if you could make some donations/sponsoring: Ko-fi.com/bebebisous33 That way, you can support me with “coffee” so that I have the energy to keep examining Manhwas. Besides, I need to cover up the expenses for this blog.
A Picture, a question
Today, I will focus on the champion’s jacket which Joo Jaekyung gave to Kim Dan. (chapter 53) One detail caught my attention. The inscription on the back is referring to Team Black and it has a number, 03. Why doesn’t the jacket show his name, when the MMA fighter is so famous?
In the real world, UFC fighters typically enter the arena wearing a jacket or hoodie that often has their name or nickname on it, as well as the logos of their sponsors and their team. This gear is usually provided by UFC’s official outfitting partner, which has been Venum since 2021 (following a previous deal with Reebok). The jacket is part of their walkout attire, meant to represent the fighter’s brand and provide visibility for their sponsors. This observation gets confirmed in this image: (chapter 36) The gym is visible and at the bottom of the jacket, you can see the name of the different sponsors (MFC, Jinx and others). As you can see, only the name or nickname (Emperor) of the main lead is missing. So how could Park Namwook recognize that this one was for the Emperor, (chapter 36), though his size is not so different from other fighters? One might think that it is related to the number 03. Yet I detected that all the other jackets had the same number too: 03. (chapter 36) That’s how I realized two aspects.
Interpretation of the jacket
First the jackets have no name, because they are part of the membership. You can only wear this, if you are a member from Team Black. Don’t forget what the manager said to Kim Dan, when he realized his mistake: (chapter 36) The cloth is the symbol of membership. And now you comprehend why Kim Dan chose to return it to Joo Jaekyung. He was no longer considering it as a gift, rather as a company uniform.
However, there is no doubt that in the beginning, the young man saw it as a present, because he chose to wear it, when no one was around him. (chapter 36) Moreover, in the States, he was wearing a different jacket: (chapter 40) He kept it hidden like a precious treasure. Secondly, the fact that no jacket is wearing a name of the fighter is indicating that the latter can be replaced. They are all just reduced to a number: 03. They have no name or as such no face.
But this doesn’t end here. What is the biggest name on the back of the cloth? BLACK TEAM! (chapter 36) Yes, the gym stands in the foreground. And who claims to be the owner of TEAM BLACK? Naturally Park Namwook. (chapter 22)This signifies that he is trying to get famous on Joo Jaekyung’s back. By not adding his name or his nickname on his back, he is claiming the fighter as his “fighter” and member. He is trying to claim that only thanks to him, the athlete could reach the top. In addition, when the manager gave the jacket to the celebrity, he had just selected one of them based on his size and nothing more. (Chapter 36). He could have given the same cloth to another member, but by giving him one personally, he gave the impression that he was thinking of him a lot. It was, as if Joo Jaekyung was his first priority. Yet the reality is far from it, for the jacket was not personally for the star.
Furthermore, very early on, I had discovered that the true owner is Joo Jaekyung due to the advance and transaction. As you can see, the coach and manager was trying to do free PR. (chapter 30) As a conclusion, the jacket revealed the manager’s greed and indirect “embezzlement”. He is using Team Black and Joo Jaekyung to get recognition and admiration. Should the jacket have the name of Joo Jaekyung on it, no one would pay attention to Team Black.
And now, it is time to focus on the circumstances when the jackets were offered. They appeared, when the gym was facing a crisis. The future of Joo Jaekyung was questioned. And who was in a bad mood? One might answer the star. But there was someone else too: Park Namwook! (chapter 36) Yes, the coach and manager, but his bad mood didn’t get the attention from the readers or the members. He was yelling, even looking unhappy and grumpy. (chapter 36) According to my observations, Park Namwook’s nightmare is to see the end of the champion’s career. In other words, he also felt threatened after the release of the article. The champion’s career is numbered.
Interesting is that the moment I noticed his bad mood in this image, I had another revelation. Why was the champion so rough and deadly serious, when he was sparring with Oh Daehyun and others? It is because he knew that his hyung was observing him. He needed to prove to him that he was still invincible. Yes, the body language from Park Namwook (crossed arms with no mouth) is expressing expectations, dissatisfaction and pressure. As soon as you accept this interpretation, you will realize that the members during that day were used as “tools” for the champion’s training. It had nothing to do with sparring or teaching, rather with a real fight. Joo Jaekyung needed to prove his superiority and even his perfection to his hyung. Thar’s the reason why I come to the following conclusion: chapter 36 stands in opposition to episode 26, where sparring was connected to fun and real teaching. (chapter 26) And how were the members from Team Black feeling during that special day? (chapter 26) Happy, though they were just observing. Kim Dan was spreading not only good mood, but also genuine care and selflessness.
Under this light, it becomes comprehensible why Park Namwook didn’t try to protect them from the champion’s coldness, though the star was less brutal compared to episode 1. (chapter 36) The manager and coach was upset too and he could no longer hide his anxieties and stress. Thus I come to the following deduction: we should see this episode as the older version of the slap. (Chapter 2) His boy had not been perfect. He had failed him. In addition, Namwook’s reaction contrasts so much to Kim Dan who not only fulfilled Potato’s dream, but also desired to learn from the star. He considered him as a master. But let’s return our attention to chapter 36 and the coach’s attitude.
First, he was himself in a bad mood (anxious, under pressure). Secondly, he saw this training as a preparation to an imminent fight. In other words, he already knew that a fight would take place. He needed it in order to get reassurance for himself. At the same time, he needed to cover up for his own rude and selfish behavior. Hence he offered the jackets. That way, he could appear as a good Samaritan (chapter 36) Yet, he pales in comparison to our main lead Kim Dan, who didn’t use money to get recognition and admiration from the other members. He is not using Joo Jaekyung to get rich or famous…. And this remark brings me to another statement. While the sparring in episode 26 embodies fun, honesty, happiness, gratitude and teaching, episode 36 represents the opposite notions: MONEY, WORK, ANGER, greed, manipulations and selfishness. That’s why the jackets have no name on it, they symbolize dehumanization and anonymity. The underlining message is that even Joo Jaekyung, as a fighter, can get replaced. However, this is not correct, for the protagonist is the true owner of the gym. Without him, the gym can not exist.
Thus I can’t help myself thinking that in the end, Kim Dan is destined to become famous, something Park Namwook have been dreaming of. However, contrary to the manager, Kim Dan’s success will be thanks to his own skills and dedication. He will bring a different philosophy to the gym. The members are not numbers, but talented fighters, hence they should be treated with respect and care. (chapter 7) They are honorable, though they are using their fists.
That’s it for today.
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Like mentioned in the last essay, I am planning to release a short analysis each day. Today, my focus will be on this scene: (chapter 52) The remaining members from Team Black were paying a visit to the recently surged athlete. One detail caught my attention.
Where are the flowers or the fruits from the visitors?
If you have ever watched any K-drama, you can observe how visitors bring flowers, nutrition drinks, a basket of fruits or ginseng to a patient recovering at a hospital. Why? Offering items like fruits, flowers, books, nutrition drinks, or ginseng to a hospital patient serves both emotional and physical purposes. Flowers and books help create a comforting environment, lifting the patient’s spirits, while fruits and nutrition drinks provide essential nutrients, aiding recovery. Ginseng, valued in traditional medicine for boosting energy and immune support, can also contribute to physical well-being. Together, these gifts show thoughtfulness, offering nourishment, distraction, and a reminder that the patient is cared for, fostering a holistic approach to healing. They are not alone, they can count on their friends or family’s support.
Since these gestures show comfort and thoughtfulness, promoting emotional well-being, the panel exposes Team Black’s true mentality. They are not taking care of the celebrity’s mental and emotional care at all. The absence reinforces my previous interpretation about this scene. Park Namwook is far from being compassionate and caring. In fact, imagine that they are talking about work in such an environment, while the fighter should focus on his recovery. Let’s not forget that he just got surged which shouldn’t be underestimated.
One might argue that Kim Dan didn’t bring a gift to his grandmother, when he visited her twice at the hospital. (chapter 5) (chapter 7) Nevertheless, the young man was struggling financially back then, he could barely buy himself some food. Nonetheless, he still took his time to visit her before going to his new work place. And this brings me back to the image from episode 22: (chapter 52) All these men are not struggling financially, hence they should have thought about a present. Moreover, observe that they didn’t bring anything during that day, but also not before. The VIP hospital room is totally empty, even sterile. The absence of items is indicating their neglect, I am even suspecting that they didn’t visit the champion for a while. Mingwa showed us that the remaining members went to the gym. (chapter 52) But there is more to it.
They didn’t send anything either: no card or message. The table and bed are clean. Moreover, my avid readers could see that Joo Jaekyung only had his cellphone and he was reading the news. This means that Joo Jaekyung didn’t receive any kind word from them either. This exposes the coldness from Park Namwook who is seen as hyung and role model for Team Black. He has spent so many years by his side, but he is unable to show any compassion towards his “boy”, To conclude, he is not a role model. Quite far from it…. And this raises the following question.
Why didn’t they even think of a small present?
They could use the birthday party as an excuse. (chapter 43) He wouldn’t have liked it. He dislikes presents anyway. However, his reaction at the surprised birthday party can not be utilized as an excuse. Why? I have two reasons for this objection. First, he saw the birthday party as a disturbance to his routine (training)! That’s why he said this to the fighters: (chapter 43) They should eat the cake quickly so that the training could start. But at the hospital, he has all the time in the world. He can not train due to his injured shoulder. Hence the gift doesn’t represent a transgression at all. As for the second reason, note that the athlete ate the strawberry with the cream, with this gesture, he was sending the signal that he was accepting their present, though he didn’t eat much. Finally, by eating the strawberry, he displays his like for fruits!!
There exists another reason why the athlete received nothing from his visitors. Let’s not forget that for the athlete, presents were always connected to favors! The donator expected something in exchange from the “receiver”. And now, you know why Park Namwook came empty-handed! He had nothing to expect from Joo Jaekyung, the latter lost his title and he can not fight for 3 months. This means that during this time, Park Namwook can not earn any money. Remember that the one racing against time is in truth the former wrestler, for he is expecting this outcome: (chapter 52) Yes, everything is revolving around money for Park Namwook. This observation leads to the following remark. The manager offered nothing to Joo Jaekyung, because he is rich. He has everything he needs. That’s how it dawned on me that so far, the coach has never offered anything to the star himself at all, not even after his victories. Just a stroke on the shoulder (chapter 5) and a compliment in the hallway (chapter 40). In fact, the one doing a favor was always Joo Jaekyung for the manager. Hence the former chose to lie about his shoulder: he is not allowed to show any sign of weakness. (chapter 40)
By noticing the absence of gifts in the hospital room, I had another revelation. I suddenly recalled this scene: (chapter 15) Here, the manager was willing to bring him “all the water the star could ever want”. And guess what? Water is supposed to be free! Naturally, he was replying to the champion’s request. However, I don’t think this remark is anodyne. In fact, “all the water you could ever want” is an indication that the champion is not allowed to be too greedy and Park Namwook is only willing to offer water and nothing else. It exposes Park Namwook‘s greed.
And now, it is time to return to the hospital room. (chapter 52) Did Park Namwook ask the athlete if he wanted to have some water? Did he offer to help him to change the position of his bed? Did he assist him to sit correctly, like the champion did with the grandmother? (chapter 21) Did he spend his time with him in order to give him some comfort? The answer is always NO. Yes, Joo Jaekyung appears as a knight in shining armor compared to Park Namwook.
Why am I so certain that he didn’t spend time with the athlete?
First, for me, there is no doubt that Park Namwook felt uncomfortable with the injured sportsman. Don’t forget that his biggest fear is that his boy gets so injured that he can no longer fight. (chapter 43) He only admires the strong and invincible fighter, not the weak man. Furthermore, he needed to announce to Joo Jaekyung that his PT had quit. Thanks to Potato’s discovery, the man had the opportunity to bring up the resignation. However, he didn’t want to be the one responsible for his resignation. Joo Jaekyung needed to take the fall. What caught my attention is that Potato’s face had cuts, but no bruised face! (chapter 52) Here, I am giving you a comparison with Kim Dan: (chapter 18) The latter had just received his treatment at the hospital. The maknae and the others had not appeared, because they had gone to the hospital in order to treat the chowchow’s wounds. This shows that some time had passed, until they chose to visit the wounded and lonely star. Besides, Jeong Yosep had contacted in the main time the authorities (police, MFC) (chapter 52) As you can see, the timing is indicating that the athlete was manipulated, for they revealed the truth to Joo Jaekyung in delay. It is called “paltering”. This new discovery reinforces my first examination. They were all selfish and cold-hearted, for they had the time to buy a present, when they went to the VIP room. Simultaneously, it corroborates my impression that Park Namwook was not truly unhappy about Kim Dan’s departure. His passivity, silence and the delayed announcement of his resignation are all revealing that Park Namwook was not truly concerned about the PT. But the best evidence is his behavior towards his own “boy”. He spent so many years by his side (chapter 15), but he didn’t offer him anything at the hospital: no book, no ginseng, no fruit…. In verity, he was the one who desired to get comfort and validation. (chapter 52) It was, as if the world had turned upside down.
That’s it for today.
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.
Please support the authors by reading the Manhwas on the official websites. This is where you can read the manhwa: Jinx But be aware that the Manhwa is a mature Yaoi, which means, it is about homosexuality with explicit scenes. Here is the link of thetable of contents about Jinx.Here is the link where you can find the table of contents of analyzed Manhwas. Here are the links, if you are interested in the first work from Mingwa, BJ Alex, and the previous essay about JinxSound Of Water (third version)
It would be great if you could make some donations/sponsoring: Ko-fi.com/bebebisous33 That way, you can support me with “coffee” so that I have the energy to keep examining manhwas. Besides, I need to cover up the expenses for this blog.
The trigger for this essay were quotes from “The Art Of Loving”, a book written by Erich Fromm. In my essay “The Art Of Loving”I had already introduced the German-American socio psychologist, psychoanalyst, sociologist and humanistic philosopher, where I presented his definition of love: Care, knowledge, respect and responsibility. However, notice that the title of my analysis is “To give or To Take?”, which was inspired by other books from Erich Fromm: “To Have or To Be?” and “Escape From Freedom”. The reason is simple, the quotes led me to his other theories which give explanations to the origins of unhappiness or happiness. There he outlined the problems of our modern society and gave advices how to lead a good life. This brings me back to the Korean Manhwa Jinx, where (un)happiness is in the center of the story. As the seme and uke are both really miserable despite their different social status. Both believed to be jinxed. The reality is that they were trapped, and their unhappiness was the result of their own bad choices. How would Erich Fromm explain this?
1. Masters and Slaves
In works like Escape from Freedom and The Art of Loving, Fromm suggested that humans often avoid the responsibility of true freedom by conforming to societal norms, seeking authority figures to follow, or focusing on material gains. This “escape from freedom,” as he called it, results in a loss of autonomy and self-awareness, keeping individuals from mastering their own lives. While Fromm believed we have the potential for self-mastery, he cautioned that this requires a conscious rejection of limiting social pressures and a commitment to self-discovery and personal responsibility. Under this new perspective, my avid readers can grasp my selection for the heading. Freedom defines the distinction between a master and a slave—those with freedom have agency, autonomy, and control over their choices, while those without it are subject to another’s will and have nothing to give to others. It highlights how freedom is fundamental to self-determination and power, establishing a boundary between control and subservience.
1. 1. The poor child and dog
And if you read my previous analysis “Sound Of Water“, you should have realized that Shin Okja embodies the slave who chose to escape from freedom. Thus she blamed life and others (“we”) (chapter 53) for not realizing her biggest wish: to return to the West Coast. With her words, she implies that she never had any choice. Hence she is not responsible for her “misery”. However, after reading Erich Fromm’s philosophy, it becomes clear that she must have always followed social norms and listened to authority figures (parents, husband, doctors, …). That’s how she gave up on her own freedom. One might argue that her scoop of maneuver was limited due to her poverty. However, the Mother Of Pearl Wedding Cabinet is definitely expensive and no junk (chapter 16), especially since the latter is rather old. The grandmother could have sold it, but she never did, for the latter has a sentimental value. Consequently, I would say that she had missed her chance, and naturally her misery is the result of her own wrong choices. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why the grandmother portrays herself as poor who has nothing to give to her grandchild. (chapter 53) As a slave, she can not become responsible for Kim Dan and his life. However, she is wrong here again. She was not entirely powerless. She could have talked about her experience with the ocean, she could have loved her grandchild more properly so that Kim Dan wouldn’t have to suffer from abandonment issues and a low self-esteem. Yes, love is something free and no one has control over the emotions of a human being. Due to her lack of self-awareness (Peter Pan Syndrom), she influenced her grandchild negatively, and the latter became a copy of herself: trapped in the past, living in an illusion and rejecting reality. Funny is that by relying on Kim Dan constantly, she was actually teaching her grandson to become accountable and independent. She was entrusting her life into his own hands. Consequently, the main lead chose to accept the deal from Joo Jaekyung during their first night and later asked for a higher salary. Finally, at the end, he chose to leave the penthouse out of obligation (chapter 53) (filial duty), a sign that he is not able to break free from social norms. At the same time, it displays that his feelings for Joo Jaekyung are much stronger than the ones for Shin Okja. His short time spent in the penthouse left a deep impression on him.
On the other hand, we shouldn’t overlook one important aspect. The halmeoni asked for a favor from Kim Dan, and her wish is actually the expression of her own will. In other words, she is making a choice and as such becomes responsible for her own destiny. She can no longer say that life or others had a saying in her desire and choice. That’s the reason why during that night, she turned Kim Dan into a puppy dog. (chapter 53) Her vocabulary exposes that she became a master and in her mind, the puppy dog has to follow her owner. Therefore it is no coincidence that Mingwa created such an image: (chapter 53) The grandmother is now the master of her own life and Kim Dan’s. On the one hand, just before her death, she is learning to become accountable for her own life, even though I still have my doubts that she is really realizing the consequences of her choice. She is still chasing after after an illusion. As you already know, I am anticipating a rude awakening fron her part, as she can not escape from reality and her own mortality. On the other hand, with her request, she gets responsible for her grandchild’s career, and someone could criticize her for making him quit. She didn’t take his job’s obligations into consideration. Simultaneously, this image illustrates a relapse of Kim Dan. He is once again trapped, though he wished to be freed. Thus he wrote this to Joo Jaekyung: (chapter 53) Deep down, he would like to be recognized as a competent physical therapist. Moreover, my avid readers should recall that the champion had already noticed the change of heart in the doctor before the scheme took place. (chapter 53) So the athlete could come to the realization that his departure was related to the grandmother’s sickness and dying wish, a new version of episode 20 and 21. However, even if the fighter helps the grandmother, he can not entirely free the physical therapist. How so? It is because the doctor has to free himself, breaking free from conformity and his own psychological constraints (lack of confidence and as such courage). And the best evidence for his servitude mentality is the absence of his love confession to the athlete. He disguised it behind gratitude. (Chapter 45) But how can he change his condition? I will give the answer below.
1. 2. The release of the rich slave
As you can imagine, the person I am referring behind this heading is the champion. Interesting is that in the story, he received the title “Emperor”. (chapter 14) Yet, the reality is that despite his wealth, he is not free at all. Actually, he reminded me of a Roman gladiator. Gladiators in ancient Rome lived under challenging and contradictory conditions. Although they were often slaves or prisoners of war, some achieved fame, wealth, and admiration comparable to modern-day sports stars. Successful gladiators could earn prizes, attract fan followings, and even enjoy certain luxuries within their restrictive lives. However, they remained under the control of their lanista (manager) or the state, with little freedom to make personal choices. They could not select their opponents or refuse combat, and each fight carried the risk of injury or death, underscoring their vulnerability and lack of autonomy despite their celebrated status.
Most gladiators were enslaved people forced to fight. But a small contingent were free-born citizens who volunteered in hopes of earning money and fame. Before they could enter combat, gladiators trained for months in specialized schools managed by wealthy investors who profited from their fighters’ success.
Contrary to popular perception, gladiators didn’t necessarily battle to the death. Instead, fighting progressed until one of them surrendered, usually by holding up a single finger. All told, only between 10 and 20 percent of gladiators died during matches—a reflection, in part, of their high financial value to investors.
It wasn’t easy for gladiators to stand out. Each warrior fought only two to three times per year, usually in events featuring 10 to 13 gladiator fights, according to Murray—with each individual match lasting about 10 to 15 minutes. But some, owing to their extravagant personalities, personal backgrounds or memorable performances, gained lasting renown via ancient artists or historians. Quoted from https://www.history.com/news/most-famous-ancient-roman-gladiators
This comparison between the main lead and a Roman gladiator reinforced my negative perception about Park Namwook. He acts as the owner of the athlete (chapter 40), though the gym belongs to the celebrity. But let’s return our attention to the American-German philosopher. The latter pointed out the importance of self-awareness and the rejection of materialism and social pressures (authority figures, conformity) in order to become truly free.
This aspect is really important, because the athlete Joo Jaekyung is a homosexual which represents a huge taboo in the MMA world. Remember my hypothesis that the jinx could also be an excuse in order to hide his own sexual orientation. (chapter 2) Therefore sex is linked to prostitution and work. Back then, this had nothing to do with pleasure, sensuality and entertaining. It was revolving around power and domination. That way, he wouldn’t appear as weak, he is not controlled by his sexual desires and emotions. That’s how it dawned on me why the champion has been denying the existence of feelings in his past relationships. Naturally, it is possible that he got his heart broken before, but it is also possible that he could never live out his own true homosexuality. Note that his father figure, Park Namwook, has no idea about his sexual life. The athlete could fear to disappoint him. This raises the question how the manager will react, when the athlete’s secret is exposed. Should he request from his boy to organize a conference and deny the allegation there, he would divulge not only his lack of loyalty, but also his hypocrisy. Why? It is because this is something he should have organized after the last match. A conference to expose the existence of schemes. But everything got swayed under the rug. On the other hand, I deduce that if the topic of sodomy is brought up in season 2, there is no ambiguity that both main leads won’t give in to conformity and external pressure (even in the form of threats). Why? It is because during season 2, both characters will come to be true to themselves. That‘s how they can become master of their own life.
This signifies that in order to go on the past of self-mastery, the champion needs to break free from materialism (chapter 41), from his manager’s influence (father figure) and even from the MFC world (authorities) !! What is the common denominator between these three persons? MONEY! (chapter 50) Hence the last match was not cancelled in the last minute. The athlete is not fighting out of fun and passion, but out of obligation and survival. He is trapped in a world where money is everything. Thus he was always pushed to accept any challenger despite his injuries. That’s how I realized why the athlete always suspected Kim Dan of being greedy. It is because he projected his own thoughts onto his partner. However, this negative perception was definitely influenced by his “hyung”, we have the best example in episode 46. Due to Park Namwook, Joo Jaekyung was the one who was constantly thinking and talking about money in front of Kim Dan. (chapter 26) No wonder why he got so surprised by Kim Dan’s reaction in the locker room: (chapter 51) He was disarmed by a single question and a shocked and disappointed face: (chapter 51) The question implied that the doctor had been trusting him.
1. 3. The “lanista’s” chains
We had another perfect example of “Escape from Freedom” in episode 43 at the restaurant. Note that Park Namwook underlined that the fight was the champion’s decision (chapter 43), yet he added shortly this comment: : (chapter 43) The hypocrite coach utilized the personal pronoun “WE” indicating that he and his peers had played a role in the athlete’s decision. Funny is that though he complained about the schedule, he still accepted the switch of the fighter later. But he could have voiced his fears and objections. Nevertheless, he did nothing. Since I connected the halmeoni to past, I suddenly realized that the “lanista” embodies the opposite notion. He is trapped in the future, thus he is always anxious. Imagine that in that scene, they were celebrating Joo Jaekyung’s birthday, it should have been a good time. Yet, the manager kept talking about work and the future. (chapter 43) (chapter 43) This is a sign that he was not “enjoying the present”. In my eyes, with his comments, he was actually ruining the party. Fortunately, no one paid attention to his words except the physical therapist and Yosep. By talking like that, he gives the impression that he is caring and paying attention to the fighter. Yet this is just an illusion, for he is not focused on the present. He neglected his duties, therefore the schemers were able to bring drugs to the champion’s rooms. (chapter 49) Notice that he was afraid of an outburst from Joo Jaekyung in the locker room, therefore they were restraining him. This was no real protection. I am suspecting that the manager is trusting MFC and its organization. In addition, his obsession with the future explains why the athlete’s mental health has been neglected by the coach and manager. As a conclusion, Park Namwook is himself trapped in his own world: money, fear of the future and the champion‘s retirement which means the end of his own career as manager and coach. Therefore he is pushing his fighter to race against time. It is only a matter until his boy gets injured!!
This means that we should see the athlete’s suspension as his moment of release. He is no longer forced to fight. He is “abandoned” by MFC, fans and even by his manager (chapter 53). The latter announces that his “boy” can take a break. What caught my attention is his idiom. The suspension got turned into a break which sounds much more positive. Interesting is that break is not only a synonym for “rest”, but also for “opportunity, chance”. This new discovery reinforces my previous interpretation: the loss of his “title” and his suspension are in verity an escape to freedom. Why? It is because he is no longer exposed to manipulations and external pressure like in episode 36: (chapter 36) money, social media, the agency, the lawyer, Park Namwook and Jeong Yosep. For the first time, Joo Jaekyung can think of something else other than work. Nevertheless, the athlete had not realized it yet. Striking is that the longer the fighter thought about the PT’s resignation, the longer he came to object to it. (chapter 53) This means that the fighter was acknowledging the “uke” as an important member of Team Black. In addition, he was recognizing Kim Dan’s effort and talent as PT. Moreover, it exposes the absence of change in Joo Jaekyung’s mentality. He was still “thinking” of work and fighting. It displays that the protagonist had not realized the true signification of his suspension yet. Hence the doctor’s departure was necessary. Joo Jaekyung is forced to think about his fated partner, making him forget his work and his career. His “obsession” with Kim Dan will push him to stop being a workaholic. But there is more to it.
By leaving the city behind (my prediction), the champion’s not aware that this trip will become a spiritual journey where he will discover his true self. But for that, meditation is required. In my opinion, the grandmother’s illness should serve him as a wake-up call. He spent a lot of money on her treatment, but she couldn’t be saved. It looks like he never visited her again. Should he see her again, he could get shocked. From this (chapter 21) to this (chapter 47) Money is powerless in front of death and terrible injuries. Therefore he is lucky that his shoulder is not ruined forever. Moreover a trip represents a good metaphor for an escape, a travel is a synonym for freedom and the end of “routine”.
2. The ability to love
Far away from medias, public eyes, the agency and his manager, he can discover a different world: the West Coast and nature. And this brings me to a quote from Erich Fromm:
Paradoxically, the ability to be alone is the condition for the ability to love. (The Art Of Loving)
Through this statement, we have the explanation why Joo Jaekyung can love and why he couldn’t love Kim Dan properly in season 1. The fact that he lived alone in the penthouse is a proof of his independency (chapter 35). However, since he didn’t spend much time in his own home, he never took the time to take care of his soulmate. By leaving the city and Team Black behind, he would become truly alone (as opposition to his trips to Busan, the States) which would give him an opportunity to become more honest to himself and to Kim Dan.
In addition, this quote exposes the absence of “unconditional love” from the grandmother. (chapter 53) So far, she could never be alone, she always needed the assistance of others: Kim Dan, the doctor, the nurse, Joo Jaekyung. She always relied on others (“we”, “life”). But it is also the same for Kim Dan who has always been listening to people, as his desire was to get accepted. His conformity led him to experience misery, as he lacked critical thinking. He never questioned people’s words, decisions or behaviors. Only thanks to his soulmate, he started changing. His psychological restrains were his abandonment issues and his low self-esteem. That’s the reason why their love couldn’t flourish in season 1. Nevertheless, Kim Dan still had a good disposition for being capable of loving someone, exactly like his fated partner. He could live on his own as well.This signifies that their future love relationship won’t be toxic, as they won’t be needy or dependent on each other, the exact opposite between the grandmother and Kim Dan or Joo Jaekyung and his hyung Park Namwook. However, this doesn‘t mean that they won‘t help each other.
I am quite certain that the fighter must have noticed the doctor’s low self-esteem in the letter. Therefore he felt bad for his reproaches and lack of trust. Remember that the champion never expressed a compliment or even showed gratitude towards the doctor. (chapter 43) In episode 1, he gave a positive feedback (chapter 1). Nonetheless, his words sounded more negative due to the usage of negation. Moreover, Kim Dan was too scared to take his words seriously. Consequently, it becomes obvious that Kim Dan needs to hear praises from the athlete himself. It is not just about an apology about his misjudgment, the “hamster” needs to hear from his own patient that he trusts him and his hands. Thus he wants to be needed: (chapter 53) This explicates why the young man kept questioning the actor’s intentions behind his gifts. He could see that the man didn’t need him. This thought displays his desire to give a meaning to his own existence as well. If he is needed, he has a reason to exist. This desire of being needed can be expressed by words, but also with the hands: or like this: And what does the hand symbolize? The latter symbolizes gratitude and love! Hence the grandmother took the MMA fighter’s hand in order to thank him. (chapter 22) (chapter 22) As a conclusion, love and gratitude represents the key to freedom and as such to power. And now, you comprehend why The Art Of Loving can not be separated from „Escape from Freedom“.
2. 1. Love and Power
This explains why the famous author declared this:
“For a productive character, giving is the highest expression of his abilities. It is precisely in the act of giving that I experience my strength, my richness, my power.“
This means that by giving, the person feels strong and powerful. Why? Fromm views the act of giving not as a depletion of oneself, but rather as a fulfillment and actualization of one’s capabilities. The productive character, according to him, doesn’t define himself by what he possesses or hoards, but rather by what he can give to others. It is his heart which defines his strength. Giving becomes a way of affirming one’s own power and abundance, showcasing that true fulfillment is found in one’s ability to be generous, creative, and life-affirming. Notice that the author contrasts generosity with passivity. By giving, the person becomes proactive and is no longer passive. In the past, I had described Joo Jaekyung as a person suffering from “inner passivity” [For more read “Couch Confession”]. As soon as I read the quote from The Art Of Loving, I realized why the champion disliked receiving presents (chapter 45) so much and preferred organizing a charity event for his birthday . (chapter 41) Being on the receiving side makes him feel weak and powerless. He is reduced to become a passive man. Furthermore, we shouldn’t overlook that such presents are not entirely selfless. Companies or admirers have expectations from Joo Jaekyung, earning some money or getting his attention. At the same time, these presents are strongly connected to his title and fame as champion. Thus they are not taking into consideration about the athlete’s dislikes and likes. Thus he was offered a bottle of wine (chapter 12), though he is no drinker or he doesn’t eat cakes. (chapter 41) The fact that the athlete organized a charity event for his birthday exposes not only his huge heart, but also that he had long recognized the power of generosity. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why the champion was willing to pay off the doctor’s debts. (chapter 18) Here, he hoped to see gratitude on his fated partner’s face, but it didn’t happen like he imagined. Yet, notice that despite their argument, Joo Jaekyung proposed to the main lead to live with him in the penthouse: (chapter 18) His facial expression is exposing his true thoughts. He was definitely happy to help the doctor. The reason is simple. He is in control of his heart and life. This shows that deep down, the man has always had a soft heart and could find fulfillment in giving. However, the problem is that the champion had also internalized that there is nothing free in this world. Due to his past experiences, he realized that receivers would exploite his goodness. The green-haired guy was the perfect example. (chapter 2) Therefore it is not surprising that he kept denying his kindness to the doctor: (chapter 18) He had to, because the man was now living with him. Joo Jaekyung feared that his roommate could come to take advantage of his new position and even consider this place as his own. As you can see, the champion had long discovered the power of giving to others. Yet his problem was that he couldn’t live out this principle: he was either exploited or he has no family or close friend so far.
And now, let me ask you one question: who likes giving presents in Jinx? One might reply Kim Dan and Choi Heesung. The doctor and the actor have both something in common. (chapter 30) They both desire to be acknowledged and appreciated. (chapter 45) With this image, it was, as if Kim Dan wanted to be distinguished from all the stans. Yes, I do think that this has something to do their own negative feelings. However, there is a difference between Choi Heesung and Kim Dan. Note that the gifts are related to his sponsors and the agency. They were related to his work. Moreover, the gumiho rarely gave the meals or the presents personally. (chapter 31) (chapter 31) Furthermore, the actor gave these things for one reason: it was to obtain the doctor’s heart or to maintain his good image as a celebrity. In other words, these gestures were not selfless at all. This explains why the athlete was so weary of such “gifts”: a return of favor or a service. But the comedian is not the only one donating things. Naturally, it is the manager Park Namwook. (Chapter 26) (chapter 36) However, my avid readers should ponder on the following aspect: how did he buy the jackets and the junk food? (Chapter 37) This last scene is terrible, for this purchase happened behind the boss’ back. Naturally, everything was bought with the company card!! In other words, Park Namwook’s generosity is fake, for he is not spending his own money. After this new realization, I started wondering if the athlete’s negative attitude towards Kim Dan is not the consequence of Park Namwook’s behavior as well who takes it for granted to spend money on the athlete’s account. Why did the champion anticipate an expectation from Kim Dan, when he received the keychain? (Chapter 45) It is because his relationship with his coach has always been based on „conditional love and expectations“. Don’t forget that the coach was particularly nice to the athlete after winning his match in Busan. He was willing to be his „servant“ in that moment. Furthermore, there exists another evidence that in episode 45 the fighter latched out on the doctor because of his unresolved feelings towards his hyung. (Chapter 45) Kim Dan had not only followed the stans‘ behavior, but also listened to Park Namwook‘s words constantly. ’ (chapter 41) This frenzy was portrayed as something positive. Jinxworms can observe that the manager is mentioning the existence of „favors“. For me, it is no coincidence that in episode 45, the arrival from presents coming from his hyung coincides with the present with Kim Dan. It shows the underlying conflict between the celebrity and the former wrestler. Nevertheless, the fighter has not grasped it yet. So far, Joo Jaekyung has not tried to defy Park Namwook openly, to claim his place as the true owner of Team Black. We should see his words here as a first attempt to act as the boss (Chapter 46) The tension reached its peak in that scene: (chapter 52) The manager imagined that he could act like in the past (recurring to force), for Joo Jaekyung was „used“ to take his slaps. That’s where the generosity from Park Namwook comes from: he gives his punches to Joo Jaekyung and takes Joo Jaekyung‘s company for granted. And now, you comprehend why I selected such a title for this essay.
(Chapter 26) The sparring in episode 26 represents the positive version of giving a punch and taking it. The fighter was not upset about his defeat, moreover he was acting like a real teacher asking the physical therapist to overcome his own fears. On the hand, the slap at the hospital embodies the opposite notions: resent, no real teaching, no reflection, no listening, the one slapping is not overcoming his own fears and vents his anger. The give and take in episode 26 was happiness, true generosity, self-awareness, while this slap displays misery, anger, ignorance: (Chapter 52) True generosity, for Kim Dan had risked his health for the sake of Potato. (Chapter 26) The contrast not only exposes Park Namwook’s fake generosity, but also his greed and selfishness. For me, he missed the opportunity, as at the gym, Kim Dan took the chance, when the athlete was distracted. Hence in my opinion, chapter 52 was the turning point in their toxic relationship. Moreover, it signifies that the manager lost his special position as hyung. Far away from the gym, Joo Jaekyung will see Kim Dan under a different light, maybe even as a true role model, for he is wearing his heart in his hand.
2. 2. The wolf, the hamster and the world
But Erich Fromm wrote this about love:
“If I can say to another, ‘I love you,’ I must also be able to say, ‘I love in you all others, I love through you the entire world, I love in you also myself.'”
For Fromm, love transcends a personal or exclusive attachment to one individual; it is a universal force that connects the self to humanity and existence as a whole. True love, in his view, is inclusive and expansive. It’s not a possessive or isolating sentiment but rather one that opens the lover to the wider world, fostering a connection to humanity and, ultimately, a deep acceptance and love for oneself.
Thus I come to the following conclusions: the moment the doctor and the champion admits their affection for their fated partner, they won’t be suffering from self-loathing or low self-esteem. But there is more to it. If you keep the quote in mind, you will realize that the champion’s affection for Kim Dan was not true love. [Like mentioned above, he couldn’t love properly] He couldn’t stand the idea of sharing his partner to others. (chapter 7) (chapter 43) He needed to seclude him from the others. But where does this possessiveness come from? In my opinion, it is not just the result of his own insecurities, but also the influence of the bad role model he had: Park Namwook. First, only in chapter 45, the manager sent congratulations from his family: (chapter 45) This means that Joo Jaekyung was never treated like a real family member. Then, due to his bad portrait of Joo Jaekyung (chapter 9), the manager kept creating a bad image of the athlete: brutal, moody, maniac… but the reality is that the man is actually generous and caring, like mentioned above and the coach knew this. Hence he could lie without any remorse: he is a savior and the gym owner. Moreover, the athlete can speak well and be polite. (chapter 22) This scene at the hospital displays that the fighter had been mirroring the behavior of his counterpart: Shin Okja is sweet and kind. And who is moody, yelling, brutal ? Park Namwook: (chapter 43) (chapter 52) The one who raised him like that is actually him: (chapter 7) Therefore I conclude that this possessiveness and obsession with Kim Dan is the result of the manager’s influence. Park Namwook treated him like a possession. And this brings me to my next part. How to become happy? One might reply: by loving someone. However, how can Joo Jaekyung drop his insecurities and open his heart like that? As you can see, we need another explanation.
3. The guide for happiness
Erich Fromm’s philosophy in To Have or To Be? revolves around two fundamental modes of existence: the having mode and the being mode. These modes represent distinct ways of interacting with the world, structuring relationships, and understanding one’s identity.
I am posting this video which I found very well made. Funny is that the blogger used a haiku to illustrate the difference between the being mode and the having mode.
3. 1. The Having Mode
In the “having” mode, identity and value are based on possessions and control over objects, people, and even oneself. The having mode is characterized by:
Possession and Ownership: One’s self-worth and sense of security are derived from what one possesses—material wealth, status, knowledge, even relationships. (Chapter 40) This explicates why the manager is happy in this scene. Thanks to him, he earned a lot of money and felt recognized.
Security in Stability: Individuals in the having mode seek to secure their identity through accumulation, feeling stable only when they can cling to things.
Alienation and Objectification: Relationships and experiences become objects to be owned or controlled, reducing people and emotions to mere assets.
Fromm argues that the having mode can lead to anxiety and insecurity because possessions can always be lost or taken away. It fosters competitiveness, isolation, and a fixation on external validation, ultimately stunting genuine self-growth and connection with others. Under this light, Manhwa-philes can grasp why the athlete, pushed by his mentor, kept accepting fights after another. The champion was suffering from self-loathing, but in order to get recognition and admiration from his hyung, he needed to win. Notice how gentle and proud the man was after the victories (chapter 15), but as soon as his idol lost his title and got even suspended, he yelled and slapped his fighter: (chapter 52) Why did he not blame the cheaters who had tricked Joo Jaekyung and framed the physical therapist? If you read my previous analyses about the coach, you will certain recall about my diagnosis: he seems to suffer from decidophobia. But as you can see, the man is unhappy, for he is living in the “Having Mode”. Hence he is taking no risk and letting the athlete make decisions. Furthermore, it explains perfectly why the manager lied to the members here: (chapter 22) Since his relationship with the main lead is so secure, he could claim the gym as his own. Notice how he treats the members here: he’s putting them under pressure, threatening them. Everything is revolving around competition, seriousness and greed. Why doesn’t Joo Jaekyung mess with his weight and nutrition? It is because his hyung made sure that the latter would fulfil all his expectations. He needs to be ready for the next fight. Why was the manager not present here? (chapter 43) This exposes his lack of engagement and indifference in the end, but this becomes even more obvious during the night: (chapter 43) Where was he, when his star was drunk? It was, as though he had vanished. (chapter 43) But the best evidence for this interpretation is this image: (chapter 52) The manager is upset, because his boy lost his title and his reputation is ruined. Moreover, many members left the gym which means that the company lost a lot of money.
“If I am what I have and if I lose what I have, who then am I?”From Erich Fromm (To Have or To Be?)
This highlights the danger of building identity around possessions and the resulting vulnerability. And how did Park Namwook define himself in his life? He was a coach, a manager, the owner of Team Black…. (chapter 9) However, he never presented himself as a father or a husband. It was, as if his children or wife were not a source of his happiness. Why? It is because they don’t bring money, but rather cost money. Thanks to Joo Jaekyung’s popularity, the manager could stand in the spotlight (chapter 40), yet notice that no fans or fighter know his name as a successful coach or manager. He is not a famous manager in the end. His income depends on the athlete’s career and victories. No wonder why he put so much pressure on his celebrity. Thus I had the following revelation: he was actually exposing his true self in front of the doctor at the restaurant. (chapter 43) Joo Jaekyung would have to pick himself up, Park Namwook wouldn’t be there in order to assist him. Why? It is because it represented his own fears. Don’t forget that he is a former wrestler and athlete. He must have experienced it. The end of his boy’s career represents the end of his own career. Hence I am suspecting that the real savior of Park Namwook was the fighter himself, as the latter offered him an opportunity to find a good job.
But there is more to it. Why did the coach neglect doctor Kim Dan (chapter 40) in the States and even at the gym? (Chapter 43) It is because he doesn’t view the uke as a possession contrary to his „boy“. Why? It is because the young man doesn’t bring money or contribute to boast the manager’s self-esteem. In fact, Kim Dan is an expensive PT and the manager is aware of his high salary. Moreover, contrary to the hamster, Park Namwook was never seen in the penthouse, and the celebrity refused to invite the members. This is a clue that the champion could have refused to invite his coach there. The doctor’s stay at the penthouse is something Park Namwook discovered by accident. (Chapter 22) And now, it is important to recall that in the mode of Having, rivalry and competition are predominant. Therefore I deduce that deep down, the coach and manager sensed the physical therapist as a source of threat and rival. Therefore Jinx-philes shouldn’t be surprised that the coach did nothing to keep Kim Dan. (Chapter 53) Here his gestures and words should be judged as lip-services. He can even rationalize his departure: bad luck, they save a lot of money, for the next PT will have a lower salary. In addition, Kim Dan was treated as the celebrity’s possession, therefore he used him as a tool in order to compensate the actor. The manager is definitely imagining that once the break ends, things will work like before. (Chapter 53) Here, I feel the need to add that though I am portraying the coach in a rather pejorative light, I am not saying that he is a malicious or evil man. My point is that he needs to change and realize his wrong-doings. As long as he lives in this mode, he won’t be able to be happy: always in the fear of losing his possessions. So should a separation take place, it is possible that the distance brings more clarity and helps them to improve their relationship. However, I have to admit that I wished to witness a real argument between the hyung and his pupil. A new version of this scene: (chapter 17)
Interesting is that the sociologist stated this as well:
“In the having mode, one’s happiness lies in one’s superiority over others, in one’s power, and in one’s capacity to conquer, to defeat, and to kill.”
With this observation, it becomes comprehensible why the coach not only used violence against the athlete but also pushed the main lead to be rough with his own body. (Chapter 43) It is not random that Mingwa showed a rough manager while complaining about his star. She was implying his responsibility for mistreating his body in this scene. Park Namwook needed to prove his superiority over the celebrity to justify his position. And he used the fighter’s good heart, trust in him and social norms to manipulate his prize and possession. As a conclusion, both characters have a toxic relationship, exactly like between the halmoni and Kim Dan.
But Kim Dan was not different from the manager. He also lived in the mode of “having”. Hence once he earned money, he would buy gifts to others: (chapter 41) In his eyes, possessions and money determine someone’s values. Hence he bought an expensive keychain for his fated partner. Furthermore, I have been wondering if this spending is not related to Shin Okja, the latter could have been a spendthrift. In the essay „Click 📸: Between Fleeting illusions and Enduring Realities“ I had outlined that all the objects in the flat would belong to the grandmother (Chapter 19). Another possibility is that she made sure that her grandchild would spend money on her: (chapter 41) And this brings me to my next important revelation. The grandmother never said thank you to Kim Dan. She either apologizes (chapter 53 ) or makes it sound like a reproach „Spoil me to death“. There is no THANK YOU. She didn‘t give him her hand like in episode 22 with the celebrity as well. But there is another detail that caught my attention: the nurse mentioned the paid bills (chapter 22) after the departure of Joo Jaekyung, but notice how the halmeoni thanked the benefactor: (Chapter 22) She didn’t express the reason for her gratefulness. She didn‘t bring up the hospital bills, but she knew about it. In other words, when she showed her gratitude, she was in reality just thanking him for his company. That‘s how Kim Dan perceived it first and we should do it as well. To conclude, the grandmother is not really thankful, when it comes to money. Exactly like the manager, she takes it for granted. In fact, she gave him the yoghurt which was offered by the hospital. (chapter 21) One might argue that the poor woman couldn’t do much to express her gratitude. However, this is just a deception. Shin Okja could have written a letter to express her gratitude to Joo Jaekyung. Why do you think Mingwa created two scenes with a letter or card? (chapter 45) (chapter 53) The comparison lets transpire the importance of words. The champion might have judged the keychain differently, if he had read the card. But he didn’t. Another parallel between these two scenes is the rejection of a gift! However, in the final episode, Kim Dan voiced genuine gratitude towards his benefactor. The latter had allowed him to work as his PT. With the letter, he could voice his thoughts and emotions much better. And now, you realize that Shin Okja could have acted the same way. This made me realize that deep down, she resents being poor. She likes Dan spending money on her. (Chapter 41) Despite her rebuke she actually doesn’t meant it. She never actually told him to stop or rejected Joo Jaekyung‘s generosity. Instead, she made the following request to her grandson: (chapter 41). He should treat the sportsman nicely (“do good”). Kim Dan is the one who should be indebted to Joo Jaekyung. However, observe what she said in front of her grandchild before: she was the one who was grateful to the main lead, and not Kim Dan!! (chapter 41) She should have been the one who expressed her gratitude to Joo Jaekyung, but not Kim Dan for the trip (it was work related anyway). One might argue that the poor woman is trapped in the hospital, she can not do much. But you are wrong. She could have written a letter to her benefactor which means that she would have sacrificed some of her time for the athlete. Imagine that she had sent a message to the athlete, the latter might have decided to pay a visit to her. He is not truly heartless. With this silence, she created the impression that his assistance had changed her situation.
As you can see, she delegated her “gratitude” to her relative. Hence no wonder why Kim Dan chose to work hard for the keychain. He had to “work hard” in order to repay the huge debt (the trip to the States, the hospital). That’s why I come to the conclusion that the grandmother doesn’t represent true gratitude. She is similar to her male version: putting the responsibility on others and using words as lip-services. Simultaneously, this new discovery exposes another cause for her own suffering: she was also living in the mode of „having“. As my avid readers can notice, all the characters in Jinx were living the wrong way.
And this brings me to another aspect: Kim Dan’s diploma as physical therapist. In the having mode, education is centered on acquisition and possession of information. Knowledge is seen as something to be accumulated, memorized, and quantified—often in terms of grades, certificates, or degrees. Hence the doctor thought for a brief moment to take a MMA trainer seminar. (chapter 22)
Focus on Outcomes Over Process: Success in the having mode is defined by external achievements, grades, or credentials, rather than by actual understanding or personal growth.
Competitive Learning: Students are encouraged to see education as a competitive endeavor, where success often involves outperforming others rather than cooperating or collaborating.
Dependency on External Tools: This mindset can make students more prone to relying on shortcuts like cheating or using AI to complete assignments without really engaging with the material. In this context, tools like AI might be used to bypass learning rather than deepen understanding, reducing education to a means to an end.
Lack of Internal Motivation: The focus on external validation makes intrinsic motivation scarce. This dependency on external rewards may undermine creativity, critical thinking, and the desire for genuine understanding, as students prioritize “having knowledge” over “being knowledgeable.”
Kim Dan was not a proud PT. In fact, he had no problem to take a job as a courier. For him, the diploma was just a piece of paper. Why? It is because he was not truly motivated to become a PT. His choice was influenced by his halmoni and his financial situation. He was doing it for the money: (chapter 1) In other words, he was not passionate about his profession. This means that he didn’t define himself as PT due to his lack of engagement and low self-esteem. Besides, let’s not forget that he judges people based on their social status and seniority. I would even add, the main lead had not recognized the existence of his own skills (knowledge, genuineness and dedication). But by working for Joo Jaekyung, he came to enjoy his job. This explicates why he kept buying books. (chapter 53) He likes not only his job now, but also learning as such. This is no coincidence that education in the mode of “being” means that the focus is on learning and developing skills. Hence I still see a change in the hamster at the end of season 1: (chapter 53) He is defining himself by his skills: he is a PT!! Money plays no longer a role. He is about to live in the mode of „being“.
However, there are other students in Jinx. Fromm’s explanations about human psychology made me realize why many members from Team Black left the gym soon after the champion’s loss and bad PR: (chapter 52) In this panel, the author let us see glimpses of their motivation and thoughts. For them, the champion has nothing to teach them, since he lost his title and is injured. This shows that they are only interested in the outcome, success and as such fame, but not in the process, how to become skilled! In other words, they see “success” as a possession. He has no title, then he has nothing to offer. They are all living in the mode of having, which can only lead to misery and even self-destruction. No wonder why they were not too upset or shocked, when they heard that the game had been rigged. But what led them to make such a decision?
Naturally, the manager played a huge role in this. The gym gave the impression that by being by the athlete’s side, they would become successful as well. Park Namwook contributed to this wrong evolution, for he didn’t confront the fighters with reality: he made false promises. (chapter 23) Then he only focused on the “outcome” and not on the process. Hence he neglected them, delegated his task on the pressured athlete. The latter had to train them: (chapter 25) and (chapter 36) In my eyes, he didn’t want to play the bad guy. The meeting or his worries were more important (chapter 36) than their training and career. Moreover, he kept bribing them with junk food (chapter 26) or new jackets or towels. He was only interested in getting new members, but not in developing their skills. This explains why he treated Seonho so well: (chapter 46) The latter was a new source of income and fame. Everything was revolving around money. That’s how it dawned on me why the manager got angry for the bet in episode 26: (chapter 26) We shouldn’t judge his words as a verity, he was just using the doctor as a false excuse. The reality is that the sparring had brought no money at all! This fight was strongly intertwined with fun. The notion of „entertaining“ stands in opposition to money. Fun means feeling emotions and being to true one’s self. In other words, Kim Dan stands for a different notion of MMA fighting: the sportsmen shouldn’t work for money, but for fun. They are artists too. This signifies that as time passed on, the members of Team Black lost their passion for fighting (chapter 26) and became more obsessed with possessions and fame. Potato and the remaining members represent the exceptions. They enjoyed the lessons despite the pain and struggles. The other members became dependent on external tools which led them to lose their integrity. To conclude, the reason for their disloyalty is that at the end, they had long internalized the mode of having and were just interested in getting successful.
3. 2. The Being Mode
In contrast, the “being” mode focuses on authentic self-expression, inner fulfillment, and experience rather than ownership. Key aspects include:
Living Authentically: People in the being mode derive meaning from their experiences, creativity, and actions, rather than from acquiring or possessing. That‘s why fun is so important. And who embodies fun in Jinx? Naturally Heesung (special episode2 ), but also Cheolmin (chapter 13) who likes making jokes. That‘s how I came to understand why Cheolmin appeared only one time in season 1. He will come to replace the manager: (chapter 13)
Dynamic Engagement: This mode emphasizes growth, spontaneity, and a deep, active engagement with life. Here, identity is fluid and self-renewing, driven by inner growth rather than external gains.
Connectedness and Compassion: Fromm sees the being mode as fostering a sense of unity with others and the world, as it’s grounded in compassion, shared experience, and a true sense of community.
The being mode fosters qualities like love, empathy, joy, and creativity, enabling individuals to experience life in a richer, more meaningful way.
Cheolmin stands for understanding and trust in humans. He criticized the man first, but he didn‘t imply that he had done it with bad intentions. Secondly, he believed his sunbae, (Chapter 13) when the latter denied his responsibility. This shows that the man doesn’t mistrust people. He has faith in humans. And in this short scene, the doctor shows alle positive notions mentioned above: love, empathy, joy and creativity. Therefore I come to the following interpretation: he embodies the being mode. No wonder why he was not present in season 1. The main lead was definitely obsessed with work. Hence the moment Cheolmin’s path crosses Kim Dan’s, the funny doctor should become the hamster’s new role model.
3. 3. The Larger Philosophical Context
Fromm’s philosophy reflects a critique of modern consumerism and materialism, which, in his view, has led society towards the having mode. He argues that this mode is ultimately destructive, as it alienates individuals from their true selves and from others. The being mode, on the other hand, aligns with the principles of humanistic and existential philosophy, emphasizing the pursuit of self-actualization, meaning, and interconnectedness.
Fromm warns that without a shift from “having” to “being,” society risks falling into moral and psychological decay, driven by the insatiable quest for possessions and power. And we can observe this in Jinx. MFC and the medical world (chapter 48) are full of greedy people who have no problems to commit crimes in order to achieve their goals (more fame, more wealth, revenge, more connections). Baek Junmin became a champion by cheating. (Chapter 49) Thus he thought, the athlete had earned his title the same way. His fights were rigged, yet the verity is that the idol worked hard to achieve this level. The irony is that The Gunshot experienced much too late that his assumption was wrong. (Chapter 52) His shaking is exposing his fears. Like mentioned in the past, I am anticipating that The Shotgun will avoid a new fight with the celebrity.
Thus I interpret these two panels from Mingwa like this: They embody the mode of being. The hands are touching each other directly. They are not attached by money. Moreover, the hands express positive emotions and thoughts: support, gratitude, honesty, tenderness, acceptance and more importantly trust and fun. They are enjoying the present moment. Mingwa announced with these images the happy ending for these two characters who thought that they were jinxed. The reality is that they were responsible for their own misery.
This work urges a reassessment of values and priorities, where personal growth and human connection take precedence over material wealth and social status. And that’s where Joo Jaekyung is standing now. (chapter 53) He is standing at a crossroad. What does he truly want in life? Fame? More money? Or happiness and as such love and fun?
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Please support the authors by reading the Manhwas on the official websites. This is where you can read the manhwa: Jinx But be aware that the Manhwa is a mature Yaoi, which means, it is about homosexuality with explicit scenes. Here is the link of thetable of contents about Jinx.Here is the link where you can find the table of contents of analyzed Manhwas. Here are the links, if you are interested in the first work from Mingwa, BJ Alex, and the previous essay about JinxPassions in Purple: Jealousy and Joy – part 1
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Reminder: This essay is a combination of an interpretation and predictions. (Enlightenment, Imagination, Creativity and Individuality)
1. Friends with Benefits: Responsibility beyond Desires
In the first part, I pointed out that the second couple had become “fuck buddies”, a synonym for Friends with Benefits. This raises the following question. Why is Heesung no longer obsessed with his quest for a soulmate? One might find the answer to this interrogation in the following image. (special episode 1) The actor chose to use the black-haired sportsman as “Friends with Benefits”. But what would be Potato’s benefits then? Support and connections, like we could see it in special episode 2: (special episode 2) So when Heesung is already envisaging to get rid of his new lover (special episode 1), we have to envision that the comedian is projecting his own past relationships onto the 20 years old man. Many of his former sexual partners would always long for his attention and affection. (chapter 35) Because he is famous and wealthy, he is expecting a similar reaction from the chow-chow. At some point, he will appear too clingy, hence he will perceive his relationship as burdensome. This is no longer fun. (chapter 33) However, the change of Heesung’s mind-set (Friends with Benefits, no longer the search for a soulmate) is also related to Potato’s reaction after their first night together. (special episode 1) With his words, the sportsman implied that he had taken advantage of the actor, while in reality the opposite had happened. Heesung had taken advantage of Potato’s drunkenness (special episode 1), ignorance and purity (special episode 1).The confession of Yoon-Gu’s wrongdoing could only shock the actor. (special episode 1) How did Yoon-Gu come to this reasoning, when he admitted in the same breath that he was drunk? It is because the night before, Heesung had confided that he was heartbroken due to Kim Dan’s rejection. (chapter 35) With his behavior, the fox gave the impression that his affection for Kim Dan was running deep. Under the tent, he was drowning his sorrow with soju. Hence in the maknae’s mind, Heesung was still in love with the physical therapist. Yes, the irony is that the chow-chow was also projecting his own thoughts onto the comedian. Let’s not forget that when the young fighter discovered the true nature of the relationship between the doctor and the emperor, he didn’t give up on his admiration and affection for Joo Jaekyung. (chapter 35) My avid readers should keep in their mind that the chow-chow is famous for his strong loyalty. To sum up, Potato imagined that Heesung was still loving Kim Dan, exactly like him with the fighter… he would remain faithful and keep his one-sided love.That’s why I came to the following conclusion: their relationship started on a misunderstanding, which was also reflected in this situation: (special episode 1) Yet, contrary to the main couple, the misunderstanding is not driving an edge between them, in fact it is bringing them closer.
Under this new light, Manhwaworms can grasp why Potato chose to become responsible. (special episode 1) It was, as if he had disregarded the gumiho’s feelings, he had incited the latter to commit a sin. Heesung had broken his vow of faithfulness 😂. That’s the reason why he mentioned “zero regrets”. It is important, because with such a mind-set and attitude, he is indirectly pushing the gumiho to face the truth: his dishonesty. His affection for Kim Dan was just a crush, a superficial attachment, as he knew nothing about him. In fact, he was just chasing after an illusion. He even admitted it at the restaurant: (chapter 35) His description for a partner and as such love doesn’t correspond to the definition of true love: care, respect, knowledge and responsibility (Definition from Erich Fromm, for more read “The Art Of Loving”). That’s why Yoon-Gu was surprised and left speechless. Thus I deduce that through Potato, Heesung is encouraged to love properly and genuinely. Moreover, the last statement from Heesung exposes his self-deception. Here, he appears as humble, while in front of Joo Jaekyung, he appears as exigent, because he said the exact opposite. (chapter 33) He had high expectations: a soulmate: he should be fun and not too clingy. Yes, Potato’s purity and honesty is inciting Heesung to become more honest to himself and to others. His affection towards Kim Dan was rather frivolous, especially when he acted as a rather irresponsible person. (chapter 32) He didn’t try to protect him from the athlete’s fury. He never clearly stated his true desire, he wished to date the doctor, until he was cornered (threatened).
But let’s return our attention to my previous statement. (special episode 1) Yoon-Gu decided to become responsible for Heesung due to his mistake, he had not respected his feelings for the doctor.
Interesting is that with his confession, Potato had reversed the situation. In general, the drunk person will claim to have acted under the influence of alcohol, which would give them the opportunity to cut off ties with the sex partner. The sex session will be reduced to a mistake. That’s exactly what the champion did the next morning after that simulacre of love making. (chapter 45). This means when the MMA amateur fighter decided to become responsible and as such to make up for his mistake, (special episode 1) he has no expectation concerning the actor’s attachment. In other words, in his mind, he is just helping Heesung to satisfy sexual needs, while the latter can still keep his one-sided crush for the physical therapist. This made me laugh, because it looks like Potato is now sacrificing himself for the comedian’s sake. Yes, it is because he is no longer paying attention to his own feelings and desires. It was, as if he was offering his body to make up for his sin… he tempted him to break his vow of loyalty. That’s the reason why their relationship is purely sexual. This explicates why Yoon-Gu could still admire his idol after his night with Heesung which is visible in this scene: (chapter 41) In other words, both second leads are on the same wavelength despite the misunderstanding. Both have the same expectations: Friends With Benefits. Yet, they are not equal in their relationship, as Potato feels indebted towards the actor so that the latter has “Zero regrets”. In other words, he is bound by a debt and a contract. He has to please his partner, he can not refuse to his demands. That’s why Heesung said this (special episode 1) and why Potato couldn’t refuse the role-play. (special episode 2) He is put in a similar situation than his role model Kim Dan. He can not say no to Heesung. (special episode 2) However, he is not entirely powerless, like I mentioned in the first part. He is not forced to admit that he had fun after the intercourse. (special episode 2) In other words, he is not obliged to say YES either! It is funny because thanks to this examination, I realized that Yes and No have “become” like taboo words. Yoon-Gu is avoiding these idioms by using the expression “I don’t know”. Hence I am suspecting that Heesung will become obsessed with the word “yes”! 😂 Only Heesung can procure him fun and pleasure, and no one else. He is getting disarmed by the sentence “I don’t know”.
However, since both started this relationship as “Friends With Benefits” out of obligation, it is not surprising that Heesung hid his increasing desire for Potato behind a role-play. But it is the same for Yoon-Gu. Because the latter has in his mind that the actor has a one-sided crush on Kim Dan, he can not show his “affection” towards the comedian. His heart was touched by the compliment and this gesture (special episode 2), yet in the past he had a different reaction. (chapter 23) The reason is simple. This was not patting, but rubbing. Neither Oh Daehyun nor Kim Changmin did it to express gratitude, rather for selfish reasons. They wanted luck on their side. Potato didn’t feel recognized and accepted, rather used as a tool. Hence he was bothered. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible how Heesung can win Yoon-Gu’s heart in the long run. It is not because of his sexual performances, but thanks to his selfless gratitude and generosity!! We have the perfect example in these two scenes: (chapter 26) The main lead had taken a risk for him. He could win his heart by turning his dream into reality. He would be able to spar with the emperor. Then observe how Potato was full of admiration, when the champion decided to organize a charity event for his birthday. (chapter 41) Joo Jaekyung had nothing to win from his “birthday”.
Under this perspective, Manhwalovers can comprehend why Potato chose to run away, when he decided to accept the offer from the actor. (special episode 2) He was attempting to hide his growing affection for the comedian. He feared that his feelings for him could become a burden for the comedian. In his eyes, Heesung should remain faithful to the physical therapist. He shouldn’t expect any affection from the actor either.
Funny is that when I was looking for a synonym for “fuck buddy”, I found this other idiom: “no-strings-attached partner”. In a previous essay, I associated this term with the doctor “Cheolmin”. (chapter 13) And the moment I read this expression, I couldn’t help myself thinking of a leash as a new sex toy. (chapter 34) In this scene, the physical therapist looked like attached to his owner. In the first part of “Passions in Purple: Jealousy and Joy”, I made the following prediction. Heesung would order a sex toy (special episode 2) out of annoyance and jealousy (special episode 2), for Potato had run away from him. He needs to put him on a leash to feel in control, to obtain his chow chow’s attention. Naturally, there is no guarantee that this prediction is correct. Yet since according to my examination, Potato is thinking that Heesung is in love, it signifies that Heesung is already attached to Kim Dan. Hence he won’t do anything to ruin this attachment… therefore Heesung can only be put in front of a dilemma. How can he make Potato look at him? He could reveal the truth to Yoon-Gu, but by doing so, he would ruin his image as a good and caring guy. Moreover, since he has lived for a long time deceiving himself and others, it is very unlikely that the actor might change his behavior so suddenly. Old habits are hard to die. Therefore for me, honesty won’t be his initial choice, rather acting. He will express his thoughts and emotions behind a new role-play and sex.
And this observation brings me to my next statement. Finally, Mingwa gave us a clue about Potato’s absence in chapter 43: (episode 43) Yoon-Gu must have gone to the set, like promised! (special episode 2) This explicates why he didn’t join Team Black at the restaurant. He spent the whole day and night with his fated partner. Heesung must have made sure to keep him by his side… It’s also very likely that the actor used Potato’s promise to his own advantage. They had a deal… He had to ensure that the actor had zero regrets and he would become responsible for him (special episode 1) Bound by a promise which he couldn’t violate. His absence at the restaurant is very important, because he never heard the drunken confession from his idol: (chapter 43) He would have perceived this statement differently from the others, as he knew about the true nature of their relationship. On the other hand, his absence was necessary. Why? It is because the young fighter needed to learn to distinguish between himself and his idol. Yes, in my opinion, Yoon-Gu’s motivation to bring back Kim Dan to Team Black won’t be just for the athlete’s sake! It will be Potato’s own desire to bring him back. He is missing the physical therapist. Through the last incident, Potato must have realized how much Kim Dan meant to him. His departure left him so heartbroken. (chapter 52). In the past, Heesung saw Joo Jaekyung as a rival, hence he made sure that Potato didn’t participate in the champion’s surprise party. So I believe that he was not upset about Joo Jaekyung’s downfall. In fact, he could have envisioned that this could help him to gain Potato’s attention. However, what he didn’t realize is that since feelings and affection can change, this could also happen towards other persons: the physical therapist. Potato’s attachment towards the doctor deepened, as time passed on, especially since they spent some time together in the States. Therefore I conclude that the departure of the doctor will not only affect the relationship between Potato and the comedian, but also force them to follow the main couple to the West coast. Mingwa left many clues for this prediction. Where?
2. The Birth Of A Star
If you read my analysis Star-crossed lovers, you are aware that for me, Yoon-Gu is linked to the goddess of Love, Venus or Aphrodite. And where was she born? In the sea… In the myth of Aphrodite’s birth, the beautiful Goddess of Love emerges naked from the water.. She had just been created from the foam of the sea caused by Cronus castrating his father Uranus and throwing his genitals into the water. Interesting is that the sea on the West Coast is called Yellow Sea! And what is the signification of Yoon-Gu’s name Hwang? Yellow!!
In other words, by going to the west Coast, we should assist to the birth of a new star and god: Yoon-Gu, the new champion as bantam fighter. During the champion’s 3 months suspension, the main leads can focus on the maknae’s training. And no one would expect this!! That’s how they could prove the medias (chapter 35) (chapter 52), the enemies, in particular Baek Junmin wrong. Even if he is injured or ends his career as MMA fighter, his life is not over. He is strong, talented and trustworthy, because Yoon-Gu chose to trust him and his career. He is no thug or spoiled child, as despite his injury, he “assisted” someone to become a new fighter.
I have many other reasons to think like that. First, pay attention to this panel: (chapter 53). In this scene, the halmoni was shown as a young child, just before she left this region. Her departure announces the future loss of her innocence. This explicates why she desires to return to her roots. It was, as though she was trying to escape her fate. Moreover, by reconnecting to her childhood, she is actually denying the existence of her grandchild. It was, as if she was trying to erase the time between her departure and return. On the other hand, this scene announces her imminent death as well… it was, as if she wanted to be swallowed by nature (sea, sun). And death is strongly connected to birth. No one can die, if they were not “born” before. Hence I am suspecting that the birth of a new star, the Bantam Fighter Yoon-Gu, is associated with the halmoni’s vanishing. Finally, any reader can notice the two main colors in this image: yellow and red!! And you know that Potato’s colors are yellow and red. From my point of view, Potato is destined to go to the West Coast and naturally Heesung will follow him there. He has to because of the saying “Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind”. Let’s not forget that Heesung treated Kim Dan that way. As soon as he stopped seeing the doctor, he stopped thinking about him. He could fear to lose his soulmate, as the latter forgets him. The gumiho’s fate is to be the “clingy one”.
3. The Arrival of Happiness
And this observation leads me to mention my illustration for the essay: There, I included two gemstones, the Bloodstone and the Aquamarine! Choi Heesung, born on 21st March, is represented by these birthstones! In this composition Powerful Hidden Gemstones – part 2, I had speculated about his birthday and gemstones, which turned out to be wrong. On the other hand, my hypothesis was not entirely false, for I had correctly associated him to Spring. This already implies the actor’s huge role in bringing happiness to the main couple. Spring stands for renewal and rebirth. And now, it is time to explain the symbolism behind the Bloodstone and Aquamarine.
3. 1. Bloodstone, the shining talisman
Bloodstone, named for its striking appearance that resembles droplets of blood on a deep green surface, is also known as Heliotrope, derived from the ancient Greek for “sun turner.” This name reflects the ancient belief that when placed in water, the stone could turn the reflection of the sun red.
As soon as I read such a description, two pictures came to my mind, first this one: (chapter 53) The sea turning red due to the sun… Thus I feel like the halmoni could meet her idol in the sunset which could affect the actor deeply. Let’s not forget that the grandmother came to adore him through this k-drama: (chapter 30) And what was he wearing in the poster? A blue pale suit which is close to Aquamarine and even to light purple ! The color is no coincidence. I have the impression that thanks to the weak woman, Heesung will become a part of the “new family”. If you look at the sunset again, you will detect glimpses of purple in the sky. As for the second image which came to my mind is this: the actor swimming in the ocean. When the bloodstone is put in water, it changes the color of the sun: red for love. Yes, we should expect a new version of this scene: (chapter 28) which I had interpreted as a baptism, a purification. If the actor bathes in the Yellow Sea, he will be purified and as such his true self will come to the surface. That’s how he will recognize his love for Potato, but also his friendship for the doctor. So far, the man has no real friend, but he has been longing for one. At the same time, the metaphor (the sun turning red) could be a reference to the interaction between the actor and the emperor, the former helps the latter to recognize his true feelings for the physical therapist. As a conclusion, we should expect to see Heesung under the sunset and next to the ocean or water. There, he should ponder and have a realization.
Renowned for its healing properties, bloodstone is believed to cleanse and purify the blood, aiding in detoxification and improving circulation. It’s thought to boost the immune system, helping the body fend off infections and diseases. Thus I am wondering if he won’t bring the doctor “Cheolmin” to the coast, if the athlete doesn’t invite him himself.
Emotionally, bloodstone is valued for its ability to stabilize emotions, reduce stress, and foster self-confidence, contributing to a sense of inner peace. In other words, he would have the opposite effect to season 1. (chapter 30) After getting enlightened, he would know what he truly desires. He would have no interest to get on the champion’s nerves. Potato would be the one bringing him happiness and novelty. Athletes and those seeking to enhance physical endurance often turn to bloodstone for its reputed ability to increase stamina and energy. This signifies that thanks to Heesung’s presence, the champion’s training won’t appear as a torture. Yes, expect a new version of this scene: (chapter 37) Here each fighter was on his own, they were not really training together. The champion was the leader due to his imminent match, he put the others under pressure, as he was himself stressed. But with his suspension, he is no longer racing against time. In other words, the training routine should be different. They will help each other, encouraging each other to become better. The presence of Heesung should help them to see the training under a different light. But for that, he has to reconnect to his true nature: bloodstone and aquamarine.
Throughout history, bloodstone has served as a powerful talisman and amulet, offering protection against evil spirits and bringing good fortune. This description reminded me of the incident in the States with the drug (chapter 37) or the switch of medicine. Unfortunately, the gumiho was not present both times, hence Kim Dan and Joo Jaekyung became the targets of revenge. On the other hand, the author stated that in season 2, the focus would be more on emotions, which means that there shouldn’t be many plot. Nevertheless, my avid readers should keep in mind my previous interpretation about the “beautiful” Kim Miseon (chapter 21) I had criticized her on many occasions, like disculssing a case in a hallway. Before, she had proposed an expensive treatment, well aware of the grandmother’s age and her weak condition. Moreover, I had suspected her to have leaked information to the director Choi Gilseok. Thus I hope that season 2 will expose her misdeeds and the corruption of the medical world. This was already present in episode 1. But let’s return our attention to the gemstone and its symbolism. In medieval Europe, the stone was deeply linked to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, believed to have formed when drops of His blood fell to the earth. As you can see, the gumiho is strongly connected to selflessness, sacrifice, death and rebirth. This reinforces my expectation that his encounter with the grandmother will have a huge impact in his life, like for example the “neglect and indifference from his parents”. Exactly like the other main characters, he has abandonment issues. Bloodstone is commonly associated with the root chakra, which governs grounding, stability, and physical well-being.
Mystically, bloodstone is said to offer protection from negative energies (depression), psychic attacks, and emotional drain. It is believed to enhance decision-making, aiding in analytical thinking and logical choices. The stone is also thought to stimulate psychic senses, supporting divination and spiritual growth. Bloodstone is revered for grounding spiritual energy into the physical realm, providing strength and stability during difficult times. This means that this gemstone is strongly connected to choice and decision. In other words, Heesung should play a huge role in the champion’s next decision, a new version of this scene: (chapter 34) Here, he forced the champion to claim the doctor as his possession. However, in season 1, the main lead came to regret his actions (34, 43), for he has never been honest to himself. And now, it is time to focus on the second gemstone.
3. 2. The Ocean and Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a captivating gemstone known for its tranquil blue-green color, reminiscent of the sea. Its name is derived from the Latin words “aqua” (water) and “marina” (of the sea), reflecting its oceanic hue. Beyond its beauty, aquamarine holds significant cultural, spiritual, and metaphysical meanings across various societies.
3. 2. 1. Cultural Significance of Aquamarine
Ancient Rome:
The Romans believed aquamarine was sacred to Neptune, the god of the sea. They thought the stone could protect sailors and ensure a safe voyage. They would often carve it into amulets shaped like fish, a symbol of the sea.
Medieval Europe:
In medieval times, aquamarine was considered a symbol of true love and was often given as a gift between lovers. It was also believed to reawaken married love, making it a popular choice for engagement rings.
Eastern Cultures:
In some Eastern traditions, aquamarine was believed to be a treasure of the mermaids and was used by sailors as a talisman to protect against drowning and other perils of the sea. It was also associated with water spirits and was used in rituals to communicate with them.
Modern Times:
Today, aquamarine is recognized as the birthstone for March and is often associated with the zodiac sign Pisces. It continues to be a symbol of youth, health, and hope.
3. 2. 2. Virtues and Metaphysical Properties
Hope and Courage:
Aquamarine is often called the “Stone of Courage.” It is believed to empower the wearer with the courage to speak their truth and to stand up for what is right. This quality stems from the stone’s historical use by sailors who saw it as a protective talisman, giving them hope and strength in perilous journeys.
Meditation and Relaxation:
Aquamarine’s calming blue color is said to promote relaxation and peace. It is commonly used in meditation practices to help achieve a serene state of mind. The stone’s ability to calm the mind and reduce stress is linked to its association with water, which symbolizes cleansing and purification.
Calmness and Communication:
Aquamarine is believed to enhance clear communication and understanding. It is thought to help calm the mind and reduce confusion, making it easier to articulate thoughts and feelings. This virtue is especially valued in relationships and as such friendships, as it encourages honest and compassionate dialogue. Aquamarine is believed to help people express themselves more clearly and understand others better, fostering a deeper connection and mutual respect.
Spiritual Insight and Intuition:
The stone is also said to enhance spiritual awareness and intuition. It is believed to open up channels for inner wisdom and to strengthen the connection to the higher self. This is why it is often used in spiritual practices to deepen meditation and to facilitate connection with the divine.
Trust and Loyalty:
Trust is a cornerstone of any friendship, and aquamarine is thought to strengthen trust between people. Its association with loyalty and fidelity makes it a popular gift among friends, symbolizing enduring and faithful connections.
Renewal and Reconnection:
Aquamarine is also believed to rekindle friendships that may have drifted apart over time. Its gentle energy can help renew bonds and bring people back together, reminding them of the shared experiences and understanding that form the basis of their friendship.
3. 2. 3. Origins of Its Virtues
The virtues of aquamarine can be traced back to ancient mythologies and beliefs. Its association with water, a universal symbol of life, purification, and emotional depth, is the foundation of its calming and protective qualities. The ancient seafarers’ reliance on aquamarine for protection likely contributed to its reputation as a stone of courage and hope.
Over time, these beliefs evolved and spread across different cultures, each adding their own interpretations and values. The stone’s serene color also played a role in shaping its virtues, as colors have long been linked to emotional and psychological states. Blue, in particular, is universally associated with calmness, trust, and communication, further reinforcing aquamarine’s symbolic meanings.
In summary, aquamarine is more than just a beautiful gemstone; it carries a rich history of cultural significance and is revered for its spiritual, emotional, and relational virtues. Whether used for protection, love, friendship, or spiritual growth, aquamarine remains a powerful symbol of the sea’s tranquility, strength, and enduring connections.
This means that by going to the West Coast, Heesung is fated to find his true self as well. The sea is his natural environment! He represents friendship, loyalty and trust. However, pay attention that this gemstone is associated with the god Neptune. According to my examination, Cheolmin is the character associated with the god of the Sea. And what are his colors and gemstones? Green and jade! Yes, we should expect his return in season 2. The way he treated the star shows that he viewed the main lead more as a friend than as a patient or client.
Since Aquamarine is a mixture of blue and green and the bloodstone is a combination of red and green, it becomes comprehensible why Heesung felt attracted to the uniforms from the guards in the special episode (special episode 2) or why he chose to wear such a t-shirt in episode 31: (chapter 31) They were green. He is attracted to “green”, his origin self. Nevertheless, in episode 31, this was rather a khaki version due to his corruption. No wonder why he played a trick on the champion. And this observation brings me back to the doctor’s clothes. What was he wearing, when he was young? (chapter 19) A green t-shirt!! No wonder why Heesung felt a connection towards Kim Dan. They have something in common. Moreover, the doctor is a “duck”, so Heesung’s role is to help the doctor to recognize and accept his true self. Hence, the former helped him, when he confessed this to Kim Dan: (chapter 35) At the same time, it explains why Heesung changed for the better thanks to the physical therapist. Thus I assume that Heesung is destined to become an aquamarine, bringing all these characters closer to each other: Potato, Cheolmin, Kim Dan, Joo Jaekyung. However, contrary to the past, he won’t use his money to help people to become happier. His smile and happiness should affect the others: (chapter 31) However, this should no longer be superficial. The celebrity is associated with flowers, stars, fun and happiness. Because he symbolizes “Spring”, I deduce that his rebirth and as such his Enlightenment are primordial. He is there to assist the others. And the color for understanding, compassion, self-awareness and wisdom is purple:
Inspiration: Original and sound ideas are created with violet – use it when looking for inspiration during brainstorming sessions.
Imagination: Violet inspires creativity with intellect – it is also stimulating to dream activity.
Individuality: Violet is unconventional, individual and original. It hates to copy anyone else and likes to do its own thing.
Spirituality: Violet assists us during prayer and meditation, helping us to get in touch with our deeper subconscious thoughts. Churches often feature violet in their stained glass windows. From a negative perspective it can relate to the cult follower. Quoted from https://www.empower-yourself-with-color-psychology.com/color-purple.html
This brings me back to the image with the sunset on the beach:(chapter 53) The presence of purple in this panel is a reference to inspiration, dream, spirituality and even individuality. And now, you comprehend why I am expecting a meeting between the halmoni and the actor related to the sunset. Let’s not forget that the young man is a gumiho, he is linked to “soulmate” and “immortality”. The imminent vanishing of the grandmother can only be a wake-up call for the comedian. He is a human, and life is short. Moreover, he could discover the doctor’s past making him realize reality. Contrary to Kim Dan, the comedian is blessed, for he is young, healthy and rich. He never had to suffer like the other (debts, death of relatives…) Besides, so far, he has not been confronted with death yet. Hence he could make such a comment: (special episode 1) Since the elderly woman confided to Joo Jaekyung, we can assume that she could do the same with the gumiho, as soon as she sees her idol. It is important, because he could grasp the physical therapist’s suffering and low self-esteem.
4. Nature and reflections in Jinx
My other reasoning about the trip of the second couple to the Yellow Sea is based on the script from season 1 either. The Webtoonist used reflections in order to outline the progression of the story. Hence we had many similar pictures, like these ones:
Chapter 4
Chapter 43
Chapter 48
Chapter 53
This means, certain scenes or items are fated to reappear again, yet each time there are slight changes. Therefore we should expect a new version of this scene (chapter 48), but the actor would be replacing the fake director. We had a sunset here, dark water (the coffee), the symbol for corruption. Then notice that he is wearing a blue t-shirt (but two colors, a symbol of his hypocrisy)!! This reinforces my expectation that we should witness the actor’s awakening, the exact opposite of the other Choi, who chose revenge and manipulations. But there is more to it. Thanks to the comment of @Milliformemes24, I had another revelation. The latter wrote that places of knowledge and self-awareness are related not only to the ocean, but also to the mountains. It is normal, as the hill is closer to the sky and as such closer to the gods. Notice that Heesung’s new home is situated on the top of a hill, surrounded by a forest. In other words, Heesung could get enlightened on a mountain too, during a stroll for example. And the moment I read this from my friend, this image came to my mind: (chapter 41) The huge tree at the hospital!! The latter is even strongly connected to a stroll. In that scene, the doctor thought of his lover, as he associated him with the sun. (chapter 41) That’s the moment when he realized his feelings for the fighter. As you can see, Mingwa used the tree and as such nature as a source to spirituality. And now let me ask you this question. Since the story is written with reflections, the tree should have appeared before and after. Where was it then? First, the first plant to appear was the bouquet. The roses from Heesung (chapter 31) could be seen a mirror of the tree. The roses encourage the doctor to ponder and show an interest in his employer. (chapter 37) However, the first time, the tree appeared as such was in the States, and this on two occasions: (chapter 37) However, here there was no reflection! In fact, the figures kept complaining, and Park Namwook acted as the one with full of wisdom and understanding. Interesting is that in that scene, Kim Dan simply listened to the coach and manager and trusted the man. He never reflected on his own. And what about later? (chapter 47) Kim Dan imagined going on a trip with his grandmother, totally delusional, as he was in denial about his grandmother’s deteriorating health conditions. However, the vision shows the desire to become closer to his relative, to become more proactive as well. His words (“She’s been so busy raising me, she’s never had a day’s rest”) imply the presence of reflection. It indicates his gradual transformation and maturity. But this doesn’t end here. The tree was also present in the special episode 2: (special episode 2) Yes, the barn!! The tree had been transformed into a home. However, don’t forget that this was just a fantasy from Heesung. However, during this intercourse, he came to expose his jealousy and growing attachment towards his soulmate. Yes, the last two mentioned scenes have two common denominators: a mixture of fantasy and Enlightenment. Nature is strongly intertwined with meditation and communication. To conclude, we should expect the presence of woods and trees in season 2 as well. And this hypothesis got reinforced, when Mingwa released this image on X: We have a sunset, a palm tree and purple in the sky… Joo Jaekyung is wearing a similar shirt than Heesung: (chapter 34) I consider this as an allusion that the actor will be by the fighter’s side. On the other hand, since the shirt is open, I interpret as the star’s emancipation. The latter has been able to escape from his mental prison and suffering. In his cage, he was racing against time. Now, he is able to relax and enjoy time. At the same time, since the champion in the image from X is seen wearing rings with stones, it somehow confirmed my interpretation about the role of birthstones in Jinx. Thanks to them, the celebrity is becoming more honest to himself. He is more relaxed, he can control his emotions. Simultaneously, this new examination leads me to the following conclusion. The nature of their relationship will change. In season 1, they were frenemies, but they still show their true thoughts to each other, a sign that they somehow trusted each other. This signifies that both seme will be able to overcome their “prejudices, jealousy and insecurities”! The latter was symbolized by the shade green. However, because these characters will move to the West Coast, they will be closer to nature: ocean, mountains and trees. Hence the color green can only get now a new meaning: hope, harmony, growth and freshness! This pigment is strongly intertwined with Spring. This brings me back to Cheolmin and his advices:(chapter 13) This scene conveys such notions: a new start, improvement, change, health, friendliness, harmony, hope, fun, happiness and originality. Thus I conclude that jealousy and envy in season 2 will only be found among the antagonists and enemies. Because of all these new discoveries, I couldn’t restrain myself looking for a place on the West Coast where we would have a sand beach, a hospice, a forest and mountains. And that would be Incheon!
But we will see!
And now, I am closing this long essay with the following interpretation. Since the doctor thought of the champion under the tree and sunlight, (chapter 41), I consider this image as a new version of the image from season 1. The fighter’s hand is a mirror of the tree. He is giving support and protection. Hence I am assuming that the champion will be also reminded of Kim Dan in a particular place.
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.
Please support the authors by reading the Manhwas on the official websites. This is where you can read the manhwa: Jinx But be aware that the Manhwa is a mature Yaoi, which means, it is about homosexuality with explicit scenes. Here is the link of thetable of contents about Jinx.Here is the link where you can find the table of contents of analyzed Manhwas. Here are the links, if you are interested in the first work from Mingwa, BJ Alex, and the previous essay about Jinx La Vie En Rose
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1. The role of Routine in Jinx
In my last essay La Vie En Rose , I named Choi Heesung Mister Boredom, while I introduced the champion as Mister Routine explaining why the latter would reject the artist. (chapter 30) Whereas the protagonist sees in a pattern a shield and protection, the other considers it as a source of danger, for the person doesn’t feel alive.
1. 1. The prince’s perception of routine
As you can see, Heesung views regularity as a synonym for death. Why? His reason is simple. He doesn’t sense his heart racing. Interesting is that when the physical therapist interacted with the actor for the first time, the former didn’t treat him as a celebrity, but as a normal patient. Choi Heesung was simply a human in the protagonist’s eyes and nothing else. (Chapter 30) Kim Dan had heard the conversation between the artist and his manager before offering his help and approaching him. Then when he took his hand for an examination, he was not holding it out of admiration. (Chapter 30) No wonder why the doctor caught his attention. The pink haired star got surprised by such an unusual treatment. The irony is that the main lead was doing nothing out of the ordinary. This shows that till this meeting, the actor had always been treated as a prince, for the latter had always been privileged. It is not surprising that Heesung found Joo Jaekyung refreshing. (Chapter 30) He was the only one who would not consider him as special, rather as bothersome. Yes, he was not favored by the emperor. Under his new light, it becomes comprehensible why Mingwa let the gumiho play the role of a prince wearing a purple hanbok with Potato: (Special episode 2) The purple hanbok is strongly connected to Joseon royalty. (For more read my essays about Painter Of The Night) In addition, while the comedian thinks, it is a fiction, he is wrong in verity. It was a reality, for he has been living like a sovereign. And now, you comprehend why Heesung praised the physical therapist to the sky. (Chapter 30) By treating him like an average patient, he could only appear as very professional and competent. (Chapter 30) He was seen as a serious and honest doctor who was not looking for favors and recognition. So I deduce that the actor felt moved by such a selflessness and care. (Chapter 30) We should consider this image full with stars as a metaphor for the comedian’s heart racing. To conclude, their first encounter reflected Heesung’s philosophy: his desire for novelty and genuine attention, while he is longing for normal treatment and as such for an ordinary relationship. The expression “soulmate” is implying the notion of equity. Thus because of the doctor’s actions, Heesung felt alive. Funny is that by discovering the doctor, Heesung was encouraged to accept routine. Therefore he came to the gym on a regular basis. (Chapter 31) This shows the inner conflict of the actor. Deep down, he dislikes being treated as a prince and would like to be seen as a man and nothing more. Normality and regularity stand in opposition to privilege and novelty. On the other side, he seems to reject averageness and commonplaceness. Therefore he likes to show off his wealth: (chapter 32) Through the ukes (Potato and Kim Dan), the fox is experiencing the positive aspects of ordinariness. He drinks soju while eating a cheap meal on the street to drown his sorrow (chapter 35) or he imagines to have sex in a barn next to a crowded place. (Special episode 2) As you can see, thanks to the new episode, I realized that Potato’s role is to make him give up on his special status and privileges. In the bedroom, he might become the master, but outside he will be forced to work for someone else: Potato and as such for the main couple. And this brings me to my next prediction. Look how Mingwa ended the second special episode: Manhwaphiles see Potato running away, because he is embarrassed. For me, it indicates that Potato will turn his back on Heesung. Yes, we should see this ending as the positive reflection from this night: (chapter 53) Back then, the champion didn’t imagine that the doctor had already started distancing himself. However, here it is clear that contrary to the main lead, Yoon-Gu doesn’t plan to leave the actor or to neglect him at all. He is a very mature and responsible person. Besides, he has just accepted his suggestion: he plans to visit him on the set. However, Heesung is about to learn important life lessons. Life never goes as planned. Furthermore, he will be forced to question his principles and his behavior. (Special episode 1) He needs to become responsible. He won’t get sick of his lover, and he is going to miss him terribly. In my eyes, Choi Heesung is about to go through the same experience than his frenemy: regret and longing. He should have paid more attention to the physical therapist and the champion (chapter 35), as their relationship is affecting his own life. How so? It is because the young MMA fighter is a stan of Kim Dan and Joo Jaekyung! (Chapter 35) Let’s not forget that when Yoon-Gu helped the physical therapist in the locker room, he was indirectly assisting the star. (Chapter 49) The problem is that in season 1, he was rather distant and privileged the celebrity. Therefore he didn’t protect the physical therapist properly. Since the maknae is really sad about the doctor’s departure (chapter 52), it becomes clear that his interest aligns with his idol’s. (Chapter 53) Therefore he can only support the champion’s decision to bring back the main lead. Yet, under the orange tent he decided to cheer them on from afar. Thus I am now inclined to think that the maknae could choose to become more proactive, when it comes to Kim Dan.
The other reason for envisioning a separation is that in the latest episode, readers could see the fox’s blushing. (Special episode 2) The latter got more pronounced, as time passed on, a sign of his rebirth or revival. He is on his way to fall deeply in love with the maknae, because he is having fun all the time. (Special episode 2) Fascinating is that the expression “to have a ball” (a synonym to enjoy oneself) is related to Cinderella.
Where does have a ball come from?
The first records of the phrase have a ball come from around 1879. It comes from American slang. The word ball is used in the sense of a fancy party with dancing, such as the one attended by Cinderella. Quoted from https://www.dictionary.com/browse/have-a-ball#
Cinderella is a fairy tale about transformation and disguise. The young woman is able to climb socially thanks to a her godmother, a hidden sponsor!! One might think that Potato is a new version of Cinderella and Heesung is his future sponsor. Yet I believe that the actor will make the opposite experience than the original protagonist’s. Through Potato, Choi Heesung will discover a new world… MMA fighting, criminality and even misery. My avid readers should recall that when he was sent to the gym, he was reading a script entitled: EXTREME WORLDS (Chapter 29) He has only lived in one so far due to his privileges. It was, as if he has lived in a fairy tale, far away from reality. Now with Potato, he is finally able to live out his fantasies, hence his fairytale-like world has just lost its reason to exist. Thanks to Kim Dan and Potato, the comedian is brought back to reality. He is discovering not only averageness, but also the true significance of routine and normality. Thanks to the latter, trust and intimacy can deepen. He found out that he can experience novelty through sex.
Interesting is that the actor is now trying to include his lover in his professional life. (Special episode 2) It was, as if he wanted Potato to switch his career. It exposes his desire to be close to the maknae. However, with the champion’s downfall and the physical therapist’s departure, I am quite certain that Yoon-Gu’s position at Team Black is about to change. The gym needs to become successful again and present new athletes. Yoon-Gu can no longer be treated as an extra!! His future is now important for Team Black and Park Namwook. Finally, he proved his worth by fighting the older and bigger fighters at the restaurant. Thus I doubt that Choi Heesung can make a deal with Park Namwook like in the past.
1. 2. The champion’s habits and Heesung
Then in her last notes, Mingwa described Joo Jaekyung’s daily schedule. The moment you read this note, you can grasp why the athlete would consider the comedian as a total nuisance. It is because the former couldn’t focus on his training (other exercises: CrossFit, Gym, mostly weights). As a conclusion, the athlete had many reasons to view the artist as bothersome. On the other hand, since Heesung is on his way to adopt regularity, I deduce that the champion’s fate is to accept surprises and changes in his life. And now, you know why their first encounter ended like this: (chapter 1) No one had ever run away from him like that. He was used to face opponents who would challenge him or people who would admire him. Notice that the doctor is turning his back on him, which contrasts to the morning after their first sex session. There, the protagonist chose to vanish into thin air behind the champion’s back after spending the night with him. (Chapter 4) However, in the athlete’s mind, the doctor had not abandoned him, for he imagined that Kim Dan was motivated by his greed. He was just interested in money. As you can see, Kim Dan represents novelty and exception. Nonetheless, the problem is that till the end of season 1, the fighter never came to see novelties and sudden events as something positive. (Chapter 53) Under this new light, Manhwaphiles can grasp why the celebrity hates birthdays and surprise parties. They represent a violation to his regular schedule. (Chapter 43) (chapter 53) So when he refuses the doctor’s resignation, he exposes his true mind-set once again. Kim Dan has already become part of his daily routine. Thus the Webtoonist had included the doctor’s schedule in the notes. But there’s more to it.
The moment Kim Dan moved to the penthouse (chapter 19), the athlete didn’t change his daily schedule at all. On the one hand, Manhwa-philes could judge this as a sign of his selfishness. On the other hand, it exposes his lack of sociability. He had never lived with someone else before. Since we never saw his family or heard about his parents in the first season, I assume that he is a true orphan contrasting to the physical therapist’s situation. Yet both have one common denominator: abandonment issues. The absence of family displays the difference between the two semes. While the actor embodies favoritism and nepotism which is strongly linked to family, the other represents the opposite values: indifference, meritocracy and business. Thus the Webtoonist created such a scene: (Chapter 31) He only gets respected, as long as he is “bringing money” to Team Black (Chapter 52) and MFC. According to me, people from MFC had expected the athlete’s defeat in the USA so that I am quite certain that they had bet on his loss. Because of meritocracy, it is normal that Joo Jaekyung trained so hard on a regular basis. Besides, his routine outlines the importance of his work in his life. His career means everything to him. In fact, it represents his life. Thus it is not surprising that his daily schedule would center on his training. Simultaneously, Manhwa-worms can understand why the champion had no time to meditate and question his believes and way of life. He had no time for something else. Under this light, it dawned on me why the athlete expected from Kim Dan to adapt himself to his daily schedule. The latter had to develop a routine based on the champion’s training. Furthermore readers can grasp the fighter’s behavior in the following image. (Chapter 19) Joo Jaekyung is leaving for the evening training, and he is making no exception. However, as time passed on, the athlete came to make an exception for the doctor. Because of the actor, the athlete chose to neglect his training once. (Chapter 32) According to me, he never went to his training. And shortly after, he was involved in a scandal.
2. Mister Routine, Mister Change and the Wedding Cabinet
(chapter 19) Interesting is that we are witnessing the MMA fighter turning his back to the physical therapist. He is leaving his destined partner behind. From my point of view, his words (“Do what you want”) imply that he is not recognizing the doctor as a valuable and necessary PT, for he is not including him in the evening training. I would even go so far to say that Joo Jaekyung is treating the protagonist as a part of his furniture. In my eyes, the fighter came to associate him with the halmoni’s Wedding Cabinet. It was, as if in the champion’s unconscious, the doctor had become the beautiful cupboard.
This interpretation helps to grasp why the athlete neglected his lover for 10 days (chapter 19) and why he got upset and scared (chapter 53), when he saw the Wedding Cabinet in the hallway. (chapter 53). In episode 19, the champion really viewed the main lead as an object (chapter 19). Therefore he focused on his training and didn’t pay attention to Kim Dan’s whereabouts and actions. However, it changed, as soon as someone reminded him of Kim Dan’s true nature: (chapter 19) he was a human. According to my theory, the coach Jeong Yosep was behind this trigger, since he is the only one at the gym with a failed relationship. (chapter 05) Hence he called him from the gym making sure that he had not blocked him or even vanished. Under this new light, Jinx-philes can understand why he felt the urge to have sex with Kim Dan. It was to remind him that he would belong to him. Yes, unconsciously, the athlete projected his own thoughts and fears onto his fated companion. (chapter 19) Yet, with such an order, Kim Dan appears more as a sex doll than as a free human being. This scene is important, because this reminder showed him that the latter could leave the flat behind his back, he was not obliged to wait for him at his penthouse. Since the fighter was seen wearing his shoes in the bathroom (chapter 19), many Jinx-philes had been able to discern the fighter’s past (invisible) action. He had been looking for the doctor in the huge penthouse, the older version of this scene (chapter 53). Since the latter is so big, the absence of light and noise must have startled the main lead. (chapter 19) The doctor had barely left traces in the apartment. Only the cupboard was the evidence of his presence in the flat. However, this object could be left behind… exactly like Joo Jaekyung had treated Kim Dan in this panel: (chapter 19) Moreover, let’s not forget how the protagonist viewed the huge furniture. (chapter 19) It was worthless. My point is that Joo Jaekyung must have realized in episode 19, when he returned to the penthouse that Kim Dan was different from the cupboard, he was no object at all. And now, you comprehend why the main lead said this to the doctor in the bathroom: (chapter 19) First, he was compared to a prostitute, then later to a baby. (Chapter 20) This scene proves that Joo Jaekyung was viewing his lover as a human. Additionally, the comparison to a whore was to mask his previous anxiety and thoughts. He had been looking for him. He needed to appear as strong and superior, the one with the upper hand.
This interpretation raises the following question. Did he keep viewing him as a human after this episode? My answer is positive, though on the surface it looks like he reverted back to his old ways. (Chapter 33) Here, he tried to give pleasure to the doctor, for he saw Choi Heesung as a huge rival. The latter is known for being a better lover. It was, as if he was trying to give a reward to his companion. Moreover, I believe, the sex toy was there, because the champion feared that he wouldn’t be able to control his emotions and actions. Then in this scene, one might argue that the champion treated him as a sex doll (chapter 36) However, my avid readers should keep in their mind that sex was like a surrogate fight. Thus we could say that in this panel, the physical therapist is actually treated like a “fighter” and enemy. Then when the champion criticized him for his bad decision, he was finally recognizing him as a physical therapist. (Chapter 45) As Manhwaworms can observe, the room mate’s social status was improving. I would even add, the athlete was putting more and more responsibility on the main lead. A sign that despite the appearances he was trusting him more and more. On the other hand, one might argue about this analysis, for after the quarrel, the fighter started distancing himself from his PT. He would no longer talk to him and even ignore him. (Chapter 47) So anyone would say that he is no longer treating Kim Dan as a human. However, this is just a deception. How so? It becomes perceptible, when you contrast the last panel with this one: (Chapter 19) That’s why my illustration displays both pictures next to each other. What caught my attention is that earlier in the season, the celebrity talked to doc Dan, but he was showing a certain disrespect towards his room mate. His Wedding Cabinet was garbage, he was not included in his evening training. Like mentioned above, he was treated like a furniture. Nevertheless, in chapter 47, Joo Jaekyung chose the silent treatment. It shows that he was now considering him as a member from Team Black, but because of Park Namwook’s warning, (chapter 47) he kept everything to himself. Indirectly, he was questioning his PT’s loyalty. This shows that the miscommunication and silence were the results of the coach’s advice and intervention. This means that due to his manager’s words, the champion started doubting the physical therapist. Thus I come to the following deduction: though the athlete asked Kim Dan to get out of his side (chapter 51), unconsciously the star made the opposite decision: he started considering him as a real member from Team Black. Why? It is because the doctor had touched his heart and mind with this question: (chapter 51) He had broken the final wall between them. This explicates why the moment Joo Jaekyung heard about the doctor’s resignation, (chapter 53), he refused his decision. This means indirectly, he is admitting that the protagonist is a trustworthy and competent PT! His attitude contrasts so much to his coach’s who imagines that doc Dan can be replaced so easily. (Chapter 53) In my opinion, the one behind the champion’s mistrust is the manager. I even have the impression that he is also responsible for his mistrust against doctors, as they are no fighters. Either it is because he has an inferiority complex against such people or it is related to MFC. He only trusts the organization and its members, as such he only trusts doctors from MFC. To conclude, at the end of season 1, Kim Dan is recognized as a trustworthy physical therapist and as a real member from Team Black.
And now, you are wondering the signification of the cupboard in the final episode from season 1. It is time to examine more closely this scene. (chapter 53) When the doctor left the penthouse, he disposed his halmoni’s Wedding cabinet. In other words, he treated the precious furniture as junk, turning the champion’s words into a reality. It was, as if the doctor had taken the MMA fighter’s words seriously. However, Kim Dan didn’t act that way because of the athlete’s false judgement. It is just that the doctor came to consider the wedding cabinet as a burden. Thus he treated it as junk. For him, the furniture only had a sentimental value. It symbolized the grandmother. But why would he consider it as an onus then? First, he couldn’t bring the cupboard to the West coast, too expensive and troublesome. Secondly, he wouldn’t have been able to place the Wedding cabinet in a small flat. (chapter 16) In addition, Kim Dan had kept it for his halmoni’s sake. (chapter 53) She was the one who loved it so much. But since she is trying to reconnect to her childhood and nature, she no longer values it. Yes, the halmoni is falling more and more into childhood, the closer she is to death. Thus she came to repress her marriage. As you can see, the elderly is slowly forgetting her own past and as such Kim Dan. She is trying to relive a moment from her childhood, a time when the grandchild didn’t exist. (Chapter 53) Thus I deduce that Kim Dan can no longer view the Wedding Cabinet like before. I believe seeing the cupboard would be painful for doc Dan, as he would be constantly reminded of his grandmother. (Chapter 53) This image is full of symbolism. Kim Dan is now able to touch the cold Wedding Cabinet, a sign that he is accepting his grandmother’s death. By biding farewell to the furniture, he is preparing himself for the inevitable: his halmoni’s vanishing. It was, as though he was saying goodbye to his relative. That’s the reason why his smile is full of sadness, when he is pushing his relative’s wheelchair. (Chapter 53) Her death has become a taboo. He is full of resignation. Contrary to the past, he is willing to face her death and as such to be by her side on her final moments. Yes, this panel (chapter 53) exposes the doctor’s painful transformation. He is now a grown-up. Though he is forced to change, he is not upset because he is accepting his fate. However, the champion came to associate the cupboard with Kim Dan. So I assume that with the doctor’s departure, for the celebrity, the furniture has now a sentimental value. For me, Manhwaphiles should consider these two pictures (Chapter 53) (chapter 53) as a reflection of this chapter: (chapter 46) (chapter 46) In both scenes, the doctor came to resign and lower his expectation. Thus I deduce that after the final episode, the champion will come to treasure the objects left behind by the physical therapist. Notice that he didn’t throw away the letter. By keeping them, the athlete would show how much he appreciates Kim Dan. In addition, the letter is wishing him well, which no one has expressed so far. The letter oozes trust, confidentiality, admiration and closeness. Hence I deduce that at the end, Joo Jaekyung is heartbroken, though he can not clearly voice his emotions. (Chapter 53) Yet, in opposition to the doctor, he has long internalized to fight for himself. Therefore I am certain that the champion will follow the physical therapist’s trail. And that’s how he will be pushed to drop his habits and develop a new “routine”, where he is no longer the one determining the daily schedule. In my eyes, the grandmother should play a bigger role in his life, as the doctor decided to give her comfort until her final moment. That’s how I am imagining that both will come to an agreement how to redefine their life together. As you can see, by following the physical therapist, the athlete is pushed to leave not only the penthouse, but also the gym. He is on his way to discover new horizons. Since the gym represents routine and training, this signifies that the athlete can no longer follow the same daily schedule. The champion’s suspension is in reality a blessing in disguise. He has the time and the occasion to meditate about his life.
3. Traveling and rebirth
This brings me to my next aspect. In season 1, the champion often went to new places in South Korea because of Kim Dan. When Park Namwook asked his boy to take care of the doctor, the champion discovered his poverty and debts. (Chapter 17) Then when he brought the physical therapist to Heesung’s home, he used the GPS, a sign that he was not familiar with the route. (Chapter 33) Interesting is that when he heard his regular nightly disappearances, he never tried to follow him. (Chapter 45) Why? It is because he was always back in the morning. Furthermore, despite his exhaustion, the physical therapist was still following the daily schedule. Because Kim Dan wanted to keep it a secret, the champion was forced to feign ignorance. Thus he couldn’t question him about his whereabouts. In addition, I can also envision that he must have thought that it was related to his grandmother. Don’t forget that he experienced once how the doctor had left his side due to a phone call in the middle of the night. (Chapter 21) Since the athlete’s life is revolving around routine, I am quite certain that he must have jumped to conclusions based on his first experiences… the birth of prejudices. Thus I have the feeling that Park Namwook’s biased perception concerning his champion is also influenced by their first meeting and experiences. It is important, because such a mentality fixated on daily schedule represents a hindrance for the mind. Routine often leads to close-mindedness and lack of critical thinking. At the same time, this new interpretation explains why the athlete got so worked up and upset, when he received the golden chain. (Chapter 45) It is because all this time, the athlete had been worrying about the doctor and in the best case about his grandmother. Becoming a courier during the night could only give the impression that the halmoni’s health had improved and the expensive treatment was working. In my eyes, the fighter couldn’t ask his physical therapist about his relative’s physical condition either, for it was not his place to ask. He is first and all the PT’s employer. Besides, the physical therapist has always been secretive about his own private life and family, just like the fighter. Therefore I assume that he must have projected his own mind-set onto the doctor, he would not look into the physical therapist’s life. And what was the doctor thinking about the star during season 1? The more time passed on, the more he got curious. To conclude, since the beginning of the story, the celebrity never showed an interest and curiosity to his fated partner. This observation leads me to the following conclusion. In season 2, it is the athlete’s turn to become curios about his lover’s past and life. At the same time, as soon as Kim Dan paid more attention to his lover, he also reflected on his own life, like for example in this scene: (chapter 16) He wondered why the athlete had kissed him, which made him realize that it was his first kiss. Therefore I come to the following deduction. Joo Jaekyung will be forced to discover his lover’s like and dislike which will incite him to become more honest about his own desires and passions. We have an allusion to this development in season 1: (chapter 27) Thanks to his companion, he remembered how much he likes swimming! He had totally repressed it. To conclude, Joo Jaekyung’s travel shouldn’t be just perceived as a journey to the West Coast and Kim Dan’s side, but as an inner journey! He is on his way to discover himself and reconnect to his childhood, or better said to his inner child. This signifies that he is actually following Shin Okja’s footsteps which is regression to childhood. (Chapter 53) Thus my theory is that he will go to the beach and be moved by the beautiful sunset. So far, he has never paid attention to his surroundings and nature. There is another reason why I come to this expectation. I saw parallels between the last picture and this one: (chapter 53) Both are connected to travel. Though both are alone, their experience is totally different. Why? It is because of the contrasts.
The grandmother
Joo Jaekyung
nature
civilization
sun
artificial light – night
closure
emptiness
beautiful – impressed
Hates this moment – sadness
Companionship – she doesn’t feel isolated
loneliness
death – departure
”death of the hero” – departure to the unknown
The view over the city is offering no comfort to the star. He feels miserable and lonely. He is finally realizing that despite his money, he has no one by his side. He is now regretting the past… exactly like the grandmother. Since both are regressing to childhood, it is very likely that the athlete will develop a certain closeness to the halmoni. Contrary to the first season, it shouldn’t be reduced to one short moment. Don’t forget that in episode 21, Kim Dan had doubted his relative’s statement: (chapter 22) He would have the opportunity now to verify this statement.
Since my hypothesis is that he will travel and follow the doctor, he will reconnect with nature. The ocean is the place where the goddess Aphrodite was born. It is the place of Love. Hence I believe that in front of the ocean, the human Joo Jaekyung will be reborn! He will no longer be the star, the champion… but simply an average human. He will not only love the doctor (admit his feelings for him), but also love himself. Mingwa has already indicated his journey to the ocean with this image:
For the champion has to learn to meditate and to identify his own emotions, it makes sense why the Webtoonist announced that season 2 would be a slow burn and would focus on emotions. Besides, he has now to pay attention to the grandmother and Kim Dan. Since it is only a matter of time, until Shin Okja dies, I associate her vanishing as a change too. Because of her, Joo Jaekyung is forced to accept novelty as something natural. Life can not be predicted… Changes can also be a source of joy… like the jokes. We have the perfect example in chapter 27: (Chapter 27) (chapter 27) Thus we should see a more gentle and humorous fighter in season 2. Since he is suspended, he can no longer associate sex with fighting! He has now time to enjoy life. He has someone by his side watching his back. He can now learn how to relax. He should come quickly to the conclusion that his career doesn’t represent his life. He could do other things. He is no longer fighting against time, as the latter has been suspended: 3 MONTHS! The god Saturn, Kim Dan, will teach him the true value of time. And that’s how Park Namwook will lose his boy to the physical therapist.
PS: I hope, this essay made you looking forward for season 2.
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.
Please support the authors by reading the manhwas on the official websites. This is where you can read the manhwa: Jinx But be aware that the manhwa is a mature Yaoi, which means, it is about homosexuality with explicit scenes.Here is the link of the table of contents about Jinx. Here is the link where you can find the table of contents of analyzed manhwas. Here are the links, if you are interested in the first work from Mingwa, BJ Alex, and the previous essay about Jinx“Kiss me”
It would be great if you could make some donations/sponsoring: Ko-fi.com/bebebisous33 That way, you can support me with “coffee” so that I have the energy to keep examining manhwas.Besides, I need to cover up the expenses for this blog.
My avid readers might have been wondering why I haven’t released any new essay since “Kiss me”, not even a podcast, though Mingwa has already published the special episode about Heesung and Potato. The reason is simple. I was taking a break too. Imagine that since 2020 I have been releasing essays non-stop while working as a teacher. I counted 649 analyses from 2020 to 2024. Exactly like Mingwa and Byeonduck, I was exhausted.
1. The protagonists’ jinx in the beginning
But now, it is time to focus on the topic of this essay, the protagonists and their bad luck. In the beginning of the story, Kim Dan and Joo Jaekyung believed both that their life was cursed.
1. 1. Kim Dan’s curse
For the doctor, his misfortune was linked to his familial and financial situation. Since the physical therapist had to reimburse the debts, he was working non-stop giving all his money to Heo Manwook or to the hospital. Hence he could never rest. Because he was physically and mentally harassed and exploited by the loan shark, he became obsessed with money and his grandmother to the point that he came to forget himself. That’s how he became a ghost. It was his way to cope with the violence from the loan shark and the thugs. Naturally, it was impossible for him not to feel pain, hence he wished this: (chapter 1) The problem is that Kim Dan blamed himself for his suffering, as he must have often not paid the interests on time. That’s the reason why he got surprised, when he saw his enemy in front of his humble home. (chapter 1) Due to the lack of rest and time, he didn’t have the opportunity to ponder on his life and even have dreams on his own. Therefore he had no ambition. At the same time, he couldn’t become energetic and proactive due to his low self-esteem and his abandonment issues.
1. 2. Joo Jaekyung’s misfortune
As for Joo Jaekyung, though successful, the latter imagined that his victories were the result of his sexual performances in bed before the match. This shows that he didn’t attribute his success to his team, talent and hard work, but to chance and misfortune. This shows not only his lack of confidence, but also the division and disharmony at Team Black. Hence he developed a ritual, the pre-match sex session, but it was in his home. That’s how his professional life got mixed with his private life. Sex was work. In his mind, no one could help him, that’s why the identity of his sex partner didn’t even matter. Because he was working constantly, he didn’t have to reflect on his life either.
1. 3. The real significance of their jinx
Despite their different backgrounds, both main leads had something in common: their self-loathing and the absence of meditation. And what is the synonym for jinx and bad luck? Misery and unhappiness. In other words, both main leads were unhappy men. But they couldn’t voice their negative thoughts and emotions, as they had no one by their side to listen to their hidden pain and give them some advice. And now, you know why I selected the picture in the background for the illustration.
It was to display not only the absence of happiness, but also the absence of the sun! The latter embodies life and joy. In the selected image, the clouds are covering the sky and as such the sun. It indicates that both characters were not able to give a meaning to their life. Hence they hadn’t found the source for their happiness yet. In other words, the shades (grey, black and white) and the clouds illustrate danger, depression and suffering for our main leads. It shows how their life was before Kim Dan and Joo Jaekyung interacted with each other. (chapter 1) (chapter 2) I selected these two images, because they refer to their respective past and jinx. Both represent bad and painful memories, hence they contain a grey veil. While one is hurt physically, the other is suffering emotionally.
2. The origins for Joo Jaekyung’s misfortune
One might argue about the second panel, for the fighter is represented in a brown color. It indicates that he is somehow alive. However, we should see it as a reference to a rotten body. The main character is acting like a zombie. Therefore he has no eyes and the corners of his mouth are showing displeasure. So we could say that Jinx is the love story between a zombie and ghost. The MMA fighter’s emptiness and corrupted body became truly visible during the couch confession: (chapter 29) The vision about his opponents is mirroring his own reflection. That’s how he views himself. He is surrounded by enemies who will attack him, as soon as he exposes any weakness. Thus it is normal that he is always on the alert. Episode 29 divulged that he was on survival modus. Consequently, it is not surprising that he could trust no one. Should one get too close to him, the former could become a traitor in the last moment. Moreover, this interpretation explicates why he has been so rough on his own body. First, he considered pain as a normality, the side effect of his profession and as such his corruption. In addition, he didn’t have the time to take care of his wounds, for he could get “killed” at any moment. Surrounded by this wave of “rotten bodies”, he imagined that once defeated, he would be swallowed by darkness and literally vanished. This vision displays another important aspect of the athlete’s philosophy. His job is not connected to fun and dream, but to work and nightmare. And now, you comprehend why I selected this panel in the middle of the illustration. (chapter 26) This represents the highlight for the first season. For the first time, both characters had fun together. That’s how they got one step closer to each other. The fighter was enjoying this moment, as he was teaching Kim Dan to become more proactive and fight for himself. The sparring represents the opposite version of the athlete’s vision (chapter 29). He felt safe next to Kim Dan. In fact, his presence boosted his confidence. (chapter 25) It is no coincidence that he employed that expression in front of his fated partner. To conclude, chapter 26 stands for life and happiness, proving that their life is not cursed per se. Consequently, red was the dominant color of this chapter. This pigment stands for love and life. Both felt alive during that day. Moreover, we could see glimpses of the sportsman’s true psyche as well, when he proposed to spar with the main lead. He desired to help the doctor himself. Hence he acted as his mentor and teacher in the ring. There, we could see his generosity, interest and open-mindedness. He wasn’t looking down on the doctor, he saw him as a true member from Team Black.
According to Mingwa, episode 29 displayed the champion’s true personality the best. He is not only vulnerable, but also lonely and isolated. (chapter 29) He has no one by his side. And this observation leads me to my next interpretation. The existence of Joo Jaekyung’s belief is exposing Park Namwook’s neglect and bad management and coaching. We could say that he is partially responsible for the champion’s misery and bad luck. Therefore it is no coincidence that the sparring took place during his absence. (chapter 26)
Remember how I stated above that their unhappiness was the result of their isolation and silence. They could not reveal their suffering, for they had no one by their side who was willing to listen to them. Park Namwook has no idea about his “boy'”s insomnia or his traumas from the past: (chapter 49) But why hasn’t the athlete confided to his manager yet? First, homosexuality is definitely a taboo among boxers and MMA fighters. Their masculinity and strength are questioned. Secondly, his coach views him as a spoiled brat. (chapter 7) Thus he keeps beating the celebrity. (chapter 26) (chapter 31) (chapter 52) The author epitomized the first season with this panel: This shows that Park Namwook has no real respect for the champion. According to my theory, the athlete comes from a wealthy family, hence he is labeled as “spoiled kid”. Due to his social status, the manager can only judge the main lead as “lucky”. Besides, he is successful, for he earns a lot of money and has many fans. He embodies the “American Dream” perfectly. He has everything to be happy in the manager’s eyes. Therefore he couldn’t comprehend the bad mood from the champion. Moreover, Park Namwook embodies social norms and prejudices, and he has many about his star. Not only the latter has a bad temper, but also he is a stubborn workaholic. (chapter 27) But by portraying him like that, the coach gave us a justification why he wouldn’t converse with the gym owner. Why should he talk or listen to Joo Jaekyung, if the latter is stubborn and obsessed with his work? It is pointless. And such an attitude could only get reinforced in this scene: (chapter 46) Yet, according to my interpretation, the main character’s departure was not the sign of stubbornness, but rather of fear and avoidance. Since the manager doesn’t know his star that well, he judges him based on appearances. Moreover, I believe that he has the tendency to generalize, just like certain readers. Since the athlete beat a doctor and was quite brutal with a fighter, he is stigmatized as “thug” or a “spoiled kid”. I am suspecting that the way the hyung met the celebrity affected his perception about the young fighter. (Chapter 26) Oh Daehyun repeated this story, because he had heard it from someone and that can only be from the manager and coach. And it is the same for Kim Changmin either, for the two aren’t long members from the gym. They are not close enough to know the celebrity’s past. These stories must have been spread by the hyung. In my eyes, Park Namwook views himself as Joo Jaekyung’s savior, because Joo Jaekyung (chapter 26) could have become a criminal. Nonetheless, it is an illusion, for MFC is connected to the underworld.
Furthermore, Manhwaphiles should keep in their mind that in chapter 46, Joo Jaekyung had been encouraged to mistrust people. (chapter 46) Despite his attitude, Joo Jaekyung still listened to his hyung’s warning, for from that moment on, he kept his distance from everyone, including the physical therapist. But there’s more to it. Park Namwook keeps associating his star with “good luck”. (chapter 1) (chapter 27) This represents the exact opposite of the star’s jinx. It shows that he is not trying to understand his celebrity. With such a mind-set, it is normal that the champion wouldn’t trust his manager. And the absence of the manager in this panel (chapter 29) represents the evidence that the coach is involved in the champion’s suffering as well. Besides, observe that Park Namwook had the tendency to slap the fighter’s back, a sign that the former was not watching his back at all. In fact, his gesture (chapter 31) stands more for backstabbing.
The author made sure to expose the huge gap between the manager and the celebrity by contrasting their relationship with the interaction between Choi Heesung and his own manager. (chapter 33) The latter truly worries for his star, although he is well aware of his shortcomings. (chapter 30) In addition, he knows about his private life and love life. (chapter 31) Despite his struggles, he accepts his actor. This is the symbol for unconditional love and support. Therefore it is not surprising that Choi Heesung confessed his trick. He was sure that his right-hand wouldn’t betray him. What about the champion? When the latter discovered the verity (chapter 33), he didn’t report it to his hyung. He also kept it a secret. That way, he was not only protecting Kim Dan’s misdiagnosis, but also Park Namwook’s misjudgment. On the other hand, he acted as a real boss, for the comedian is an important client.
In this video, the MMA fighter Myles Jury described what a good MMA manager is.
He declared that honesty and integrity are essential in order to be a good manager. There’s no doubt that the protagonist’s coach is not a corrupted person per se. He is not involved in the schemes targeting his star. (chapter 40) However, he is far from being a honest man. How so? First, he describes himself as the owner of the gym which is not true. (chapter 22) He is just the director of the company. In addition, he is talking big, but he never delivers. But keeping his word is an important condition for a good manager in Myles Jury’s opinion. Park Namwook threatens the members, but in the end, no one is fired by him. He is not following through what he says, he doesn’t keep his promises. I will give you a few more examples. (chapter 23) He promised the fighters that they would win, but the reality is that they failed terribly. (chapter 47) Therefore he bought chicken for them. Instead of showing compassion and understanding for his hungry and miserable champion, he allowed Potato and Oh Daehyun to buy junk food behind the celebrity’s back. (chapter 37) This shows their lack of mental and emotional support. For me, Park Namwook symbolizes ignorance and blindness. Therefore he is portrayed with no eyes.
Additionally, Myles Jury clearly said that a good manager needs to speak the painful truth, like for example, he has to expose the fighters’ flaws which Park Namwook never did. No one informed Potato that his basic posture needed improvement. (chapter 23) He never confronted the members with the truth. They lack skills (chapter 46) or endurance. I would even say that neither Park Namwook nor Jeong Yosep had high expectations for the other members from Team Black (chapter 46). It was, as if they didn’t have the goal to create a new champion. How come? It is because the gym was initially created for Joo Jaekyung’s needs. And now, Jinx-lovers comprehend the dilemna. Team Black needs to redefine itself and its purpose. Moreover, Park Namwook’s true wish is to open the gym for “kids”. And that’s how he treated the staff from Team Black, like little kids. No wonder why many left the gym in the end. They didn’t feel truly supported by the manager and coach. Jeong Yosep and Park Namwook didn’t put any real effort to turn the members into professional fighters. That’s the reason why none of them had a MMA manager, only a coach and nothing more.
For me, Park Namwook’s dishonesty was the most palpable in this scene: (chapter 49) He claimed to trust the champion, but the reality is the opposite. (chapter 52) He blamed Joo Jaekyung for everything: the tie, the doctor’s departure, the suspension and as such the loss of his good reputation. However, even if the champion had vented his anger onto the physical therapist wrongly, he had reasons to doubt Kim Dan. He had not only received the pictures, but he had been warned by the coach himself to doubt the members’ loyalty. There was a spy and a traitor among Team Black. One detail in the last panel caught my attention is the idiom “facts”. It is in plural and not in singular. Fact could be seen as a reference to his own warning, he had not checked the fact either (rumor, suspected disloyalty), yet this is not what he meant. Potato had exposed only one fact to the group: the switch of the spray organized by Choi Gilseok. (chapter 52) So what other fact was Park Namwook referring to? The fighter Baek Junmin and director of King Of MMA had paid Kim Dan. This shows that he had heard the conversation between the two protagonists. (chapter 52) And what did the manager do, after the champion had left the room? He abandoned Kim Dan, followed by the other men. At no moment, he asked Oh Daehyun or Yoon-Gu to take care of the physical therapist. But by following the celebrity or remaining passive, they had implicitly supported Joo Jaekyung’s decision. They had taken his side. And now, you comprehend why all these men chose to put the whole blame on the celebrity. (chapter 52) It is because they didn’t want to feel responsible for doc Dan’s departure. Their admiration and trust in the celebrity is superficial. In other words, they are following the hyung’s lead. Hence there is no regret, only reproaches.
Another important criterion for a good manager is his connections. Therefore the latter is often on the phone (50 or 100 calls a day in order to find sponsors). Nevertheless, we barely saw Park Namwook talking over the phone: (chapter 1) (chapter 49) He should be responsible for his contracts, yet the reality is that the Entertainment agency is the one managing the champion’s career. (chapter 30) This shows that Park Namwook doesn’t have a lot of connections. He should be the one organizing the fights, but no… others are making the propositions (MFC matchmaker and agency). Consequently, the ex-wrestler often voices doubts about the matches. (chapter 41) However, as his manager, it is his duty to protect his star, as the career of a MMA fighter is rather short. Imagine, he let Joo Jaekyung fight three times within 3 months (April- June- July). It is definitely too much. To conclude, he is not doing his job properly, as he is trying to put a lot of responsibility on others (Kim Dan- Joo Jaekyung – the Entertainment agency). According to Mingwa, Kim Dan had been taking care of administrative tasks. However, as the director of Team Black, he should be the one handling it. After the incident at the health center, Park Namwook didn’t contact the press to explain the whole situation. (chapter 52) (chapter 52) The article is indicating that the champion was quickly judged and this within a few days. The article implies the non-intervention of a lawyer or his manager. No one sided with the celebrity. They are not even contacting the media. (chapter 52) Park Namwook never tried to correct this negative reflection, for this is how the manager perceives the man himself. He is an ill-mannered child. This explicates why Park Namwook could slap the patient in his bed. So we should judge the argument between the fighter and his manager (chapter 52) as the negative reflection from that blue night. (chapter 29) He is not standing next to the main lead, but he is facing him. He is like an opponent. Another divergence is that Kim Dan was alone, whereas Park Namwook utilizes Potato and the others from Team Black to corner Joo Jaekyung. The doctor was willing to listen to him, whereas the other gets upset, when the other admits his suffering. Since the gym is facing a crisis, the patient should find a solution to the problem. (chapter 52) The hospital is a place for reconvalescence, rest and not work and pressure. Indirectly, it shows the coach’s lack of respect for the medical world. The champion was right to criticize his hyung, for blaming him was totally pointless. He couldn’t turn back time. The manager desired to hear from the champion (chapter 52) that he regretted his decision and outburst. By admitting his mistake, he would have become responsible for the whole mess. Funny is that he asked compassion from Joo Jaekyung, whereas he showed none to the patient. And what was Kim Dan thinking during that night? (chapter 29) He wondered if he could help him to overcome a defeat. He sensed that the latter could become really depressed. Therefore it becomes comprehensible why the doctor resigned. His decision was influenced by his low self-esteem. However, his departure had a different signification than the other members: it was his way to assist the champion, as he saw himself as not worthy. (Chapter 53) Moreover, he had not earned his patient’s trust. Kim Dan was the only one paying attention to his injured shoulder.
On the other hand, Park Namwook is denying the true physical condition from his athlete. He only talks about it after the slap. Then he is admitting his helplessness. He is unable to assist Joo Jaekyung mentally and emotionally, as he is himself struggling. He is unhappy due to the recent outcome. In order to feel better, he puts the blame on his athlete. (chapter 52) And the only solution he offers to the gym owner is to find a new PT during his a break. (chapter 53) I find it fascinating that the suspension becomes a synonym for “break and rest”. This shows that Park Namwook had no real intention to stop Joo Jaekyung from fighting constantly. This exposes the coach’s hypocrisy. (chapter 27) For me, he is the one obsessed with money and fame. Let’s not forget that a manager gets paid through the earnings from the MMA fighter (in percentage). The more he fights, the more Park Namwook earns money.
The scene at the hospital (chapter 52) resembles a lot to the image with the opponents. (chapter 29) The members from Team Black are surrounding the patient’s bed. But they are supposed to be his “colleagues” and as such “friends”. Let’s not forget that by making constant reproaches towards Joo Jaekyung, they showed no empathy and understanding for a patient. It was, as if they were turning the nightmarish vision into a certain reality. No one paid attention to the celebrity’s mental and emotional well-being. (chapter 52) His scream about his misery fell on deaf ears. This observation brings me back to the video. At the end, the MMA fighter described a good manager as a semi-psychiatrist. He needs to know about the private life of his fighter (drug issues, health, relationships) so that the latter can focus on his training. A MMA fighter needs mental and emotional support. But the father of three kids doesn’t know about his star’s sexual orientation, he was only informed much later that Kim Dan and the star were living together. (chapter 22) Besides, by announcing it in front of this circle, the champion divulged that there existed a certain distance between the manager and the sportsman. Finally, the fact that Park Namwook is still left in the dark about the fighter’s jinx is the evidence that he is a really bad manager. For me, it is because he is afraid of making decisions. He lets other take his burden and responsibilities. Yet, Myles jury declared that a manager needs to take a lot of responsibilities. The gathering in the break room stands in opposition to this one: (chapter 52) For the first time, the champion is no longer looking at his cellphone. He shared his thoughts to others and exposed his powerlessness (chapter 22) and misery (chapter 22), while in the breakroom, he demonstrated his power and silenced the fighters. He was the respected “patriarch”, whereas in the other scene, he is just a heartless child. (chapter 52) Moreover, in one scene, he confessed that they were living together, in the other, he had to hear that the doctor had quit. Shortly after, he discovered the hamster’s departure. This short contrast outlines the parallels and as such the negative role of the manager.
But here is the thing. The members from Team Black knew where the doctor was living. So why did they not visit him there to change his mind? They could have waited for him in front of the building, if they didn’t dare to enter the place, similar to Choi Gilseok’s action. Why did they wait, until the doctor had given his resignation and left the city? It exposes their passivity and hypocrisy. Mingwa didn’t show this, but it becomes perceptible through the mind’s eye. The wrongdoing from Park Namwook becomes even more obvious, as soon as Manhwaphiles notice the parallels between this confrontation (chapter 52) and Kim Dan’s interrogation in the States. (chapter 40) These two situations have many similarities. Both were confronted with an accusation, they were surrounded by people, who were acting as righteous and honest workers. Both were coerced to admit a wrongdoing. In addition, they are actually abandoned by Team Black members, especially the manager. No one is looking for them out of concern. The reality was that they were not their “true colleagues and even less friends. However, like mentioned in a previous essay, the men in black were actually covering up a crime in order to hide the corruption from the organization. This makes me truly wonder if Park Namwook is truly ignorant about MFC’s corruption. He could simply know about the crimes, but he chose to close an eye to the whole situation. (Chapter 46) He is already aware of the existence of illegal betting. Besides, since Joo Jaekyung is paying his taxes properly, Park Namwook could have the impression, he is doing nothing wrong. However, if he knows something and is remaining silent, he “becomes an accomplice” de facto. And what is the other common point with the interrogation from MFC security guards and the hospital visit? No lawyer and the incident was swayed under the rug. (chapter 52) In both chapters, none of the incidents were exposed to the media. And how had Joo Jaekyung reacted to this situation? He had declared the physical therapist as one of his own. (chapter 40) He had rescued him. So by slapping the champion (chapter 52), the manager displayed that the champion was different from the others. “He was not one of them, he was a sinner and wrongdoer”. On the other hand, with his suggestion (to replace the doctor), he denied the star’s previous statement in the States. Kim Dan was not one of them, as he could get easily replaced. To conclude, the slap was there to prepare the separation between Park Namwook and Joo Jaekyung. His departure from Seoul and from the gym was and is necessary. Moreover, the words from the manager could be interpreted like this: the champion doesn’t need to show up at the gym during the break. (chapter 53) He only needs to appear, once the suspension is over.
Moreover, (chapter 52) notice that when he slapped the celebrity, he utilized the personal pronoun “I” twice. It shows that the gesture was motivated by his selfishness. It was triggered by his own negative emotions. Another important element is the expression “thanks to you and your temper”!! This idiom is usually employed to express “gratitude”, yet here he is expressing the opposite. He is blaming the fighter, so the correct expression should have been “because of”. His words are exposing his true personality: he is a hypocrite and his care for the celebrity is not genuine. His gratitude is rather superficial too. Thus I deduce that episode 52 exposed Park Namwook’s true character. He is heartless and selfish, he is a bad manager and coach. Though he claims that he cares for the physical therapist, he is already planning to hire a new one. That way, he doesn’t appear as the bad guy. He is not the one who pushed Kim Dan to leave Team Black, but Joo Jaekyung. Yet, he did nothing to change the situation. For me, he is trying to save his own reputation. He is a honest and good leader, but he is not. In addition, he has another reason to replace the main lead very quickly. Kim Dan’s presence would be a constant reminder of Park Namwook’s own failures. He was not able to prevent three sabotages (I am including the incident at the health center), two members of Team Black became the target of crimes.
Another interesting aspect is that from now on, the manager can no longer threaten the remaining members to expel them from the gym. (chapter 22) They have only 4 members left. Besides, he has to ensure that they don’t mess with their weights too. He can no longer compensate their failures with “chicken and junk food” and new presents, as their income has changed. I would even say that now, the gym is forced to create new champions.
Since the bed scene at the hospital contrasts so much with the one in chapter 29, (chapter 29), I deduce that the slap had the opposite effect than this wonderful night. The gap between the hyung and the athlete got bigger. This represents the moment where Joo Jaekyung is emancipating himself from the hyung’s influence. By refusing the letter of resignation, he clearly indicates that he is rejecting Park Namwook’s suggestion. (chapter 53) He won’t hire someone else. Moreover, the morning after the couch confession, Joo Jaekyung tried to seek closeness with Kim Dan (chapter 30), but failed due to his roughness and cowardice. Hence I assume that the slap was the trigger for the champion to switch Park Namwook’s position with Kim Dan’s. The latter is finally recognized as a friend and even as a competent physical therapist. He is on the verge of becoming Joo Jaekyung’s “hyung”. So far, the athlete has been calling the physical therapist “Kim Dan”. And exactly like that wonderful night, Joo Jaekyung will attempt to seek the doctor’s closeness, resolve the misunderstandings and close the gap between them. He will follow his footsteps, but have a different attitude. Why? It is because the grandmother will be next to them.
Naturally, the champion’s jinx has other origins as well, like for example the schemers who definitely know about his jinx. From my perspective, the way Joo Jaekyung got his previous sex partners played a huge role. That’s why it didn’t matter who the athlete was sleeping with. The jinx is related to a prostitution ring. The plotters must be happy, for they seem to have achieved their goal. Kim Dan left his side. Hence he can no longer testify the involvement of this man: (chapter 37) They imagine that Joo Jaekyung’s recent demise will reinforce his former belief. The prematch-sex session with his regular partner didn’t prevent the misfortune, therefore he needs a replacement. That’s the reason why they made sure to isolate the celebrity. However, they couldn’t be more wrong, for the champion experienced the doctor’s departure as something worse than the whole scandal. (chapter 53) He doesn’t just feel like shit, but like fucking shit! And that’s how Doc Dan is helping the athlete. He is diverting his attention from MFC, his career and jinx. The latter are no longer on his mind. All his thoughts are revolving around his former roommate. (Chapter 53) This explicates why the idiom “jinx” is not even brought up, when he recalls their last sex session. He is not blaming the doctor for not procuring him a “good fuck”. The reason is simple. It is because he had already made this resolution: (chapter 49) He was no longer relying on the ritual.
As for the other cause for the athlete’s jinx, it is related to his bad choices. However, these are strongly connected to Park Namwook. Since the manager is more focused on money and titles, I deduce that the champion’s odd behavior is actually mirroring Park Namwook’s mind-set and attitude. He is rough, selfish and rude, because the other acted that way and even allowed it too. He expressed his thoughts and emotions through his fists and outbursts. (chapter 52), exactly like the athlete. (chapter 52). Did the manager express his regret or apologize towards the doctor? The answer is no. (chapter 53) That’s the reason why the champion has never apologized towards the doctor either. To conclude, the manager had a huge negative influence concerning the sportsman’s mind-set and behavior. Therefore it is necessary for the athlete to distance himself from Park Namwook. That’s how he can get purified. On the other hand, the last incident was essential for the star’s growth. Since the latter hasn’t questioned the integrity of MFC yet, he needed to be suspended in order to realize that his perception of the world was wrong. Though he lost his reputation, he is experiencing that his defeat is not the end of the world. The doctor’s departure was more painful for him. Therefore it was necessary for the champion to make a bad decision. Only through pain, the athlete can turn into a better man. Since Kim Dan left the city for the west coast, I assume that the champion will follow him there. He will reconnect with nature.
3. The champion’s belief at the end of season 1
Interesting is that though Joo Jaekyung had been informed about the protagonist’s resignation, he never anticipated that the latter would move out. This shows that he had already separated his professional life from his private life. We could say that he had already internalized Kim Dan as his friend and even “family”. But he had not realized it yet. And this brings me back to Park Namwook. The latter imagined that he could act like in the past, replace the PTs constantly. But he was forgetting that both men had lived together for 3 months. He had become part of his “home”. The problem is that Joo Jaekyung had not reflected on these changes. And when he had voiced it, he was under the influence of the soju. (chapter 43) So when he discovers the empty bedroom, he is forced to admit that he had become a part of his life. He had liked Kim Dan’s company. (chapter 53) He is now missing him, but he is not capable to express it properly. For the first time, he is confronted with reality. His penthouse feels cold, lifeless and empty. (chapter 19) Yes, we should see episode 53 as the negative reflection from chapter 19, the doctor’s arrival at the penthouse.
And this observation leads me to compare these two pictures: (chapter 19) (chapter 53) Back then, the champion didn’t pay attention to Kim Dan and turned his back to him. His job and training were more important than anything else. Hence he neglected the physical therapist. Mingwa let the doctor stand next to the sun. It is no coincidence. It indicates that Joo Jaekyung never paid attention to his surroundings and in particular to nature. He never looked at the sun. Yet, Kim Dan represents the sun in his life. In other words, he represents his source of happiness. Yet, the latter never got the opportunity to grasp it, for he never rested and took the time to enjoy the present moment. Why? It is because he was chasing after an illusion, the fake light “fame”. It is not random that the synonym for celebrity is “star”. But the brilliance of a star is artificial contrary to the moon and the sun. So when he is looking through the huge window, he is not looking at the moon or the star, but at the city. Why? It is because he has not discovered the existence of cosmos and landscape yet. He only knows one world: the city and the cage. His view of the world is limited. Moreover, the city embodies anonymity and distance. The god Joo Jaekyung needs to go down from his ivory tower and discovers the real world. I had already outlined the importance of travel in Jinx. The latter serves to broaden horizons and as such to remove prejudices. This view over Seoul can only make him feel more lonely. He is truly alone. In addition, because of the doctor’s vanishing, the fighter learned through the hard way that home is not a place, but a person. Home is a synonym for family. Hence he has to look for Kim Dan. At the same time, it pushes the champion to question all his precious believes: the importance of fighting and money, the existence of his “jinx and his traumatic past”.
For me, the doctor’s departure is pushing Joo Jaekyung to travel.And now, you understand why I added the sunlight at the end of the illustration. That represents the champion’s destination. While looking for the doctor, he will discover a new world: mortality but also the beauty of nature. So the grandmother’s wish will affect the champion in a good way. He will be able to reconnect with nature. And that’s how he will become a human. How so? It is because through this journey, he will learn to distinguish between real light and artificial glow. (chapter 53) Here, what Kim Dan saw was not the real sunset, but the lights from the cameras. Far away from the lights from the journalists, the champion will witness the beauty of a sunset, which can not be bought with money. (chapter 53) Humans can only appear as small and powerless. That’s how he could reconcile with the god of time. He will no longer fight against time. I connected nature to temporality of human life because of the grandmother. For me, his break represents a blessing in disguise. He will be able to breathe, to find joy in little things and more importantly he found a true friend and support: Kim Dan. The Webtoonist announced that season 2 would be focused more on feelings which is totally understandable. It coincides with introspection and meditation. Joo Jaekyung will have to prove that he trusts the main lead and he can only achieve this goal by entrusting him his recovery. Moreover, by doing so, he would boost the physical therapist’s confidence. While there was no real seduction in season 1 (money, jinx, treatment, bet during the confession night, drug), we have to envision that their intimacy won’t be so abrupt. It will be more subtle and gradual. The star will have to woo the doctor in order to express his love and affection. Through love, Joo Jaekyung will discover not only happiness, but also strength which will help him to defeat their “enemies” and unmask the criminals. In other words, he should realize thanks to this new journey that he is not cursed, but blessed, for he can help Kim Dan mentally, emotionally and professionally. So far, when the champion travelled, he never visited the cities (chapter 37) or sightseeing attractions. Here, I feel the need to add this French song from Daniel Balavoine (1985): “Aimer est plus fort que d’être aimé” (Loving is stronger than being loved”).
Translation:
You who know what a rampart is
You advance under the wrathful gaze
You write but on the blotter
All the words are reversed
If you speak you must know
That those who cast wrathful glances
Only want to see in the mirror
Only what suits them(These verses remind me of Park Namwook)
You who have broken the ice
Know that there’s no substitute for the truth
And that there are only two races
Or the false or the true
Love carries you through your efforts
The love of all unlocks the secret
Oh, and in the face of all those who devour you
To love is stronger than to be loved
You who know what blasphemy is
You don’t always reap what you sow
You know the supreme ambition
Of those who hate you
They would like to threaten you
To melt you into the mass and suffocate you (Reminds me of the last scheme)
But to sink the icebreaker
It would take a rock
Love carries you through your efforts
The love of all unlocks the secret
Oh, and in the face of all those who devour you
To love is stronger than to be loved
Oh, love carries you through your efforts
Love of all delivers from the secret(That’s how the athlete will reveal his past to Kim Dan, and the latter should do the same)
Oh, and in the face of all those who devour you
To love is stronger than to be loved
Oh, love carries you through your efforts…
Yes, the deceased singer advocated the same than Erich Fromm. (For more read “The Art Of Loving” ).
But let’s return our attention to this picture. (chapter 53) Back then, the champion had looked back at the physical therapist. This shows that he truly cared for the doctor. The latter was not simply his shadow, but also his protector and support. At the same time, this moment represents the doctor’s illumination. In that magic moment, he started associating the celebrity with the sun. The problem is that this light was artificial. Therefore, Kim Dan only perceived the protagonist as a star and not as a human. This explicates why he never wondered about his family. That’s why it is important for the doctor to see the fighter in a different surrounding. Far away from Park Namwook, the media and city, the sportsman can only appear as a human and even as a nobody. To conclude, I am expecting that the champion’s journey will be a journey of meditation and self-discovery. Far away from the toxicity of MFC and the spotlight, he will discover the existence of his own heart and as such his love for Kim Dan. But he can no longer approach him like in episode 1: a trick and money. He should discover the true value of the Wedding cabinet very quickly. It is no junk. Moreover, due to doc Dan’s departure and the last incident, the MMA boxer must have realized that he had totally misjudged the doctor. He is not selfish and greedy. So in season 2, the champion will show a true interest in Kim Dan and his family. He is forced to drop all his prejudices. We should see him talking prettily and gently to Kim Dan too. (chapter 21). By interacting with Kim Dan, he will be able to reconnect with his true self which will change him forever. Notice that after the night in the States, at no moment, the champion mentioned his jinx, but spoke about his physical health. In reality, he was including his mental health. This shows that he was already moving on from his jinx. Moreover, after the tie and the suspension, he is not mentioning or thinking about his former belief. The reason is simple. Because of the doctor, the champion was allowed to perceive glimpses of the truth: corruption and the existence of tricks. This image (Chapter 48) represents the medicine against the champion’s false belief. Moreover, by making him meet his former rival Baek Junmin, the athlete was incited to overcome his past and biggest fears. (chapter 49) The ritual had become obsolete, though he still did it out of routine. Yet, it had already lost its meaning and impact. That’s the reason why the champion didn’t put the blame on the doctor as a bad lover, he had no procured him a good fuck. Because of the last two incidents, the athlete discovered the existence of schemes and corruption, but he has not truly identified the real culprits yet. On the other hand, this exposes that he had already perceived the half-truth. It is just a matter of time, until the verity gets exposed and that will be a real scandal. As a conclusion, at the end of season 1, the fighter’s jinx totally vanished. How so? It is because Kim Dan revealed his self-loathing and lack of confidence to the athlete. He became the personification of the “jinx”. So by entrusting his recovery to Kim Dan, the latter’s self-esteem will be boosted. The doctor’s happiness can only make him feel good and improve his mood. That’s how their misfortune will slowly vanish.
4. Kim Dan’s transformation and jinx
Now, it is time to focus on the doctor’s jinx. How does he feel at the end of season 1? Does he still view himself as jinxed? My answer is yes and no. First, his dream didn’t come true. He wanted to remain by the fighter’s side. (chapter 53) He imagined that he should quit and leave the penthouse. To conclude, he is not entirely free. On the other, thanks to the champion, he was able to get rid of the loan. But more importantly, he was able to experience happiness for short moments.
(Chapter 44) So he was able to create good memories. Besides, he came to fall in love with Joo Jaekyung. Thanks to the latter, doc Dan could overcome his fear (chapter 26) and make others happy too. (chapter 26) He didn’t realize that he brought joy and love to the gym. (chapter 26) The more he spent time with the celebrity, the more confident he became. He was able to voice his opinion and he started becoming more passionate about his job as PT. He studied sports rehabilitation, a sign that he was taking the champion’s career seriously. So when he wrote these words to his soulmate (chapter 53), readers could sense that the doctor had gained some confidence. How so? He employed the comparative “more competent”. So he acknowledges that he has some skills. Let’s not forget that he was able to treat the injured shoulder within a month. The champion was able to fight against Baek Junmin, whereas the schemers and other doctors thought that it would be impossible. (chapter 42) This shows that his self-loathing is gradually vanishing as well. The fact that he is employing the personal pronoun “I” indicates that he is able now to distinguish himself from his grandmother. (chapter 53) Besides, with this sentence, he didn’t realize that he was actually revealing his true wish: he wanted to take care of Joo Jaekyung (“more competent”).
In addition, the word ” I hope” indicates that he is not entirely depressed. There is still “hope” and as such light in his life. Thus the smile on the doctor’s face is a mixture of resignation and peace of mind. (chapter 53) And now, you comprehend what the sunray in the illustration means for Kim Dan. It represents the last light in his life, the champion. He might have become a ghost again. Yet contrary to the beginning of the story, he has now his own identity. Thus he is employing the personal pronoun “I”. We could say that he is actually practicing Potato’s principle: (chapter 35) He is still cheering the athlete on and even wishing him happiness. This exposes that the physical therapist discovered “happiness” through the celebrity. He is no longer believing in the athlete’s jinx.
However, like mentioned above, at the end of season, he became a ghost again because of the grandmother and the last incident. That’s the reason why he appears surrounded by “white”. (Chapter 53), a color symbolizing the spiritual world and purity. But this signifies that going to see the sunset next to the ocean has a different meaning for the physical therapist than the champion. On the one hand, it is strongly connected to death, on the other hand, it also embodies rebirth. I can’t help myself thinking of the legend of Venus’ birth. The goddess of love was born in the sea. It is the reunion of the sky and water. According to me, Yoon-Gu is a representative of this deity. Thus I come to the following deduction. Kim Dan came to discover Yoon-Gu’s principle. It is possible to love someone from far away, which contradicts his past “abandonment issues”. This shows that he moved on from his past suffering. Though his grandmother is about to die, he will still love her. He won’t perceive it as a desertion and abandonment. That’s why the magic of love should take place near the sea. Both characters will meet the goddess of love there.
But let’s return our attention to my initial statement. His transformation to a ghost was caused by the halmoni’s quest. She was no longer thinking about her grandson’s career and job. Joo Jaekyung was no longer important. Only her life and wish mattered. So the champion was not wrong either to state (chapter 53) that the physical therapist had already planned to leave him. He sensed that doc Dan had already started distancing himself from him, because he was bound by this new promise: (chapter 53) Slowly, he was drawing the line between his private and professional life.
Because of the incident with the spray, it is not surprising that the doctor is blaming himself. (Chapter 53) Here, I feel the need to remind my avid readers that though the doctor was victim of a trick, he was not entirely innocent either. He should have come clean with the champion concerning his meeting with the director from the rival gym. His lie still played a huge role in the champion’s mistrust. But why did he not tell him later? It is because he was under the influence of the manager. (chapter 48) The hyung had been his mentor and advisor. Thus he copied his actions and followed blindly his recommendations. (chapter 41) At no moment, he questioned his words and honesty. He should have noticed the hypocrisy of the manager, when he witnessed such a scene. This image contradicts his claim at the restaurant: (chapter 43) How could the athlete be kinder to his own body, when his hyung was slapping him constantly? He was definitely pressured by the former wrestler. This shows that the 29 years old man is lacking critical thinking. On the other hand, we can not blame Kim Dan for trusting the man so blindly, as Joo Jaekyung was behaving the same way. Yet, the fact that Kim Dan cries, when he witnesses this scene shows that he dislikes the scene. For him, it is wrong, yet he doesn’t intervene. This shows that Kim Dan still feared to intervene and even contradict the manager. Why? It is because he thinks, he is the owner of the gym. He is “his employer”, while in reality he is just an employee. His passivity mirrors his affection for Joo Jaekyung. He is not loving him like he is loving his grandmother. He is not taking any risk, he is not ready to sacrifice himself for the athlete’s sake. This shows that he wasn’t loving the champion properly. Exactly like the other members of Team Black, he was following the hyung’s lead.
It is no coincidence that Kim Dan offered the gift at the same time than the coach’s. (chapter 45) Both knew how the champion disliked the birthday and the gifts, but they still chose to ignore the man’s feelings. He believed every word Park Namwook said about the champion in the end. Hence for me, the doctor’s decision to quit was not simply the consequence from champion’s request and reproach, but also from the manager’s indifference and ignorance. At no moment, he contacted him showing that he was necessary for Team Black. His silence and passivity could only be interpreted as a disapproval and rejection.
The other mistake Kim Dan made is that he learned a bad lesson from the celebrity. Having sex with someone is not getting to know someone better. (chapter 44) The intimacy is rather superficial, for it is limited to pleasure and sensuality. This has nothing to do with the partner’s personality. Secondly, during that night, the champion was drunk. In season 1, both protagonists only discovered physical closeness without sharing their thoughts and emotions (chapter 44) . (chapter 44) He never told the athlete that he was so cute or handsome. He kept his thoughts and happiness to himself. The only moment they shared real intimacy was this night: (chapter 29) The problem is that even there, they had sex in form of a challenge. (chapter 29) Moreover, during that sex session, the athlete employed dirty talk. (chapter 29) It was not to express affection.
This interpretation brings me to my next observation. Kim Dan discovered the existence of sex in the most brutal way: (chapter 2) prostitution and rough sex. He never experienced true romance and the birth of “first love”. The courting and seduction were totally absent. His first kiss is connected to fighting, pain, survival and protection. (chapter 14) It had nothing to do with innocent and pure love. For me, Kim Dan didn’t have the time to fall in love with the champion properly. He could even say that his affection is related to his job and he could reduce it to mutual physical chemistry. Thus I deduce that he became a ghost again for one reason. Both need to experience the innocent first love. In other words, we should expect a new version of this magical night: (chapter 20) Till that moment, he lived like a ghost. He had been trying to deny the existence of his own body. And how did the athlete describe his lover in the bathroom? First, he compared him to a whore (chapter 19) before describing him as a baby. (chapter 20) However, we should expect a more pure version, where both act as innocent and inexperienced teenagers, similar gestures: (chapter 44) There should be no drug or no time pressure!! However, there exists another reason why I have such an expectation. First, the grandmother should be close to them. Her presence should represent a hindrance, as the latter is falling back into childhood. Secondly, right from the start, Joo Jaekyung was under the spell from Kim Dan. (chapter 1) He was so attracted to him physically, hence he didn’t pay attention to his partner’s personality. In fact, he had a negative perception of his nature: (chapter 1) By becoming a ghost, the champion is forced to perceive the main lead as a person and as such to pay attention to his personality (dislikes, likes, qualities, career). That’s the reason why I believe that in season 2, he won’t make the same mistake again. He will study the doctor and get to know him better. That’s how he will be able to identify his feelings for the protagonist. He doesn’t love him because of his cute face and body, but because of his big heart and warmth. He is so responsible, generous and dedicated that there’s no one else like him. He embodies true kindness and loyalty. His care and worries are genuine. That’s why the champion will voice his affection differently from the past: “Secret and innocent love behind work”. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why both characters had to go to the seascape. Nature is the perfect place to nurture innocent and pure love. Consequently, I don’t think, the author will rush to create a new chapter full of sex… rather full of tenderness and caresses! Thus Mingwa created such panels: The hands are no longer fists used to express anger and resent, but they are wide open, they are expressing love and tenderness. They will convey a different message: respect, teamwork, and communication. Finally, through such gestures, both are able to reconnect. The hands are encouraging them to express their own thoughts and emotions. They are giving them reassurance and confidence. Season 2 stands for sharing, honesty and communication. Expect a revolution at the gym!
To conclude, the Sleeping Beauty is about to be released from his curse. It is just a matter of time. Kim Dan is on his way to find his true home. Through love, both will be released from their inner suffering and can find happiness, like in a fairy tale: HAPPY ENDING.
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Because of the selected images in the illustration, people might think that the focus of this essay is Potato, yet the real topic is the number 7. If you pay attention to the three pictures, you will realize that they come from 25, 34 and 52. 2+5= 7; 3+4= 7. All of these episodes have one common denominator: 7. But I could also include 18 or 29, because 1-8: -7; 2-9: -7. Yet, pay attention that here we would have the negative version of 7. In the analysis “The Magic Of Numbers“, I demonstrated that Mingwa had utilized Numerology in order to develop her story. Furthermore, I explained that Potato’s name number was 4, while 7 was a favorable number for him. Thus you comprehend why I picked pictures with him. Funny is that when chapter 52 was released, my theory was proven correct. 52 is a reference to 7, therefore we should compare episode 7, 16, 25, 34, 43 and 52 together in order to get new insight about the past and the present. At the same time, this will help us to anticipate episode 53. In episode 52, the Webtoonist created a mystery surrounding the doctor’s whereabouts and problem, (chapter 52) because she desired to push the readers to anticipate the champion’s future actions. What will he do? Striking is that she sowed a similar enigma in episode 7. The latter ended with this image: (chapter 7) Kim Dan had just punched his boss. How would he react to this wrongdoing? In fact, I realized that all the episodes with the number 7 are strongly connected to an intrigue and riddle. Why? The answer lies in the number. 😉 So what does 7 symbolize in the end?
1. The power of 7
The number 7 holds immense symbolic significance across a myriad of cultural, religious, and philosophical contexts, encompassing a diverse range of interpretations and associations. Let’s delve into some of the key symbolic meanings attributed to the number 7:
Spiritual Completeness and Perfection: The number 7 is often regarded as a symbol of spiritual completeness and perfection. It is associated with divine creation and the harmonious balance between the spiritual and material worlds. In ancient philosophy and mysticism, the concept of the “heptad” or sevenfold division represents the harmonization of spiritual principles with material realities. For example, the seven chakras in Hindu and Buddhist traditions symbolize the alignment of energy centers within the body, fostering holistic well-being and spiritual enlightenment.
Religious and Mythological References: Found extensively in religious texts and mythologies, the number 7 is a recurring motif in Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. In Christianity, the number 7 is prominent throughout the Bible, symbolizing divine completion and perfection. For instance, God rested on the seventh day after creating the world (Genesis 2:2-3), and the Book of Revelation mentions seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven churches. In Judaism, seven holds sacred significance, representing divine completion and fulfillment. The seven-day week culminates in the Sabbath, a day of rest and spiritual rejuvenation. Additionally, the menorah in Jewish tradition has seven branches, symbolizing the light of God. Islamic tradition reveres the number 7, with references to seven heavens, seven gates of hell, and seven verses in the opening chapter of the Qur’an. During the Hajj pilgrimage, Muslims circumambulate the Kaaba seven times as an act of devotion.
The most common numbers in the Indian Vedas are 3 and 7. Agni, the god of fire, has seven wives, mothers, or sisters and can produce seven flames. The sun god has seven horses to pull his heavenly chariot. In the Rigveda there are seven parts of the world, seven seasons, and seven heavenly fortresses. The cow has 21 = 3 × 7 names. Quoted from https://www.britannica.com/topic/number-symbolism/7
Numerological Significance: Numerologists often interpret the number 7 as a symbol of spiritual insight, intuition, and inner wisdom. Individuals born under the influence of the number 7 are believed to possess heightened spiritual awareness and a deep connection to the unseen realms. The mystical qualities associated with the number 7 inspire seekers to embark on spiritual journeys of self-discovery and enlightenment.
The number 7 imparts a deep personality, keen observation skills, analytical abilities, and a natural inclination towards spirituality. It resonates with the energy of Neptune, a mysterious and stunningly beautiful planet with a dream-like quality. As the farthest planet from the Sun in our solar system, Neptune is closely linked to the vastness of the cosmos. It symbolizes intuition, spirituality, clairvoyance, and telepathy, representing the deep currents of the subconscious mind. Neptune, named after the Roman counterpart to the Greek god Poseidon, is associated with the subconscious and the element of water, hinting at possible hidden water beneath its thick gaseous atmosphere. This planetary energy fosters a belief in universal equality and love for all beings and cultures, transcending local biases. Quoted from https://www.numerologistpro.com/numerology-numbers/numerology-number-7-meaning/
However, it is important to know that people with number 7 possess negative personality features too. It depends on the balance.
This shows that such persons can bring also misery to others, especially due to their selfishness. And now, you comprehend why 7 can not necessarily bring luck.
Lucky and Mystical: Across many cultures, the number 7 is viewed as lucky and mystical. It is often associated with good fortune, positive outcomes, and hidden knowledge. In Western folklore, finding a four-leaf clover or encountering a rainbow with seven colors are seen as auspicious signs of good luck. Ancient cultures believed in the magical properties of the number 7. For example, in Babylonian mythology, the seven planets were associated with deities and celestial forces that influenced human destiny. The Seven Sisters, or Pleiades, star cluster in Greek mythology symbolizes the seven daughters of the Titan Atlas, who were transformed into stars by Zeus to escape the pursuit of Orion. The Pleiades were regarded as a guiding constellation for sailors and a harbinger of seasonal changes.
Mathematical and Geometrical Symbolism: In mathematics and geometry, the number 7 holds significance as a prime number and as a fundamental element in geometric patterns and structures. In sacred geometry, the number 7 is significant in geometric patterns such as the Seed of Life and Flower of Life, which represent the interconnectedness of all creation. These geometric symbols, composed of seven circles or spheres, embody the principle of spiritual completeness and perfection, reflecting the divine order inherent in the universe. I incorporated the Seed of Life in the illustration.
Musical and Educational Symbolism: In music theory and education, the number 7 is integral to understanding musical scales and educational curricula. It represents harmony, balance, and the pursuit of knowledge across various disciplines.
The sum of the spiritual 3 and the material 4 is 7. In medieval education, students pursued the trivium (grammar, rhetoric, and logic) and the quadrivium (music, arithmetic, geometry, and astronomy), a total of seven subjects, collectively known as the liberal arts. Pythagorean interest in the mathematical patterns in music gives 7 a privileged role, for there are seven distinct notes in the musical scale—corresponding roughly to the white notes on a piano. Counting from 1, the eighth note up the scale is the exceedingly harmonious octave, which is how the name arose. https://www.britannica.com/topic/number-symbolism/7
Cultural and Folklore References: The number 7 appears in numerous cultural and folklore references, such as the seven days of the week, the seven wonders of the world, and the seven deadly sins (pride, greed/avarice, wrath, envy, lust, gluttony and laziness/sloth). It also features prominently in sayings, rituals, and traditional healing practices, like for example Seven-Day Cleansing Rituals. Many traditional healing traditions include rituals or ceremonies designed to cleanse the body, mind, or spirit of negative influences or imbalances. These cleansing rituals often span seven days, during which participants undertake purification practices such as fasting, prayer, meditation, or immersion in natural elements like water or fire. The seven-day duration is seen as a sacred period for releasing toxins, negative energies, or spiritual blockages, allowing for spiritual renewal and rejuvenation.
In the Hippocratic tradition of medicine, 7 rules the illnesses of the body, with painful illnesses lasting 7, 14, or 21 days. In Germany it was believed that pigs would not contract hog cholera if they were treated for seven days with water containing asphodel. In Jewish magic a fever can be cured by taking seven prickles from seven palm trees, seven chips from seven beams, seven nails from seven bridges, seven ashes from seven ovens…terminating in seven hairs from the beard of an old dog. Quoted from https://www.britannica.com/topic/number-symbolism/7
Overall, the number 7 embodies a rich tapestry of meanings and symbolisms, ranging from spiritual completeness and divine perfection to luck, mysticism, and mathematical elegance. Its universal resonance underscores its enduring significance as a symbol of harmony, wisdom, and transcendence across diverse cultures and traditions. Because 7 stands for spirituality and enlightenment, it becomes comprehensible why the chapters with number 7 are strongly connected to an enigma and mystery. Jinx-philes are encouraged to develop their critical thinking, to see beyond appearances. In addition, in the beginning of the story, Joo Jaekyung’s third eye was not existent, hence in episode 18, he couldn’t judge the situation related to the doctor’s assault correctly: (chapter 18) He believed to see someone selling his body to a loan shark, while in reality the main lead was about to get raped. Hence we have -7! This represents the absence of reflection and even the refusal of meditation. (chapter 18) On the other hand, the quotes above mentioned 14 or 21, because they are also related to 7 (multiplication). This signifies that we should also see chapters 14, 21, 28, 35, 42 and 49 as a reflection from number 7. Since the latter can be the result of an addition or substraction, I deduce that we should include the following numbers as a reflection of 7 as well: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9. Finally, if you read the analysis “”The Magic Of Numbers“, you know that I also contrasted the following chapters (7, 17, 27, 37, 47), for all of them contains a 7. This is what I found out: All of them were oozing suffering, prejudices, wrongdoing and fear, but also they are linked to water. Furthermore, I noticed that the increasing isolation of the doctor. First, he was surrounded by the fighters, (chapter 7), but the more he focused on the champion, the less the members paid attention to him. (chapter 47) He didn’t get included in the conversation. This explicates why when Kwak Junbeom witnessed the encounter between Choi Gilseok and Kim Dan, the sportsman didn’t approach the PT in order to protect him or his champion’s interest. (chapter 48) The connection between 7 and anguish in Jinx seems to contradict the notion of “lucky 7”. Yet we shouldn’t forget that through pain, the characters are incited to learn life lessons and become wiser. Torment led them to face their fears and reflect. Consequently, what appears as a jinx will turn into luck and blessing in reality. Like mentioned in the previous analysis, the 90 day suspension represents a liberation for the athlete, for he is no longer under pressure to fight constantly. He is pushed to meditate and view life differently, thus he is looking out of the window. (Chapter 52) He will realize that he needs to select his opponent more properly.
As a conlusion, we should see parallels between 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 16, 17, 18, 21, 25, 27, 28, 29, 34, 35, 37, 42, 43, 47, 49 and 52. Let me give you another example: in only two episodes, we could see Park Namwook’s gaze, episode 5 and 52. Interesting is that in episode 5, the manager showed his indifference towards the doctor, as he was not urging him to take the job. (chapter 5) He remained passive, because he had already an answer to his silence. He was refusing the job. He implied that his lack of reaction had been caused by the champion’s action. In addition, he reproached his boss that he was getting worked up for nothing. His behavior displays that he saw no value in Kim Dan. Moreover, Mingwa left a clue why the man has always been passive all this time. It is not just a question of fear. The other reason is that he used prejudices and superficial thoughts to explain people’s attitude. Hence he never investigated the matter why the doctor didn’t contact them. His attitude in episode 52 hasn’t changed at all. (chapter 52) He reproaches to Joo Jaekyung his heartlessness, though Kim Dan took care of him for months. But he is forgetting that he spent himself time with the hamster too, and he is healthy contrary to the champion. So he could have reached to the doctor. His reproach is just an excuse to mask his passivity, ignorance and even indifference. His rudeness and neglect towards the doctor and athlete becomes more obvious.
As you can imagine, I can’t compare all these episodes together, as it represents a mammoth task. Hence the purpose of this analysis is to encourage my avid readers to detect the parallels and develop their own observations.
2. The 7 in the mirror
In order to facilitate my examination, I created a table where I added pictures which I perceived as relevant for the contrast.
Chapter 7
Chapter 16
Chapter 25
Chapter 34
Chapter 43
Chapter 52
2. 1. Between invitation and defy
The presence of a challenge is pretty obvious in episode 25 and 34. The athlete invited Heesung and the doctor to learn something new. While for the doctor, the champion saw it as a game, the fighter was really serious with the actor. But the element (invitation and challenge) is also present in chapter 52, though this time, it is not the champion who is throwing a defy. Baek Junmin invited the champion to join his side with his remarks, (chapter 52). By mocking him, he was provoking Joo Jaekyung and he knew it. Yet, he never expected that he would be punched so violently that he would be KO. In episode 7, the champion “invited” the doctor to enter the shower room, (chapter 7), his words were actually an order that the poor doctor couldn’t refuse. He was even dragged under the shower (chapter 7) reminding us of the kidnapping in episode 16. Here, on the other hand, Heo Manwook must have judged his presence at doc Dan’s house as an “invitation” . (Chapter 16) and not trespassing. Each challenge or invitation is strongly connected to moving. Heesung had to drive through town in order to discover the secret between the two protagonists. Moreover, I distinguished another similarity: abduction and sequestration. Kim Dan was forced to stay in the shower room or his home or in the penthouse (34,43). Chapter 25 represents the exception, for it was the only case, where Kim Dan was given a real choice. (Chapter 25) He could refuse the sparring. Thus I deduce that in episode 52, the opposite is happening to the doctor. Something happened to him, and he could do nothing. On the other hand, this signifies that at the hospital, the members from Team Black were seeking the consent and support from their boss. (chapter 52) One detail caught my attention: the champion’s head is glowing exactly like in the last image from episode 25. Mingwa was indicating through this light the character’s illumination. The athlete is opening up his heart and mind to the doctor, a new version of this scene: (chapter 44) Kim Dan agreed to have sex with the fighter, because he wanted to know him better. Thus I deduce that the athlete discovered new aspects about Kim Dan’s life. (chapter 52) For me, this scene announces the moment when the celebrity drops all his prejudices about his destined partner.
2. 2. Missing loved one
Second parallel I detected is the absence or vanishing of important characters. In episode 7/8, no one except Oh Daehyun, noticed that Joo Jaekyung had gone to the shower room. (chapter 8) In 25 and 34, we never saw Park Namwook. He was either outside the gym or in his office. Then in episode 43, Potato was missing, but no one mentioned his absence. But I would even go further, all these chapters are strongly linked to the doctor’s vanishing. Notice that in episode 7, he got dragged to the shower room, but no one caught his disappearance, not even Park Namwook. (chapter 7) In episode 16, Kim Dan got abducted by Heo Manwook and his minions, yet no one intervened. It was, as if no one had noticed the crime. On the other hand, his absence got noticed, for he didn’t appear on time at the gym. This led the champion to ask his manager about his whereabouts. Hence the manager had to call him. Nonetheless, the coach used the excuse that Joo Jaekyung had brought him to his house, therefore he should fetch him. (chapter 16) Then in episode 25, no one saw Kim Dan training alone. It was, as if he was a ghost. (chapter 25) He received only attention, when he got strangled due to the maknae’s mistake and notice that the protagonist was too focused on training the others that he neglected his soulmate. Then in episode 34, Kim Dan was supposed to meet Choi Heesung, but he missed the appointment due to the athlete’s trick. (chapter 34) (chapter 34) Since the latter had not replied, Choi Heesung assumed that Kim Dan was not free. And now, you know why the actor never contacted the angel and asked about his whereabouts. The main lead never replied and confirmed the meeting. Then in episode 43, no one missed Kim Dan at the table, when they ate their dinner. (chapter 43) The remark “just let him be” is not the expression of concern, rather of indifference in the end. How so? It is because he is not included in the team. He is treated like an outsider. In other words, Kim Dan had never been the concern of the members from Team Black. Their interest was rather superficial, for they could receive treatment for free. And the best evidence is this scene: (chapter 52) Even Oh Daehyun didn’t realize that doc Dan had been missing. It is because he had never been a fighter. However, there’s no ambiguity that the young fighter must have felt horrible, when he realized his mistake. Hence he made such a shocked expression, when he heard the champion’s question: (chapter 52) Notice that coach Jeong Yosep is avoiding his gaze, while the manager has no eye. For me, all their expressions exposed their guilty conscience, only Potato was acting differently. Why? It is because he had met the doctor. But who was responsible for Kim Dan’s work and schedule? Park Namwook, as the latter was the one in charge of his contract. (chapter 5) So if the athlete had fired the physical therapist, he would have notified his manager. But he never did such a thing and the hyung knew it as well. In other words, Park Namwook was aware that Kim Dan had not been fired. Therefore he needed to find another excuse to put the blame on the star. (chapter 52) He had been too harsh and had not investigated the matter properly. However, his words “getting the facts straight” reminded me of this scene: (chapter 48) Kwak Junbeom had observed the encounter between these two men, and Kim Dan arrived to the gym certainly very late. (chapter 48) This should have caught the coach’s attention. In addition, it dawned on me that the fighter could have reported this meeting to the coach, saying that he would come late due to the other director, a new version of this scene: (chapter 11) So Park Namwook might have already been aware of this, which would explain why he felt uncomfortable, when he met Choi Gilseok.. (chapter 49) Remember that he had avoided him on purpose. And episode 49 is related to number 7. Hence we have this contrast: (chapter 49) “We believe in you” (chapter 52) This shows that the manager was hiding his true thoughts behind the masses of fans and fighters (“we”). And the moment his reputation is ruined, he is showing his true colors. He is only thinking of himself and his distress. (chapter 52) As you can see, we should question if Park Namwook had no idea about the meeting between Choi Gilseok and Kim Dan, but like the doctor, he never reported to the celebrity. Moreover, the manager was also responsible for the doctor’s schedule, for his work was strongly connected to the celebrity’s. (chapter 30) In this scene, we see that the doctor made a decision on his own, as he knew that he was not needed. Park Namwook should have asked why Kim Dan would join the gym later, if he had not been informed. As you can see, through the comparison, I realized Park Namwook’s huge wrongdoing. He didn’t miss doc Dan during that time, I would even say, he didn’t look for him. But he knows where he lives and he has his cellphone number. Like mentioned in a previous analysis, the vanishing of the coach and manager at the gym was exposing a professional mistake. (chapter 52) And funny is that as soon as I contrasted these episodes, I had another revelation. How did Joo Jaekyung know that Kim Dan was supposed to meet the actor? (chapter 34) Yes, this represented the huge enigma of 34! I believe to have found the answer. (chapter 34) It is because Choi Heesung must have contacted Park Namwook and made the request. He desires to receive a treatment from Kim Dan. Let’s not forget that Park Namwook had proposed this deal to the actor: (chapter 32) Kim Dan had no saying in it, the justification was that it was for the champion’s sake. Hence my assumption is the comedian must have complained to the manager that Joo Jaekyung had interrupted their time together. (chapter 32) The sly fox was aware that the celebrity would never dare to contradict his hyung. (chapter 31) That’s the reason why Park Namwook asked the doctor to fetch the celebrity in episode 34. (chapter 34) It was to inform him about Kim Dan’s schedule. For me, the idiom “discuss” was just a subterfuge, there was no discussion, only an order. The man with the spectacles announced to the main character in his office that Kim Dan would treat Choi Heesung this evening. Hence he should not interrupt the treatment session. That’s the reason why the protagonist had to play a trick. (chapter 34) Kim Dan could refuse to go to that meeting. He was not obligated, for there was no contract between the artist and the “hamster”. They had never asked for his consent. Choi Heesung used work to meet the doctor, but the manager had also heard from the actor’s manager about the comedian’s love life (chapter 30). So he must have known about the true intentions. The clue for this interpretation is that he had a drop of sweat on his face. To sum up, he feigned ignorance. And you know how I came to this theory? The coach is not visible in 34 and he didn’t assist to the champion’s birthday surprise party: (chapter 43) But he is his “boy”! Where was he? Only Yosep intervened. (chapter 43) Yet, Park Namwook joined them for the dinner at the restaurant. Only through the comparison, I detected the absence of the manager which I consider as a sign of his neglect. Yosep’s gesture (chapter 43) represents the positive gesture from Namwook’s slap.
And the moment I developed this new theory, it occurred to me why Potato was not present during the birthday party. It is because the sly fox had used the same tactic with Potato: work!! He must have approached Park Namwook and made his request. Why would he refuse? This would bring money to the gym. He could even refer to the invitation of the pure chow-chow: (chapter 35) He needed Potato to work off some stress. That’s why the reason why NO ONE wondered about the young fighter’s absence during the birthday party. (chapter 43) Moreover, we would have an explanation why Park Namwook was absent during that morning. For me, we should see Potato’s vanishing in 43 as a reflection from the doctor’s disappearance in 7. And the common denominator is: no one is looking for them.
2. 3. The doctor’s guardian
Thanks to the table, anyone can detect the increasing presence of Potato, while the grandmother was no longer present or mentioned after episode 16. Thus I deduce that Yoon-Gu is destined to take over her role in the couple’s life. He will become the doctor’s guardian and protector. As you can see, the champion is not the only one related to her. While in episode 7, Yoon-Gu is only visible as an errand boy, he plays a central role in episode 25. Thanks to him, Joo Jaekyung was able to suggest a sparring to the doctor. The cute puppy brought the main couple closer exactly like in episode 52. The halmoni had a similar attitude. (chapter 41) Thanks to the chow-chow’s intervention, the champion discovered the truth. (chapter 52) Interesting is that he isn’t presenting the switch of the spray as certainty, for they lack evidences. For me, it indicates his growth and maturity. He is not rushing to conclusions contrary to the champion and Park Namwook. They need proofs in order to report Choi Gilseok’s crime. Nevertheless, the young maknae defended not only Kim Dan’s name, but also his champion’s reputation. Therefore he fought with the other fighters. (chapter 52) The result was that his face got bruised. (chapter 52) But strangely, no one is asking him about his wounds… exactly like in episode 43!! (chapter 43) They saw doc Dan not only tired, but also with wounded hands. No one dared to question him, how his hands got bruised. And the moment I noticed this, I realized that Kim Dan was also wounded in episode 7 (chapter 7), 16 (chapter 16) (chapter 16), 25 (chapter 25) (episode 25) and (chapter 34!! And how did people react, when they saw this? They all showed indifference by feigning ignorance or remaining inactive. (chapter 11) Either it was just sex or it was not their problem. Hence the doctor was abandoned in the coach office asleep. (chapter 43) No wonder why the match in the States could start without the PT’s presence. No one was missing him. It was, as if his job during a fight was not important. Only the grandma and Potato asked if he was alright. Yes, both worried not only about him (chapter 40), but also paid attention to his actions and work. (chapter 25)
Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why Shin Okja’s admiration for Joo Jaekyung resembles a lot to Potato’s idolization. (chapter 41) However, notice that her desire to watch the match was related to her grandson, the source of her pride and joy. As soon as I made this connection, I had another revelation. Gradually, the chow-chow’s admiration is shifting towards the doctor. (chapter 52) Here, he was no longer looking at his idol, the opposite to this image. (Chapter 34) Here, he only had eyes for the champion due to his strength, but at the hospital, he only had eyes for Kim Dan! (Chapter 52) He is realizing the athlete’s flaws: his lack of discernment and trust. He is discovering the importance of meditation and mental health. However, his attitude changed, when the athlete asked this: (chapter 52) He was looking straight at the celebrity, while the others were all looking away, embarrassed. It shows that the name Kim Dan was working like a lucky charm. And this brings me to the following observation. We are witnessing not only Potato’s emancipation, but also the increase of his critical thinking. Potato overcame his repressed homosexuality very quickly. (Chapter 25) and showed no fear to fight with stronger men. (chapter 52) I sense some future tension between him and coach Park Namwook, for the maknae embodies enlightenment, great intuition and open-mindedness, whereas the other stands for prejudices, ignorance and herd mentality. Naturally, the manager is changing for the better, nonetheless his metamorphosis is progressing much more slowly. Only in episode 52, he questioned why Baek Junmin was placed next to his athlete. (Chapter 52) Yet, he didn’t complain to the staff or to director Choi Gilseok. He remained passive contrary to the young member from Team Black. Moreover, because Kim Dan has always felt a certain closeness to Yoon-Gu, I believe that the latter will be the reason why the champion and Kim Dan can rekindle. Thanks to him, he can approach the poor doctor and convince him that Team Black is his home. (chapter 29) I doubt that it will be just for the athlete’s sake and recovery, for this would make him a hypocrite. He is truly interested in the doctor’s well-being. Let’s not forget that his worries in episode 43 were genuine. Moreover, since Joo Jaekyung’s name number 3 and Potato 4, we come to 7! They will work together. Joo Jaekyung will share his knowledge how to rule in the ring.
By interacting with him, Potato discovered Kim Dan’s qualities: his generosity, his strength (chapter 26), his tolerance, patience, understanding (chapter 37), his humbleness (chapter 25), his dedication and meticulousness. (chapter 49) Yoon-Gu could only perceive Kim Dan as the symbol of loyalty. Hence I come to the deduction that after meeting doc Dan, he must have realized that only one could change the situation, it was Joo Jaekyung and no one else.
Since Yoon-Gu mirrors the grandmother, and the latter had become a wise woman, I consider Potato as the representative of meditation, enlightenment and spirituality. Through him, the champion is forced to change and question appearances and words. This explicates why Joo Jaekyung was more opening up to Kim Dan (25-29), but he reverted to his old self, when he met Heesung who used the manager’s blindness and prejudices to his own advantage. This coincides to the absence of Park Namwook. Between episode 18 and 29, he appeared briefly in episode 23, 26 and 27. In the last episode, he left everything in the hand of the doctor.
2. 4. The protagonists’ well-being
In episode 25, Yoon-Gu had wounded the doctor by mistake, no one paid further attention to his well-being. (chapter 25) It was all about the fighter’s mistake and teaching MMA. The parallel between 25 and 43 (chapter 43) exposes not only Joo Jaekyung (chapter 43), but also Park Namwook’s neglect. How so? First, look how Kim Dan came to offer his services to the members from Team Black. Kim Changmin had an old shoulder injury which had been neglected: (chapter 7) But the coach should have noticed it and advised him to go to a doctor. He was responsible for them. But no… and we have two other evidences in episode 52. First, the manager didn’t ask about Potato’s injury. Secondly, he slapped a patient, because he felt “provoked” by the outburst from Joo Jaekyung. (chapter 52) The first question he asked to the doctor is this: (chapter 52) Why? One might say that he was worried for his star. But for me, the drop of sweat is showing a certain discomfort. How so? A surgery means that the athlete can no longer fight for a while. Without him, the coach is put under pressure, for he needs to ensure that other fighters can enter MFC. (chapter 47) Hence I am now wondering if his passivity and silence after the terrible incident were not deliberate. He had ran away from any responsibility out of fear (avoidance). That way, he could put the blame on others: the champion, the fighters, King Of MMA etc. Naturally, the champion is also to blame (chapter 43), for when he saw his wounded hands, he never confronted Kim Dan. The reason is that he feared that the doctor might abandon him. He simply worried, but did nothing except calling Cheolmin later. (chapter 43) Moreover, the cute doctor had asked him to bring doc Dan for more tests, but he did not follow his advice. (chapter 13) Furthermore, he heard from the grandmother that he had a weak constitution. (chapter 21) Finally, let’s not forget that the doctor took a drug recently, but the champion never verified how it affected his physical therapist. (chapter 41) That’s how it dawned on me that the news about Kim Dan could be referring to his health too. But does it mean that doctor Dan is now ill, especially when you look at Potato’s facial expression here? (chapter 52) He is the person who is affected the most compared to the others. He is mopping exactly like in episode 25: (chapter 25) Back then, his dream was to train and spare with the athlete, thus I deduce that his new dream got “crushed”. But what was his new wish? To work with doc Dan! Thus he assisted him and asked for his opinion. He trusted him blindly. Therefore I have the impression that the physical therapist stopped on his own working for Team Black. However, I don’t think, Kim Dan made this choice himself. The news definitely caught the athlete by surprise. (chapter 52) Either he is sick, or it could be a reference to the doctor’s mental health as well. This would mirror the champion’s unwell-being. (chapter 52) The physical therapist could have suffered a mental breakdown, depression and the trigger would be his halmoni’s fate, her death.
In addition, if he is depressive, then he could have a relapse. You are probably wondering which kind of regression I am referring to: Alcohol, a secret Joo Jaekyung had discovered, when he brought him to his flat. (chapter 10) Let’s not forget that after his first night, the doctor numbed his physical pain with soju, while he was not eating properly. (chapter 5) He would spend money for soju, but not for healthy food. Not even his grandmother was aware of this habit. But by living with the champion, he could no longer live like in the past. He had stopped drinking any alcohol, but notice that it changed after the drug incident. He was encouraged to drink again: (chapter 43) The champion represented the doctor’s motivation and as such “sweet drug”. That’s the reason why he could always overcome the pain afflicted by his soulmate: (chapter 47) (chapter 51) And this brings me to my next observation. All the episodes are showing the champion’s weak mental condition which got even worse over time. From this (chapter 7) to this (chapter 34) and to this: (chapter 52) At the hospital, he was able to express his true thoughts and emotions for the first time, while in episode 34, Choi Heesung even tried to manipulate him by denying his affection for the physical therapist: (chapter 34) Though the celebrity was getting easily irritated, the manager never took the matter seriously. He saw it as the result of bad education, hence he never tried to change it either. (chapter 9) Therefore he portrayed him as a maniac. So why is he requesting the return of the physical therapist? One reason is that he can’t deal with the celebrity’s negative emotions. Secondly, he needs Kim Dan so that the latter can be fit within 90 days!! Yes… Joo Jaekyung got suspended, hence he can no longer fight. But as soon as the suspension is over, there’s no doubt that the coach plans to send him back to the scene. Hence his gratitude (chapter 43) (chapter 43) and care are not selfless, for the PT could improve the celebrity’s performance and even treat his shoulder injury in such a short time. However, what Park Namwook is not realizing is that he is becoming responsible for Kim Dan and his return. (chapter 52) In other words, he made a decision. Besides, he is entrusted to take care of the main lead. He can no longer neglect him like in the past. Moreover, should he face problems because of the PT, he can no longer put the responsibility on the athlete. The slap is the deal.
2. 5. Fighting and fun
Another common denominator is that the usage of violence in these episodes (7, 25 34 and 52) is not the expression of fun, rather it indicates fear, frustration and anger. In episode 25, the maknae wounded the doctor out of jealousy and frustration unconsciously. He wished to be close to the celebrity. Interesting is that chapter 43 represents the true exception. Here, the readers could discover the champion’s true face: he was behaving like a brute and thug (chapter 43) (chapter 43) Yet, his words were just empty threats. And what have episode 25 and 43 in common? Fun and learning. (chapter 43) To say that the athlete always has a bad temper (chapter 52) is simply wrong, for it is not representing the truth. The birthday party is the evidence of their lie. And the fact that the fighters went to the same place than for the birthday party exposes the deception from the ex-members. (chapter 43) (chapter 52) But since Potato was not present that day, he can not criticize them for their hypocrisy. However, notice that they are describing the celebrity exactly like the manager: “his temper”. It is a cheap excuse, especially when they had a good time on the celebrity’s birthday.
2. 6. Number 7 and apprehension
I detected another similarity between all these episodes. It is about getting caught or not! While the main couple was not discovered in the shower room (episode 7), the champion caught Heo Manwook on the verge of raping his fated partner (chapter 16) But like mentioned above, he misjudged the situation, hence the crime was not reported properly. This stands in opposition to the puppy’s behavior at the gym. Though he arrived later, he was still able to detect what had happened between the main leads. (chapter 25) It is no coincidence, it shows the strength of our cute puppy. He is mentally stronger than his role model. His intuition and his critical thinking are better developed. As soon as he discovered the true nature of their relationship, he kept it a secret. Moreover, he didn’t condemn them for doing it at the workplace. Interesting is that he made a mistake himself as a fighter, but he didn’t get reprimanded. (chapter 25) Why? It is because the doctor protected him by explaining the circumstances: he was learning jujitsu. He diverted the champion’s attention from Yoon-Gu. He had not been “caught”. However, when Kim Dan was offered to become the celebrity’s sparring partner, Potato got angry and voiced his anger and wish: (chapter 25) Yes, this is the reflection from that scene at the hospital: (chapter 52) And what had happened to Potato, when he yelled at Joo Jaekyung? Nothing… the champion only paid attention to his soulmate, while Kim Dan saw his disappointment which pushed him to accept the challenge. (chapter 25) And who was absent during that day? Park Namwook. It is no coincidence, for the latter stands for scolding, silencing and social norms. No doctor had ever entered the ring to fight. These are two different worlds. And now, you comprehend why the manager vented his anger on the fighter. (chapter 26) (chapter 52) Park Namwook is using his seniority and social norms to justify his “violence”. The young man should have never raised his voice at his hyung. But like mentioned in the previous essay, the man is just an employee of Team Black, he doesn’t own the gym. This shows that he abused his position to a certain extent. So far, the harsh treatment had been only directed at the champion which the others saw as a normality. And what is the common denominator between all these scenes? Kim Dan never witnessed the beating Joo Jaekyung was receiving from his hyung. (chapter 43) The latter has not been caught by the hamster yet. But it is only a matter of time, until he gets apprehended. As soon as the physical therapist makes this discovery, he can only question the manager’s attitude. Notice that in the last image, the manager scared the doctor with his rough gesture. Now that many members left the gym, the pressure on the remaining fighters can only increase. Hence Park Namwook could expose his true personality. He has high expectations for the remaining members. But we will see. One thing is sure. the 90 day suspension represents an important turning point in the athlete’s life. The purpose of Team Black is now changing. It is no longer for the champion’s sake and career. The celebrity needs to give a new goal for his gym.
As for chapter 34, the couple got caught by Heesung, but this was on purpose!! (chapter 34) The exact opposite to chapter 25! Observe what the actor said about the athlete: (chapter 34) He employed the exact expression than the manager, an indication that the latter had influenced the actor. I consider his thoughts as another evidence for the coach’s intervention. However, he couldn’t report it to Park Namwook, for he had used work as a reason to meet the protagonist. On the other hand, I am quite certain that he divulged the incident to Potato in episode 43, therefore the latter agreed to the statement of the other fighters: he was a thug. (chapter 47) Chapter 52 contrasts to all the previous scenes, for this time, the champion got caught and sentenced. (chapter 52) His suspension is the result of his misbehavior, he used violence and as such he broke MFC rules. It was not related to his sexual behavior (contrary to episode 7, 16, 25, 34 and 43), hence I am assuming that this topic will become a hot topic in season 2. When will he be caught in a compromising situation with Kim Dan? Moreover, his sentence is only valid in MFC world, hence his reputation is not truly ruined. While the main lead got caught and punished, the opposite happened to the villains: (chapter 52) They got scot-free. While it looks like a blessing, it is not because contrary to the past, police got involved. Coach Jeong Yosep reported the incident to the authorities, so Choi Gilseok and the other could get arrested for money laundering. (chapter 52) But what did the hyungs do during that incident? They stood there immobile, yet they could have anticipated his reaction after hearing the constant provocations. They knew about his “temper”. So their passivity, negligence and incompetence was truly exposed in episode 52. They got caught by attentive readers. And this brings me to my final thought: how does Park Namwook judge the incident? (chapter 52) It is not a question of “good luck”, the exact opposite of episode 1. (chapter 1) His bad temper is the reason for that incident. Funny is that by admitting this, he is not realizing his own wrongdoing! He neglected the champion’s mental health and his well-being all this time. He never tried to grasp the origins of his irritability and to improve the situation. So it was only a matter of time, until this would come to the surface! To conclude, though number 7 is strongly connected to suffering, it also stands for education and teaching. Thus as time passes on, the characters are getting enlightened and more complete. Little by little, they are getting closer to the divine: the discovery of hope and as such happiness. For me, the protagonists’ main spiritual growth will take place around the episodes 70-79.
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1. The champion’s face
This essay won’t be long compared to the previous ones, but I wanted to examine the Emperor’s downfall more precisely. One image in episode 52 caught my attention, (chapter 52) the publication from KR Sports News. The journalist used a very disadvantageous picture of Joo Jaekyung which was taken at the end of the match. Why? It is to manipulate public opinion. His ugly face was to reflect his bad behavior. He was portrayed as a bad loser. The article is the reason why the members left the gym. How so? It’s because Joo Jaekyung was the face of Team Black. So by seeing his ruined image and face, the members could only come to the conclusion that the gym had no future. Moreover, by misbehaving, he would no longer embody fairness and impartiality. (chapter 52) He was no longer a hero or champion, but a thug. Yet, there’s more to it.
2. The champion’s image in the past
Suddenly, I remembered this scene from episode 1 (chapter 1) Kim Dan was watching a match from the celebrity and heard the comments from the moderator. He was not only the strongest man in the world (chapter 1), but also a tyrant in the ring!! (chapter 1) And the moment I connected these two chapters together, I had another revelation. The champion’s image in the ring was also created by the media! To conclude, both medias were not portraying the athlete correctly. However, the words “a tyrant in the ring” made me realize why the celebrity lost his title and reputation at the health center. He needed to be defeated outside the ring. Thus the plotters asked the staff from the clinic to place the two fighters next to each other. (chapter 52) They wanted to trigger Joo Jaekyung’s rage (chapter 52), and they succeeded. This seems to corroborate my previous theory that the physical therapist from episode 1 had been wounded, because the athlete’s fears had been triggered. And now, you comprehend why the last picture resembles a lot to the one from episode 1, the “tyrant in the ring”. This shows that not only MFC doctors and nurses were involved in the scheme, but also the medias. They created the hype around the champion. Hence it dawned on me why the plotters had to remove Alfredo (chapter 47) and switch him with Baek Junmin. It is because it would have been impossible to ruin his image outside of South Korea. In the States, the athlete had a very good reputation. (chapter 37) He gave interviews constantly. (chapter 40) Even Dominic Lee had showed his appreciation. (chapter 40) Moreover, it was easier to get helping hands in the country.
But why did they have to create such a situation? It is because the tie had been contested by the viewers. (chapter 51) The latter had booed after the announcementof the result. The fight was the evidence of the corruption of MFC (jury, moderator and MFC security guys). The viewers had not bought the verdict from the jury. And now, it is time to return our attention to episode 1. What was Kim Dan doing in the bus? (chapter 1) He had been watching videos about his future client. All his matches had been recorded. But here look at the title of the article from Korean News: (chapter 52) They are not reporting the result of the match. Moreover, the picture was taken after the end of the match. Thus I deduce that the match with Baek Junmin was not shown on TV!! It was not recorded either. They made sure to leave no trace of it. Jinx-philes should recall that this fight was taking place in the morning (chapter 48), a hour, when people in South Korea are busy. This would explicate why the match was not shown on TV. And now, you comprehend why there is no mention of the tie and why all the pictures come from before or after the match (chapter 52) This incident was to divert attention from the terrible match. Only the beholders of the match had witnessed the misbehavior from the criminal. Moreover, they knew that their hero had been injured. This signifies that the plotters created this incident in order to bury the tie. Choi Gilseok is not the only one involved in this matter. Moreover, by portraying him as the bad loser, journalists made sure that no one would side with him! No beholder from the match would leave comments below the article defending the champion. Thus I come to the conclusion that the schemers had employed an expensive PR to defeat the “tyrant” outside the ring. The Entertainment agency had betrayed his client, for they are not intervening at all. Hence I am wondering if the new plot was not linked to Choi Heesung’s prank in episode 31.
But the article is the evidence of Park Namwook’s betrayal too. (Chapter 52) He did nothing to contradict the opinion. He never gave an interview in order to defend his champion. He had been injured before, he had been insulted in the hospital. He never tried to investigate the matter either. (chapter 52) He acted, as if everything was a normality. He never questioned why incidents against the athlete would constantly take place (drug incident, the spray incident). But there’s another reason for his passivity. Since the beginning, he has always blamed the champion. (chapter 1) He contributed to this legend: a tyrant inside the ring. So he didn’t change his MO. (chapter 52) But after witnessing the mess, he could only blame even more than before the champion. If he had not acted that way, his image would be intact in his mind. Interesting is that the incident was reported by MFC staff, while the latter buried the ankle injury. But the slapping from the manager is the evidence that he is exactly like the main lead. He is impulsive. He vents his anger, when he is under stress. Moreover, his gesture exposes the mentor’s hypocrisy. He is not treating his athlete’s body kindly, though he is injured. (chapter 43) This made me wonder if Park Namwook employed harsh treatment in the past to push the champion to become a great athlete. However, by putting all the blame on him, he gave up on his position as the gym’s owner. On the other hand, this signifies that Joo Jaekyung is no longer the face of Team Black, but its head. Hence they all came to the hospital room wishing that he would become proactive exactly like in the States. (chapter 40) Finally, the members are acknowledging Kim Dan as a part of the team. (chapter 52) Without him, they would feel lost. In the past, they had left him behind.
3. End of the beginning
Since chapter 52 mirrors the first episode, it displays that a circle is getting closed. We are about to witness the birth of Team Black. In the past, the gym was created for the athlete’s own needs, that’s why he was the face of Team Black. However, there was no real team spirit. Even the name was misleading. Therefore the gym is forced to create a new image… (chapter 1) And if I take this picture into consideration, that would be Kim Dan. But we will see. Besides, the name “Team Black” should come in the foreground and replace Joo Jaekyung. That’s how they would attract the attention from Heo Manwook who mistook it for a brothel. Remember that so far, Team Black never got the attention from the media. (chapter 15) Fans only knew the celebrity as fighter and not as the owner of the gym. On the other hand, Kim Changmin, Oh Daehyun and Potato will be motivated to help their devastated doctor and defend their mentor and trainer’s honor. That’s how they will emerge as real fighters. (chapter 52) On the other hand, since Team Black was betrayed by the MFC manager and even the Entertainment agency, I assume that Team Black could decide to organize events themselves.
So once the main lead is able to produce good fighters, the former members could realize that Park Namwook was the one who always drove an edge between them and Joo Jaekyung. (chapter 36) Notice that the more he got under pressure, the more the champion trained the members, but the final game was different. (chapter 47) Namwook was in charge of the schedule and he did nothing to stop the new match. He simply accepted the switch. Anyway, someone will question his passivity and words. That should be Kim Dan, especially when he will notice the smear campaign he was exposed to, a new version of this situation. (chapter 1)
By noticing the parallels between chapter 1 and 52, I could only come to the conclusion that this announce the ascension of the physical therapist. This is the real start of Team Black, for doc Dan will be the heart of that gym. The champion is using his gym differently, creating a better atmosphere oozing happiness and that’s how the champion will create new fighters. It’s important because now Joo Jaekyung is forced to become the true owner of Team Black. By slapping the champion, the hyung lost his position. The latter was always advocating money.
And this brings me back to this image. (chapter 1) Since Kim Dan was paying attention to the buzz surrounding the celebrity in episode 1, I assume that in episode 52, he couldn’t see the smear campaign against his soulmate. He was definitely “busy” with something else contrary to Potato. (chapter 52) Yes, the cute puppy is the new version of the main lead in episode 1.
As a conclusion, the moment the commentator described the athlete as a tyrant in the ring (chapter 1), we should perceive it as a lie, for the celebrity was in reality the puppet of MFC and schemers. The irony is that by removing him from the ring, these villains are not realizing that the champion is now able to pay attention to his surroundings and look at the ring from the outside. He will be able to detect tricks and schemes. That’s how he will be able to protect Team Black and its members. The latter represents Kim Dan’s new home.
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1. The origin of this title
The inspiration for this title was the reaction of readers on X. Many were rejoicing that Joo Jaekyung got slapped by Park Namwook. (chapter 52) They felt good, because they thought the champion deserved it. Why? Joo Jaekyung had blamed Kim Dan for the incident. (chapter 51) Moreover, people saw parallels between this slap (chapter 52) and the one in the shower room. (chapter 7) It was, as if the coach had become the cute doctor himself or his representative. Therefore he was authorized to slap the champion. Yes, for them, Joo Jaekyung was just receiving his karma. But when he confronted the doctor, the latter did nothing, except ask a question. (chapter 51) If the celebrity had truly offended the doctor, the latter could have slapped him like in the past. He knew how to overcome his fear and do it. (chapter 26) This contrast outlines that Kim Dan hadn’t been that offended, he was just heartbroken and sad that the latter didn’t trust him, like he imagined.
2. Snow flake and Team Black
The irony is that these readers were reacting exactly like the former fighters from Team Black. (chapter 52) They were abandoning the protagonist, as they couldn’t put up with his bad temper. They were thinking like the athletes. (chapter 52) And the moment you outline the parallels between these two groups, such Jinx-philes appear as superficial and disloyal. I don’t think, it is a coincidence. Why? First, both were influenced by Park Namwook’s remarks. The latter would constantly portray his own boss in a bad light ruining the sentiment of cohesion within the team. The champion was on the one side, while on the other side the fighters, forgetting that the coach was hiding behind the emperor’s success. Once the latter failed, it is not surprising that the members didn’t stay out of loyalty for Park Namwook. He had done nothing for them, except empty promises. (chapter 23) But in my eyes, the main reason why the sportsmen and many Manhwaworms reacted like this is that nowadays people hate pain and suffering. They don’t see it as a source of growth. Why? They only perceive it from one perspective, their own, a sign for selfishness. But emotional and mental pain is not one-dimensional, for in a conflict or argument, both sides are hurting each other. This means that Mingwa portrayed the mentality of the younger generation in her Manhwa. And how is the younger generation called? They are described as snowflake.
These are just two of the distinguishing features of people who have reached adulthood in the early years of 2010. It is said that the “snowflake” generation is made up of people who are extremely sensitive to opinions that challenge their worldview and react with an excessive susceptibility to lighter complaints, with little resilience. […]
The result of a hyperprotective parenting style, which sees dangers everywhere and promotes an exaggerated perception of the “ego”, are people who do not have the skills to deal with the real world. These people have not sufficiently developed the tolerance to frustration, so the slightest obstacle discourages them. Nor have they developed an adequate emotional intelligence, so they do not know how to deal with the negative emotions aroused by certain situations.
As a result, they become stiffer, feel offended by different opinions and prefer to create “safe spaces” where everything meets their expectations. These people are hypersensitive to criticisms, and in general terms to all those things that do not enter their worldview. Quoted from https://psychology-spot.com/snowflake-generation/
We have the perfect example with Seonho who quit immediately, when he received harsh criticism. (chapter 46) He had to leave the gym, for he noticed that he would become the target of gossips. (chapter 46) He refused to face reality. That’s the reason why he became a traitor. He was tasked to bring members to the gym King Of MMA (chapter 52) so that he would become the next champion.
However, in order to turn a wound into something positive, people need to accept it as a normality and meditate. That’s how a painful incident becomes a tough life lesson. Yet, the reality is that the influence of social media is doing the opposite. They encourage readers and viewers to act on their emotions. Thus their judgement is superficial and full of bias. That’s how people can be easily manipulated. And that’s what the medias have been doing in Jinx. (chapter 52) They turned a hero and philanthropist (he organized a charity event) into a criminal, while the Shotgun, a cheater, got celebrated as a hero. It’s not surprising that no one was missing Baek Junmin during the party. In fact, the members talked behind his back. But what were the MMA fighters celebrating then? (chapter 52) Themselves… and their dream. They were imagining that they were one step closer to the spotlight. Through Jinx, Mingwa is criticizing our modern society and indirectly Jinx-philes who would easily jump from one ship to another. Twenty days earlier, the so-called hero was insulted for treating Kim Dan poorly. (chapter 50) If there are “heroes” in this story, it is the main couple. Joo Jaekyung is a protagonist and not a villain, hence the slap was not deserved. The antagonists are Choi Gilseok, Baek Junmin, Heo Manwook, Seonho and other invisible hands.
The former members from Team Black behaved exactly like the snowflake generation. They couldn’t bear any “hard time” at all, for they only saw it from their perspective, showing no empathy for the athlete’s bad mood. (chapter 36) The main lead was here put under immense stress due to the article. (chapter 36) Yet, he still took his job seriously, hence he spent time training himself the fighters despite his shoulder injury. (chapter 36) Here, he had become their coach and sparring trainer. Under this light, it becomes comprehensible why the author often portrayed them as chicken (chapter 43) or chibbies. (chapter 47) They lack discernment and maturity. Hence they chose the easy way out, thinking that they would have a better chance to become rich and famous. (chapter 52) They followed the flow, the symbol for herd mentality, a concept I explained in “Effective Anguish“. This shows that they chose to throw overboard virtues like integrity and loyalty. Consequently, they are using the athlete in order to hide their wrongdoing. (chapter 52) The irony is that one of them even knew about the origins of Baek Junmin (chapter 47) and still chose to leave the gym. This means that they can not feign ignorance about their involvement in the criminal world. Even the cheating was discussed at the restaurant. (chapter 52) To conclude, they chose to become true thugs, while in the past, they would look like ones. But a bad decision doesn’t mean that their fate is sealed forever. They can change their opinion and redeem themselves.
And if you look back at all the chapters, you will realize that no one got fired, when Kim Dan entered the scene. In fact, the athlete had been very tolerant with the members, though they didn’t bring any success. Secondly, his so-called bad temper was first directed at Kim Dan. (chapter 7) If you read my essay “Guilty Truth or Dare – part 1”, you know that the beating in episode 1 was in fact an anomality. In chapter 36, 45 and 52, Joo Jaekyung never utilized violence, only when he was provoked (chapter 46) I am not saying that he shouldn’t change. But he is a far better person than he is perceived. He is loyal, tolerant, sincere and generous. In fact, he shared his PT with the fighters. (chapter 47). Thus I am already anticipating a rude awakening for the sportsmen, the moment they realize that in that new gym, the law of the jungle is ruling. Moreover, they should realize that they will be used as tools to make money. Choi Gilseok will throw them under the bus, if it is necessary. They will keep rigging the matches, as now MFC has become the official ground for betting. The dark side of MFC is coming to the surface. Baek Junmin is the perfect example. Choi Gilseok and his “Shotgun” provoked the main lead on purpose. However, the fake Angel of Death never realized the consequences of his words. (chapter 52) He lost consciousness and two front teeth. Moreover, he is shaking, a sign that he got severely injured, something I had predicted. This explicates why the corrupt reporter used a picture before the beating (chapter 52) Choi Gilseok used the fake hero’s image to his advantage. On the other hand, this signifies that the incident will leave deep scars in Baek Junmin. He will fear more than before the champion. Choi Gilseok ruined his confidence and mental health. Hence he will do anything to postpone the rematch. Moreover, there is no ambiguity that he and director Choi will cheat again. I have no doubt that he will resort to a bigger crime. Keep in mind that according to me, MFC is corrupted. Though it looks like my interpretation that Choi Gilseok bet on tie isn’t right, I am not giving up this theory yet. Why? It is because the fighters are repeating just what they heard from Choi Gilseok. (chapter 52) Secondly, for me, the director is the epitome of cowardice. Hence he resorted to the cheap trick. Let’s not forget that in the past, he wagered on the champion’s loss with the drugged beverage. I doubt that he would repeat the same mistake. To conclude, the fighters felt good, when they left Team Black. (chapter 52) But reality will catch them quickly. They are the tools to make others to shine as “heroes”. Their happiness is simply short-lived. There is a huge difference between this party and the one in chapter 9. There is no welcome elixir bowl, (chapter 9) King Of MMA stands for the philosophy: “it’s everyone for himself”. Hence the generosity from the director is fake, he will ask for something in return! Remember how he lured the doctor to commit a crime with his “sweet temptation”. I am still expecting the usage of steroids and other tricks. Moreover, through their participation, they become involved in money laundering.
3. Park Namwook’s slapping
Striking is that when bookworms felt good with the slap in episode 52, they resented Park Namwook for his rude behavior towards Kim Dan in episode 50. (chapter 50) The contrast between these two scenes exposed the man as a huge hypocrite. Therefore it is legitimate to state that the manager had no right to slap Joo Jaekyung at all. He had not defended the doctor himself. That’s why I really felt bad, when I saw this: (chapter 52) If I had been there, I would have put myself between the athlete and the manager. Why? It is because the celebrity was a patient at the hospital. It was not the time and place to criticize the athlete. (chapter 52) What was the point of dwelling on the past? And if you compare these two images (chapter 52) (chapter 21), the manager’s violation becomes more obvious. The hospital is a place where a patient needs rest. And what had Kim Dan done in the past? He had not revealed his problems to his grandmother so that she wouldn’t worry too much. He had tried to solve them on his own. Stress is not good for an ill person. In other words, the manager revealed his true face: (chapter 52) He is a wolf with no manner and empathy. (chapter 7) It is no coincidence that we could see his pupils for the second time. (chapter 5) That’s the only moment he revealed his true thoughts and emotions to his pupil. This exposes his hypocrisy and distance. And there was another reason why I condemn his action. (chapter 52) He acted as a parent. However, Jinx-philes should keep in their mind that the main lead is the owner of Team Black. So let me ask you this. Is it right for an employee to slap or beat his employer? No, and Park Namwook knows that very well. Hence he masked his wrongdoing with his weeping. (chapter 52) Through the tears, he not only diverted attention from his bad reaction, but also tried to arouse pity. What an irony! He was standing in front of a man who had a wounded foot, a ruined reputation and a surgery. The latter still deserved some compassion despite his mistakes.
But like mentioned above, each suffering can bring positive changes. So what is the positive effect here? First, it is important to recall that by slapping the champion (chapter 52), Park Namwook was contradicting his previous statement. (chapter 7) In episode 7, he refused to become responsible for his bad manners. He implied that the athlete had been raised by someone else. This indicates that with the slap, he crossed the line. He became his “surrogate father or older brother”. People wondered where his family was. It was Team Black and Park Namwook as the “surrogate guardian”. And now, you comprehend why the athlete said nothing. (chapter 52) But that means as well, the athlete will emancipate himself from his hyung. Furthermore, he showed him that it was okay to weep in front of others, though his weeping was short-lived. (chapter 52)
So why did the manager do it, if it was not for the doctor’s sake? (chapter 52) It is because he didn’t want to become responsible for the mess. All the fighters had left the gym, but he was their coach. (chapter 09) He had failed his task. Keep in mind that Joo Jaekyung had warned him. (chapter 46) He had voiced expectations for the first time to Park Namwook. He should become more proactive. In other words, he was starting putting some responsibility on the manager of Team Black. But the problem is that Park Namwook has the mentality of a child! He fears responsibility and as such making decisions. He is suffering from Decidophobia.
This explicates why he refused to make any decision concerning all the fights with Joo Jaekyung. But in the locker room, he had to say something, for he is his manager. But here, he let coach Jeong Yosep make the choice. (chapter 50) So when he is accusing the champion of behaving like a child, he is simply projecting his own thoughts and emotions, exactly like Baek Junmin: “He’s all talk”. . )chapter 52) (chapter 52) He was the child here. But we have another evidence for this interpretation.
Panic and anxiety: You experience extreme anxiety or have a panic attack when you need to make decisions. You may also experience other symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, nausea, sweating, tremors, and chest or stomach pain.
Procrastination: Your fear of making the wrong choice causes you to put off making decisions for as long as possible. You find it easier to avoid making a decision and live with uncertainty, than to decide and regret your choice. As a result of your procrastination, you may miss out on a lot of opportunities.
Undervalued instincts: Instead of paying attention to your needs and instincts, you focus on gathering a lot of information or soliciting others’ opinions to help you make your decision. However, rather than being helpful, this can cause you to reach a point where you’re completely overwhelmed instead.
Strained relationships: You put a strain on your relationships with loved ones because you leave them to make big choices alone, which puts pressure on them to try and please you without actually knowing what you want.
External dependence: You create situations where you let others decide for you, instead of making decisions for yourself. You may attract a lot of manipulative or authoritarian personalities into your life because their willingness to take charge feels good to you at first.
Not only he keeps procrastinating, but more importantly he relies on others. Hence he pushed the athlete to sign a contract with the Entertainment agency (chapter 30). He let the manager and the lawyer to push the athlete to accept the fight with Dominic Lee. When the drug incident was reported to him, he simply notified MFC security guys dropping everything on them and Kim Dan. (chapter 40) He didn’t feel concerned. It was not part of his duty. So when the fighter got switched, he hired more advisors so that if anything went wrong, no one would put the blame on him. (chapter 47) It is no coincidence that he delegates tasks to others. (chapter 36) But his passivity becomes more obvious, when you look at the news. (chapter 52) He doesn’t give any interview to explain the incident in the health center. As his manager, he should have intervened. Under this light, it becomes comprehensible why he had to blame the champion. It is the result of his passivity, fears and ignorance. He never tried to understand the origins of the champion’s anger management issues. That’s the reason why he wished the physical therapist good luck. (chapter 1) He was totally unpredictable in his eyes. But he didn’t ask the right question: why? He neglected his mental health. Then, later he gave himself an answer: he is just a spoiled brat.
But for the first time, the champion didn’t accept his reproach silently, he had to express how he felt. (chapter 52) In front of this confession, Park Namwook was left speechless. The man was completely lost. Out of fear and powerlessness, he slapped the champion. (chapter 52) So did he feel good doing it? No, he realized his wrongdoing. Therefore he cried, though his tears are rather superficial. Because it is a huge disaster, he doesn’t know what to do. Without any fight, the gym won’t earn any money. I believe that his obsession for money is influenced by his situation. He has a family to feed. Because he feels scared and helpless, he simply did nothing. He didn’t go to the gym (chapter 52) or look for Kim Dan . (chapter 52) or go to the authorities. Potato was the one who visited the doctor, for he repeated the same words. Oh Daehyun took care of the training and coach Yosep went to MFC and the authorities, though I fear that this could also backfire, as the weapon and crime got reported. Kim Dan could be incriminated. (chapter 52) But there is another reason why I don’t think, the manager met the physical therapist. Park Namwook remembers definitely that he had not sided with him in the locker room either. And that time, he could put the blame on the athlete, for he was a victim. And now, you comprehend why the manager had to put the whole blame on the athlete at the hospital. So he didn’t slap the champion, for it felt good, but out of anxiety and discomfort. He didn’t want to be confronted with the champion’s pain as well. (chapter 52) That was too much to bear for him. We don’t know what happened to Kim Dan, but there is a high chance that he might have lost his grandmother. Park Namwook has already trouble to deal with the emperor’s suffering and powerlessness, therefore I doubt that he could face the doctor in front of a real tragedy.
Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why Park Namwook is following the flow, has a biased perception of his boss and let him carry the whole burden. In my eyes, he doesn’t deserve his high position. Hence this crisis was necessary. It is time for the athlete to take the reins of the gym. But like pointed out above, he did more and more for the gym. From a simple fighter (chapter 7), he turned into a trainer and coach. On the other hand, I doubt that the champion should do everything on his own. Exactly like his hyung, he should ask for help and advices, but contrary to the past, there would be a real discussion where everyone comes to an agreement. All of them should make the decision together. But let’s return our attention to the manager and coach.
I suspect that he has always viewed himself as the protagonist’s savior. (chapter 26) The reality is that MFC is strongly intertwined with the crime world.
And note what is happening right now. Because of a punch, all the members left the gym and joined director Choi Gilseok’s gym. But the emperor’s manager knew that this man was bad news, hence he avoided him. (chapter 48) He has been a coward, he used Joo Jaekyung to boost his ego. He relied on routine (chapter 5) and the emperor’s talents thinking that he could do the same with the other fighters. But that’s impossible. Each sportsman is different. One thing is sure. He hid his fears behind people. His dream was to live a life on a script, like wrestling which is impossible. But now they have all abandoned the ship, thereby it is becoming more difficult to avoid responsibility. At the same time, it explains why he is asking for the return of Kim Dan. It is his way to avoid accountability.
At the same time, it exposes his ignorance and prejudices. He has such a bad perception of Joo Jaekyung that he accepted without problem to let the emperor take the whole blame. He never spoke up in his defense… the two hyungs stood there totally passive and silent in the emergency room. (chapter 52) They did nothing to stop the tragedy, though they knew about his bad temper. To conclude, Park Namwook didn’t feel good for the slapping, hence this action was not truly necessary. On the other hand, this could only make the champion realize how precious Kim Dan is. The latter allowed him to speak up (chapter 51), even to voice his emotions and thoughts without resorting to violence, though the doctor was wounded by them. Here is another contrast. (chapter 31) He slapped him on his neck showing a certain dishonesty.
4. Joo Jaekyung’s punch
And now, we should ask ourselves if the emperor felt good, when he vented his anger on the stupid challenger. (chapter 52) No, because it brought only him misery afterwards. (chapter 52) He has to get surgery and he got suspended. (chapter 52) This terrible situation cornered him. He was forced to admit his unwell-being, powerlessness and cluelessness. He was like his hyung, he felt lost. He didn’t know what to do. We should see this confession as a scream for help: (chapter 52)
Interesting is that the 90 day of suspension is actually a blessing in disguise. How so?
In biblical numerology, 90 is often associated with completion and perfect timing. It signifies the end of a cycle and the beginning of a new one. This number embodies God’s perfect timing and the fulfillment of His promises. Quoted from https://meaning-of.net/religion/bible/biblical-meaning-of-90/
As you can see, the number is strongly intertwined with enlightenment and huge transformation. Hence I deduce that within that time, all these characters, Park Namwook, Hwang Yoon-Gu, coach Jeong Yosep, Oh Daehyun, Kim Changmin, Kim Dan and Kwak Junbeom (probably Heesung) will introduce new habits and develop a new routine. The team will work differently. But there exists another reason why I consider this suspension as a blessing. The champion would have never stopped, had MFC not intervened. The schemers saw the athlete as a problem, for he was earning more and more money, a problem for their business. (chapter 41) Moreover, thanks to the punishment, the champion learned that he couldn’t use his fists in order to solve a problem. Remember what he said to Kim Dan during the breakfast: (chapter 41) He wanted to kill the mastermind behind the plot. From my point of view, the champion is incited to discover the existence of other means to get justice. According to my theory, the fighter is a chaebol. So he has power, but he was never taught to use his power properly. As time passes on, he will realize that he has to report a crime on his own, file a lawsuit but not for himself, for others. Finally, he will come to utilize medias to expose a crime. Hence I am expecting a new version of this scene at some point (chapter 35), where he contacts a journalist and reveals everything with the help from his loved one. From my point of view, he became a fighter because of manipulations. That way, the truth could get buried.
To conclude, if someone had to criticize Joo Jaekyung, then it should have been the physical therapist and no one else. Furthermore, in the locker room, it was the champion’s right to confront the doctor. (chapter 51) Anyone in his position would have reacted the same way. He is not omniscient, like the author or Manhwalovers. Finally, when he saw that he had wounded the doctor, he left the place. Unfortunately, out of habit, he had to mask his shock and wound with his anger. (chapter 51) However, his question at the hospital (chapter 52) shows that my interpretation was correct. Joo Jaekyung didn’t fire the doctor with his words “Get out of my sight”, he just wanted to be left alone. On the other hand, I am certain that the physical therapist took his words too literally. He imagined that he was fired. Hence I saw this argument in the hospital room as a good omen, though I was mad at the coaches and Oh Daehyun. (chapter 52) The only one looking at him was the puppy Yoon-Gu. They are embarrassed, for no one paid attention to Kim Dan except the cute puppy Potato. So what is so positive about this scene? The champion realized that no one was taking his side, ready to listen to this suffering. Only Kim Dan had been patient and understanding with him. (chapter 45) He had never judged him for his yelling and reproaches. He had accepted everything from him, the good and bad.
Through their argument, both are learning how to communicate properly and as such to trust each other. Both are gradually discovering the 4 sides model of a message: Joo Jaekyung must have realized that Kim Dan misunderstood his words in the locker room. (chapter 52) He got to hear a terrible news that took him by surprise. (chapter 52) Hence he listened patiently to his coach. He was calm again, the shock made him forget his misery. However, note that he is not looking at Park Namwook. He is starring in front of him. In my eyes, it is related to the grandmother and her imminent death. Joo Jaekyung was so blinded by anger and fears (chapter 51) that he forgot that Kim Dan used to spend all his money for her. Joo Jaekyung imagined that by paying the bills, the problems had been solved. But money is nothing in front of death. Everyone is equal in front of death. Back then, the doctor had wondered how he could help his loved one, if he were to lose a match. He sensed that the athlete could become depressive: (chapter 29) No matter what happened to Kim Dan, the doctor’s fate is there to teach Joo Jaekyung another important lesson. His pain is nothing compared to his loved one’s. Even if the grandmother didn’t die, one thing is sure: Kim Dan’s in a worse place than the champion. That’s how they can help each other to overcome their tragedy and face the future with confidence. For me, what will motivate Team Black is not money, but the doctor’s happiness. That’s how they come close to each other, they will all discover the importance of mental health and happiness. Being protective can be a source of a strength.
5. Feeling good?
So did anyone feel good after the match? No one .. except the traitors and director Choi Gilseok. I am even excluding Baek Junmin, for he got severely injured and the members are talking behind his back. Besides, the party was ruined by Potato. There was a fight at the restaurant. (chapter 52) There was no second round. In fact, I only felt good, when Kim Dan succeeded in this challenge: (chapter 26) This was the only chapter in Jinx without emotional pain. He discovered that he had power and he could help Hwang Yoon-Gu. Hence he smiled!! (chapter 26) I can only feel good, when the two protagonists are smiling. (chapter 26) Both were listening to each other. (chapter 26) It was the happiest moment, for all the characters were genuinely cheering and smiling. (chapter 26) (chapter 26) And now, look at this: 26 +26 = 52! So we have to envision that Kim Dan must be devastated, even a wreck. And now, you comprehend my illustration. The red and heart were referring to blood and pain, but the hands were to indicate that sharing pain is caring, the symbol for love. (chapter 52) That’s the reason why these fighters will come to regret their decision, especially when they will realize that they didn’t just abandon the bad-tempered athlete, (chapter 52) but also the gentle and selfless doctor! There was no one by his side, when he was suffering. He had been truly abandoned. His pain will make them realize their wrongdoing and selfishness, for doc Dan had always been there to treat their wounds and listen to them. (chapter 36) They will no longer feel good while recalling their decision and even this evening (chapter 52), especially because the other was alone in pain.
My conclusion is that we should never rejoice at the misery of others, because it could happen to us too. We are destined to encounter anguish and failure anyway. Life without pain is impossible. Dwelling on the past won’t change any thing. (chapter 52) A crisis is a moment when people should reflect in order to learn life lessons and move on with life. Any rushed action can only aggravate the situation. And now, the ball is in the champion’s courtyard. He has to find a way to help his loved one. Hence he is listening and starring in front of him. (chapter 53)
PS: Chapter 52 proved my previous theory one more time, the Webtoonist is using Numerology. But that will be the topic for another essay. 😉
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As you have already noticed, I am writing less about Painter Of The Night, though this manhwa remains my favorite story. The problem is that more and more people are moving away from the Korean webtoon for different reasons, like the absence of eroticism, or Lee Jihwa and No-Name are no longer included in the story. Another reason is that the author is focusing more and more on the mystery and as such on the lord’s past. This means that right now, the manhwaphiles are asked to read the manhwa like detectives looking for evidences and traces. Finally, I believe that the biggest reason for the loss of interest is that the manhwalovers hoped to witness more romance, yet Baek Na-Kyum keeps suffering and this partially because of Yoon Seungho’s “bad decisions”. Some readers couldn’t understand why Yoon Seungho would run after the man in the purple hanbok. (chapter 106) How could he abandon his lover like that? For some readers, he acted like a fool. Nevertheless, his reaction was normal, because the man with the purple hanbok represents the cause for Yoon Seungho’s martyrdom. This means that the ghost with the purple hanbok symbolizes danger for the protagonist. And if he gets targeted, his lover will suffer too. Striking is that during the same day and night, there is another person wearing a purple hanbok: Yoon Seungho! (chapter 107) Therefore it is no coincidence that in chapter 107, he was portrayed as a source of danger for the elder master Yoon and the mysterious “lord Song”. (chapter 107) According to “lord Song”, him and Yoon Chang-Hyeon were forced to renounce their position because of Yoon Seungho. In this image, the villain implies that the main lead is a blackmailer. (chapter 107) In other words, in episode 107, the manhwalovers are witnessing a fight between 2 men wearing a purple hanbok!! In this story, purple is the symbol for violence and peril. This explicates why Byeonduck employed this color, when Yoon Seungho was portrayed as a ruthless lord: (chapter 10) Under this new approach, it becomes comprehensible why the artist was wearing a purple hanbok after the bloodbath. (chapter 102) He was the reason for the “purge”. From my perspective, the artist is cleaning the “place”, hence he is the target of the villains and antagonists. At the same time, this color represents Joseon’s royalty, hence it is no coincidence that the king was mentioned in this very episode. (chapter 107) Therefore my theory that Baek Na-Kyum is related to the ruler gets reinforced. However, in episode 107, only the main lead and the new villain were seen with the purple hanbok, therefore in this essay, I will examine not only the new character “lord Song”, but also Yoon Seungho!
1. Between poker face and face like thunder
In the latest episode, some manhwalovers were upset, when they saw Yoon Seungho turning his back on the painter. (chapter 107) They had the impression that he was abandoning the artist one more time. And that’s how the painter felt the situation either! That’s the reason why Baek Na-Kyum was upset. (chapter 107) It was, as if the main lead was acting like the patriarch Yoon. This perception got reinforced, because the lord had a poker face and didn’t talk to his lover. (chapter 107) However, we could see before that the main lead was far from being detached, when it comes to Baek Na-Kyum. When he entered the study, his visage oozed shock and worries. (chapter 107) This truly divulges that the artist means everything to the lord! But there is more to it. I would like to point out that the noble did listen to Baek Na-Kyum who criticized the doctor’s diagnosis. (chapter 107) Yoon Seungho didn’t side with the old bearded man in front of the painter. He thanked the man and sent away him with respect. (chapter 107) So he gave the impression that he was listening to the painter. However, the reality was that at the end, he still listened to the doctor thinking that it was for the painter’s best interest. Since Baek Na-Kyum was traumatized from the sexual assault, the main lead thought that he was hiding his illness or he was in denial. What caught my attention is that Yoon Seungho followed the doctor leaving the artist in the bedchamber alone. On the one hand, this could be perceived as a prison, yet I judge his gesture as the opposite. It is to protect Baek Na-Kyum! In Yoon Seungho’s mind, behind the closed door, his lover won’t see or hear what is happening in the courtyard. He will be protected from cruel reality.
2. The lord and the physician
Since the main lead was very courteous towards the physician, it shows thatYoon Seungho valued the physician’s effort and talent. He trusted the man like his father did with the other physician. While Yoon Seungho appeared emotionless, the doctor had no poker face during his explanation, he was even caught smiling: (chapter 107) He showed no real empathy for Baek Na-Kyum. It was, as if he was showing Schadenfreude. But this doesn’t end here. Kim brought a different doctor. It is not the same physician who assisted Baek Na-Kyum a month ago!! (chapter 107) First, the clothes diverge. The belt is blue, his sleeves are covered with some white protections. (chapter 107) (chapter 103) Finally, the white hanbok is much longer, and his pants are blue, while the other had white trousers. In my essay “The mysterious doctor”, I had already pointed out the existence of different physicians. But now, I have a definite proof for this interpretation. (chapter 107) How could he say that his health had deteriorated since a month ago? This is how the artist looked like a month ago: (chapter 103) (chapter 103) He was under the influence of the aphrodisiac, and he could have died of an overdose. (chapter 103) His face and his body were covered with bruises. How could the doctor say that his condition had worsened? This means that he had not seen the patient a month ago. To sum up, the doctor was impersonating his fellow. Note that he claimed to have prescribed the drug himself. (chapter 107) Striking is that the doctor is often utilizing the expression “seem” and “imagine”, yet a physician should use facts and as such symptoms. But he never did. The idioms exposed his manipulation, this was not a real examination. The author made sure to confuse the readers. They had seen the painter vomiting before, hence it looked that the physician was right. (chapter 106) However, this image displays the betrayal from the physician, for I believe that this represents his view The latter had seen the artist in the restroom, but he had not intervened!! Besides, just because the artist had disgorged once, this doesn’t signify that he had done it all the time for one month. This is how the artist looked like, while he was walking through the street: (chapter 104) He looked healthy and happy. The reason for his nervousness was the lord’s actions during that day. Moreover, the painter’s hand had been scratched… yet you see no bandage around his hand. (Chapter 107) As you can see, the doctor was exaggerating, as he was generalizing the regurgitation! (chapter 107) This means that the painter was telling the truth! To conclude, the physician was utilizing the butler’s MO: mixing a truth with a lie. And turning an incident into a generality, and as such into a prejudice.
Observe that during the same episode, Yoon Seungho had a sudden revelation, he had discovered that the form of the mouth was betraying the thoughts and emotions of the counterpart: (chapter 107) Yoon Seungho was slowly realizing that his butler has not been telling the truth. He was gritting his teeth exposing his discomfort! This gesture indicates that someone has to endure something unpleasant, has to control himself and persevere. However, he was telling the opposite to his master: he had nothing to worry!! He should do nothing and simply lie low. The authorities had no suspicion about him. That’s the reason why the main lead desired to talk to the valet (chapter 107), and he got angry, for his servant was talking back and not answering him properly. (chapter 107) We could say that the latter was not obeying his lord. Striking is that the domestic was also lying, for he feigned ignorance first, before giving a more precise answer. (chapter 107) It looks like valet Kim and the physician got away with their tricks, for neither the doctor nor the the butler got admonished in the bedchamber. But what caught my attention is that after hearing the words from his lover, he replied that way: (chapter 107) This expression (“I see”) is important, because it could be the indication that the noble could discern the truth with his mind’s eye, like this (chapter 107) or the opposite, though I am still optimistic. We will see in the next chapter.
Nevertheless, after 3 seasons, the lord was taught that he should trust his lover. In season 4, he is hiding the truth from the painter, for he wished to spare his lover’s mind and heart. This has nothing to do with faith, but for Baek Na-Kyum it leaves a different impression. Yoon Seungho might have doubted his words here…. (chapter 106), but we shouldn’t overlook that later the painter had yelled in order to voice his opinion which had caught his companion by surprise. (chapter 107) Therefore I thought that the noble would believe Baek Na-Kyum, but in reality, the opposite happened. He acted exactly like his father, trusting the words from the doctor. Let’s not forget that Yoon Seungho was drugged since his youth because of Kim and the physician!! (chapter 57) The father was convinced that his son had been ill for a long time. And from the mysterious “lord Song”, the manhwalovers discovered that the main lead was fed with an aphrodisiac: (chapter 107) (chapter 57) Therefore the doctor’s statement in episode 57 appears in a different light: he knew what he was prescribing! He knew what Yoon Chang-Hyeon desired thanks to the idiom “the wayward yang energies”. It was to provoke an erection. I would like to expose that the physician deceived the painter, (chapter 57) for at the end, the physician admitted that he had given the “solution” to the father. The father had received the medicine!! [For more read the essay “Yoon Seungho and the puzzled physician”] That’s the reason why I am suspecting that the lord’s cold demeanor is not linked to the artist, rather to the physician who “smiled” 🙄 while accusing the painter of lying. (chapter 107) He was hiding his illness, he was in denial. Nonetheless, the form of his mouth was betraying him. Moreover, don’t forget what the painter had said to his lover before: (chapter 106) He was supposed to get a drink from the physician. So the lord could remember the artist’s words and perceive the doctor as a traitor and liar. He could jump to the conclusion that the man had given his lover a drug. Under this new light, it dawned on me that the artist could have been telling the truth to his lover there: (chapter 106) He could have eaten something at the kisaeng house, and as such been drugged there. This would explain why the couple got interrupted while eating. (chapter 106) That way, the “doctor” would not be suspected of a crime. Besides, according to me, the couple was actually sitting in the courtyard where the medicine store was!!
Finally, let’s not forget that the doctors often got threatened by Kim: (chapter 33) (chapter 65) Furthermore, in season 1, the artist had been forced to drink an aphrodisiac. So far, the main lead has never threatened or suspected a doctor. As you can see, there is a strong connection between the doctor and death! To sum up, we are witnessing the start of the storm… and when the painter was recovering, this represented the calm before the storm!!
3. The lord’s revelation
And now, it is important to explain why the main lead returned to the shaman’s shrine. He seemed to have forgotten his lover. (chapter 107) It is related to the rumors he heard in the street. (chapter 106) The woman announced that the sacred tree had burned to the ground!! That’s the reason why it was gone… However, her words were just lies, for the tree is still standing there. (chapter 107) But note that she connected the incident to misfortune! In other words, she was denying the intervention of humans!! However, the lord had visited the place of his crime before. (chapter 104) This is what he had been told: the intervention of ghosts or spirits!! On the other hand, the unknown speaker had never mentioned the tree! Only the house had burned down. Nonetheless, even this statement was a lie, for the house was still standing too. (chapter 104) The anonymous tattler has been actually deforming the reality which Yoon Seungho had accepted as such back then!! But due to the grapevines, the lord noticed that he had been misinformed. There were differences between the declaration of the anonymous witness and the gossips which forced him to return to the scene of the crime. Because the tree was still standing, the lord recognized that he had been deceived: not only the tree was intact, but also the house despite the traces of a fire. That’s the reason why he looked in the direction of the building. (chapter 107) For the second time, he was using his own senses. This means that he was no longer relying on the informant’s eyes and ears! Nonetheless, this time, it is concerning his perception of his own surroundings, and no longer how to judge the artist. To conclude, he is now slowly using his own eyes and mind’s eye to perceive reality and as such the truth. For the house was not burned down, it implies that bodies were not turned into ashes. (chapter 106) Since the schemers are mixing a lie with the truth, the lord heard that lord Shin had been killed during that night! However, when the lord had assassinated Black Heart and his friends, the young noble had never met lord Shin! Hence the gossips in town made the lord recognize that something huge is about to happen: a manhunt, and he could get into trouble. Besides, the grapevines are revealing the existence of witnesses and the main lead is aware that the noona is an important « witness ». But the problem is that by mixing each time a lie with a fact, the schemers are not realizing that the truth is coming to the surface, as minus and minus make plus.
Striking is that the author never revealed the identity of the speaker (chapter 104) Why? It is to keep the mysterious vibe, to encourage the manhwalovers to ponder on the identity of the informant. One thing was sure, the lord was the listener due to the expression “I shudder to think”! Thus he didn’t use his mind’s eye in that scene. I am suspecting that the valet was the one who had informed his master. I have two reasons for suspecting him. First, this view is quite similar to this picture from chapter 50: (chapter 50) Here, the butler had tattled on the painter so that the noble would distance himself from his sex partner. And in episode 104, we have a similar situation: through suggestions, the main lead was encouraged to send back the painter to the kisaeng house. Secondly, why would the lord think of the butler, when he saw the sacred tree? (chapter 107) It is because the valet is connected to this place. From my point of view, the noble discovered the truth: his father is involved in the plot, though Yoon Chang-Hyeon is just a tool to wound and weaken him. That’s the reason why he remembered his father’s mouth from that night: displeasure and hatred. (chapter 107) At the same time, I couldn’t help myself associating this image to this one: (chapter 88) During that night, he discovered warmth, loyalty and tenderness! In the darkness, the lord could detect the presence of the light: the painter! During that night, they vowed fidelity to each other. And in the garden next to the shrine, Yoon Seungho made the opposite experience: it was dawning on him that people from his own family, Kim and Yoon Chang-Hyeon, (chapter 88) are lying to him and even betraying him, especially if his life is threatened. Let’s not forget that this time, the lord did commit a crime and he is aware of this. In the bedchamber, the lord had criticized his own father, nonetheless he still thought that his father had just made a bad decision. (Chapter 86) His words implied that the elder master Yoon had never intended to wound him. It was just because of his stupid believes: (Chapter 82) Preserving the continuity of the lineage and ensuring that the Yoons remain powerful and wealthy. However, in front of the tree, the lord is slowly recognizing that his father is about to ruin him for his own sake.
That’s the reason why in the same chapter, the author put the elder master Yoon in the same situation, he is not using his own senses and as such his mind’s eye. Hence he is repeating the same mistake. He would still choose to trust lord Song and his black guards (chapter 107), and abandon his own son. This (chapter 107) He listened to the reports of others. This signifies that he chose darkness over the truth. That’s the reason why his face is now covered by a shadow, he is turning his back on the light. (chapter 107) This image is the negative reflection from the night of the revelation in season 2. Despite the betrayal and agony, (chapter 62) the main lead chose not to punish his lover (chapter 63), he even swore that he would never let him go. (chapter 63) As the manhwalovers can detect, the main lead was always able not to get swallowed by the darkness, thanks to the artist, he could still see the light. However, his father is making the opposite decision, unaware that he is “doomed” to fail! Karma is already waiting for him. And because the patriarch is now living in the darkness, he can not recognize the manipulations, as he is forced to use others to guide him.
This is particularly visible in episode 107. Yoon Chang-Hyeon never went to the shrine, thus he is unaware that there are traces to be found!! The house and the tree are not razed! Moreover, (chapter 107) the branch on the ground is the evidence that someone set fire to the shaman’s shrine and the tree! Secondly, the black guard deceived the patriarch: (chapter 107) Lord Shin was murdered afterwards and not before Black Heart and his friend!! The word “later” is relevant, for it implies that the young yangban was killed close to the place where the nobles Min and his friends were sentenced. But his body is lying elsewhere! (chapter 103) This signifies that Yoon Chang-Hyeon is innocent! He never murdered Lord Shin in the woods, for he relied on the assistance of the helping hands. He never visited himself the scene of the crime. (chapter 103) At the same time, we can exclude that the black guard was the one killing the young scholar, for his pants are rather brown than grey. (chapter 107) Nevertheless, the helping hand is far from innocent, because he is deceiving the bearded man. And now take a closer look to the black guards from episode 99: These two men are different, for their mask is white and not black. Besides, their clothes are black and not brown. Finally, the belt diverges as well: a huge purple strip with a different color in the middle, while the other guard is only wearing a simple ribbon. Thus I am inclined to think that the black guard is not only manipulating Yoon Chang-Hyeon, but he is also in truth working for someone else. Moreover, why would the man cover his face in the room, if he is truly working for the patriarch? (chapter 86) And this observation leads me to the following question: when was lord Yoon informed about the protagonist’s crime and lord Shin’s death? (chapter 107) As you can see, timing is essential. And how did the elder master Yoon know about lord Song’s visit at the gibang? Everything is pointing out that during this night, people are plotting against the couple. And the elder master Yoon took Lee Jihwa’s place.
But why would the schemers wait for a month before deciding to attack and frame Yoon Seungho? (chapter 102) From my point of view, it is related to Lee Jihwa. My theory is that the elder Lee can frame the main lead for assassinating his son, because during that night, Black Heart was dressed like Lee Jihwa. They needed the corpses to be decomposed so that father Lee could claim that Yoon Seungho had killed his son!! And the hanbok would serve to identify the corpse. In addition, he would use the incident with the sword as an evidence for his lunacy. (Chapter 67) It is important that the red-haired master is not perceived as traitor, rather as a victim. Moreover, since some time passed on, people have already forgotten the friend’s confession in the inn. However, the elder master Lee will never report Yoon Seungho to the authorities, it has to come from the father himself. That way, his involvement will never be detected. From my point of view, the schemers are trying to turn father and son against each other so that the Yoons get destructed. One might reject my theory about the implication of father Lee, but let me ask you this… What are “Lord Song” (chapter 107) and Lee Jihwa’s colors? (chapter 12) Purple and yellow, right? Observe that the lord is wearing the same colors during that night: a purple hanbok with a yellow scarf! (chapter 107) This is no coincidence.
“Purple and yellow are complementary colors, which means they sit on opposite sides of the color wheel. Yellow and purple paint mixed together makes brown. The type of purple and yellow you choose can affect how light or dark the brown appears. The result is usually a lighter brown. ” Quoted from https://www.color-meanings.com/what-color-purple-yellow-make-mixed/
And what is the patriarch Lee’s color? BROWN! (chapter 67) Under this new perspective, it becomes comprehensible why I am suspecting that this guard (Chapter 107) is actually working for father Lee while faking to help Yoon Chang-Hyeon. He is wearing brown pants and his shirt is maintained with a purple ribbon! Besides, we need to question ourselves where the father is staying: And now, it is time to focus on the mysterious “lord Song”.
4. Lord Song, the man with the purple hanbok
Finally, the author revealed the face of “lord Song”. (chapter 107) Furthermore, he could be recognized with the purple hanbok. (chapter 107) However, if you compare the form of the beard and the nose, the manhwaphiles can quickly recognize that Lee Jihwa saw someone else in the past, although the hanbok seems to have the same pattern than in episode 83. (chapter 83) Besides, another divergence is that the faceless lord Song has a rebellious strand in the neck which is not the same with “lord Song” from episode 107. As you can see, I deduce that we are dealing with two different “lord Song”. But this doesn’t end here. Secondly, according to father Lee, the man lost his home! (chapter 82) So how can he be wearing a purple hanbok, if he lost his position and home? This color is reserved for important people. In addition, when he entered the kisaeng house, the artist’s noona called him differently: (chapter 107) She called him “lord Haseon” and not “lord Song”! Interesting is that neither the Korean nor the Spanish version utilizes such a name! I don’t think that the translator took the liberty to create a fictional name. Hence I am deducing that the author is trying to leave different clues in each version!! Naturally, Haseon could be his first name, yet there is no ambiguity that this man has a bad reputation among the kisaeng house. He was called “lecher” and in the Spanish version, he was described as sexual maniac. (chapter 107) Hence I doubt that the noona would feel so close to such a man and address him with his “first name”. On the other hand, the kisaeng has a drop of sweat on her face, which is a sign for a lie and deception. (Chapter 107) Nevertheless, here she was talking to herself. Thus I deduce that she was deceiving herself. But where did she lie? The important guest had announced his arrival, so his visit was never « Out of the blue…? » This explicates why many kisaengs were gathered next to the gate while waiting for the arrival of the « honorable » guest. (Chapter 107) This signifies that « lord Haseon » is true, while « out of the blue » is the lie.
Finally, let’s not forget that during the same day, we saw different “lord Song” strolling through the street!! According to me, 3 different enigmatic men wearing a purple hanbok. And now pay attention to this: (chapter 86) We also have three men in this scene… For me, it becomes clear that the man facing Yoon Chang-Hyeon has been impersonating the real “lord Song”, and the stupid patriarch has never recognized the “prank”. Now, I am even questioning if Yoon Chang-Hyeon is even able to identify lord Song correctly!! I mean, due to the name and the color of the hanbok… he could be thinking that he is meeting lord Song again. Imagine that they have not seen each other for 10 years!! (chapter 107) Besides, Yoon Chang-Hyeon’s vision of the world is based on the words from lord Song and others. Who informed him about the whereabouts of « lord Song » in the gibang? The man had not come to the kisaeng house for a long time. Because of this information, the patriarch is led to think that he is meeting « lord Song ». His perception of the world and his eldest son is embossed by lord Song. Thus he repeats the same expression from his counterpart: “lowly beast”. (Chapter 107) (chapter 107) Finally, like outlined above, the main lead imagined that he was meeting the same doctor, while in truth it was not the case. So « old friend » could be deceiving:. (Chapter 107) He could be one of the three men! The real « lord Song » who brought pain to Yoon Seungho is someone else. Let’s not forget that Kim fears the man, (chapter 56) and his statement implies that Yoon Seungho is usually not allowed to ignore the man’s request: (Chapter 56). « At this time » stands in opposition to « always » which means that he can reject the invitation only because he is sick. To conclude, for me, this is not the lord Song Yoon Seungho hates and fears!
What caught my attention is that the mysterious and evil « lord Song » calls the young main lead « lowly beast » (chapter 107) which actually reflects the mind-set of the speaker. He is projecting his own thoughts and emotions onto the protagonist. In reality, he is the one licentious and we know that for sure, as the kisaengs are the witnesses of his perversion. Thus he is called « a lecher » and they wish to avoid him like the pest! (Chapter 107) Moreover, he didn’t visit the kisaeng house for a long time, (Chapter 107) yet his recent short visits left such a negative impression on the noonas. (Chapter 107) Hence they judge him as a pervert. And since the head-kisaeng received him at the gate, this signifies that this man has been in contact with the kisaeng house and in particular with the kisaeng leading him to the room.
The bearded man claims that he has been punished like the elder master Yoon (chapter 107), but note that his words are contradicting father Lee’s version! The former never mentions the loss of his home, in fact, only the elder master Yoon lost everything! (chapter 107) This statement confirms that the protagonist’s father is so stupid, because he is blinded by his hatred and resent. He is not detecting the contradictions. But we have another source confirming that this “lord Song” is actually fake!! (chapter 37) The fake servant NEVER mentioned the retirement of lord Song. As you already know, for me, No-Name is the real lord Song who took the blame for everything, for he let people use his “name”. The most terrible thing is that “lord Song” puts the blame on Yoon Chang-Hyeon, when he explains his failure about the sexual education. (chapter 107) The main lead was too young back, and this was the father’s decision to let his son receive such a sexual education and even to feed him with some drug. Remember that the patriarch is the one who procured the aphrodisiac, for he followed the suggestion from others. As you can see, lord Song is putting the responsibility onto the elder master Yoon. At the same time, he insinuates that the lord’s fever back then was the result of the abuse of aphrodisiac. But is it true? Why am I doubting his words? First, the painter had become ill due to the sex marathon. (Chapter 33) Secondly, how does the lord know about the master’s illness, when his fever was only discovered after the straw mat beating? (Chapter 77) Besides, no physician had been fetched back then. Finally, how can lord Song remember the lord’s condition so well after 10 years? It is because he is using the diagnosis on the painter from the previous doctor: (chapter 103) Here, the man with the purple hanbok was utilizing the painter’s illness to hide his own crime. Under the pretense to help « Yoon Seungho » to become a man, the man abused him not only physically, but also sexually. There is no doubt that this reconversion was fake!
And since his strategy worked in the past, he makes the same suggestion. He offers his assistance to educate his second son: (chapter 107) However, the trick doesn’t work, exactly like No-Name’s prediction: (chapter 76) But there is another reason why Yoon Chang-Hyeon doesn’t get fooled a second time. (chapter 107) It is because he would be forced to question himself, if he is not the cause for this disposition: (chapter 107) That’s the reason why he puts the whole blame on his eldest son.
Furthermore, the manhwaphiles could detect that the « sexual education » didn’t last one night, but days! Compare the two following pictures: (Chapter 86)(chapter 107) In episode 86, there are two kisaengs and 3 men next to the main lead. I am excluding the father. The young master’s hands were tied with a white ribbon, and he still had his jacket on. However, in the second picture, the ties are now black and he is no longer in possession of his white jacket. How could they remove his shirt, when his hands were attached? This means that we are witnessing a different night. Striking is that it is raining, exactly like during the scene in episode 77. (Chapter 77) Thus I come to the following deduction: Yoon Seungho was sentenced to the straw mat beating, because after 2 nights, he had not been able to « have an erection ». They mixed a truth with a lie: (chapter 107) They never let him have an erection, for he was always tied up!!
But what caught my attention is that the lecher (chapter 107) was sitting exactly like Min. (chapter 52) And what had Black Heart thought during that night? He had wished to taste the artist, while before he had desired his death. This is not random at all. There is a strong connection between death and sex which is also present in the conversation between lord Song and his « old friend ». The former reproached the elder master Yoon to have protected his son for too long. (Chapter 107) Yet, the readers could witness that this was not the case, as the father had refused to send for a doctor, when Yoon Seungho had become ill. But who was protecting whom here? Naturally, Yoon Seungho is the one who has always helped his father. Note that despite being the real owner of the mansion, he never tried to dethrone his father. He still protected his father’s reputation. (Chapter 78)
Observe that the painter was supposed to be in the kisaeng house, if he had not detected his lover’s departure! (chapter 107) Hence I am now assuming that this night is a reflection from chapter 67 and 69!! Min’s plan! (chapter 69) He had gone to the kisaeng house with the hope that the artist would return with his noona, and back then he had impersonated Lee Jihwa for the first time. (chapter 69) As the manhwalovers can detect, the sudden return of lord Haseon is intentional. So who is he targeting here? (Chapter 107) Here, the fake lord Song never named the protagonist specifically, he just employed the idiom « lad ». For me, the real schemers are after the painter, for the latter painted a picture which exposes the real lord Song’s crime: the sexual abuse. For me, the « document » is the erotic publication. Yet, the evil joker is gaslighting the patriarch by implying that he is now blackmailed by his own son. They need to remove the main lead in order to be able to target Baek Na-Kyum. Besides, I have already outlined that the artist is a witness and victim of Lee Jihwa’s crimes… just like he is a witness of the fake lord Song’s abuse. Thus the noona said this: (chapter 107) Her words indicate that these two characters know each other.
Note that the father is incited to kill his own son, for the latter represents a source of threat for his ambition. He could ruin Yoon Seungwon’s career. (Chapter 107) To conclude, the schemers are presenting the main lead as a hindrance to the patriarch’s dream. (chapter 107) Striking is that the man implied that Yoon Seungho would blackmail the father and lord Song because of a document. But this statement is wrong! The main lead never threatened his own father… First, he only reminded him of the past and the accusation for “treason”. (chapter 86) (chapter 86) He was the keeper of his secret!! This explicates why the fake lord Song mentions « lad » and not the main lead. He gaslighted his counterpart, and created a false reality, while for me, it is clear that the real source of threat is Baek Na-Kyum. And who wanted him to be removed from the main lead’s side? Father Lee! (Chapter 82) In fact, both schemers have one goal in common: the couple is the victim and witness of their « crimes ».
To conclude, while Yoon Seungho stands for love, sanity, truth and reality, the other man with the purple hanbok symbolizes abuse, perversion, deception and illusions. Whereas the father is about to get deceived a second time, I believe that the opposite is happening to Yoon Seungho. Since the latter saw the ghost in town during that day, he can only deduce that « lord Song » is assisting his father again, exactly like in the past.
PS: I still have so much to tell, especially about the kisaengs and the abuse in the gibang. However, I can only write a new one, when this analysis reaches at least 100 views.
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