Jinx: The Fault in His Powerful Hands 👊

At the hospice, Joo Jaekyung admitted to Kim Dan that he was not the one responsible for the incident with the switched spray. (chapter 60) However, this revelation sheds light on a deeper issue: his unquestioned reliance on the spray over Kim Dan’s expertise. (chapter 49) This choice reflects a significant lack of trust. Even with Kim Dan as his physical therapist, someone who had already proven his skills by treating his shoulder in record time (chapter 49), Joo Jaekyung chose to rely on external medicine rather than the “power of hands” that the nurse in the hospice later praises. (chapter 56)

The Misplaced Trust in Medication

This decision is revealing. (chapter 56) Here, the nurse credits Kim Dan’s care with improving the quality of life for terminally ill patients, emphasizing the tangible results of his dedication and skill. Yet, Joo Jaekyung disregards these same qualities. Instead of trusting Kim Dan, he justified his choice with the belief that the PT “wasn’t doing his job right,” a sentiment captured in his internal monologue. (chapter 55) But why was he thinking like that? He came to this judgement for two reasons. On the one hand, he was recalling the physical therapist’s nightly desertions. The latter chose to work as a courier instead of focusing on his main job. Moreover, the fact that he hadn’t checked the spray right before using it (chapter 51) This explains why the athlete imagined that Kim Dan had resigned due to his mistake. (chapter 55) However, this assumption is not only incorrect but unjust, as Kim Dan’s quick and effective treatment of his shoulder clearly demonstrates the contrary. (chapter 49) He felt no pain in his shoulder, a sign that he had been able to recover. Moreover, keep in mind what the other PT said in episode 42: (chapter 42) Finally, note that Baek Junmin was not able to defeat the dragon despite targeting his fragile shoulder. (chapter 50) The match ended up as a tie.

Kim Dan’s Hands and Regrets

The author’s focus on Kim Dan’s hands in the panel (chapter 60) where Joo Jaekyung admits his past ignorance adds a layer of emotional depth. The close-up of Kim Dan’s hands, slowly clenching, illustrates the complex mix of emotions he is experiencing in that moment. While the champion acknowledges his mistake, the tension in Kim Dan’s hands suggests a blend of guilt, frustration, and even resentment. This visual choice underscores the weight of the emotional burden Kim Dan carries—a burden made heavier by Joo Jaekyung’s previous accusations (chapter 60) and his failure to shield Kim Dan from blame. The clenched hands symbolize the internal struggle between an internal conflict between anger, indifference and lingering hurt caused by the lack of trust. What caught my attention is the sound of his jaw, KRIK, which reminded me of the star’s behavior. (chapter 56) This jaw’s movement symbolizes the return of instincts and as such to the champion’s true nature: he is a wolf. This means that the doctor is gradually losing his gentle nature and is on the verge of becoming a “wolf”. No wonder why he mimicked like the athlete at the end of episode 60: (chapter 60) He is acting like a loner wolf, whereas in reality his true personality is a hamster and duck.

Another panel, showing Kim Dan looking at his reflection and lamenting, indicates that this regret is beginning to fester. While he has not yet voiced these thoughts directly to Joo Jaekyung, the flinching hands (chapter 60) highlight the start of a growing resent. Thus I deduce that the self-directed blame could eventually shift outward, as Kim Dan begins to connect Joo Jaekyung’s role in the decision to use the spray. These subtle visual and narrative cues show how Kim Dan’s perspective is gradually evolving, laying the groundwork for potential confrontation. The clenched hands symbolize this internal struggle, balancing regret, lingering hurt, and a desire to fully understand the truth.

Incomplete Truths and Accountability

Joo Jaekyung never revisits or questions his decision to use the spray. (chapter 60) While he eventually acknowledges that Kim Dan was not to blame for the incident, he fails to recognize his own accountability in both the situation and its emotional aftermath. This lack of self-reflection extends to his understanding of Kim Dan’s mental state. Even though he knew the identity of the true orchestrator behind the scheme, the rival team, Joo Jaekyung did nothing to alleviate Kim Dan’s guilt and shame. Instead, his silence perpetuated the doctor’s internal suffering.

In addition, when Joo Jaekyung told Kim Dan, (chapter 60) his words left more questions than answers. He never clarified that the spray had been switched or explained what had truly happened. For Kim Dan, these vague words only deepened his emotional wounds. Left in ignorance, Kim Dan remains unaware that a fighter from Choi Gilseok’s team switched the spray. (chapter 52) By failing to provide a full explanation, Joo Jaekyung created the illusion that the matter was resolved. This lack of transparency leaves Kim Dan burdened with guilt and confusion, unable to find closure.

Ironically, Joo Jaekyung himself is not entirely informed. While he assumes Baek Junmin orchestrated the scheme (chapter 54), he is unaware that The Shotgun was merely a pawn used by Choi Gilseok, who had larger, more manipulative intentions. (chapter 52) I doubt that Potato told him about the director’s bet, too upset to discover the switched spray. The fighter’s ignorance mirrors Kim Dan’s in a way, highlighting how both are victims of deceit. This conversation further reflects their lack of communication, as it seems Joo Jaekyung deliberately avoids sharing his thoughts and knowledge with Kim Dan. (chapter 60) His reluctance to fully explain the situation perpetuates the emotional distance between them, leaving both trapped in a web of incomplete truths and unresolved tensions.

Mirroring Chapter 52: The Role of Toxic Relationships

This moment (chapter 60) also mirrors a significant scene from Chapter 52 (chapter 52), where Joo Jaekyung’s team visits him after the surgery at the hospital. Notably, the team members only address him when they need him to take the blame for the situation. Through this comparison, I noticed another aspect. They were all standing at a certain distance from the star’s bed. This exposes that none of them had the intention to spend time there and to give company to the athlete. At the same time, their position divulges their arrogance, lack of empathy or worries! Yes, no one is assuming that the athlete’s career is in danger. They are all somehow expecting that he will return to the ring. No wonder why their focus is entirely on the job, ignoring his well-being. When Joo Jaekyung finally voices his frustration and unwell-being (chapter 52), he is silenced with a slap. (chapter 52) This interaction reveals the deeply flawed dynamics of his relationships and the toxic role models that shaped him. His coach’s behavior—reducing everything to money and silencing emotional expression—has profoundly influenced his inability to recognize his own uncaring attitude at the hospice. (chapter 60) Yet, there exists a huge divergence between these two scenes. The athlete is now recognizing that he is dependent on his soulmate, though he is not voicing directly to Kim Dan. The hamster can not be replaced… someone needs to remind to Joo Jaekyung that life is fragile.

Kim Dan’s Rejection and Its Consequences

This parallel between 52 and 60 explains why Joo Jaekyung does not see how his attitude might appear dismissive or hurtful to Kim Dan. (chapter 60) Having grown up in an environment where emotional needs were consistently invalidated, he is blind to the damage his actions cause. Consequently, Kim Dan’s rejection and refusal to listen to him are understandable. (chapter 60) He is no longer willing to accept anything from Joo Jaekyung, hence he removes the needle. (chapter 60) The treatment is the symbol of the champion’s generosity and rescue. However, this is no longer working. So we could say that this gesture reflects the fate of the golden key chain. (chapter 45) After being blamed in the past, Kim Dan has reached his limit and chosen to stop engaging with Joo Jaekyung. However, this reaction risks exacerbating Kim Dan’s denial of his own mental illness, as he suppresses his emotions and isolates himself further. Contrary to the keychain, he can not be replaced. If he doesn’t get treated properly, his life could be in danger. (chapter 60) Hence he leaves a trail of blood on the floor.

Medication, Time and The Hospice as a Place of Healing

Joo Jaekyung’s reliance on medication (chapter 49) and quick fixes (chapter 54) reveals a deeper issue: his belief that drugs can compensate for his mistreatment of his own body. (chapter 27) By pushing himself beyond his physical limits and refusing to allow his body to rest, he clings to the power of medication as a means to sustain his performance. The hospice setting, where medicines and drugs are not perceived as vital (chapter 56), stands in stark contrast to Joo Jaekyung’s belief that medication is the only solution for treatment. Is it a coincidence that the doctor changed his prognostics about grandmother’s life span? No. It shows that without the new medication, she is supposed to live longer. Secondly it is clear that the grandmother is living well, because she is not plagued with remorse or guilt. In my opinion, through Shin Okja, the fighter should discover the power of mental health. (chapter 60) Besides, in such a place, he has the opportunity to experience how hands and comfort can surpass medication in offering true care and healing. This environment could challenge his reliance on external solutions and emphasize the value of trust and human connection.

Conclusion

Ultimately, this moment at the hospice highlights the need for Joo Jaekyung to confront his trust issues and the ripple effects of his decisions. His inability to reflect on his own actions and communicate openly with Kim Dan not only perpetuates the emotional distance between them but also prevents both from achieving closure. For Joo Jaekyung, this environment could serve as a turning point—a place where he learns to value emotional connection over quick fixes and begins to dismantle the toxic behaviors instilled by his past relationships. Similarly, for Kim Dan, this moment has the potential to bring about healing, but only if Joo Jaekyung takes the initiative to bridge the gap of trust and misunderstanding. Until both confront their shared and individual struggles, the imbalance in their relationship will persist, leaving unresolved the guilt, mistrust, and emotional wounds that weigh heavily on them both. I have to admit that by noticing the doctor’s jaw in this image (chapter 60), I am now wondering if the physical therapist won’t punch or slap the athlete in the future again. Chapter 61 is definitely connected to 7 (chapter 7) and the number 62 mirrors the famous fight in episode 62: (chapter 26)

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

Jinx: The Painful 🧜‍♂️🧜‍♀️ Mermaid’s Aspiration ☀️

When Joo Jaekyung dives into the water to rescue Kim Dan (chapter 59), the scene mirrors the iconic moment in The Little Mermaid where the mermaid saves the prince from drowning. Kim Dan, unconscious and seemingly following the voices of the hospice (chapter 59) —a representation of the mermaids’ song—drifts into a state of surrender, much like the prince. This act of salvation becomes a pivotal moment, connecting both characters to the themes of water, transformation, and rediscovery of purpose.

Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid is often overshadowed by its popular Disney adaptation, yet the original fairy tale delivers a far more complex and somber narrative. Initially, the underwater world of the mermaids appears idyllic, with its enchanting gardens and harmonious existence.

However, as the story progresses, it becomes evident that the mermaids are seductresses, luring sailors to their deaths with their hauntingly beautiful voices. Their prosperity and gardens stem from the remains of drowned humans, tying their existence to mortality and forgetfulness.

The absence of the Sea King as an active father figure leaves the grandmother to raise the mermaids, instilling traditions, hierarchy and materialism.

Among these traditions is the rule that mermaids may only visit the human world when they reach maturity, an act meant to influence them to appreciate their underwater kingdom and discourage longings for the surface. This restriction mirrors the tension between imposed norms and individual desires, as the mermaids are shaped by a world that limits their experiences until adulthood, by which time many have conformed to the values of their realm. Yet, for the little mermaid, this delayed freedom only deepens her yearning for a world beyond her own, setting her apart from her sisters. The grandmother’s role highlights the mermaids’ lack of individuality and spiritual depth, as their ultimate fate is oblivion—they vanish into sea foam upon death, unremembered and without souls.

Moreover, the mermaids’ fear of the sun, symbolized by the third sister who dives underwater to escape its burning rays, further reflects their estrangement from light and transcendence. This idyllic yet haunting world mirrors the struggles faced by the characters in Jinx, who similarly navigate environments defined by materialism (chapter 54), performance, and the longing for a deeper connection.

Drawing from Andersen’s original themes, Jinx presents a modern reinterpretation through its characters and their relationships. Both Kim Dan and Joo Jaekyung embody aspects of the little mermaid’s journey. Kim Dan, like the mermaid, endures silent suffering, yearning for recognition and freedom from his oppressive environment. Joo Jaekyung, meanwhile, encapsulates both the prince, whose light seduces others (chapter 41), and the mermaid, as he grapples with voicelessness and the pressures of his world. (chapter 36) (chapter 36) Choi Heesung, representing another prince with Potato as his bride, benefits from others’ sacrifices (chapter 31) (chapter 58) while remaining oblivious to their struggles. These parallels reveal layers of self-discovery, mutual transformation, and the pursuit of meaning. By analyzing these similarities, we uncover deeper layers of self-discovery and transformation within the narrative.

The Fake Sun and Kim Dan’s Awakening

When the little mermaid first surfaces, she does not see the sun but encounters the prince instead. He becomes her “fake sun,” a symbol of misplaced hope and unfulfilled longing. Similarly, Kim Dan, who became a physical therapist due to his grandmother’s influence, is thrust into Joo Jaekyung’s world—a world he perceives as brighter, almost blinding, like the sun. (chapter 53) Joo Jaekyung, representing the “new world,” acts as both a source of transformation and a mirror reflecting Kim Dan’s sacrifices.

In Andersen’s story, the little mermaid’s longing for the prince reflects her yearning for connection and transcendence, but it ultimately brings her pain. However, even before meeting the prince, the little mermaid longed to discover the human world. She listened intently to her sisters’ stories of their experiences on the surface, which created a deep yearning within her to explore this new realm.

Her yearning for the prince only exacerbates her desire to leave the confinement of the underwater kingdom, which she sees as restrictive, and pursue the dreams that set her apart from her sisters. Unlike her siblings, the little mermaid does not fear the sun; instead, she longs for its light and warmth. Andersen emphasizes this through her garden, which reflects her inner world and emotions:

The garden, overlooked by others, mirrors her unacknowledged feelings and aspirations, emphasizing her quiet longing for a brighter existence beyond the depths. Kim Dan’s relationship with Joo Jaekyung similarly oscillates between hope (chapter 55) and hardship (chapter 58), yet it serves as the catalyst for his growth. Just as the little mermaid’s journey leads her to a higher spiritual purpose as a daughter of the air, Kim Dan’s experiences with Joo Jaekyung force him to confront his own worth, identity, and emotional needs. Just before he went to the ocean, he wondered about his own future and desires, a sign that he was standing at a crossroad: (chapter 59) However, let’s not forget that Kim Dan’s profession had been determined by Shin Okja, as the latter desired to have her grandchild taken care of her. Therefore his own desires and needs were overlooked. Traditions and social norms were used to decide about the protagonist’s life and future. His journey from voiceless suffering to self-realization echoes the mermaid’s transformation.

Depression: Disconnection and Yearning

Both Hans Christian Andersen and the little mermaid offer insights into the experience of depression. Andersen himself struggled with feelings of isolation and unreciprocated affection, which find their echo in the mermaid’s story. Her disconnection from both the underwater world and the human world mirrors the profound alienation that often accompanies depression.

The little mermaid feels different from her sisters, who eagerly conform to their traditions, while she secretly yearns for something beyond their understanding. This sense of being “other” and her inability to express her desires create a deep loneliness. Similarly, Kim Dan’s life has been marked by silent suffering and a lack of recognition for his sacrifices. (chapter 57) (chapter 59) Like the mermaid, he has always lived disconnected from his own needs, burdened by the expectations of others—his grandmother, Heo Manwook, the doctors (chapter 21) , and even Joo Jaekyung. (chapter 45)

Andersen’s depiction of the mermaid’s inability to cry—”mermaids have no tears, and therefore they suffer more”—reflects the emotional numbness of depression. Kim Dan’s stoic endurance and inability to articulate his pain in season 2 resonate with this portrayal. When he is on the verge of killing himself (chapter 59), he is not capable of crying. It is because he has been living like a ghost for the last two months. Depression, for both the mermaid and Kim Dan, manifests as a silent struggle, making their eventual transformations even more poignant.

Joo Jaekyung: The “Prince” or The Mermaid?

Joo Jaekyung’s role in Jinx is multifaceted, resembling both the prince and the mermaid from Andersen’s tale. On one hand, he is a “fake prince,” burdened by the high expectations of his surroundings and unresolved traumas. Much like the mermaid’s prince, Joo Jaekyung’s image is carefully curated, (chapter 1) hiding his true self behind a facade of strength and success. On the other hand, Joo Jaekyung also embodies the mermaid’s longing and sacrifice. Living in the world of MMA, a high-pressure environment where he is constantly pushed to perform, he resembles the mermaid in the underwater kingdom—a place of death and materialism where the mermaids feed on drowned humans. It is no coincidence that the fighters are displayed like mermaids in the water full of blood. (chapter 29) This zombie-like existence leaves him voiceless; the entertainment agency and MFC dictate his actions (chapter 57), only allowing him to speak when it benefits them financially.

Interestingly, Joo Jaekyung’s affinity for water (chapter 27) reflects his connection to the mermaid. Water is his natural element, a place where he feels at peace, yet he has been forced to conform to a fiery world of intensity and relentless ambition. (chapter 19) Hence he never went to the swimming pool in his own penthouse, until Kim Dan triggered his memory and longing. This interplay of water and fire (chapter 53) symbolizes Joo Jaekyung’s duality: water represents his reflective and calm nature, while fire reflects the passion, turmoil, and seduction he embodies. His light, much like the mermaids’ song in Andersen’s tale, attracts others, but it often leads them astray. For example, many members of Team Black left the gym to join King of MMA, a rival gym with connections to the underground world and illegal fights. (chapter 52) (chapter 41) Joo Jaekyung’s image was exploited to lure these individuals down a darker path, highlighting how his light has been misused by those around him.

(chapter 53) The contrasting visuals of the King of MMA building (chapter 52) and Joo Jaekyung himself underscore this dichotomy. The building, with its blue tones and connection to the sky, evokes the image of a ship luring fighters into oblivion, much like the mermaid’s siren call. Interestingly, the light from the building comes from the sun, giving it the impression of naturality and hope. This creates a deceptive allure, as those who follow this path are ultimately consumed and forgotten.

In contrast, the image of Joo Jaekyung turning around is bathed in artificial light from the flash of cameras, (chapter 53) emphasizing his curated, public-facing facade. This artificiality reflects how Kim Dan, much like the public, has not yet perceived the humanity beneath Joo Jaekyung’s exterior. This dichotomy underscores Joo Jaekyung’s struggle to reclaim his identity while also highlighting Kim Dan’s journey to truly see the man behind the image. This juxtaposition highlights how Joo Jaekyung’s journey is not merely about physical survival but about reclaiming his identity and resisting the forces that seek to exploit him. 

The Doctor’s Family: A Reflection of the Mermaid’s World

Kim Dan’s family background parallels the little mermaid’s environment in significant ways. The absence of the father in Kim Dan’s life placed all the responsibility on his grandmother, echoing the absence of the Sea King’s active role in his daughters’ lives. The grandmother in Kim Dan’s story shares several traits with the mermaid’s grandmother, but also presents key contrasts. Both grandmothers embody traditions, social norms, and a materialistic worldview. Shin Okja’s wedding cabinet and scarf were a source of joy and pride for her, (chapter 19) (chapter 56) as long as they were not associated with burden or suffering, while the mermaid’s grandmother celebrates the beauty and decorum of their underwater realm.

Both women disregard the pain and desires of the protagonists—Shin Okja justifies her dependency on Kim Dan with cultural norms and his selflessness (chapter 53), while the mermaid’s grandmother dresses her granddaughter beautifully for her first visit to the surface, disregarding the physical pain she complains about. In both cases, the protagonist’s suffering is diminished or ignored, highlighting a shared insensitivity to their emotional and physical experiences. Both grandmothers appear as rather distant and cold-hearted.

However, the mermaid’s grandmother exhibits a mental and physical strength that Shin Okja lacks. Confident and authoritative, she enforces the rules and rituals of the mermaid world, including the tradition of visiting the surface only after reaching maturity. This ritual, framed as a way to teach the young mermaids to appreciate their own realm, indirectly influences the little mermaid’s yearning for the human world. Her family could have noticed it, if they had paid attention to the sculpture in her small garden.

In contrast, Shin Okja is emotionally and physically dependent on Kim Dan, burdening him with the entirety of their survival. Her insistence on adhering to traditions reflects a passive selfishness, as she benefits from his sacrifices while escaping her own responsibilities.

Interestingly, both grandmothers play a role in inciting their grandchildren to leave their side. The mermaid’s grandmother encourages the little mermaid to explore the human world as part of their ritual, emphasizing its transience and superficiality. (chapter 57) Shin Okja, noticing Kim Dan’s figurative slow death under the weight of her request, subtly pushes him to seek his own path. However, this act is not entirely selfless. For Shin Okja, it represents an escape from the guilt of causing her grandson’s unhappiness, a way to absolve herself of responsibility.

Yet, the two grandmothers diverge significantly in their personal strength and awareness. The mermaid’s grandmother confidently instills traditions as a way to ground her grandchildren in their underwater identity, while Shin Okja clings to traditions to justify her dependence. Both grandmothers also embody forgetfulness and oblivion. The mermaid’s grandmother focuses on traditions and appearances, disregarding the existential yearning of the little mermaid for an immortal soul. Shin Okja similarly disregards Kim Dan’s emotional suffering, prioritizing her material needs and societal expectations. Notably, she never returned to her hometown, until she was nearing death, underscoring her detachment from legacy and emotional connection. These shared traits highlight how both grandmothers, despite their different contexts, restrict the protagonists’ growth and self-discovery, keeping them tethered to a world of conformity and unfulfilled dreams.

In both stories, the protagonists live like ghosts, overshadowed by the expectations and traditions imposed upon them. Kim Dan has always lived for his grandmother and her “dreams,” never truly pursuing his own aspirations. Similarly, the little mermaid is forced to follow traditions and live through the eyes and expectations of others. Her deepest dream of becoming human and reaching the surface is kept to herself, unknown to anyone around her. This suppression of individuality and desire reflects the stifling nature of their environments. Interestingly, the little mermaid’s garden reflects her inner world and emotions. Unlike her sisters, she does not fear the sun, and her garden is shaped like the sun with flowers as red as his rays. Yet, no one pays attention to her garden, mirroring how Kim Dan’s struggles and unwell-being are overlooked by those around him. (chapter 57) He even gets blamed for his illness. These elements further emphasize how the suppression of individuality leads to yearning and eventual transformation.

The Sisters of the Mermaid and Team Black

In Andersen’s tale, the mermaid’s sisters are largely indifferent to her plight until they realize she is about to die. Their sudden sacrifice of their hair to obtain a knife from the sea witch demonstrates a delayed recognition of their sister’s suffering. Though their act is born of desperation, it comes too late to save her. The sisters, pale and sorrowful, ultimately sink back beneath the waves, leaving the mermaid to face her fate alone. (chapter 52) This dynamic parallels the members of Team Black in Jinx. Although they are treated like Joo Jaekyung’s co-workers (chapter 7), in reality, he is their boss and the foundation of their success. Their indifference mirrors the mermaid sisters’ behavior; they only notice his struggles and absence when his winning streak falters, prompting many to leave the gym for the rival King of MMA. However, if we take Andersen’s fairy tale as a source of inspiration, it signifies that at some point, the remaining members of Team Black might come to “sacrifice” themselves for their “little sister,” symbolically representing Kim Dan and Joo Jaekyung. This potential act of loyalty could mirror the mermaid sisters’ gesture, showing that even belated recognition and care can lead to transformative redemption for those involved.

Gardening and Immortality

In Andersen’s tale, the mermaids tend gardens in the underwater world, a symbol of their limited existence tied to material beauty. This theme resonates in Jinx, where the gym Team Black acts as a parallel to the underwater kingdom. Like the mermaid gardens, Team Black is centered on appearances and the cultivation of superficial success. Originally created to serve Joo Jaekyung’s needs, the gym drew attention due to his achievements (chapter 1), attracting others seeking the same level of fame and fortune. (chapter 46) However, the gym’s inability to produce another champion reveals its “fake gardening” nature—focused on maintaining an image rather than fostering true growth.

Park Namwook, much like the Sea King’s materialistic focus, behaves as though he owns the gym, taking pride in its reputation (chapter 52) while merely using Joo Jaekyung’s success to boost his own ego. His plans to set up a kids’ program at the gym further underscore this self-serving nature. While presented as an effort to expand the gym’s reach, Park Namwook’s true motivation lies in financial gain, as he tries to persuade Joo Jaekyung by stating, “Kids are where the money is at.” On the one hand, this reflects his obsession with money and contrasts with the deeper, transformative intentions associated with true gardening. On the other hand, since he has himself kids, it is clear that he would like to send his own children to the kids’ program.

Interestingly, the concept of a kids’ program can be compared to the daughters of the air in Andersen’s tale.

The daughters of the air earn their immortal souls through good deeds, particularly by serving as unseen companions to children, influencing their growth and joy. The transformation of the little mermaid into a daughter of the air holds profound significance. Through her death, she transcends her former existence, drawing closer to her aspiration for an immortal soul. Her nature fundamentally changes—she evolves from a being defined by longing and sacrifice to one with purpose and autonomy. Her rise to the air signifies liberation from the pain and constraints of her past life, granting her a new identity. Similarly, Joo Jaekyung and Kim Dan’s struggles, marked by insomnia, loneliness, and emotional turmoil, echo this journey of transformation. (chapter 59) The ocean scene in Jinx represents the beginning of their ascent, a symbolic death of their former selves and the first step toward self-discovery and fulfillment. Like the little mermaid’s yearning for the sun and light, their encounter in the ocean marks a turn toward aspiration and the possibility of a brighter, truer existence.

However, Park Namwook’s approach twists this idea into a shallow form of “gardening” focused on profit rather than nurturing. (chapter 46) His actions reveal the disconnection between genuine care and the commodification of growth, paralleling the gym’s superficial cultivation of champions and success. When Joo Jaekyung’s streak of victories faltered after his tie with Baek Junmin, many members abandoned the gym, (chapter 52) exposing the lack of genuine loyalty and care for the champion. This mirrors the indifference of the mermaids to the plight of drowning humans, a reflection of their inhumanity. Similarly, the world of MMA fighting, like the underwater kingdom, encourages relentless training and suppresses emotional expression—vacations and rest only occur due to injury or external intervention, such as Kim Dan’s request for a day off.

Potato’s characterization as a mixture of a “spoiled child” (chapter 22) and a “neglected child” (chapter 59) further emphasizes the immaturity and lack of responsibility prevalent in this environment. In Andersen’s story, the mermaid sisters are given gardens to tend from a young age, instilling responsibility early on. Potato’s journey mirrors the mermaid sisters’ visit to the surface, as his trip to the sea represents a moment of exploration and self-discovery. While working as an actor for the first time, he realizes during his stay with Kim Dan that he has no intention of leaving Team Black. (chapter 58) Feeling lost without Kim Dan, he initially requests his return so that they can be together again. This longing for a companion reflects Potato’s deeper need for guidance and connection, much like the mermaid sisters who briefly visit the surface but ultimately return to their underwater world when the novelty fades. Yet, when they reach maturity and are allowed to visit the surface, the novelty of the human world quickly fades, and they return to their underwater realm indifferent to human suffering. However, notice that on his day of the departure, Potato tells Kim Dan that he won’t call him, the mermaid has to initiate the first step. (chapter 58) Just like the prince in the fairy tale, the protagonist from Jinx is treated like a servant or a play companion, but nothing more.

This shows that in both stories, the humans take the mermaid’s selflessness and gentleness for granted. They don’t ask if the mermaid is feeling well. They expect them to be around them.

This lack of empathy and the absence of tears (chapter 15) strongly parallel the detached, high-pressure environment of MMA fighting. Joo Jaekyung, trained relentlessly since youth, embodies this world’s harshness, where vulnerability is a luxury rarely afforded.

By contrasting the gym’s “fake gardening” with Joo Jaekyung’s eventual journey toward authenticity, the narrative underscores the need to move beyond superficiality and reclaim one’s true self. Joo Jaekyung, after being inspired by Kim Dan, begins to metaphorically “garden” by creating his own space of renewal and growth. The ocean setting (chapter 59) suggests that Joo Jaekyung might reclaim his authentic self through activities like swimming, reconnecting with nature, and symbolically planting the seeds for a new life. Kim Dan, who cannot swim, learns from Joo Jaekyung, and together, they forge a path toward mutual healing and immortality—not in the literal sense but through finding their “soul” and purpose.

The Ocean: Nature as a Setting for Transformation

In Jinx, the shift in the setting from the city (a symbol of civilization and its suffocating pressures) to the ocean (a symbol of nature and renewal) mirrors a pivotal change in the characters’ journeys. (chapter 56) The city represents the oppressive expectations and artificial constructs that have shaped Joo Jaekyung and Kim Dan’s lives. By meeting again in the ocean, they reconnect with a more authentic and unburdened version of themselves. This transition echoes the little mermaid’s connection to the natural world as a place of solace and transformation.

Responsibility and Guilt: The Couple’s Role

The scene where the prince and his bride gaze at the foam, sorrowfully searching for the mermaid, mirrors Heesung and Potato’s behavior. (chapter 59) They imagined that Kim Dan would be better off without Joo Jaekyung (chapter 58), but this assumption reveals their failure to truly understand Kim Dan’s plight. Their ignorance ties them to the selfishness and guilt that mark the couple in the fairy tale. Despite their faults, however, their actions indirectly contribute to Kim Dan’s transformation.

However, the mermaid’s final kiss on the prince’s bride’s forehead holds deeper symbolic meaning. The goodbye kiss, given unseen, can be interpreted as either a curse or an act of emancipation. It symbolizes her liberation from heartbreak and physical suffering. The kiss is also a farewell to the life she had sacrificed so much for, allowing her to rise as a daughter of the air. Similarly, the picture in front of the hospice could be interpreted as Kim Dan’s goodbye kiss to his friends before his own metamorphosis, marking a farewell to his old life and the start of his transformation: air.

Similarly, Kim Dan’s journey reflects a moment of quiet yet profound transformation: (chapter 15) his kiss with Joo Jaekyung, shared in the locker room, was both an act of protection and a pivotal moment in their dynamic. Like the mermaid’s unforgettable first kiss with the prince (when he was rescued), Joo Jaekyung’s kiss in the locker room was an act of initiation, driven by his “fears” and sense of responsibility, reflecting his growing attachment to Kim Dan. The kiss symbolized his struggle to connect and protect, even as he grappled with his emotional restraint. The locker room, a symbol of physical endurance and vulnerability (chapter 51), mirrors the mermaid’s longing to break free of her limitations and find meaning in her suffering.

The Daughter of the Air: Kim Dan’s Transcendence

In The Little Mermaid, the protagonist’s final transformation into a daughter of the air signifies her spiritual elevation and newfound purpose. No longer tied to the physical or the emotional pain of unrequited love, she discovers companionship and a mission—to earn an immortal soul through good deeds. This mirrors Kim Dan’s journey of finding a new identity and purpose.

The 300 years the mermaid must strive for redemption recalls the three months Kim Dan spent with Joo Jaekyung before vanishing. In this time, Kim Dan undergoes a profound change. Like the daughter of the air, Kim Dan moves closer to his own “sun,” (chapter 59) finding light not in others but within himself. Through his hardships, he gains the strength to pursue his own identity and agency.

The “Princes” and Legacy

The story also underscores the theme of legacy, as the concept of the “prince” takes on multiple layers in Jinx. Joo Jaekyung is the central prince, undergoing his own awakening as he transitions from being an oblivious benefactor to an active participant in Kim Dan’s healing and growth. However, Heesung and even Potato emerge as “princes” in their own right. Heesung’s journey to face his flaws mirrors the prince’s search for his rescuer, while Potato’s evolution hints at a future where he might follow in Joo Jaekyung or Kim Dan’s footsteps, symbolizing a new generation of legacy. I couldn’t help myself noticing that Potato was the first one showing an interest in Kim Dan’s profession: (chapter 49) The maknae’s tears are an indication that he is no mermaid, but a human, I would even say, he still has the soul of an innocent boy. (chapter 58) reminding me of the princess looking for the voiceless mermaid. It is clear that in both stories, the mermaid left traces in the humans’ hearts.

Conclusion: Mutual Transformation

Ultimately, The Painful Mermaid’s Aspiration is a story of mutual transformation. The mermaid’s sacrifice enables the prince’s happiness, but her ultimate transcendence reflects a deeper journey of self-discovery. Similarly, Kim Dan’s suffering becomes the foundation for his growth, pushing both him and Joo Jaekyung to evolve. While the figures around them, like Heesung and Potato, remain entangled in their own struggles with guilt and identity, they contribute to the larger narrative of transformation and redemption.

Kim Dan’s journey, like the little mermaid’s, is not just about sacrifice but about rising above pain to find purpose and light. In the end, both characters achieve a form of liberation, stepping closer to the “sun” and reclaiming their voices and identities in a world that once rendered them invisible.

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

Jinx: The Wolf’s 🐺 Cure ⚕️ Among The Sheep 🐑

Introduction

The second season of Jinx promises to delve deeper into the lives of its main characters, transitioning from the confines of the gym (chapter 54) and penthouse (chapter 54) in Seoul—a city symbolizing anonymity, invisibility, and corruption—to the hospice “Light of Hope” (chapter 56) in a small town on the West Coast (chapter 56), where people know each other. This essay builds upon my previous interpretations of the series, which led me to develop these predictions for the upcoming season. By comparing the visual depictions of the gym and penthouse in Seoul with the hospice and small town on the West Coast, the divergence in weather becomes a powerful symbol of the changes Joo Jaekyung will undergo. The rainy, overcast settings of the gym and penthouse reflect the fighter’s inner turmoil and sadness, highlighting the oppressive atmosphere of a city rife with anonymity and corruption. In contrast, the sunny and open environment of the hospice and town by the ocean represents a space of hope and renewal, where human connections thrive. This comparison underscores the significant role the hospice and small town will play in fostering Joo Jaekyung’s self-discovery and healing. The gym and penthouse in Seoul symbolize anonymity, invisibility, and corruption. This anonymity stems from the city’s indifference to individual suffering, as seen when Kim Dan was dragged (chapter 16) (chapter 16) through the streets by loan sharks in broad daylight without anyone intervening. Invisibility is further exemplified by the perverted hospital director, (chapter 1) who harassed Kim Dan without facing any consequences, though he was caught, and by Kim Miseon’s unethical actions, such as leaking patient information (chapter 48) and using Shin Okja as a guinea pig for trial treatments (chapter 21) —none of which led to accountability. In contrast, the hospice represents a counterpoint: (chapter 56) a space where respect and dignity take precedence over ambition, fostering genuine human connection and care. This contrast between the city and the hospice highlights the champion’s need to redefine his understanding of life, identity, and success. The contrast between the hospice and MFC becomes pivotal, as these environments symbolize opposing values: while the hospice fosters compassion (chapter 57), reflection, and healing, the MFC epitomizes exploitation, indifference and neglect. (chapter 52) The best example is the vanishing of the protagonist’s former rival, Baek Junmin, (chapter 57) who no longer appears in the news.

Contrasting the Hospice and MFC

The hospice, Light of Hope, does not offer healing in the traditional sense, as its patients are no longer hoping to be cured. Instead, it provides a space for those burdened by emotional scars to wait for death in a positive way, (chapter 56) emphasizing respect and dignity. This stark reality will serve as an eye-opener for Joo Jaekyung, who is burdened by news and media narratives equating (chapter 36) (chapter 35) (chapter 36) his shoulder injury or potential career loss with “death.” At the hospice, he will encounter people who are truly facing the end of their lives (chapter 57), prompting him to recognize that his so-called career end does not symbolize his real death. (chapter 29) This realization will help him distinguish between his life as a fighter and his life as a person, setting the stage for his transformation. It provides a stark contrast to the MFC, which is riddled with manipulation and greed. At the hospice, Joo Jaekyung is likely to encounter individuals whose lives are defined not by competition but by care and connection, like Mingwa implied it with the comment of the nurse: (chapter 57). This environment challenges him to confront the indifference of figures like Yosep and Park Namwook, whose neglect, blind trust, passivity, naivety, neglect and selfishness have shaped his struggles. Notice that the nurses are often seen together and exchanging thoughts about doc Dan symbolizing unity and harmony (chapter 57) which contrasts so much to the mentality at the gym. There, no one paid attention to the well-being of Kim Dan or the athlete. The latter had to burden everything on his own. The hospice’s focus on teamwork and selflessness mirrors the qualities of the sheep—often symbols of conformity but also of communal support and altruism.

On the other hand, the grandmother believes she has found her “family” and “roots” at the hospice (chapter 57), yet her exclusion of Kim Dan reveals her flawed understanding of family, which she associates solely with a location. This behavior aligns her with the symbolism of the black sheep: a disruptive force within the community whose selfishness and inability to nurture genuine familial bonds isolate her. Her neglect of Kim Dan, despite his evident suffering, exposes her as prioritizing her personal comfort over the well-being of her own grandson. The arrival of the wolf—Joo Jaekyung—will challenge her perception, forcing her to confront the flaws in her thinking and her selfishness. His presence, along with interactions with other characters such as Potato and Heesung, who possesses the perceptiveness of a gumiho, will expose her true nature to the community. This confrontation will push her toward an overdue reckoning with her actions and their impact on Kim Dan. I also realized that since this woman is suffering from Peter Pan Syndrome, her true enemy is youth which is embodied by Yoon-Gu. The latter stands for the opposite values: innocence and responsibility. So his ignorance and purity could lead her to experience unpleasant truths, like for example: Potato asks her about the whereabouts of Kim Dan’s parents, a new version of this scene: (special episode 1) In other words, the presence of Kim Dan’s friends (Joo JAekyung, Potato and Heesung) could make her realize her true nature, which would impact her mental health. She led a life full of missed chances and regrets.

The MFC, in contrast, represents the worst of hierarchical power dynamics. It stands as a symbol of industrialization, producing ‘champions’ not for their personal growth or well-being but for monetary gain. Fighters are treated as commodities, molded and exploited for profit in a system that prioritizes output over humanity. As an organization, it prioritizes profit over the well-being of its fighters, fostering a culture of exploitation and blind obedience. Joo Jaekyung’s realization of these flaws will likely spur his transformation into the true owner of the gym, imposing his values of loyalty, care, and protection.

Defining the Cure: Reconnecting with the True Self

For Joo Jaekyung, the “cure” lies in reconnecting with his true self and rediscovering his childish side, something he could only experience twice in season 1. He had fun with Kim Dan by his side (chapter 26) (chapter 27) In Korean culture, the saying “when the heart isn’t in it” reflects a profound truth: actions devoid of sincerity lack real value. Season 2’s new settings allow the champion to reflect on his mechanical, dispassionate life and begin to act with intention and feeling.

Central to this transformation is his relationship with Kim Dan. Taking care of Kim Dan—physically, emotionally, and mentally—becomes a pathway for Joo Jaekyung to rediscover his own humanity and generosity. However, it becomes evident that the one truly dying a slow death is Kim Dan. His negative change, marked by physical and emotional decline, should make the champion realize that Kim Dan has been identifying himself with the athlete. The last incident appears to have “killed” the physical therapist’s spirit, leaving him a shadow of his former self. (chapter 54) Though in denial, Joo Jaekyung feels undoubtedly responsible for the doctor’s suffering, as one of his nightmares reveals his guilt for doubting Kim Dan’s honesty and dedication. Once seeing his terrible transformation, the man can only blame himself, especially if he recalls Cheolmin’s advice: (chapter 13)- The act of nurturing Kim Dan is symbolic: it aligns Joo Jaekyung with the wolf, an animal deeply associated with love, family, and protection. Through this connection, he learns to balance his ferocity with tenderness, becoming not just a fighter but a protector.

Education also stands at the center of Season 2, exemplified by Boksoon (chapter 57) and her puppies. Kim Dan is tasked with taking care of the dog and her newborns, and Joo Jaekyung should be asked to do the same. This responsibility not only serves as an allegory for taming the wolf within him but also paves the way for the champion’s deeper connection with Kim Dan. By being close to the ocean (chapter 56), a place where Joo Jaekyung finds relaxation through swimming, the setting introduces an opportunity for him to teach Kim Dan how to swim, addressing the latter’s fear of water (chapter 27). Swimming could become a shared activity that rebuilds their relationship on a foundation of trust, mutual learning, and growth. Engaging in this physical activity would not only strengthen their bond but also boost Kim Dan’s confidence and help him rediscover his own resilience.

Moreover, the professional dynamic between them shifts significantly in Season 2. With Joo Jaekyung hiring a new physical therapist (chapter 54), his connection with Kim Dan is no longer defined by a boss-employee relationship. Their interactions, now free of financial obligations, offer the fighter a clearer view of Kim Dan’s selfless and angelic nature. The physical therapist’s unwavering care, even at the expense of his own well-being, highlights his ungreedy and altruistic character. This realization will deepen Joo Jaekyung’s respect and affection for Kim Dan, further cementing the transformative journey they both embark on.

The Role of Mirrors and Mentors

Key secondary characters at the hospice serve as mirrors and mentors to the main leads. The landlord (chapter 57) and the yelling patient (chapter 57), represented as an ibex, embody qualities that challenge Joo Jaekyung and Kim Dan to confront their past traumas and current flaws. The ibex’s defiance contrasts with the sheep-like conformity of the hospice patients, encouraging Potato, Kim Dan and Joo Jaekyung to question the blind obedience that has shaped their relationship with figures like Park Namwook. These characters reflect the flaws of Yosep and Namwook, enabling Joo Jaekyung to see the neglect and indifference he has endured and inspiring him to redefine his role in the gym and in Kim Dan’s life.

Nurses 1 and 2, previously conceptualized as (chapter 56) “Nurse Mind” and “Nurse Heart,” provide another layer of mentorship. They could act as the champion’s eyes and ears, teaching him to observe and understand Kim Dan’s mental state. Though the nurse 1 started reproaching Kim Dan to neglect himself (chapter 57), she was able to note that he was suffering mentally and emotionally. She diagnosed it as burn-out. Then in the latest chapter, a new nurse appeared. With her green hair and glasses (chapter 57), she reminded me of the champion’s friend: (chapter 13) She already noticed his unusual fatigue, so in my opinion, this third woman could be the one detecting that the main lead is not eating properly. If this assumption is correct, then she stands for food and body, like in the Korean saying: “If your heart is not in it, you can’t see if you look. You can’t even hear if you listen, and you can’t taste even if you eat.” Their guidance should help Joo Jaekyung cultivate a nurturing side, showing him that strength is not solely physical but also emotional and relational. In this way, the nurses become pivotal in his journey from a lone wolf to a leader who values and protects his pack.

The Symbolism of Wolves, Sheep, and the Illustration

The wolf symbolizes love, family, and protection, qualities that Joo Jaekyung begins to embody as he nurtures Kim Dan and confronts his own vulnerabilities. The illustration visually represents this duality: the wolf in sheep clothes, walking towards the hospice, embodies Joo Jaekyung’s fierce yet diminished and protective nature, while the broken tree—representing Kim Dan—signals his fragile state and the need for healing. Together, the wolf and the sun symbolize Joo Jaekyung’s journey toward self-discovery and redemption, as he draws strength from the tree’s shade, embodying Kim Dan’s care and quiet support.

Meanwhile, the sheep represent conformity and selflessness, but the presence of the ibex disrupts this harmony, standing as a challenge to blind obedience. I have to admit that the patient’s reaction (chapter 57) reminded me a lot of Yoon-Gu’s (chapter 49), though their positions are absolutely opposite. The patient’s reaction in Chapter 57 echoes this dynamic, as he accuses Joo Jaekyung of being ill-tempered (this means that he remembers the suspension), a perspective shaped by the media’s manipulations. His criticism reflects the behavior of a sheep, falling prey to misinformation and failing to see the larger truths. On the other hand, it indicates that this man also knows a part of the truth: the suspension which is no longer mentioned, but also escaped Kim Dan’s notice, as he was dealing with his departure. In contrast, Potato’s response in Chapter 49, where he courageously questioned Director Choi despite the latter being an elder, showcases independence and critical thinking. This juxtaposition highlights the patient’s potential to awaken Joo Jaekyung, Kim Dan, and Potato to the damaging impact of media narratives. Over time, the patient himself must confront the wrongfulness and cold-heartedness of his accusations, fostering growth and understanding on all sides. These characters reflect the flaws of Yosep and Namwook, enabling Joo Jaekyung to see the neglect and indifference he has endured and inspiring him to redefine his role in the gym and in Kim Dan’s life.

The illustration’s inclusion of the hamster—symbolizing Kim Dan’s fun, fragile, and nurturing nature—along with the chow chow and the gumiho, emphasizes the roles of protectors and mediators. The chow chow’s loyalty and the gumiho’s cunning serve as essential forces guarding the hamster and navigating the complexities of this “pure community,” where lies and selfishness can still exist. These characters highlight the intricate dynamics within the hospice, where Joo Jaekyung must balance strength with empathy.

Wolves also represent loyalty and teamwork, values that stand in stark contrast to the selfishness and manipulation he experienced at the MFC. Meanwhile, the sheep, often dismissed as symbols of conformity, carry a deeper meaning at the hospice. They embody gentleness, warmth (due to their wool), selflessness and community, traits that Joo Jaekyung learns to appreciate and emulate. That’s how the wolf will learn how to give warmth and comfort to his fated partner. The hamster can only feel grateful towards his benefactor pushing him to reciprocate the attitude. Then the moon, embodied by the doctor, will become the guardian of the champion so that the latter can little by little recover from his insomnia and recurrent nightmares.

A Journey of Transformation

In a world where individuals are on the verge of death, Joo Jaekyung discovers his own senses: his humanity and generosity. The hospice provides a space for him to reconnect with his true self, guided by the lessons he learns from Kim Dan, the nurses, and the “mirrors” of the landlord and the ibex. This transformation not only redefines his relationship with Kim Dan but also prepares him to reclaim his rightful place as the leader of the gym, imbuing it with values of care and protection. Furthermore, the hospice teaches Joo Jaekyung the value of rest and relaxation (chapter 57), concepts he had previously dismissed as “laziness.” (chapter 13) This newfound appreciation allows him to form fond memories of the place, associating it with peace and renewal despite the grandmother’s inevitable passing. By metaphorically taking over her place at the hospice, Joo Jaekyung symbolically builds his family there, grounding himself in the values of compassion and community. These lessons ultimately empower him to take over the gym with a renewed perspective, ready to lead with strength and empathy. Finally, I deduce that the main couple will initially navigate between the Light of Hope Hospice and the doctor’s rented room before visiting other places (like the beach and the mountain) The more places they will visit together, the more they will become true to themselves, inciting them to open their mind and heart to each other. Surrounded by nature, all the characters will get purified and discover the true source of happiness.

Ultimately, The Wolf’s Cure Among the Sheep is a story of healing through connection, a reminder that even in a world marked by competition and death, humanity and generosity can flourish when the heart is truly in it.

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

Jinx: Daily Jinx Advent Insight 17 📆 0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣The Shadows Cast By Numbers

In the composition The Magic Of Numbers I demonstrated the strong link between numbers, characters and situations. This led me to focus on the number 7 and its signification in Jinx. [For more read Magic 7 : Navigating between Jinx and Luck]. Is it a coincidence that number has for synonym “figure”, which is also an equivalent for “character”, person”? I don’t think so. However, the biggest discovery has not been revealed yet. Thus if my avid readers look carefully at the new illustration now, they will detect the digit 1, 0 and 9. What do they mean in Jinx? I will answer to this in the following analysis.

Numbers and Characters

For that, it is important to look at the following chapters and their digits:

Chapter 1Chapter 1Chapter 10Chapter 11Chapter 16Chapter 17Chapter 20
Loan SharksPerverted Hospital DirectorHeo Namwook/ the loan shark and his minionsHeo Namwook and minionsHeo Namwook and minionsHeo NamwookLoan Shark and Perverted Hospital Director
Chapter 37Chapter 46Chapter 46Chapter 47Chapter 48Chapter 49
Mysterious MFC agentHeo Namwook and minionsFirst appearance of Choi GilseokBaek Junmin’s first appearanceChoi Gilseok meeting Kim DanBaek Junmin meeting Joo Jaekyung and Director Choi switching the spray thanks to his minions

What do these episodes have in common? The number 10 or better said 1 and 0. Let me give different examples. 11; 37 : 3+7= 10; 46: 4+6=10; 4+7= 11. What caught my attention is that the number 1 and 0 are strongly intertwined with the villains.

Before going any further, it is relevant to define a villain.

A villain in literature is a character who represents evil or opposing moral values and often creates conflict with the protagonist. Villains typically display malicious intent, seeking to harm, dominate, or oppose others for personal gain or twisted ideals. Examples include:

  • Darth Vader (Star Wars): A dark lord driven by a desire to impose order through domination.
  • Hannibal Lecter (The Silence of the Lambs): A brilliant but psychopathic serial killer.
  • Voldemort (Harry Potter): A dark wizard seeking immortality and control​

This means that villains in Jinx are people resenting the main leads, they wish to harm or even ruin them. But let’s return our attention to my interpretation. The digit 1 announces the presence of a villain. One might argue about this perception, for number 48, 49 or 20 doesn’t mirror this theory. Nevertheless, Jinx-philes shouldn’t keep in mind that 8 embodies Kim Dan. Moreover, we should see it like that: 47= 4+7= 11, then 48=: 47 (Baek Junmin) + 1 Director Choi. Additionally, in 49, we have 4 persons involved in the scheme to kill the champion with Shotgun: (chapter 49) These 3 men and The Shotgun have to be seen as a team. Moreover, 4 is a synonym for death. Then, observe that the image from episode 20 contains two villains, the loan shark and the perverted hospital director. 1 +1 = 2. So when we see the number 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18, we could perceive it as an allusion to Heo Namwook, the villain.

However, another objection could be raised. What about episode 47? If you add the digits together, you have 11. So where are the two “villains”? It is clear that one is referring to the Shotgun, as for the other we could say, it is an allusion to the invisible involvement of Choi Gilseok. Then what about 11? One possible answer would be to say that the other villain in episode 11 was the representative of the association (chapter 11) and indirectly the persons involved in the redevelopment. However, I have to admit that I have a different explanation.

1 and antagonists

And this brings me to my other observation. In my eyes, the digit is not just referring to villains, but also to antagonists. You might ask about the difference between a villain and an antagonist.

An antagonist, by contrast, is any force or character that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict. They act as barriers to the protagonist’s growth or objectives, embodying stagnation or forces that resist transformation. Unlike villains, antagonists are not necessarily evil. For example:

The Party (1984): The oppressive government represents the antagonist but is not embodied by a single “villainous” character. The party embodies immobility through oppressive control, rejecting individuality or societal progress. It acts as a hurdle for Winston Smith, who seeks freedom and truth.

Miss Havisham in Great Expectations:: She is trapped in her heartbreak, she resists emotional healing and inadvertently thwarts Pip’s development.

As for Captain Ahab in Moby-Dick:, though a protagonist in his own story, Ahab’s obsessive immobility (revenge on the whale) becomes an antagonist force against his crew and their survival.

In other words, they create tension by opposing the protagonist’s goals. They test the main character’s resolve, adaptability, and resourcefulness. By clinging to outdated systems, ideologies, or personal fears, they symbolize forces that resist progress. Many antagonists refuse change, either out of fear, selfishness, or a belief in their own superiority. This refusal often highlights the protagonist’s drive for transformation or growth. To conclude, they embody hurdles to overcome, immobility, intern and extern conflict, resistance and regression.

Therefore for episode 11, one might think that the other 1 was referring to Joo Jaekyung, for the latter appears like a barrier which the young physical therapist needs to overcome. (chapter 11) Let’s not forget that in Jinx-Fandom, many Jinx-addicts calls him a “red flag”. Here, he was abusing his position. Furthermore, this theory could be seen as validated with the first episode with this image: (chapter 1) The main lead appears as a beast, triggering the doctor’s fears. He seems to be like an antagonist. However, I believe that it is just a deception. First, Mingwa has clearly stated that the champion is the protagonist of Jinx. As such, he can be neither a villain nor an antagonist. Secondly, though he seems to serve as a barrier, the reality is that Kim Dan is incited to mature and overcome his own fears. In fact, the celebrity represents the opposite notions of “conformity” and “immobility”. He embodies verity, maturity, transformation and progression. The evidence of this perception is the gradual transformation of Kim Dan as an inexperienced PT to a very professional and performant physical therapist. According to my interpretation, the Emperor works as the mirror of truth. He confronts the delusional physical therapist with his mental and emotional issues, like here: (chapter 20). Sex is not dirty, he is not an old creep. He is just 29 years old. He is pure and innocent like a baby. Hence we should see this discussion (chapter 45) as a good trigger for the 29 years old man to turn into a good PT. From that moment on, he only focused on the sportsman, and stopped asking the help from colleagues or listening to them. (chapter 42) He only relied on his hands. He was forced to become a serious and confident PT!!

On the other hand, there is no denial that the athlete shares some similar traits with an antagonist: his selfishness, the use of threats and an ideology (his jinx). Consequently, one might still contest my interpretation. Nonetheless, this hesitation can be removed easily, when we return our attention to chapter 1 again. (chapter 1) This image was not reflecting reality, but Kim Dan’s vision!! The following panel is the unbiased truth: (chapter 1) The star was just waiting, and not threatening the doctor. As you can see, Joo Jaekyung doesn’t appear like a threat or a monster. But this doesn’t end here. One detail caught my interest. The champion is associated with blue. It is his true color, whereas Kim Dan is “red”, like a sweet strawberry. So why does this young man ooze a red aura, when his true shade is blue like water (chapter 27) or the ocean. It is because he was under the influence of his hyung Park Namwook which explains why Mingwa introduced him like this: (chapter 1) Note the contrast to his “boy”. The red is not coming from Joo Jaekyung’s body (chapter 1), but more from the side which stands in opposition to the coach.

Thus I came to the following deduction. In episode 1, the MMA fighter appears as an antagonist, but he is not the real one, it is his coach and manager. The latter only shows his true colors at the end of season 1. This interpretation gets corroborated with episode 11: (chapter 11) The coach is yelling for Joo Jaekyung’s comment, yet the reality is that the manager didn’t treat Kim Dan at all. In fact, he feigned ignorance. Moreover, look at the champion’s t-shirt: (chapter 1) There is a spider on his t-shirt, which represents the manager’s personality and behavior. (chapter 26) In this composition, I compared the MMA star with a leopard and Park Namwook to a spider: Daily Jinx Advent Insight 12. This shows that the main lead had been copying his mentor’s behavior for a while. And the moment you associate 1 with Park Namwook, it becomes more comprehensible why he argued with his pupil in 17 (chapter 17) or in episode 46 (chapter 46) He represents regression or the hurdle to overcome.

However, we should consider the first episode as a combination of 1 and 0: 01. And who was missing in this chapter? Naturally, Shin Okja, the doctor’s grandmother. She is the other antagonist for our beloved couple: (chapter 11) (chapter 11) And I can prove my statement by showing the episode where she appears:

Chapter 5Chapter 7Chapter 10Chapter 11Chapter 19Chapter 20Chapter 21

Chapter 22Chapter 30Chapter 41Chapter 47Chapter 48Chapter 53


Here, we should see as a continuation of episode 47.

By looking at the numbers carefully, I suddenly realized what the halmoni’s true number could be. It is 11 which actually makes 2. Hence we have 20, 21 and 22 where she plays a huge role. One might argue for this hypothesis, for she appears in episode 5 and 7. However, combine these two numbers together, then you have 12. A combination of 2 and 1, which is similar to 11 and 2. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why the Webtoonist made her appear again, when Baek Junmin (the criminal embodies 5) entered the spotlight: 5 *2 = 10 or 47 = 11. But what does the number 1 and 0 mean.

1: Isolation, Ego, and Domination

The number 1 is often associated with leadership, individuality, and beginnings. However, its negative side can symbolize isolation, self-centeredness, and authoritarianism.

  1. Isolation and Loneliness
    • As a singular entity, 1 can represent someone who stands alone, often by choice or force, cutting themselves off from others. Park Namwook has always excluded the athlete from the “parties” (chapter 9) or other events like this one: (chapter 37) Buying in secret junk food.
    • This isolation can stem from arrogance or a belief in their superiority, which distances them from meaningful relationships. (chapter 52) Hence he shouldn’t be seen as a true friend of the champion. He views himself as the better one: manners, temper and decisions. The reality is that he is never making any decision.
    • In Jinx, the antagonistic figures, such as the surrogate parents, could embody this isolation by choosing control over connection, leaving the leads emotionally detached and alienated. Hence the grandmother keeps asking favors from her grandchild (chapter 11) (chapter 47)
  2. Selfishness and Ego
    • Negatively, 1 reflects the “me-first” mentality, where the individual prioritizes their needs, desires, and ambitions at the expense of others.
    • In villains, this could manifest as manipulative behavior or exploitation, as they treat others as tools rather than equals. (chapter 1)
  3. Domination and Tyranny
    • In its extreme, 1 represents absolute power—one ruler, one decision-maker—leading to oppressive or dictatorial behavior. Hence Kim Dan could never get a job as PT at a hospital. (chapter 1) But it is the same for the champion who got his “gym” stolen from his hyung: (chapter 22) He is acting here like a tyrant.
    • This can parallel the way antagonists in Jinx drain others emotionally and physically, exercising control in a way that leaves the protagonists powerless and diminished. They feel jinxed. That’s the reason why I added bats on the illustration. I came to this revelation thanks to this article:

The hidden vampires in Jinx

And naturally, these two descriptions reminded me of the manager from Team Black. He slaps or yells at the champion, each time he is frustrated. Then he trusts no one (chapter 52), spreading rumors, mistrust and doubts. (chapter 46) This would explain the champion’s emptiness and darkness: (chapter 29) As for the halmoni, she embodies the last type of emotional vampire:

This description reminded me of the last conversation between the doctor and his grandmother. (chapter 53) The request for another sacrifice and promise. It is also possible that she represents a combination of another type, though we didn’t see her complaining too much in season 1:

Maybe the phone call during the night, her repetitive requests the next morning (chapter 21) and Kim Miseon’s reproach to Kim Dan could be seen as an indirect allusion. And if my interpretation about her number is correct, then we would have a good explanation why Kim Dan was unable to perceive her true nature, but also why she is so selfish.

11: The false spiritual guide

The number 11 in numerology is often referred to as a “Master Number,” carrying profound spiritual energy and potential for enlightenment. However, its heightened sensitivity and intense energy can also manifest negatively. While they are visionaries, individuals influenced by 11 sometimes struggle to transform their dreams into reality. Their focus on idealism or spirituality may distract them from practical implementation. People influenced by 11 may feel overwhelmed by their internal energy, leading to high levels of stress and emotional instability. Their sensitivity to external stimuli can make them prone to chaotic thoughts and anxiety when life feels out of balance. The number’s dual nature can create internal conflict, making it difficult for individuals to find stability. They may oscillate between extremes—hope and despair, inspiration and doubt. Despite their innate strength, they may overly depend on others for validation or support, sometimes at the expense of their own goals. This arises from their deep need to connect and help others, which can leave them emotionally exhausted or vulnerable to exploitation​ [for more read Numerologist.com​ ] Being a master number, 11 carries an intense energy that can be difficult to manage. People influenced by it might feel an excessive burden to achieve greatness, leading to burnout or feelings of inadequacy. This can prevent them from realizing their full potential, as they fear taking risks or making mistakes. This can lead them to remain passive. ​[Building Beautiful Souls] Finally, the number 11 would also explain why she is only focusing on herself. Emotional intensity, indecisiveness, imbalance and duality, overwhelm and pressure reflects the grandmother’s personality, as the latter always avoids conflicts and prefers running away from reality.

And that’s how I came to the following conclusion. Season 1 stands under the color of red. Note that the halmoni is always seen wearing red or dark pink clothes in the past (chapter 48), just like Park Namwook is wearing a red t-shirt with Team Black on it. These were the vampires who were draining out their “boys”. However, in the last episode, Park Namwook is no longer wearing the red t-shirt, but a blue one. (chapter 53) Only the logo is red. (chapter 53) It is important, because it announces the manager’s resignation. He doesn’t want to become responsible for the mess. Unconsciously, he is no longer claiming to be the owner of the gym. Furthermore, notice that the grandmother desires to return to the West Coast in order to see an ocean of “fire”. (chapter 53) This shows that she is longing for warmth and red colors. Yet, the color of the sea is rather green or blue. As you can see, everything is pointing out that the couple had to overcome the antagonists from season 1, the emotional vampires, who were so close to them than none of them realized that they were the origins of their suffering. And now, if you look at my table again:

Chapter 1Chapter 1Chapter 10Chapter 11Chapter 16Chapter 17Chapter 20
Loan SharksPerverted Hospital DirectorHeo Namwook/ the loan shark and his minionsHeo Namwook and minionsHeo Namwook and minionsHeo NamwookLoan Shark and Perverted Hospital Director
Chapter 37Chapter 46Chapter 46Chapter 47Chapter 48Chapter 49
Mysterious MFC agentHeo Namwook and minionsFirst appearance of Choi GilseokBaek Junmin’s first appearanceChoi Gilseok meeting Kim DanBaek Junmin meeting Joo Jaekyung and Director Choi switching the spray thanks to his minions

you will realize that the villains’ shades are blue, black and green. (chapter 35) In episode 16 and 17, the presence of the sun is a reference to the MMA fighter, it is announcing his arrival. This corresponds to the color I had detected with the first scheme: MFC with the blue “ring” embodies this pigment, just like the ocean. In other words, blue should be the dominant color in season 2, and in Taoism blue stands for YIN! On the other hand, Kim Dan also represents red with his name. Moreover, if you look at the numbers of the quoted episodes again, you will realize that the villains are strongly connected to the number 10 and as such one and zero. Thus Director Choi Gilseokf’s phone number is 010-1…. (chapter 46)

0: Emptiness, Neglect, and Obliteration

The number 0, often associated with nothingness and potential, has a shadowy counterpart that embodies destruction, void, and futility.

  1. Emptiness and Neglect
    • 0 represents a void—a lack of presence, empathy, or nurturing. Antagonists or villains embodying this aspect may not just harm directly but leave a gaping hole in the lives of those they affect. (chapter 10) Here, the manager showed no empathy or understanding in front of the champion. (chapter 37) He never complimented him for his hard work at all.
    • In Jinx, this could reflect the emotional neglect or apathy the antagonists or villains show, as their actions drain the main leads of energy, motivation, and a sense of self-worth.
  2. Annihilation and Destruction
    • As the symbol of “nothingness,” 0 can represent obliteration. It suggests an absence of growth, hope, or meaning, as antagonists and villains tear down rather than build up. (chapter 46) With these words, the manager creates a negative atmosphere, therefore there is no longer any trust and loyalty among the members.
    • The destructive aspect of 0 mirrors how the surrogate parents or antagonists in Jinx consume and drain the leads, leaving them emotionally barren and mentally fragmented. (chapter 10)
  3. Cycles of Futility
    • As a closed loop, 0 suggests an endless cycle, often one of despair or entrapment.
    • In the Korean Manhwa, this seems to symbolize how the protagonists are trapped in abusive dynamics with antagonists and villains (the loan sharks, director Choi, MFC and the way they treat their athletes like pawns) who repeatedly exploit and manipulate them, making escape seem impossible. The grandmother created the illusion that Kim Dan would be able to pay off the debts by working hard (chapter 18), until the champion confronted the protagonist with reality.

And if we analyze the number 46 (as a representative of 10), this is what we have:

46: Cycles of Dependence and Exploitation

  • 4 (Stability/Control) combined with 6 (Responsibility/Dependence) often represents a dynamic of obligation and control, but when tied to antagonism, it takes on a darker tone: a cycle where the protagonist is trapped in an exploitative relationship, unable to break free due to misplaced responsibility or imposed stability. Thus in episode 46 from jinx, the champion tried to express his expectations about the manager and coach (chapter 46), however Park Namwook refused to accept such a behavior from his boss. Therefore he put his pupil under pressure.
    • The surrogate parent attempted to enforce a toxic sense of responsibility (6) on the athlete, ensuring control (4) over his actions and emotions. However, the champion tried to escape from this by running away: (chapter 46) He avoided a confrontation. This number symbolizes how the lead feels burdened by obligations imposed by his oppressor, who positions himself as provider of “stability” while actually fostering dependence and draining his victim. And naturally, in the same chapter, we have a similar interaction between Heo Manwook, the minion and his hyung, the real boss: (chapter 46) Here, the director was reminding him of his mistakes and obligations. However, this time the boss chose to become proactive and responsible.

Since I linked season 1 to red, it dawned on me why Cheolmin or the perverted hospital director didn’t appear in that season. (chapter 1) (chapter 13) They are strongly intertwined with the color green and as such blue. In literature, art, and psychology, the color blue often represents calmness, loyalty, and introspection.This fits to the description made by the author concerning season 2. The latter would focus more on emotions and thoughts than on the plot. And now, it is time to reveal why in the illustration I added the number 9.

Number 9 and its significance

This number stands for “change and help”. In this part, I will only focus on the following numbers: 9, 18, 19, 27, 29, 36, 39, 45 and 49. In episode 9, the champion was asked to take care of Doc Dan. The latter needed help, for he was too drunk to return home on his own. (chapter 9) The leopard agreed and that’s how they came to argue about his home the next morning: (chapter 10)- So from 9 to 18, the story is focusing on the doctor’s home. In episode 18, Joo Jaekyung invites the poor physical therapist to his home. (chapter 18) In this episode, both main leads refuse the assistance from the other. Kim Dan is bothered that Joo Jaekyung paid off the debts, while the other dismissed the worries from the PT: (chapter 18) Then in episode 19, Joo JAekyung is not asking for his “help”, until he calls him. But even here, he is refusing to prepare his partner: (chapter 19) As for Kim Dan, the latter doesn’t feel truly needed as PT, hence he is already thinking about taking another job: (chapter 19) Then in episode 27, Kim Dan offers his assistance. (chapter 27) He encourages his VIP client to take a break by remaining by his side. However, this attempt fails, as in episode 29 , (chapter 29) the champion rejects the idea of resting for a day. Then after the incident with the article, at no moment Kim Dan offers his assistance to help the champion. He remains totally passive, (chapter 36) it shows his passivity and neglect. He doesn’t feel responsible for the champion’s career or safety. His concerns earlier were rather superficial. This explicates why he is also treated like a doll. Then in episode 39, for the first time, the doctor is requesting his help and assistance. (chapter 39) The problem is that it is related to a drug and sex. This has nothing to do with his job or career. Interesting is that in episode 45, for the first time, Joo Jaekyung voiced his needs to have him as a PT: (chapter 45). Without him, he can not do it. But here is the thing. In the locker room, the champion chose himself to treat his pain, he selected the pain relief spray over the doctor’s hands. (chapter 49) This means that in that scene, Joo Jaekyung refused to let Kim Dan treat him out of doubts and mistrust which were triggered by the manager’s words and the pictures. As you can see, the number 9 is strongly intertwined with help, but also with a change. The beginning of a new circle. Thus I am expecting in the new season, chapter 54, that for the first time, Joo Jaekyung will ask for help and support. But he can not ask Park Namwook or others from Team Black… he has only one true friend and that would be Cheolmin, unless he finds the protagonist immediately. At the same time, I would like to point out another observation. What is the opposite of 9? Naturally 6, which represents the end of a circle. And now, look at this:

Chapter 6Chapter 26Chapter 36Chapter 42Chapter 46

The end of Joo Jaekyung’s torment. He doesn’t need to chase after him.

Kim Dan is overcoming his fears. It is an allusion to Heo Manwook and his minions. On the other hand, the champion can not play with Kim Dan.

The end of a peaceful cohabitation, the return of fears from Joo Jaekyung (his jinx)
the presence of a scheme

The return of the mint-goblin, and as such the doctor’s fears (low self-esteem) At the same time, we shouldn’t overlook the presence of a third person in that flat who could appear in season 2.

The villains are exposed: they are now targeting Team Black and in particular Kim Dan.

The number 6 is strongly intertwined with regression, negative influence, schemes, antagonists and villains. Moreover, I detected a link between 6 and green/grey. That’s the reason why I am expecting more than ever in season 2, the fight between two green: nature versus money, fun versus seriousness, justice versus crimes/schemes. But in order to take place, the main couple needs to reflect about their own true desires in their life. What do they want exactly? A PT or a friend, a lover or a partner, a family or a company, justice or a scapegoat, fame or happiness?

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

Jinx: Daily Jinx Advent Insight 15 📆🃏♦️♥️

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.

Jinx: Daily Jinx Advent Insight 9 📆 🕳️☠️

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.

Jinx: Daily Jinx Advent Insight 8 📆 🥊

Since I am writing each day and I am still working as a teacher, you can imagine that I don’t have much time during the week to spend hours on the new analysis. Hence don’t expect a continuity in the examinations. Yesterday, I studied the significance of the games in chapter 27. Today, I will focus on a totally different aspect. And that will be Heesung’s injury and the coach’s apology. (chapter 31)

Park Namwook’s apology

The man with the glasses not only said “I’m sorry”, but also announced that Team Black would cover all the hospital fees and any kind of compensation, it signifies that the manager and coach was admitting his boy’s mistake. But actually, this was not the first apology from the coach. (chapter 31) As you can see, as soon as the actor was lying on the floor, the manager was already blaming his “boy”. This exposes that the man was not interested in the truth in the end. He had already given the judgement. But notice that Park Namwook chastised the protagonist for blocking the tackle. He reproached his star that he should have absorbed the comedian’s tackle.

Tackle or absorb?

I have to admit that I am not that knowledgeable concerning MMA fighting. But even for me this recommendation sounded weird, for it meant that the protagonist should have withstood the impact and allowed the actor to let him fall. Absorbing a tackle, especially at high impact, can lead to various injuries due to the sheer force on the body. Common injuries include concussions, joint injuries, fractures, spinal, neck and soft tissue injuries, as absorbing such force without proper technique can be damaging. In conclusion, a full-strength tackle in contact sports can exert a force comparable to that of a low-speed car accident or a moderate-speed bicycle collision.

And now pay attention to the way Heesung tackled the champion: (chapter 31) He used his whole weight and strength to take down his counterpart. This corresponds to a low-speed car accident and Mingwa let us see the effect of this terrible impact: (chapter 31) His facial expression was betraying him: he was in pain. This means that in verity the one who had caused an injury was not the champion, but Heesung. But there is more to it.

In most cases, blocking a tackle is considered safer and more effective than simply absorbing one, especially in contact sports like football or rugby. Blocking a tackle involves actively engaging with the force of the tackle, using strength, leverage, and positioning to reduce the impact on the body and redirect it safely. Here’s a breakdown of why blocking is generally better:

Control and Stability

  • When a player blocks a tackle, they use their body positioning to control the direction of the impact, often keeping a lower center of gravity and stabilizing themselves. This approach minimizes the risk of being taken off-balance, which reduces the likelihood of awkward falls and resulting injuries.
  • Absorbing a tackle, on the other hand, often puts the player in a passive stance, where they are simply bracing for impact without redirecting it. This can increase the chance of injury as the body takes on the full force of the collision.

Injury Prevention

  • Blocking a tackle can protect vital joints, muscles, and ligaments by transferring some of the impact force outward or downward. For instance, football players are trained to block using their hands, arms, and upper bodies in a way that reduces strain on vulnerable areas like the shoulders and knees.
  • Absorbing a tackle, where the body “takes” the hit, can concentrate impact on specific areas, which increases the risk of bruises, sprains, or even fractures if the player isn’t properly positioned.

Maintaining Momentum

  • Blocking a tackle can allow a player to stay in motion, potentially continuing the play or advancing. This is especially true for offensive players trying to avoid being tackled, as blocking enables them to avoid being completely stopped or taken down.
  • Absorbing a tackle, by contrast, often brings the play to an immediate halt, and the player has less chance to keep moving.

Energy Efficiency

  • Blocking tackles is generally less tiring in the long run because it involves proactive positioning and technique rather than bracing the body repeatedly against impact. It requires skill and training but helps preserve energy during a game.
  • Absorbing tackles can be exhausting, as each impact takes a toll on the body. This can lead to fatigue more quickly, especially over the course of a game, which increases the risk of mistakes and injury.

The choice and its signification

In some cases, absorbing a tackle might be necessary, such as in situations where the player has no time or space to block effectively. However, whenever possible, blocking is usually preferable due to its advantages in control, safety, and momentum. Because the Emperor could block the attack, my avid readers can realize that the athlete had made the right decision. In addition, it exposes the Emperor’s superiority over his mentor. He has already surpassed his master. The incident exposes that the athlete actually no longer needs Park Namwook as coach and advisor on the ring. What caught my attention is that absorbing is strongly intertwined with passivity and immobility (“passive stance”, “takes”, “immediate halt”). This represents the manager’s philosophy. He is against move, decision and mobility. Through this discovery, I was finally able to prove that the coach is the source for Joo Jaekyung’s inner passivity and anxieties. Simultaneously, it outlines why none of the protagonists could unveil the mystery behind the schemes. PArk NAmwook was encouraging his boy and star to do nothing EXCEPT mistrust the members from Team Black. (chapter 46) If the manager had been that worried, why didn’t he confront the fighters from Team Black directly? Instead, he sent Yosep on an errand. In other words, he did nothing.

But the mentor’s mind-set focusing on passivity is also visible in a different context, in the way Joo Jaekyung fights in the arena. Yes, I noticed that Park Namwook is encouraging his athlete to use his body as shield, to wait for a while before attacking the opponent. That’s his strategy, therefore the athlete has been so focused on training his muscles. (chapter 37) Look at this:

Chapter 15Chapter 40 Chapter 50

The tactic was always to wait. He always let the opponents throw the first punches and he protected himself by using his arms. No wonder why his shoulders were in bad shape. Notice that Park Namwook desired to use the same strategy in the last fight: “tire Shotgun out and finish him off with the decisive strike”. It was never about taking the initiative! So why did he hire so many consultants? However, due to Kim Dan, Joo Jaekyung changed his strategy and this twice:

Chapter 5Chapter 50
In the second case, the athlete had to change his strategy, for he was already wounded. In other words, Kim Dan’s mistake was to teach Joo Jaekyung to trust his instincts and as such himself. He needs to stop using his body as a shield, but as a weapon, like he did in the doctor’s home: become proactive and anticipate his opponent’s moves.

Moreover, the association between the hyung and absorbing exposes the manager’s stupidity and lack of expertise. He has no idea about the impact on the body. Let’s not forget that Park Namwook is a former wrestler and not a MMA fighter. Hence technically, he doesn’t know judo, jujitsu, karate, boxing and Muay Thai and other disciplines. No wonder why this man is too one-sided. That’s how I realized the huge contrast with the physical therapist’s attitude. (chapter 25) The latter desired to learn the moves from MMA fighting (chapter 25) in order to understand the involvement of the muscles and the possible consequences on the body. This scene displays the lack of expertise from Park Namwook. How did he become a manager and even a coach? Perhaps a crash course organized by MFC (chapter 22), but the latter is definitely influenced by the criminal underworld. This new observation reinforces my previous theory that Kim Dan will come to replace the manager and coach’s position. What distinguishes them from each other is their attitude to knowledge. Kim Dan keeps learning, reading and watching, whereas the other has the impression, he already knows everything. I guess, he has never heard from the concept “lifelong learning”.The latter promotes the idea of continuously acquiring knowledge and skills throughout a person’s life. This approach values education beyond formal schooling, emphasizing that learning can happen in various settings (chapter 42), including personal, professional, and community experiences. The goal is to adapt to changes, meet evolving job requirements, and stay mentally engaged. In Germany and other countries, lifelong learning is promoted to foster personal growth, social inclusion, and employability, especially as technology and society rapidly evolve. I am myself a follower from this concept. Hence I am still looking for new things (learning new cultures, new languages, reading about psychology, …).

Rough on his body

Since the athlete had expressed physical pain through his visage (chapter 31), the man with the red t-shirt should have noticed it. Observe how he joins the actor. His body is facing his “boy”, so he was not standing behind him. From his place, he could have seen that Heesung had done something wrong. It is important because through this incident, Mingwa exposed the verity. Joo Jaekyung is not allowed to voice his pain, but he has to accept to be rough on his body. (chapter 27) Yet, he was chastised. I had always stated the coach’s responsibility before, but I had only found indirect evidences for this interpretation. Since he should have absorbed the impact, it implies that the latter should accept the pain as a normality. However by blocking Heesung’s assault, the athlete had tried to protect his own body. Thanks to Kim Dan, the fighter was learning how to treasure his own body. Moreover, it displays another flaw from Park Namwook: his risky attitude by making a bad recommendation. I would even add that his slap on the fighter’s neck is revealing his recklessness and thoughtlessness. (chapter 31)

And now, you know why Kim Dan had to treat Joo Jaekyung’s neck for more than two hours on a Saturday. (chapter 32) Joo Jaekyung was finally receiving his treatment for his injury, the consequence of Heesung’s tackle. No one checked on his body, just because the other was faking his injury. While writing this, I can’t stop my blood from boiling out of anger. To conclude, I am confirming once again that Park Namwook is a bad coach and manager. He shouldn’t be allowed to become one for the other fighters. He would treat them like toys or even “punching bags”. Imagine that he would also recommend such a strategy to Potato as fighter. That would be very dangerous. In addition, why was he treating his star so badly and privileging the actor? It is because the latter brings money forgetting that the champion is the source of his own income! And this brings me back to the initial picture:

Park Namwook’s hypocrisy

Striking is that the Webtoonist portrayed him with two faces. Naturally, she desired to expose the movement of the manager’s head. At the same time, we should consider this portrait as the symbol for his hypocrisy. The expression double-faced signifies that the person is saying one thing, but does the opposite. And that’s exactly what the hyung is doing: (chapter 43) Interesting is the idiom is a synonym for deceitfulness. And this brings me to my next observation. Why did he add “whatever other compensation you need”? The moment I asked myself this question, I couldn’t restrain myself from thinking that the manager might have known about the true intention from Choi Heesung. Is it a coincidence that Kim Dan was used as compensation for the athlete’s mistake? Moreover, the latter was supposed to meet the actor on a Saturday, his own day-off. (chapter 32) And this proves that Park Namwook is the reason why the athlete never took a day-off. He was forcing an employee to work during his day-off and the latter wouldn’t even be paid for this. It was included in the “salary”. It was, as if the manager was using the PT as his servant.

Anyone could detect that the actor was interested in the PT. Moreover, I would like to add that Choi Heesung made this request (chapter 31) in the hallway, next to the meeting room and office. So technically, Park Namwook could have heard them talking behind the door, a new version of this scene: (chapter 36) Was he truly ignorant about the actor’s intentions with all this wooing and sponsoring? (chapter 31) In addition, he had heard the comment from the gumiho’s manager. (chapter 30) Just because we didn’t see this, it doesn’t mean that it didn’t happen. And maybe that’s the other reason why he was more than willing to use Kim Dan. The latter was bringing a huge client to the gym. (chapter 31) He would come on a regular basis. Naturally, I have no more proof for this theory than the remark “whatever other compensation you need” and its timing. Nevertheless, one thing is sure. Kim Dan was treated the exact same way than Joo Jaekyung, a doll and servant at his disposal.

And this remark brings me to my next interpretation. Why doesn’t Joo Jaekyung apologize or say thank you? (chapter 37) It is because Park Namwook had become his voice. And we can observe this with the apology at the gym: (chapter 31) First, the champion was silenced with the slap. Therefore he couldn’t apologize. His apology was expressed through the bow which the man forced him to do. (chapter 31) It was, as though the star had become an automat that had to obey to his owner’s orders. However, it becomes clear that the apologies and gratitude from the hyung (chapter 37) are just lip-services because at the end, he has no problem to replace Kim Dan. (chapter 53) That’s the reason why I have been wondering if the last incident was not the trigger for the coach to drop his “boy” and find a new “star and champion”. Since he is so obsessed with money and fame, I can’t help myself wondering if he will take a new pupil and torment him so that the latter only becomes a shadow of himself. Let me know what you think about this.

Thanks to this image (chapter 31), I could detect that Kim Dan embodies a different strategy in MMA fighting: change and movement, becoming proactive, trusting his skills and instincts and treasuring the own body. The reason is that he comes from the medical field where the body is treated like a living body and not like a doll or toy.

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.

Jinx: Daily Jinx Advent Insight 7 📆 🃏

Since I updated the analysis “Precious Puppy Pals”, I decided not to write the second part of “Loves me, loves me not”.

Here, I would like to focus on the following panel and its significance: (chapter 27)

Joo Jaekyung a bad loser?

They are playing cards, and the champion is on the verge of exploding because of the Joker in his hand. He is about to lose the game. Since he is swearing (“Goddamn it…” and his facial expression is revealing his frustration, the readers are coming to the same conclusion than the athlete. He lost this card game. Moreover, they could witness his losses before. (chapter 27) His fine motricity and his sense of observation were not well developed, hence he selected the wrong pieces in both games. (chapter 27) In order to win in such games,the players need to take their time and observe. Yes, playing such games are encouraging calmness and patience. Indirectly, it is promoting peace of mind, people can forget their worries and anxieties. And because the athlete had lost all the games before, there is no doubt that he was rushing for a victory. Let’s not forget that he had bet with the doctor, he could win so easily. (chapter 27) In addition, because of the previous negative experiences, I believe that the champion’s belief (being jinxed) got revived. How could he explain that he would lose to such a poor and small opponent? That’s why it is necessary to question ourselves what kind of card games they were playing. (chapter 27)

Cards and the Joker

Based on the image, where a Joker card and a pair of 3s are visible, it seems likely they’re playing a card game where the Joker holds a special value, such as poker, Rummy, or a variation of a game like “Old Maid” or “Chase the Joker.” However, given the characters’ expressions and the presence of a Joker, poker or a poker-based game might be the most probable, as the Joker is often considered a “wild card” in these games, which can dramatically influence the outcome and cause tension.

In poker, the Joker could potentially be used to complete a hand, making the game more unpredictable and intense—explaining the “Goddamn it” reaction if someone has an unexpected advantage due to the Joker. Alternatively, if they’re playing a simplified, casual game where the Joker simply “beats” lower cards or acts as a trump, that could also explain the reaction. The Joker often adds an element of surprise or disadvantage, depending on the context of the game.

Striking is that the Joker in cards is associated with “surprise” and “wild card” which contrasts so much to the champion’s philosophy: routine. Moreover, the game “Chase the Joker” caught my attention.

As you can see, the joker is good news in this game, though the title of the name makes it sound otherwise, as though The Joker were the target. So the moment you imagine that they were playing this version (“Chase the Joker”), you can’t help yourself laughing about the absurdity of the situation. (chapter 27) Jaekyung could indeed have won the game if “Chase the Joker” was played with the Joker as a “Wild Card” that helps rather than hinders. Since he had only one card left, he was in a prime position to shout “Chase the Joker!” and win, especially if the Joker allowed him to play strategically and discard his remaining card.

If Jaekyung’s misunderstanding led him to see the Joker as a losing or undesirable card, he may have felt defeated prematurely. This adds an ironic twist where he believes he’s losing while actually being close to victory. It underscores themes of perception versus reality, where the “wild” or unexpected (like the Joker) can be beneficial if approached correctly. This might mirror Jaekyung’s tendency to view “wild” and “interruption of routine” as threats when, with the right perspective, they could be opportunities or strengths. Hence we could say that the champion is not a bad loser, as he chose defeat and let the other win. The irony is that with this action, he boosted the doctor’s low self-esteem.

Evidence for this interpretation

Interesting is that in the same episode, Mingwa utilized a similar trick with Kim Dan. (chapter 27) Because the latter couldn’t swim, he jumped to the conclusion that he was drowning. (chapter 27) He had no idea that the pool was not deep. Look at the similarities of the images, for the perspective is similar: (chapter 27) (chapter 27) Joy and embarrassment masked behind frustration. This not only made me laugh, for Joo Jaekyung could have won, but also it dawned on me that during that day, both were put in similar situations. Because they were new to this, their past experiences led them to misjudge the situations. One more time it displays that people’s misery and anger is self-inflicted. It is related to their perception of reality influenced by their beliefs and past experiences.

Joker and its signification

But there is more to it. The moment you see the Joker as a metaphor for the physical therapist, you will recognize the true significance of this scene. It foreshadows his function in the story. Joo Jaekyung had not recognized yet that he was holding the “wild card Kim Dan” which would make him win his game. (chapter 37) Is it a coincidence that the doctor drank his drugged nutrition drink? No… The reason why both became a victim of the second scheme is that they were no longer communicating to each other. (chapter 47) They are no longer facing each other, the athlete was even turning his back on his precious roommate and PT. Joo Jaekyung had started keeping his distance from his soulmate because he had listened to his toxic mentor (chapter 46) who takes everything so seriously. In other words, he had suspected the joker to be the “wild card” to make him lose (chapter 51), while in reality the latter had protected his back. Interesting is that exactly like in the penthouse (chapter 27), the athlete deserted the room out of anger (chapter 51) leaving the doctor behind. It was, as if he had thrown away his Joker without realizing his true value. However, we shouldn’t overlook this aspect. The fighter’s words were not reflecting his true thoughts and emotions. He was acting impulsively and thoughtlessly overlooking that words can be as harmful as punches. And what is the common denominator between these two matches? Team Black had reacted impulsively. They made accusations and rushed decisions, while just like in board games, patience and observations are necessary to win a round. Yes, this connection between these two scenes displays that life is like a game… you should take your time, enjoy the moment, you can start afresh and play a new game. While the manager is envisioning to replace the doctor (chapter 53) and as such to change the cards, the wolf (chapter 53) decided to pick up the Joker on the floor and continue the game, as the round is not finished yet. His intention is to bring his Joker Kim Dan back in order to use him properly in the future. He will treat him with patience, trust, respect and care! Moreover, observe that the goal of “Chase the Joker” is to get rid of the cards. Consequently, I perceive this game as a metaphor for the champion’s future actions and decisions: he will have to get rid of certain cards like MFC manager, the Entertainment agency and the lawyer in order to become the true winner. He regains control of his own life. I am leaving out the manager and coach, for I believe that Park Namwook will stay there, but he will have a different position.

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

Jinx: Loves me, loves me not 📆 ❤️ 💔 – part 1 (Daily Jinx Advent Insight 6)

Before starting writing the series “Daily Jinx Advent Insight”, I had already announced to release this essay. However, since my time is limited and I desire to keep my promise, I chose to combine these two series together. Hence the analysis “Loves me, loves me not” will have many parts. I can’t compose long essays each day.

During the first season, some Jinx-philes used to contact me and ask me the following question. Does Joo Jaekyung already love Kim Dan and if yes, when did he fall in love with him? As you can imagine, I will try to give an accurate answer in this series “Loves me, loves me not”. On the other hand, it is necessary to keep in mind that here, I will focus more on the emotional side of “love” than the one defined by Erich Fromm. Love is care, respect, knowledge and responsibility. Nevertheless, this raises the following question. How can we measure or notice his affection for the physical therapist? What are the signs for love? For that, we need to return to the beginning of the story Jinx.

The strawberry hamster and the mint goblin

What did Joo Jaekyung incite to drop the green-haired guy for the physical therapist? (Chapter 1) Imagine that he was in the middle of an intercourse. Yet he felt the need to have someone else by his side. It was, as if the grass on the other side was looking greener. 😉 Yes, in this scene, I detect parallels between Choi Heesung and Joo Jaekyung. (Chapter 33) On the one hand, the celebrity felt attracted to Kim Dan, on the other hand he had already sensed that the green-haired uke was greedy and even too passive. He was letting the celebrity fuck him. Yet there was neither real interaction nor sensuality between them. Hence the athlete could call Kim Dan during their sex. Funny is that the other didn’t mind at all, or in the worst case he didn’t even notice it. This shows not only the deafness and blindness of the mint goblin, but also the absence of communication and understanding in their “couple”. It was, as though the green-haired uke had submitted himself of becoming a sex toy. So by recalling the doctor, there is no doubt that the athlete couldn’t have voiced this change verbally. Why was he thinking of someone else during the intercourse? He was just simply not feeling it, the “great fuck”. In other words, Joo Jaekyung was attracted to Kim Dan by lust! In my previous analysis entitled Daily Jinx Advent Insight 3, I had pointed out the importance of “lust” in a relationship, as the latter represents the first step of love. As a source for this statement, I used this video:

Lust and love, though both powerful forces, differ significantly in how they manifest and endure. Lust primarily centers on physical attraction and thrives on fantasy, often fueled by an idealized version of the person rather than a grounded, realistic connection. While lust can feel intense initially, it typically weakens over time as the novelty fades. Love, in contrast, deepens with shared experiences, evolving into a bond built on emotional connection and mutual understanding. Unlike lust’s pursuit of excitement and thrill, love seeks stability, turning a romantic partner into a lifelong friend. Finally, love is selfless, focusing on the well-being and happiness of the other person, whereas lust tends to be more self-centered, driven by personal desires rather than a lasting commitment.

Since the green-haired uke only saw the athlete as a cash cow (“milking”) (chapter 42), it becomes clear why the athlete’s lust for the mint goblin couldn’t last. The latter was only interested in his money and not even in his body. Thus he didn’t try to bring thrill into their relationship or even seduce him. And now, you comprehend why Mingwa let us see such a scene in the beginning of the story. (chapter 2) He had never done it before. As for the champion, Manhwa-lovers can grasp that since their relationship was purely physical (not even accompanied with romanticism due to the athlete’s jinx), the lust from the champion’s side could only weaken overtime. When the athlete met the actor, he had not met the green-haired man before. Hence the sportsman was sitting at the bar looking more or less for a new partner. (chapter 33) So the relationship between the “prostitute” and the fighter must have lasted around 3 months, the same amount of time than with the physical therapist. The uke had put no effort, for in verity he was relying on the athlete’s jinx. The latter just needed him, and no one was willing to experience such a rough sex session. The reason why I gave the green-haired uke the nickname “mint goblin” is the following. He brought some fresh breathe in the athlete’s life, for contrary to his past lovers, this one didn’t run away. However, as time passes on, the mint taste couldn’t mask his corrupted mind and heart. He was passive and rotten deep inside. But there’s more to it. Thanks to the mint goblin, the athlete learned an important lesson. It was possible that someone could match his strength in bed. Yes, the latter wasn’t passing out like the others. Deep down, the star could sense that he was no monster, a criticism he had received from the actor.

Thanks to this new perception, it dawned on me why the athlete felt the need to reveal this secret to the mint goblin. Note that “lust” is strongly intertwined with “fantasy and as such romanticism”. So by exposing his odd belief, he desired to mask even his own attraction, so that the goblin wouldn’t notice that he was lusting after him. No one should know his type, his true weakness. Simultaneously, this revelation helped him to conceal and protect his own heart. He wouldn’t be exploited. With his jinx, he didn’t see himself as totally vulnerable, for he was actually denying the existence of a future close relationship. The uke could get replaced, he just needed someone and that was it. In other words, the revelation of the jinx was like a death sentence to their liaison. (chapter 2) There would be nothing left in the future, it was a work relationship. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why Kim Dan had to end their relationship at the end of the season. Because of his confession, their relationship was doomed to fail. It stood under the sign of “jinx”. We could say that the champion was receiving his karma for treating people like sex toys or surrogate fighters.

Joo Jaekyung and lust

The moment I made a connection between Choi Heesung and the green-haired guy, I had another revelation. Joo Jaekyung had criticized the actor for switching his partners constantly (chapter 33). The irony is that as soon as he saw Kim Dan (chapter 1), he got attracted to this pretty and cute new face. However, contrary to the comedian, he didn’t realize this, for the athlete is not someone who thinks deeply. He acts rather on his emotions, exactly like his mentor Park Namwook. Since lust is the first stage of love, the recipient of his “attraction” needed to give him a signal that he was interested in him. I doubt that the celebrity would have made a move on him, if the doctor had not made this mistake (chapter 1). Naturally, grabbing his phallus was the expression of the doctor’s masked sexual desires. This signifies that when the couple met for the first time, the grass appeared greener on the other side (medical world) for the first time. Since we have the first step of love in their relationship, we could say that the athlete was already in love with Kim Dan. While “lust” only represents the first stage in a love relationship, I decided to examine their relationship on this aspect.

Sex toy and lust

Since in the beginning of the story, the athlete was using his partners as sex toys, I detected a huge progression in chapter 33. This episode stands under the sign of LUST. The presence of the dildo is exposing the switch of the doctor’s position. The physical therapist is now treated like a human who can have his own pleasure. Under this new light, one might conclude that the actor was rather acting under the influence of “lust” in the car scene: (chapter 33) We have the novelty aspect (bringing thrill into their relationship) and the champion’s selfishness. The sex toy was utilized as a “punishment”, for the athlete was upset due to his jealousy. However, this perception is still too short-sighted. You will laugh, as soon as you read my new interpretation.

When Kim Dan started spending time with Choi Heesung, Joo Jaekyung feared that the actor could appear as the “greener grass”. He was generous, smiling and would compliment the young man. But more importantly, the fighter was tormented, because he didn’t know his soulmate’s type. He feared that the actor was totally the hamster’s type. The champion was exposing his insecurities, for he didn’t know if Kim Dan was actually attracted to him or not. Remember how the cute hamster kept rejecting his advances (chapter 8) (chapter 27) Consequently, the man had to bring up the deal constantly. Besides, their relationship started because of money. Finally, I would like Jinx-lovers to keep in mind the doctor’s lie: he had previous relationships with men. (chapter 3) As you know, I am quite certain that the athlete had sensed his lie (thus he utilized no condoms later). Yet, Kim Dan never came out with the truth either. This is relevant, for there could be lingering doubts from the MMA star’s side. Since the athlete had no idea about the doctor’s taste and physical attraction, Joo Jaekyung worried that his partner would start fantasizing the gumiho. Under this light, my avid readers can grasp why in episode 33, it was important for the champion to use the sex toy first. Initially it was to exhaust the doctor so that the latter would no longer feel attracted to Choi Heesung. Yes, it was to kill in him “lust”. Moreover, the moment the young man asked for his assistance (chapter 33), Joo Jaekyung had the impression that he was needed. Finally, don’t forget how this scene ended. Kim Dan was finally admitting that he was really sensitive to him: (chapter 33) However, this desire was accompanied with rejection and denial too. This explicates why the champion didn’t know how to interpret Kim Dan’s thoughts and emotions. (chapter 33) Was Kim Dan feeling the same way than him or not? Did Kim Dan desire him or not? And this leads me to the next sex session: (chapter 34) For the first time, the athlete was divulging his physical attraction and desire towards the doctor. He seduced him with his own body. Yet, in order to keep the upper hand in their relationship, he was the one who was determining how they would have sex: (chapter 34) As you can see, during season 1, it took a long time for the athlete to admit “lust and physical attraction” towards the doctor. One might reply that the celebrity had already admitted this to the physical therapist: (chapter 29) However, this confession is connected to the anus, and not to the doctor’s face and as such identity. Thus I don’t consider it as an admission that Kim Dan was his type. One might object too that he had already wooed the doctor before next to the swimming pool. (chapter 27) The divergence between these two chapters is that in the first scene, the athlete had not planned this. He was acting on his instincts and emotions, while in the living room, he was seducing the doctor on purpose. (chapter 34) I would even add that he gave more freedom to Kim Dan to decide if he would accept his offer or not. As you can see, Joo Jaekyung was learning to internalize the notion “consent and respect”. Here, the doctor could have refused… the evidence is his reaction at the gym, the slap on the athlete’s hand. That’s how I realized the strong connection between the athlete’s ignorance about his soulmate’s taste (partner type) and his consent. Respecting the doctor’s boundary meant to trust that the doctor was attracted to him and accepted him as a partner.

The signification behind the forgotten confession

And this brings me to my final thought. When Kim Dan confessed this in the States (chapter 39), this could only make the athlete happy first. He had the impression that he had finally discovered his soulmate’s taste and secret: he was also feeling the same… LUST. Yes, I am not writing love, but lust on purpose. Why? The irony is that the athlete was not recognizing that he was feeling more than lust for Kim Dan. He was already in love. 😉 However, so far he had only been busy focusing on Kim Dan’s type. Was the man also lusting after him or not? Under this new perspective, Manhwa-lovers can grasp why Joo Jaekyung asked this to Kim Dan in the dining room: (chapter 41) He didn’t expect a love confession He wanted to know if Kim Dan was finally accepting him as his partner, if he desired him too. Yes, gradually the possibility of dating was slowly emerging. Like mentioned in the introduction, lust is just the beginning of love. So should Kim Dan have remembered this night in the hotel room, he would have come not only to deny his feelings for the athlete, but also he would have reduced this “I love you” to lust, just a physical reaction due to the drug. A new version of the blue night, the only difference is that that night he kept his thoughts to himself.

In my eyes, it was important for the star not to know if the doctor was attracted to him, for the latter was making the same mistake than his frenemy: confusing lust with love. That way, their relationship wouldn’t have improved, as time passed on. They would have remained simply “fuck buddies”. Nevertheless, that’s not what the fighter truly desires deep down. He is also looking for companionship. Hence Mingwa confronted him with reality and forced him to make a choice: (chapter 45) What did the athlete imagine here? A fake love confession from Kim Dan, a stan trying to live out a fantasy. He was expecting “dating”, a notion he couldn’t accept, for he was confusing “lust” with “love”. That’s the reason why he couldn’t accept Doc Dan’s present and “gratitude”. They sounded like fake, especially since he was showing respect to the celebrity and not to the man himself! Yes, even in that scene, the PT was still hiding his own true emotions and attraction towards the handsome man. Joo JAekyung has no idea that Kim Dan views him as “perfect” (chapter 1) despite his injured shoulder: the muscles, the skin, the handsome face. He has never voiced such thoughts in front of his VIP client.He always kept them to himself.

That’s how I recognized why these two men stopped having sex after that time. Joo Jaekyung needed to learn how to distinguish love from lust. This explicates why the star got more upset with this departure (chapter 53) than with this one: (chapter 53) He let him go, for he anticipated that the latter would remain by his side. In addition, he didn’t feel the need to have sex the whole night, as his affection had already moved to the next stage. There was more than physical attraction and desire.

That’s it for today. In the next part, I will expose how we can see the champion falling in love. I will divulge the signs helping to identify that the wolf is under the spell of the cute hamster.


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

Jinx: Sound Of Water 🏖️ (third version)

The countdown for season 2 is running. The author and Lezhin announced that chapter 54 will be released on November 22nd. 🎉 Almost exactly one year after the start of the first season.

A great thank you to @Rin_de_eegana who provided me with the original Haikus. Hence the English translation was changed.

Initially, I desired to release this essay , but as always I didn’t anticipate the effort and energy involved in the composition. Thus I decided to publish the essay “Sound Of Water” first, as it is much easier to write (less literature to read). The trigger for this essay are Haikus which I discovered in a recently published French Book entitled “Le bruit de l’eau” (Sound of water). And now, you know the origin for this essay. As you can see, the collection of Haikus is focusing on the topic “Water”. Since I only possess the French version of Haikus, I could only give you my own English translation. Fortunately, my friend @Rin_de_eegana was able to find the original version, Japanese. Therefore in the second version, I am giving a second English translation whích gave me new insight once again. Anyway, the thing is that as soon as I read certain poems, it made me think of Jinx and the characters. This shows my obsession for this terrific Manhwa.

1. Haikus and nature

On the other hand, you might be wondering how the Korean Manhwa is connected to Haikus and to water as well. In order to answer to this question, it is first necessary to present the characteristics of a Haiku.

1. 1. Characteristics of a Haiku:

  1. Syllable Structure: Traditionally, a haiku consists of three lines following a 5-7-5 syllable pattern. This means the first line has 5 syllables, the second line 7, and the third line 5. However, in modern haiku, especially in non-Japanese contexts, this structure can be more flexible.
  2. Seasonal Reference (Kigo): Classic haikus often include a reference to nature or a specific season, known as a kigo. This ties the poem to the natural world and evokes a sense of time or environment.
  3. Juxtaposition (Kireji): There is typically a contrast or shift in perspective, often marked by a cutting word (kireji) in Japanese. This brings two images or ideas into sharp focus, inviting the reader to connect them in a meaningful way.
  4. Present Moment (Awareness): Haikus capture a single moment in time with brevity and clarity. The poet seeks to express the essence of an experience, often related to nature, through minimalistic yet vivid language.
  5. Subjectivity and Simplicity: The poem is usually personal, expressing the poet’s direct experience or observation in a simple, unsentimental manner.

If you read all my previous analyses about Jinx, you are already aware that in this story, Mingwa has been portraying the city as a place full of corruption and estrangement. Yet the main leads are slowly reconnecting to their own true nature thanks to each other. Furthermore, the Webtoonist is stating through Jinx that fame or wealth are no real source of happiness, rather love and fulfilment. Thus the champion is suffering from depression, insomnia and anger issues. Finally, through her characters, it becomes clear that they need to learn how to “enjoy the moment”. That’s how they will come to love life and stop living like ghosts. That’s how they will learn how to live a good life. And that’s exactly what a Haiku is conveying too. The latter is often linked to the concept of “enlightenment” and “carpe diem” (seizing the day), though not always in an overt way. Many haikus emphasize the fleeting nature of life or the ephemeral beauty of a single moment—key elements of the carpe diem philosophy. The seasonal references, especially to autumn or falling leaves, often remind readers of life’s transience (ephemerality) encouraging an appreciation of the present moment before it passes. For example, a haiku may evoke the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring (a symbol of both renewal and impermanence) or describe the changing of seasons to highlight the inevitability of change and decay, which can be interpreted as a quiet call to embrace life while we can.

In essence, haikus share with carpe diem the philosophy of mindfulness—appreciating the now because it is fleeting. And now, you comprehend why the French book about Haikus is containing poems about water. Since the illustration is showing the sea, , anyone will think immediately of the ocean. But where is the sea in Jinx?

1. 2. Blue and Boundary

It was implied in chapter 14/15 with the doctor’s trip to Busan, a city which is situated on the Southern coast. (chapter 14) Yet, the main lead never got the chance to see it. Then the ocean is only mentioned directly at the end of the first season. The halmeoni was expressing her wish to return to the West Coast (chapter 53) where she hoped to see a beautiful ocean one more time. (chapter 53) When she was 10 years old, she was moved by how the ocean changed colors with the beautiful sunset. It was no longer blue or grey, but yellow, red, pink, orange and purple. This wonderful but brief moment left such a deep impression on her that she could never forget it. (chapter 53) She never came to regret her walk to the beach, because this souvenir also became her source of strength. This memory created in her the desire to see it again, thus she kept postcards with views of the ocean. (chapter 17)

In addition, I believe that the mesmerizing view also made her forget everything: her worries or her family. (chapter 53) Hence she remained immobile and silent in front of the amazing view. We could say, she felt totally engulfed by the ocean in fire, forgetting herself in the brilliant glow of the sunset as if she were becoming one with the view. This interpretation reinforces my perception about the intention behind the halmeoni’s wish: escapism from reality. She believes that with such a view, she will forget her terminal disease and even her pain, as though it will help her to live longer.

But there is another reason why she was so affected which I discovered with this Haiku written by Santoka:

French EnglishJapanese
“Me voilà
là où le bleu de la mer
est sans limite.”
“Here I am,
where the blue of the sea
knows no bounds.”
New translation:
I am here now,
in the boundless blue
of the sea.”
われ今ここに
海の青さのかぎりなし

The Haiku evokes a profound sense of openness and freedom, often reflecting a Zen-inspired approach to nature and self-awareness. Since the ocean embodies infinity and timelessness, the observer “Here I am” is remembering through the beautiful view of the ocean of his own limit: mortality. At the same time, the contrast encourages the “Here I am “ not only to meditate. It also motivates the person to grow, to push away his own limits. Why? It is because the boundless blue sea symbolizes both the vastness of nature and the limitless potential of the self, inviting reflection on life’s expansive and uncontainable aspects. The sea here represents a place beyond the limits of ordinary concerns, not as a void but as openness and infinite potential. This limitless “blue” suggests an escape from the mundane, a place for self-discovery, and the eternal flow of time, reminiscent of the Buddhist idea of impermanence. As a conclusion, this haiku captures a moment of complete presence within the vastness of nature. The poet stands before the limitless blue of the sea, feeling both awe and a sense of unity with its expansiveness. The phrase “I am here now” grounds the poet in the present (ephemerality), whereas “boundless blue” emphasizes the sea’s infinite reach, a powerful symbol for freedom, mystery, or eternity. The haiku suggests an experience of feeling both small and deeply connected within the immense, unending beauty of the natural world.

As you can sense, this poem captures the “now,” encouraging readers to embrace a moment as fleeting as the sea’s endless horizon, thus aligning with “carpe diem.” Shin Okja must have felt free, peaceful and powerful in that moment. As you can imagine, as soon as I saw this picture with the poem, I couldn’t help myself thinking about Kim Dan. In front of the sea, the PT should find his true self: no boundary… like the sea! In front of the sea, he could get more self-awareness and realize that he is also strong. In season 1, people could sense his low self-esteem. So by being next to nature (sea, trees), he could regain his self-confidence. In other words, I believe that his journey to the sea will affect him deeply too, though he has no expectation at all.

Is it a coincidence that his silhouette (chapter 53) is glowing blue? I don’t think so. Let’s not forget that blue symbolizes wood for Koreans. The sea (water) and a tree (chapter 41) are the doctor’s true elements. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why under the tree, he came to acknowledge his feelings for the athlete. In addition, if Kim Dan gets close to water, this signifies that he will get replenished and truly nourished. And notice that during season 1, he never ate properly.

But this doesn’t end here. The poem also reminded me of Joo Jaekyung: (chapter 53) He is standing in front of the blue city. But he doesn’t feel free and powerful. Why? There is a window in front of him. The window is showing him his own boundaries. His penthouse is like a cage, and he is not truly dominating the city. In reality, he is isolated. To conclude, the panel stands in opposition to the Japanese poem and the grandmother’s vision: alienation, regret and powerlessness. So we should write the haiku like this, from the champion’s perspective:

“Here I am,
where the blue of the city
knows my limits.”

In Seoul, he is now portrayed as a thug and loser. Since the image contradicts the original haiku from Santoka, this means that the moment in front of the window embodies not self-awareness, but the opposite: obliviousness, ignorance, or even self-deception. These terms imply a lack of insight into his own thoughts, feelings, or actions, which led him misunderstand or misjudge Kim Dan. Similarly, the opposite of peace of mind can be described as anxiety, distress, or turmoil, which are states marked by worry, unease, or mental unrest, often resulting from unresolved conflicts or lack of clarity. Thus the fighter can not express his emotions and thoughts properly. (chapter 53) Together, these opposites suggest a state of inner turmoil or confusion, where a person lacks clarity about both themselves and the world around them, which can inhibit personal growth and well-being. And this is exactly how the main lead feels in the final panel of season 1.

Thus it dawned on me that both characters could make a beautiful experience in front of the ocean in fire. How so? I realized that the grandmother never shared this experience with her grandson before. She kept this beautiful moment as a secret (chapter 53) which is the exact opposite to Santoka. By writing the haiku, the author desired to share his thoughts and emotions, and encourage his readers to meditate and to feel this freedom and peacefulness. Thus I am expecting that both characters will go to the ocean together and that’s how the latter will get closer to each other. Their intimacy will improve not just through clear and direct communication, but also through shared experiences. However, we shouldn’t imagine that they will make the exact same experience than Shin Okja, as each person is different. Furthermore, they could go there to a divergent season or time, hence the nature of the ocean could be different:

Like this Haiku from Amari Ôki

French EnglishJapanese
Loin d’être
aussi calme qu’un mort
la mer hivernale !
“Far from being
as calm as the dead,
the winter sea!”
New translation:
There is no ease of death
in the winter sea.
死ぬといふ やすらぎ
冬の海になし

The French version of this haiku contrasts the common image of calmness with the intense energy of the winter sea. By comparing it to the dead, the poet suggests that even in the cold and desolate season, the sea is dynamic, restless, and alive—defying the stillness and finality of death. This evokes a sense of nature’s persistent vitality, even in winter’s harshest state. The constant, unrelenting waves of the winter sea indeed suggest an image of persistence and ceaseless motion contrasting with the sleeping nature in winter. This naturally made me think of the grandmother’s death, who might have vanished, but she remains present in the heart and mind of the main leads. In front of a changing and vigorous sea, the beholder is also reminded of his own life and mortality.

However, the Japanese version and the second English translation gives a totally different interpretation. The « winter sea » conveys a vision of death that is neither gentle nor peaceful, but rather restless and intense, like the winter sea itself. In this image, the cold, churning waters of winter contrasts with the idea of a calm, serene end. The winter sea embodies a relentless, almost haunting energy, where waves are constantly breaking and crashing, echoing a sense of turmoil rather than tranquility.

This interpretation suggests that, just as the winter sea is harsh and unyielding, so too might death be something that doesn’t bring the expected ease or comfort. It reflects an unsettling vision of nature and existence, where peace is elusive and even death holds an enduring, untamed force. This means that once the halmeoni is facing the ocean, the latter could scare her, because she is reminded of her own death. She would be confronted with her own powerlessness and mortality, this can only reinforce her fears about death. Another possibility is that Kim Dan is triggered by this vision (don’t forget that he fears water: (chapter 27) Like mentioned above, the beholder in front of the ocean can have a different experience than the young girl.

2. The grandmother’s confession

Let’s return our attention to Shin Okja’s childhood and magical moment once again. (chapter 53) What caught my attention is the vocabulary employed to describe her past life is revolving around “chaos”, “urgency” and “race against time: “to evacuate” and “so hectic”. (chapter 53) Thus I deduce that in that moment, she must have felt at peace. This explains why she could never forget this magic moment. However, her confession displays a deep regret as well: she couldn’t go back to the ocean. I would even add that she is portraying herself as a person who had no control over her life. It was either « we » or « life ». Through her words, we can sense her passivity, but also her victim mentality. It was not her fault that she couldn’t go back to the ocean. She never had the opportunity to do so!! She never had missed her chance. She is denying the existence of a missed chance or timing. After reading the description of her past life, I am quite certain that my avid readers can recognize the similarities between the athlete and the halmeoni’s destiny. Until his defeat, Joo Jaekyung had no time either. He was also racing against time. However, there exists one divergence between them: the chance to make the right decision. This means that the champion has now the opportunity to take a break. Furthermore, he also has one chance to get back the doctor, but he shouldn’t miss it.

This quote underlines the importance of awareness and self-knowledge in seizing opportunities and making meaningful choices. Fromm frequently discussed how individuals miss chances for genuine self-fulfillment because they are distracted by external pressures or conformist habits, thereby losing touch with the pivotal moments that could bring change and growth. Thus I deduce that Shin Okja is not truly honest to herself and her grandchild. She must have had a chance at some point, but she made the wrong decision. Thus she portrays herself as a victim of circumstances. There is no doubt that contrary to Shin Okja, the athlete won’t miss his second chance and will change for the better.

However, we shouldn’t forget that with her request, the grandmother is making a rush decision in reality. She is not taking her time to reflect if her desire to go to the West coast is a good thing. Like I wrote in the previous analysis Click : Between Fleeting illusions and Enduring Realities, she got definitely deceived by this brochure: (chapter 53) Furthermore, she is imagining that she can make the same experience again. But this is just an illusion, like the Greek philosopher Heraclitus explained it:

Heraclitus uses the river as a metaphor to show that everything is in constant flux. Just as the water in a river is always moving, flowing from one place to another, everything in life is always changing—from our thoughts, feelings, and bodies to the external world. This idea (“everything flows”) points to his belief that nothing remains static or permanent.

Yes, Shin Okja is no longer the 10 years old child. She needs someone by her side to go to the beach. (chapter 53) Secondly, I doubt that the beautiful view could make her forget her suffering. Finally, let’s not forget that for one single moment, she will spend many days in a hospice, where she will be surrounded by dying people. Furthermore, the image of the ocean could generate a different feeling: torment like mentioned above. She is expecting to make the same experience, but the opposite could happen. She gets terrified and tormented. Therefore I have the impression that the grandmother might come to regret her past decision. But contrary to the past, she can not blame the others (« we ») or life, as it was her own choice and request! Therefore I deduce that in the past, she let others make decisions for herself, like we could see it with her expensive treatment. She listened to Kim Dan and the oncologist. (Chapter 7) And we could see that Joo Jaekyung had a similar attitude in season 1, he would listen to his hyungs and the people working for MFC. Consequently, I come to the following deduction: this time, the fighter will make the decision on his own. He won’t follow Park Namwook’s advice: (chapter 53) The latter is asking him to simply wait and to rely on him. Joo Jaekyung will take the matter into his own hands, the exact opposite attitude to the beginning of season 1.

3. Regret and Water

As you can see, thanks the first two haikus, I got a much better understanding of the characters from Jinx. However, the biggest revelation came with another haiku. Water comes under different forms, like a river, a waterfall or rain. Therefore the book contains the following haiku written by Ryokan Taigu.

French EnglishJapanese
Jour après jour
Tombe la bruine –
La vieillesse me saisit
“Day after day
The misty rain falls—
Old age grips me.”
New translation based on the Japanese version:
Day by day,
as the winter rain falls,
people grow old.”
日々日々に
時雨の降れば
人老いぬ (Thanks to @rinsan)

This haiku reflects the passage of time and the inevitability of aging, with the winter rain symbolizing the steady, unstoppable rhythm of nature that mirrors life’s transient nature. The imagery of rain falling “day by day” emphasizes the gradual, almost unnoticed progress of time that ultimately leads to aging. Despite the slight change in the translation, it doesn’t affect my revelation and new interpretation. Thanks to this poem, I had suddenly realized two aspects. First, the fall and winter in Jinx symbolize the dying Shin Okja. The seasons are mirroring the aging and the changes. This means that we should expect her death either in fall or in winter. I am opting more for fall due to the rain, though the poem from Amari Ôki is connecting death to winter. Why? Striking is that in season 1, Mingwa always showed us a beautiful weather. The sun was always present following the main lead, (chapter 1) (chapter 47) (chapter 47) even when the doctor was confronted with the truth about his terminally ill grandmother. The sun was always shining brightly. Since in the haiku from Ryokan Taigu, the rain is associated with old-age and fall (misty), it dawned on me that the rain should be associated with the grandmother’s death. If this comes true, it was, as though the sky and gods were weeping for her vanishing. Additionally, the first season took place in Spring and Summer, thus I deduce that season 2 will take place around late summer, fall and winter. This means that the weather should change. And this remark led to my second revelation. I started looking for South Korea’s climates, particularly I was curious about the climate on the West Coast.

Should they move to the beige region on the West coast, this signifies that it will rain more often, especially in the Summer. 😮

As you can see, late Summer and fall in South Korea are strongly linked to rain and even typhoons😨. And we would have a possible explanation about the circumstances for the vanishing of Kim Dan’s parents and his fear of water. Imagine this. By returning to the West Coast and as such by reconnecting to her past, the doctor’s past and his parents’ vanishing will certainly come back to the surface. Don’t forget that his parents were never brought up in season 1.

But let’s return our attention to my previous observation. The weather and as such nature could decide not to fulfil her wish. Due to the rain or a tempest, she is not able to go to the beach. She didn’t take the season into consideration, a sign that she didn’t truly ponder on her decision. This would explain why we had no bad weather in season 1, for her grandchild was fulfilling all her desires. Moreover, since the halmeoni lived for quite some time at the hospital, there is no ambiguity that she came to forget the seasons. She only remembers the ocean on a beautiful day. And now, look at the following picture: (chapter 19) the presence of pink and purple hydrangeas indicates that it was taken in Summer. This new approach reinforces my perception that the grandmother is about to get confronted with harsh reality despite her attempts to escape from it. Her wish can not be fulfilled so easily, like she is imagining it. In addition, Manhwa-philes should keep in their mind that weather has a great influence on elderly people’s health.

It is not just about heat or cold, even rain can increase their pain (arthritis for example) or bring them infections. Here, I found an article showing the great impact of the monsoon on seniors. https://www.patientsengage.com/healthy-living/managing-older-adults-health-rains-monsoon

This observation leads me to even conclude that her move to the West Coast could in reality accelerate her death. 😮And now, I am adding the picture which was placed next to the haiku from Ryokan.

We have an elderly man walking through the rain in front of the blue sea. The latter is accompanied with a Waka-poem from Yoshihiro (which was not translated). According to my Japanese friend @Rin_de_eegana (飯乞ふと 里にも出でず この頃は 時雨の雨の 間なくし降れば), this phrase describes a situation where one cannot even go out to the village to beg for alms due to the long rain. Here, we have the topic of poverty linked to old-age and rain. Yes, the pages of this book reminded me of Shin Okja, a poor elderly woman who is so sick. And like mentioned above, the rain could be the reason why the woman doesn’t go to the beach. The two poems are underlining one important aspect: the powerlessness of humans in front of nature. No one can stop aging, just like no one can control the weather. At the same time, it outlines the importance for a senior to be surrounded by people, so that they don’t end up dying from dehydration, from a cold or hypothermia.

4. Tears and rain

In the part above, I presented the following expectation: the day of the grandmother’s death is strongly intertwined with the rain. The drops from the sky should be seen as a metaphor for tears. But I have another evidence for this prediction. My avid readers should keep in their mind that Mingwa’s story is written like a kaleidoscope, like an eternal circle. Thus scenes are always reflecting each other. This means, the author left traces of the rain in season 1. And where were they? In the bathroom (chapter 47) (chapter 49) Both main leads went to the restroom in order to hide their emotional turmoil and suffering. They used flowing water (in Joo Jaekyung’s case the shower) in order to cover the sound of their weeping: SHAAA. Yes, the tears are making sound… so the rain should make sound as well. And this brings me to my next remark. (chapter 53) When she mentioned this beautiful experience to Kim Dan, she was only focusing on the mesmerizing view: a colorful ocean. Thus the author zoomed on her eyes and blushing cheeks. However, she didn’t pay attention to the sound of the ocean. Yes, the waves are making sound. Thus the author zoomed on her eyes and blushing cheeks, but her ears are not really visible. Moreover, her memory is presented without a sound. (chapter 53) There is only silence, whereas in reality, this is how the ocean sounds:

If you pay attention to the title of this video, you will see that sea waves are used to help people to relax and to fall asleep!! Thus I am inclined to think that the champion will discover the true power of nature in front of the Yellow sea. The sound of the waves will help him to overcome his insomnia. In season 1, the author implied the existence of a connection between the sea waves and his insomnia in the champion’s life : (Chapter 29) Remember how I had described this panel. The fighter feared to be swallowed by the darkness, to drown because of the many opponents. The fighters are placed like waves. Thus the celebrity could decide to change his career (to become a fighter like Dominic Hill who selects his own fighters) and move to the countryside in order to live a better life. And this brings me to my last haiku composed by Suéko Fujii

French English
Le bruit de l’eau
éclairé par la lune
plus intense
“The sound of water
illuminated by the moon—
more intense.”

In this haiku, the poet highlights how moonlight not only illuminates but enhances perception, sharpening the experience of nature’s sounds. The moonlight doesn’t physically alter the water, but it creates an atmosphere that heightens the beholder’s awareness, making the sound seem richer or more intense. This effect reveals the power of the night and the way natural elements interact, transforming something ordinary into something profound. The haiku suggests a quiet moment of immersion where the listener becomes deeply attuned to the surrounding world, connecting to the peaceful yet amplified rhythm of nature. As a conclusion, the poet becomes engulfed by the moon’s illumination and the ocean’s sound, as if fully absorbed into this heightened sensory experience. The moonlight and the intensified sound draw the poet into a deep, almost meditative state, where each element—the visual of the moon and the sound of the water—merges, enveloping him completely. This poem represents a reflection of the grandmother’s experience, though the latter diverges slightly. She didn’t focus on the sound. And look at the drawing next to the haiku. We have a room with a view! Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why I am already envisaging that Joo Jaekyung moves to the countryside. As you can envision it, the Haiku from Suéko Fujii triggered my imagination.

Joo Jaekyung is getting his enlightenment during the night in front of the sea, and who is standing in front of the ocean? Naturally, it can only be Kim Dan who stands for the moon!! A new version of these two blue nights: (chapter 29) (chapter 35) The blue would be a reference to the ocean. After that couch confession night, the athlete got a certain enlightenment, hence he tried to get closer to Kim Dan the next morning . (chapter 30) In episode 35, the night stands for ignorance and self-deception, for the doctor was not present. Joo Jaekyung reverted to his old self. However, don’t forget that the haiku was not just about the moon light, but also about the sound of the waves. All the senses are awakened which represents a better experience than the grandmother’s. Moreover, since I am anticipating the presence of Kim Dan, this means that Kim Dan embodies not only the light in the dark, but also sound of water. This interpretation brings me to the following remark. In season 1, the athlete had already associated his fated partner to “sound”, though in the beginning he viewed it as noise (chapter 18) and as a source of stress and worries. (chapter 45) This means that the night view of the ocean should make him discover the beauty of the sound of water. He will come to associate the sound of the sea waves with Kim Dan. That’s how he will be able to fall asleep. In other words, I am expecting a new version of this scene: (chapter 47) To conclude, Joo Jaekyung will also have an Enlightenment in front of the ocean, but contrary to the grandmother, this experience will be associated with the night, the sound and a person: his soulmate Kim Dan.

That’s it. I hope you enjoyed reading this composition. If yes, let me know if I should write a similar essay with haikus which are focusing on a different topic, like for example flowers, food etc.

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

Jinx: Click 📸: Between Fleeting Illusions and Enduring Realities

Like the illustration is indicating it, the topic of this composition are the photographs in Jinx. To be more precise, I would like to divulge its different symbolisms. The trigger for this study was a sudden thought, which came to my mind this morning.

1. The ghost’s invisible photos

When Kim Dan left his home, he only took this picture. (chapter 19) However, in chapter 47, Mingwa revealed that in the past, Kim Dan had many pictures taken with his grandmother (chapter 47) . (chapter 47) (chapter 47) (chapter 47) One might argue about this interpretation, as these panels are presented as “memories”. However, the author left three important clues that these memories were pictures in reality. First, the perspective is not from the protagonist’s, but from an invisible third person’s. Then in the last image, in the background, you can observe a family posing for a picture in front of a person with a cellphone. This was the allusion that someone must have taken these pictures. The last evidence is the bouquet of flowers, the symbol for congratulations, but also affection!! After this realization, I couldn’t help myself wondering about the whereabouts of these photographs. Where are they?

And now, take a closer look at the doctor’s home: (chapter 17) (chapter 17) (chapter 17) They are nowhere to be seen!! I would even add that this place contains no traces of Kim Dan’s presence! (chapter 17) The pictures and the papers on the board are all connected to the grandmother. The images of the beach were revealing her wish to go back to the West coast, which was only revealed in the final chapter (chapter 53). And here, I feel the need to correct my past interpretation. Back then, I had assumed that this was the doctor’s repressed wish to go to the beach. It turns out that this was Shin Okja’s. Thus I deduce that the papers on the board are related to her health issues. Then in this image (chapter 17), the white shirt, the pink and dark green jackets are definitely belonging to the physical therapist’s relative. Finally, observe where his framed picture was placed: in a chest drawer! (chapter 19) The framed photograph isn’t visible on the chests or the shelves, when Joo Jaekyung confronts the loan shark and his minions (chapter 17). Then the next day, there is a box placed on the chest, while he is taking his belongings, while two drawers are open. (chapter 19) This exposes that this “souvenir” was not put on display in this house contrary to his stay in the expensive penthouse: (chapter 47) Thus I conclude through the absence of his pictures and belongings that nothing was exposing the presence of Kim Dan in this small flat. We could say that he had been living as a ghost child (the piggy bank) in his halmoni’s place. It implies the existence of an invisible wall between himself and his grandmother. This perception reinforces my previous interpretation. This place was like a “cursed place, where the “Sleeping beauty” was waiting for his “prince charming”. 😉 Therefore, when the doctor removed the framed picture from the drawer, it symbolizes his own “release”. It is no coincidence that one week later, he became “a man and as such an adult”. (chapter 19) He was slowly detaching himself from his halmoni’s shadow. The mirror is a reflection of a photograph. Here, he is facing reality: he has a long phallus and he can have a climax.

Furthermore, this new discovery (the absence of his commemoration pictures) helps us to grasp the origin of Kim Dan’s low self-esteem. He was not truly loved by his grandmother. Yes, the absence of his pictures represents a source of his suffering. IT was, as if the grandmother was not proud of her grandchild, because these photos were not exposed. The way these pictures were treated reveals the discrepancy between her words (chapter 7) and actions.

However, I haven’t answered the question yet: where are the other pictures? My assumption is that they were thrown away!! (chapter 46) I might shock my avid readers with this hypothesis, but the fact that Kim Dan could only remember his childhood’s pictures in chapter 47 shows that he had long forgotten these moments. If he had seen the pictures constantly, he would have been confronted with reality and as such grasped that he was not alone in this world. He had his halmeoni by his side this entire time. He was cherished. Finally, keep in mind that this story is written like a kaleidoscope, so such a scene must have occurred in the past. Thanks to my chingu @@Milliformemes24, I can even be more precise. Note that in the last panel, the photos were taken with a cellphone. (chapter 47) So I deduce that these pictures were never printed and remained in the cellphone. One might say that the woman didn’t have money to print these images. But this explanation falls too short. How so? It is because she could have sent a copy to her grandson, especially when he became a PT. He was old enough to have his own cellphone. These pictures were never shared to her grandson! They remained in her cellphone. If so, he wouldn’t just have looked at the framed picture. The other proof for this deduction is the absence of a grandmother’s picture in her grandson’s screen: (chapter 38)
To conclude, their vanishing is exposing that these pictures were not TREASURED!! It was, as if they had been erased. But the doctor can not be the one who erased them or kept them hidden, as he associates these important moments in his life with his grandmother as sign of love and support!! Yes, this recollection reveals how much the doctor valued these moments. In other words, he would have “treasured” these pictures. He has none of them. Besides, when he entered elementary school, he was definitely too young to have a cellphone. That’s why I believe that they were all taken by the grandmother’s cellular phone. From my point of view, they were taken, because it was the custom. This would also explain why these “pictures” had no value for the grandmother. And now, you comprehend why I linked their disappearance to Shin Okja. So why did she not treasure and share them with her grandson? Why did she “erase” them symbolically?

2. Okja’s vanishing

My answer to these questions is the following. Halmeoni couldn’t stand the photographs, because she could see herself aging. From this (chapter 47) to this (chapter 47) And you all know that according to me, this elderly woman is suffering from Peter Pan Syndrom. Thus I feel like at some point, the halmeoni must have “thrown away” the pictures. Besides, I am quite certain that for the woman, these images had a different signification than for the doctor. She connected them to her suffering. She had to raise her grandchild on her own: these pictures represent her suffering from poverty and struggling mentally and emotionally. They mean hardship and aging for her. This explicates why she didn’t value these “souvenirs”. However, observe that all these pictures are related to Kim Dan’s school career path! (chapter 47) (chapter 47) The absence of these pictures signifies denial! It was, as if Kim Dan had never visited school and even never become a physical therapist. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why Kim Dan had no pride “as PT” and was willing to take odd jobs like “courier” (chapter 42) or “waiter”. As my avid readers can detect, there is a strong link between “pictures” and “pride and love”. Their absence is the expression of neglect from the grandmother, who was definitely too focused on herself and her own suffering. At the same time, it lets also transpire the low self-esteem from the grandmother. In her humble dwell, there is no picture of her as well. (chapter 17) Thus I come to the following deduction: the grandmother dislikes pictures in general and was not living herself as well. Since she couldn’t love herself, she was not capable to love her grandson either. How so? For that, it is necessary to quote Erich Fromm from the Art of Loving (1956):

Loving someone means loving loving oneself first. In addition, where is the halmeoni running to? To the West coast, where she knows no one and desires to watch the sunset alone. (chapter 53) This image exposes not only her rejection of reality, but also her isolation. This decision stands in opposition to the quote above. She can not love Kim Dan, for she is rejecting the world and humans. This quote made me realize why Kim Dan felt so insecure the whole time, it is because he has never heard such a love confession from his grandmother. As you can see, the trigger with the photos gave me a lot of insight about the grandmother and the main lead.

In addition, one might wonder why the framed image was not put on display. (chapter 19) Why was this photo not treasured by Shin Okja? In my eyes, the picture was taken, when both were happy. There was a garden, and the boy’s happiness was genuine. However, I believe that this photo is linked to loss and this mysterious phone call. (chapter 19) She was wearing the same shirt, when Kim Dan was speaking on the phone. In other words, the photo was also bringing painful memories to the grandmother. My theory is that the grandson’s parents vanished after that day. But this was not the same for the boy. He remembers the warmth from his relative. He is not making the link between this moment and his abandonment. In addition, this picture represents a frozen moment in time. It was, as if the woman desired to turn back time or hoped to stay in that moment forever. This explains why she kept the picture and continued treating her grandson as a child. For her, he was still the little boy from that time. However, at the end of season 1, it is no longer possible for her to treat Kim Dan as a child, because she needs him to move to the West coast. (chapter 53) It requires money, sacrifice and energy, but she is no longer paying attention to these aspects. Her time is now limited, thus she doesn’t feel responsible for any future debt. Striking is that she is not recognizing him as a man, but as a puppy dog. (chapter 47) Why? By acknowledging him as an adult man, she would give him a choice. He could refuse to do her a favor. As a puppy, he can not live on his own. Besides, by turning him into a dog and as such animal, she is denying him his right as a human being. She is appealing to his instinctive nature, his loyalty. And the moment I thought of a dog and death, I couldn’t help myself thinking of the famous dog Hachiko who kept waiting for his owner’s return at the train station, unaware that the latter had died a long time ago. As you can see, doc Dan’s pictures are strongly intertwined with reality and confrontation. Therefore the pictures with her grandson were not shown or treasured. The grandmother has been avoiding mirror and even pictures. As a person suffering from “Peter Pan Syndrome”, she is trying to do anything to escape “death and responsibility”. How ironic is that she just needed a picture to express her wish to move to the West Coast! (chapter 53) Yes, the image from the brochure is creating the illusion that the woman on the wheelchair is her. She is smiling and “looking healthy”. It looks like she will have a better life there, less painful than at the hospital. In other words, this photo represents the exact opposite: illusion and fakeness. This (chapter 53) is the reality. The grandmother is not looking at Kim Dan contrary to the woman on the prospect. He is reduced to his role as caretaker. He has become her “servant”. In addition, the PT is not smiling like the nurse in the photo. In verity, he doesn’t want to do it. Deep down, he wished to stay at the penthouse. (chapter 53) The words “I should go” displays that he is doing it out of obligation. To conclude, photographs in Jinx are also embodying dream and illusion. (chapter 53). They only symbolize truth and reality, when the doctor is present.

3. The pictures in Joo Jaekyung’s world

What caught my attention are the similarities between Kim Dan and the champion. Both have no photo on their cellphone screen: (chapter 38) Clouds are a reference to heaven and dream, while the green display displays loneliness and emptiness. They have no one by their side. Furthermore, just like Kim Dan, Joo Jaekyung has no family pictures in his house, (chapter 19) which could be seen as a clue that he is an orphan. Or in the best case, they live, but there is a huge wall and gap between them and the fighter. I would even add that no one could even identify the owner of the penthouse. He is a famous MMA fighter, yet there exist no picture of himself in this flat! Not even this one: (chapter 1) That’s why I had compared the penthouse to a hotel room in a previous essay. So we could say that he also lived like a ghost. However, since he is a celebrity, he should be rather compared to a god. He has no home and privacy. Thus the penthouse contained no memories, until the doctor started living with the champion.

Another important aspect is that the fighter doesn’t even have any picture of his manager or his children (chapter 43), a sign that their relationship has always been more businesslike, thought the boss somehow considered him as his “older brother”, as he keeps calling “hyung”. (chapter 5) The first personal video and message from his manager only appeared in chapter 43. This shows that the owner of Team Black had no family at all and not even friends. This observation brings me to my next remark. What about the gym Team Black? (chapter 1) (chapter 5) There are only pictures of the champion and of no one else. Not even from Park Namwook or the ex-professional fighter Jeong Yosep. Everything is revolving around the celebrity. The absence of pictures from others is indicating neglect. The gym was not advertised as a great place to have fun! It is all about fame, wealth and glory! Therefore it is not astonishing why the rats left the sinking ship. (chapter 52) The champion’s image is tarnished, he will get less admiration and sponsoring. The decoration of the gym exposed the mentality of the owner, Park Namwook. The gym is about the celebrity, money, fame and sponsoring! Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why the other members were neglected and why the athlete disliked it so much to be taken in pictures. (chapter 30) It is because the photographs are a synonym for “money, glory and fame”. Choi Heesung was using him to get attention. His name (chapter 46), his face and body are like “merchandises”. (chapter 43) That’s why he disliked the idea that Seonho would advertise that he was his sparring partner. The pictures in the god’s world have nothing to do with memories or love, but with work! It is about making business and getting sponsors and making his fans happy. That’s why the author included the magazines in the same chapter with the actor. (chapter 30) Naturally, Heesung’s picture is not only related to business, they have a frenemy relationship. The photos with Joo Jaekyung stand in opposition to Kim Dan’s values: glorification, illusion, superficiality and futility. Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why Joo Jaekyung would never put any framed picture of himself or others in his flat. His gym and the photographs are related to work. Who would like to be “reminded” of work and money in his own home? No one…

Under this new light, I came to understand why the celebrity reacted so violently about the presents and Kim Dan’s. (chapter 45) (chapter 45) Imagine that the doctor had to work to exhaustion to give him an expensive gift! Yes, his gift was strongly intertwined with money, business and work! However, birthday is a symbol for home, pleasure, joy, simplicity and genuine gratitude. This has nothing to do with work and “replacement”. Yet, contrary to the other presents, the champion did open the hamster’s gift, for the latter had brought it personally. (chapter 45) Yes, his birthday was turned into a business event, a merchandise where he even had to pay for his own birthday party. (chapter 43) His popularity among the staff was based on his spending: (chapter 35) Such a success and glorification could only drive an edge between himself and others. In addition, the images could never boost the fighter’s low self-esteem. Yes, the absence of his own picture in his home is another important clue for his unhappiness and self-loathing. Because the doctor brought “work” home, Joo Jaekyung started avoiding the physical therapist: (chapter 47) It was not just because the athlete had been encouraged by his mentor to trust no one, to see relationship as a business. (chapter 46) This remark leads me to the following conclusion. Since the manager started sowing distrust in the champion’s heart, we can see it as another proof that this man has never truly loved “his boy”:

He just considers him as a toy and possession. (chapter 40) Thus he can mistreat him, if he is not pleased.

But there’s another evidence that the pictures with the fighter are strongly linked to idolization, illusion and deception. 8chapter 35) When this article was released, the author selected a photograph exposing the champion in good health! He was raising his arm and as such using his “injured shoulder”. The content of the article contradicts so much the image which can only raise doubts among the readers. By using such a picture, they created the illusion that the athlete was hiding something. And this remark brings me to the last articles about the fallen legend: (chapter 52) His beaten face is exposed to destroy his “good image”: he appears not only as weak, but also as a bully. This shows how the medias are trying to manipulate the public with pictures. His face and body are damaged, therefore he has less value. This deceptive trick becomes more visible, when you include Baek Junmin. (chapter 52) The article utilized a picture of the fake fighter taken right after the match. He is smiling and barely injured… yet, the reality is that he got so wounded by the champion that he needs a long time to recover. As you could observe, all these photographs symbolizes money, business, work, superficiality and publicity. Thus they are strongly intertwined with temporality, fake love and emptiness. No meaningful moment…

It is important, because the moment the athlete started interacting with the physical therapist, a new kind of photograph started appearing: (chapter 46) The ones in this panel ooze privacy, selflessness and intimacy. The champion is seen carrying bottles and opening the door for the doctor, a sign of Joo Jaekyung’s respect for the doctor. Yes, these images expose the truth about the athlete: he really treasures his physical therapist. He is also seen listening to the doctor. This observation corroborates my previous interpretation. The pictures with the physical therapist symbolizes verity and reality. The problem is that Joo Jaekyung never got to see them, hence he didn’t realize his affection for the doctor. However, Choi Gilseok could notice it. In fact, the celebrity was delivered a different kind of truth: (chapter 48) Kim Dan’s meeting with director Choi Gilseok! However, note that these photographs were also a deception, for they never expose the outcome of the meeting. These pictures display the negative notions of privacy and intimacy, it is about plotting, betrayal and as such about “business”. How so? It is because they met at a café. As a conclusion, the photographs have a total different meaning in the athlete’s world. They represent coldness, superficiality, temporality, deception and work. This new interpretation reinforces my hypothesis that the main lead’s car must have been followed by a paparazzi during that night: (chapter 33) A black car was following him. But they couldn’t take any picture, for the windows of his car were tainted.

Interesting is that at the end of season 1, Kim Dan had a recollection of this scene (chapter 53) which left him deeply impressed. Joo Jaekyung was turning around his head and looking at him! This shows that the star was paying attention to him. And what had happened in that moment? What is the light next to the protagonist? Yes, these were the flashes from the cameras! (chapter 40) It is no coincidence. Though he had no memory of the previous night, he felt this moment as magical. He had saved him and claimed him as a part of Team Black. Then he had look at him back, though he was facing journalists. However, the journalists didn’t take a picture of such a moment, for this was not relevant to them. It shows not only the true value of “memories”, but also that both were now truly living! During that night and day, both created wonderful memories. (chapter 41) Kim Dan experienced that he was not alone, he was part of “Team Black”, while the other heard a love confession for the first time. This memory displays (chapter 53) not only admiration, but also intimacy and TRUST!

Because the MMA fighter has been constantly surrounded by fake people in his world, it is not surprising that he doesn’t value “money” or glory. These didn’t make him truly happy. But there is more to it. Due to photographs, the fighter learned the wrong lessons. He judged people on prejudices and impressions!! Yes, this explains why Joo Jaekyung imagined to see Kim Dan selling his body., while he was about ti get raped. (chapter 17) He is relying too much on his eyes. He paid no attention to details and their words. Hence their words are not visible. In addition, the author created such a panel. (chapter 17) in that scene.. But why is he trusting too much his eyes? It is because he adopted this poor habit from his mentor and hyung, Park Namwook. who judges people based on prejudices and impressions. When the manager faces a problem or some criticism (chapter 17), he prefers blaming his “boy” or delegating responsibilities to others: (chapter 36) Furthermore the man with the red tee-shirt has always been by his side for a long time. The time spent together is a proof of his “loyalty”, yet if the athlete had paid more attention to his words, he should have noticed his hypocrisy, lack of empathy and disrespect: (chapter 49) (chapter 52) The slap is the expression of lack of faith and disrespect. Besides, he kept badmouthing him in front of the other members, creating a huge gap between the celebrity and the other members.

This is no coincidence why Joo Jaekyung didn’t listen to doctor Lee’s recommendations as well. He never saw the results of his examination. (chapter 27) In addition, he had to rely on the expertise of doctors, but he only trusts himself, his hyung and no others. But let’s return our attention to Kim Dan and his letter.

When the doctor left the penthouse, he left a memory and treasure to the athlete: a letter full of kindness and care! (chapter 53) The letter stands in opposition to the articles and photographs. Through the letter, the main lead is teaching to the wolf this important life lesson. He needs to use his mind and as such his heart to see the truth and reality.

The doctor is now perceived correctly, because for the first time, the athlete listened to his words and opinion. Here, I mean, he believed in his confession (apology, convalescence). Interesting is that after listening to his words, Joo Jaekyung started reflecting on his own actions and emotions. (chapter 53) Thus he voiced his discomfort and annoyance. However, this time, he is not questioning the origins of his actions. He knows now that the doctor means a lot to him. He is not a waste of time. It is no coincidence that the moment he paid attention to Kim Dan’s thoughts and emotions, he opened up his own heart and mind, because according to Erich Fromm

And now, look at the expression “home with oneself”. Home is strongly connected with inner harmony, meditation and well-awareness as the foundation for genuine communication and understanding of others.. Let’s not forget that home is also a synonym for “family”. Thanks to the support of a loving family and friends, one can become true to oneself. At the same time, home with oneself helps to communicate better with others. And because the MMA fighter listened to Kim Dan words, he became more aware of himself. The doctor has become the key to the champion’s heart. He has also become his home as well. Thus Joo Jaekyung came to associate the penthouse to his loved one: (chapter 53) The latter might have no photograph of Kim Dan, but his face is now engraved in his memory. To conclude, the letter should be perceived as a mirror of truth to the athlete. He needed to hear the hamster’s words without seeing his face in order to see him properly.

Finally, I conclude that in season 2, photographs will have a different meaning in the champion and doctor’s life. They will stand for privacy, love, friendship, recognition and selflessness. Yes, I am expecting that the doctor and his lover start taking pictures of memorable events, like this day: (chapter 26) (chapter 26) The gym will face some changes.

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.

Painter Of The Night: Lazy Hand ✌of Justice ⚔ ?

1. Laziness or not?

When the final episode of the main story was released, many Manhwa-philes were laughing about Yoon Seungho’s work attitude as governor. The latter had left his seat in order to return to his lover’s side. (chapter 131) Hence the police officers found the governor’s seat deserted. (chapter 131) By contrasting the statement from the governor and the panel, the readers could easily catch his lie. He was a lazy governor, preferring to keep his lover company rather than attend to his official duties. On the one hand, it exposes the main lead’s true mind-set. He is not longing for power or glory. To conclude, he has no ambition. This implies that he is not determined to gain attention either. One might add that he selected this region on purpose. No one would willingly go to that place. The norm was that officials would go there, because they were demoted. (episode 129) Thus I deduce that Yoon Seungho made the opposite choice to his father. The latter longed for a high position at the government so that the family’s reputation would become famous and powerful again. (chapter 86) It is because Yoon Chang-Hyeon was thinking of getting the attention or support from noble families. What he truly wanted was to get recognition from people among his own social class. But with such a decision (join the painter’s side), Yoon Seungho seems to have turned the former patriarch’s nightmare into a reality. Yoon Seungho is about to ruin the family. The name “Yoon” is destined to become forgotten, right? However, I believe that this interpretation is not correct. How so? Let me ask you this.

Why is this region regarded as “backwater”? It is because there are no powerful families like in the town, where the Yoons used to live. There are no huge store or doctor either. The new governor is surrounded by “peasants”, commoners. In other words, it is not a place you can earn a lot of money or gain power, especially for an official. This signifies that buying the governor, like Yoon Chang-Hyeon did, won’t happen. (chapter 127) No one has such a wealth! That’s the reason why no official would select such a place. Yes, Jung In-Hun’s words from chapter 6 (chapter 6) (chapter 131) are reflected in the final episode. Peasants are poor und uneducated, and this will not change overnight. Hence they represent ignorance and naivety. This raises the following question. Why did the officers bring these two men? What was their crime? One might reply that it is impossible to figure it out. Nevertheless, I think, Byeonduck left clues in her story. Painter Of The Night is composed of reflections. In each season, certain scenes or elements resurface with slight changes.. Thus I developed the following theory concerning these two commoners.

My hypothesis is that these two men were innocent. In season 1, we have a similar scene: (chapter 37). It is about a crime, treason. In season 4, we know that the plot was true and there was an evidence, the paper with the signatures from lord Yoon and lord Song. Since in season 1 the wrongdoing was true and heavy, I deduce that it is not the case in the final chapter. Because there is an evidence of the crime in the past, I can’t help myself thinking that in the final chapter, there was no evidence. Additionally, I feel the need to expose my other interpretation about this man: (chapter 37) I have always stated that this man couldn’t be a servant, for he was smoking a pipe and we saw a glimpse of his memory. No commoner would be allowed to enter the courtyard, when three noblemen are tortured and interrogated. Moreover, notice that in both scenes (37 and 131), the magistrate is absent. That’s how it dawned on me that this nameless man could have been a former “governor” who lost his position.

But if the two commoners are rather innocent, why did the officers bring them to Yoon Seungho then? My idea is that they imagined that the new governor wanted to make a statement so that he wouldn’t be looked down by the locals. Or even worse. The guards desired to get protection money from them!! Yes, because this region is not well perceived, the guards thought that the governor would act like his predecessor. Since it is a poor region, it signifies that the officials are not well recognized and well paid. (chapter 131) First evidence that the last image is not symbolizing justice, but corruption, is the behavior from the guards. They are caught by surprise, when they arrive in front of the empty stool. Yet, they are not gesticulating or panicked. If a real crime had taken place, they would be looking for their superior. And this observation leads me to this image. (chapter 131) In this picture, we can detect the governor’s office in the background. It is the yellow building with the multicolor decorations. That’s where the empty stool is!! In other words, if they truly needed him, they just had to go to the other side of the wall. Third evidence for this hypothesis was left in season 3: (chapter 94) Here, the officers went to the mansion before visiting him at the gibang. (chapter 97) Back then, it was about the death of a commoner, a servant. If there’s an urgency, they would look for him. The comparison exposes that the “wrongdoing” from the peasants in the final chapter was no huge deal. Yet, many readers already condemned them due to the guards and the protagonist’s behavior. Funny is that the lord was portrayed as a huge liar, but not “the officers”. (chapter 131) But it could have been the reverse. Officers could have abused their authority. Furthermore, let’s not forget that Min indicated that guards could be bribed easily. (chapter 101) His statement displays another aspect: the governor and the guards are not working together. Jihwa would have been sent to jail without being able to talk to the superior, similar to this scene: (chapter 126) The guards’ own interests are not necessarily aligned with the governor’s. And now, take a closer look at this scene: (chapter 127) The official received the patriarch in his office alone. The reason is simple. That way, he wouldn’t have to share the money with others.

But since the guards never went to the lord’s mansion, they must have realized that this man was not like his predecessor. He was not frustrated or demoted. He was indeed not after power or money. They couldn’t rely on his protection either. In fact, they could get blamed for disturbing his privacy. I would even add that since Yoon Seungho comes from a wealthy family, he doesn’t need to rely on bribe at all. In other words, the guards can only come to the conclusion that treating him well can only benefit them. His wealth was already implied with his arrival: (chapter 129). He was not sitting on a horse with a few musicians contrary to Jung In-Hun. He was carried by four men, and other people were announcing his arrival with flags and music. (chapter 111) Moreover, Yoon Seungho had a inauguration banquet organized, where the local inhabitants could join. (chapter 129) There was no social exclusion at all. This stands in such opposition to the lord’s statement in season 1, where he distinguished between nobles and commoners.

But let’s return our attention to the two suspects. What happened to them then? (chapter 131) In my opinion, they were released. Why? For the simple reason that in this place, Yoon Seungho expected no huge duty! Yes, his words were not just exposing a lie, but also the truth. Nothing was supposed to happen. People are peaceful and helpful to each other. (chapter 129) This signifies that the arrest could lead to trouble to the guards too. So was the lord lazy in the end? (chapter 131) Yes and no… By acting that way, he put an end to the abuse of authority in that place!! Thus I deduce that the governor is destined to gain recognition and admiration from the local inhabitants. He is generous (inauguration banquet where anyone could join), humble, loyal (he is not forgetting his lover) (chapter 131), but also well organized! He had planned to join this place a long time ago. The peach trees were planted about 3 years ago. He is no longer making any distinction between nobles and commoners, and that’s how he will get the respect from the peasants. As a conclusion, we should envision that the lord will become famous. Therefore the son didn’t turn the father’s nightmare into a reality. He didn’t contribute to the family’s ruin at all. Yet, there exists a huge divergence. Yoon Seungho is about to make a name on his own. It is not about the Yoons. On the one hand, the father’s dream was illusory and superficial, especially due to the treason (chapter 86). Since Lord Song had been forced to resign, there’s no doubt that the man would resent the Yoons to become successful again. This explicates why lord Song saw Yoon Seungwon as a problem (chapter 107) and tried to tarnish the younger son’s reputation. But let’s return our attention to the patriarch. His vision was based on Confucianism. However, he had a very narrow-minded perception of it.

He expected not only blind obedience from his son, but also absolute devotion for the family. The individual steps aside for the community, and as such for the Yoons. This explicates why the main lead’s relative has no name in episode 6, he is simply reduced to a grandfather. (chapter 7) This shows that the tradition was to “vanish behind the family name, the Yoons”. Under this new light, my avid readers can grasp why the main lead was destined to suffer immensely (chapter 57). His reputation was already outshining his father’s. Secondly, by being stigmatized as a homosexual, he was endangering this principle. His role was to continue the lineage and as such produce a heir.

As you can see, Yoon Seungho is breaking the tradition and even dropping Confucianism, as the latter rejects homosexuality. The main lead embodies other values: Modernity, Individualism, true Love and Humbleness. Yoon Seungho is no longer judging people based on their social status and relationship. This signifies that at the end of the story, the new governor symbolizes true justice. He put an end to corruption and malpractice. He is not influenced by people’s opinions and prejudices either. He is only listening to his heart and conscious. He makes sure to keep all his promises and not to say any empty words. He is a reformed man through and through.

However, we shouldn’t forget that the protagonist did kill many people before. Hence my other interpretation is that Yoon Seungho as a sinner is not “allowed” to become a judge himself. (chapter 131) How could he condemn others, when his hands had been soiled with blood? Thus I deduce that through her work, Byeonduck exposed the corruption of human justice in Joseon. It was impossible to get true and fair justice from anyone, let alone from the authorities. The latter were ruled by greedy and arrogant nobles who used law enforcements for their own needs. That’s why the patriarch (chapter 116) or even Min could commit crimes in the open. They felt safe, for they knew that the authorities belonged to the same social class than them. However, this could only work, as long as the nobles would cover for each other. Should a yanbang denunciate a noble family, it was a different story. Therefore I assume that lord Lee was the one who reported the treason to the authorities (the painting in the bedroom was the evidence). But such a painting couldn’t represent a proof. However, since human justice was corrupted, the gods decided to give justice to the protagonists. That’s how Yoon Seungho became the hand of justice. Everyone involved in the protagonists’ suffering had to pay for their crimes. (chapter 102) That’s the reason why Baek Na-Kyum’s martyrdom was strongly intertwined with the young master’s. Yoon Seungho only received this power through Baek Na-Kyum, the character embodying fairness, sincerity, hard work, home and equity. This was particularly perceptible in this scene: (chapter 27) The lord couldn’t kill anyone randomly.

Yet, considering the scene in the shrine as a trial from the “gods”, can appear weird, for the main lead attacked Min and his friend under the influence of his unconscious past. (chapter 102) However, I consider it as a first step to the lord’s emancipation and life lesson. The latter is indirectly learning not to pay attention to status and power. That’s why the author portrayed him as blind and deaf to their plea and special status. While his behavior in the shrine was rather impulsive and influenced by deeply rooted fears, we should consider lord Song’s execution as a true act of justice. (chapter 123) (chapter 123) The latter had confessed all his crimes: the ones from the past (the lies in order to fool the father) (chapter 123) and the painter’s murder. Funny is that lord Song didn’t feel threatened by the young master at all despite the sword. (chapter 123) Why? It is because he feels, he is the one with the upper hand. First, he has the petition, hence he is already projecting himself in the future (he can get a high position again). Secondly, he thinks, Yoon Seungho is outnumbered. He is surrounded by 4 guards. But more importantly, he views himself superior to the main character due to his age. He is an elder. That’s the reason why he calls “my dear boy”. This implies that he is underestimating the main figure. The latter would never dare to raise his hand against a senior!! However, true justice is also blind to age. (chapter 123) His smile at the end of the episode should be perceived as a reflection from Min’s vanishing. (chapter 103) One might even add that the lord’s action could have been seen as self-defense. However, don’t forget that we are here in Joseon, where a commoner’s life means nothing. Because of this new association, I came to the following deduction: lord Song was the one behind lord Shin’s death. (chapter 103) The latter couldn’t imagine that an elderly yanbang, an official, would raise the sword against another noble. After this new realization, it dawned on me why Yoon Seungho had to get separated from his loved one. (chapter 126) This humiliation made Yoon Seungho realize that he needed to have his power on his own. He learned through the hard way that he was not just a Yoon, but Seungho. Yes, this helped him to differentiate himself from his father and to become stronger mentally. His religion was now his lover, Baek Na-Kyum, whom he needed to protect. But he could only do it, if he had himself a powerful position. But he needed to witness the corruption of the authorities to realize that in Joseon, there exists no justice. (chapter 127) That’s the reason why I deduce that Yoon Seungho is not destined to become a lazy or unfair governor. He learned through the hard way how important it is to give proper justice. (chapter 131) Should these two men know the artist, the latter could encourage his lover to listen to their testimonies and not judge them based on their status.

Under this new light, it becomes comprehensible why I don’t perceive the main lead as a lazy governor. Just because he appears as one in this scene (chapter 131), we shouldn’t generalize such a behavior. By paying no attention to power and fame, the protagonist learned what true justice is. Moreover, he realized the true source of happiness: love and simplicity. He made sure to keep all his promises to his loved one. Moreover, the artist is there to remind Yoon Seungho of his duties: (chapter 131) Hence I can’t help myself imagining the couple strolling through the village and listening to the people. Thanks to the artist, Yoon Seungho can only get recognition and acceptance from the autochtones. Besides, Baek Na-Kyum is even giving painting lessons to children, so I doubt that he will drop everything for his lover’s sake. We should envision the opposite behavior from the scholar: (chapter 6): neglect and indifference towards the commoners. And this new observation brings me to my other topic, Jung In-Hun.

2. The real sinners: the hidden hustlers and workhorses

In the first part of this essay, I compared the arrival of the lord in his new jurisdiction with the scholar’s Jung In-Hun.

YoOn SeunghoJung In-Hun

Through this comparison. I had a huge revelation. Manhwaphiles can notice not only the absence of flags and the palaquin, but also the absence of uniforms. The two men in black leading the horse were simply wearing black hanboks and not blue and white costumes. Then it dawned on me that after this cortege on the street, there was no banquet after his success. Hence I deduce that he had not really succeeded at the civil service examination. First, he had not finished top place (chapter 129), therefore he couldn’t select one position contrary to the main lead. This means that when he celebrated his “victory” in episode 111, it was not official. He had no post. I would even add, his name had not been announced on the official board, like we could witness it in this scene. (chapter 121) Here, he is informed that he didn’t pass the exam, for his name was not written there. We can detect this, because people are congratulating each other. His name was left out due to the intervention from lord Song. This means that when Yoon Seungho made him this offer (chapter 7), these were not empty words. He did help the learned sir to pass the civil service exam. But the scholar didn’t succeed like anticipated. The absence of his success explicates why Jung In-Hun received such an offer from lord Song later. (chapter 117) He had no post, he couldn’t choose it, for he was not the best. Thus I deduce that the scholar had just proven his mediocrity. He was just an average man. That’s how it dawned on me that the ceremony in the street was more a simulacre! (chapter 111) Yes, it was fake, for there was no banquet, no sedan chair, no flag and just civilians were surrounding the former teacher. The painting from Baek Na-Kyum can even serve as another evidence that a palanquin and flags are attributes to a ceremony of inauguration. (chapter 44) Only one thing was real: Jung In-Hun was wearing an official uniform, that way no one would doubt his “victory”. Moreover, observe that lord Song only approached the learned sir after the parade. So he was not behind the parade. Besides, keep in mind that the main couple was informed about the parade through the tailor (chapter 111) and not from the official board. His reaction shows not only his displeasure, but also his ignorance. If he had known about the cortege, he would have avoided the place in the first place. Thus I suspect that the tailor had been encouraged to leak this information in front of the couple. Let’s not forget, as a tailor, he was definitely involved in the cortege. It is no coincidence that he informed Yoon Seungho about this “sudden parade”. At the same time, I come to the following deduction: someone must have paid for this spectacle, and it was not Yoon Seungho, for he had been kept in the dark until the last moment. I doubt that the learned sir had the connections and money for this. This new perception corroborates my previous interpretation: the show was sponsored by someone, and it was definitely inspired by the drawing (the hat and the green uniform). (chapter 111). Yet this was just a cheap trick, for the person didn’t send a sedan chair with carriers. Under this new light, I realized why Jung In-Hun ended up stigmatized as a criminal. (chapter 127) It was his karma, for he had deceived the painter with his lies. His success was not his own. (chapter 111) He realized that even after passing the exam, he needed the assistance of people, a sponsor for the spectacle, a noble with connections. Besides, when in season 1, the painter was accused of a crime (ruining the picture), the learned sir did nothing at all. He didn’t protect his student, for he desired to keep his sponsor. When the latter was sick, he neglected him as well. He wouldn’t have sent a doctor for him. Hence in season 4, the sponsor Na-Kyum decides to end his “sponsorship” for the learned sir. We could say that the former teacher is confronted with a similar situation. He ends up being abandoned and framed for a crime, which he didn’t commit. Yet, contrary to his pupil, he is not entirely blameless, for he played a huge role in the death of the nobles lord Song, lord Shin, lord Min and others. Because Baek Na-Kyum embodies hard work, justice, equity, love and honesty, I deduce that his surrogate father embodies the negative notions: laziness, corruption, partiality, hierarchy, ambition and hypocrisy. That’s why his face ended up on the official board, while the painter’s accusation just remained rumors. : (chapter 125) versus (chapter 127) His fate reflects Joseon’ society and authorities, especially when the latter are closer to the capitale.

At the same time, the poster of the scholar exposes that the scholar’s dream had always been to see his name on the official board. (chapter 121) However, the notice was not associated with glory and honor, but with the opposite value. He was an immoral and brutal man. (chapter 127) which was actually reflecting his true personality. We should see the parade in episode 111 as an illusion due to the absence of an official document. And who had paid for this charade? One might think lord Song. However, don’t forget that he approached the man much later. I feel like someone else was involved as well. For me, it was Heena. She was seen with the tailor in season 2, and she had seen the painting from her brother. Finally, she had tried in season 2 and 3 to separate the couple. So she should have repeated the same action, because her resent towards nobles runs deeply, just like her admiration for Jung In-Hun is strong. She knew that her donsaeng was no longer listening to her and his new lover. He was determined to remain by his lover’s side. Thus she didn’t intervene here. (chapter 105) IMO, she had to use another mean in order to achieve her goal: the scholar. Let’s not forget that the artist had confided to her this: (chapter 68) He was simply waiting for the learned sir’s return. And she was present during the cortege. (chapter 111)

Naturally, Jung In-Hun ended up being accused of murder, because not only he had lied, but also he had contributed to the death of lord Min and the others. By giving the spectacles, he was also responsible for their death. Finally, by hurting Baek Na-Kyum and giving him to lord Song (chapter 121), he put the painter in a position which led him to take for the fall for his loved one. It was like framing an innocent. Exactly like in season 3 (chapter 99), Yoon Seungho had been forced to take the sword because of the scholar. And the trigger for the massacre (chapter 124) was always Jung In-Hun. And now, you comprehend why Jung In-Hun became the scapegoat for the last incident. But there’s more to it.

The sexual and physical assault, playing a trick on multiple occasions and the lies are the reasons why the learned sir ended being labelled as a dangerous bandit. (chapter 127) The paper reflects the transformation of the former teacher. He is no longer a honest man. He lost everything: his home, his name and even his life, killed by lord Song’s minions. (chapter 121) His final lesson was to learn that he was exactly like the others: he is just a human despite his education. All humans are equal in front of death. In fact, during his confrontation with lord Song, he came to give up on his integrity. His true face came to the surface: he was just an opportunist, a lazy scholar who relied on fate and his arrogance. (chapter 6) This brings me to my next interpretation. Jung In-Hun learned through the hard way that there is nothing like fate (“right time”), but life is the result of decisions. However, because the scholar always regretted all his past choices, he decided to blame others for his wrong choices. That’s the reason why he ends up to take the whole crime. We should see this paper (chapter 127) as a reflection from the poem in episode 4: The author from this sijo was the poet and official Wang Bang-Yeon who is said to have lived in the time of Joseon’s sixth king Danjong (1441-1457) and his successor king Sejo (1417-1468). As the official of the state tribunal, he followed the young king Danjong into his exile and gave him poison to drink by royal command. Yes, both are symbols of power, corruption, partiality and injustice. Yet, there exists one divergence. While Wang Bang-Yeon left a poem revealing his yearning for the king, the learned sir had no deep attachment towards the artist. Hence it is no wonder why the paper “Wanted” is not connected to affection. It really reflects the emotions and thoughts of Baek Na-Kyum. Due to the last incident, the latter no longer cares for this man.

Jung In-Hun should have realized much sooner that happiness is not a synonym for power and admiration. In reality, he was living quite well in the small village. (chapter 6) He had a roof over his head, and he was surrounded by children, who liked him. (chapter 121) But the problem is that he was consumed by entitlement and greed. How so? It is because of his education. He saw himself superior to others morally and mentally. Hence he didn’t feel the genuine admiration from the children. (chapter 6) He couldn’t enjoy it at all. It is no coincidence that the synonyms for ambitious person are “busy person” and “workhorse”. Yes, this mirrors the expression “laziness”. A true ambitious person is actually proactive and not really relying on sponsors and bribes. So when we see the learned sir on the horse (chapter 111), he is acting like a workhorse. The reality is that he is lazy, as he saw himself destined to achieve greatness. He had the impression that no one had recognized his true value. On the horse, he is just waving his hand and smiling. Later, he confesses this to the artist: (chapter 111) As you can see, his success is not the result of his hard work, but rather of his connections!! Though he didn’t kill lord Song himself, Jung In-Hun had to receive his due punishment for all his lies and sins.

3. The brother’s punishment

This brings me to the next interpretation: Yoon Seungwon and his success. (chapter 107) Though he passed the civil service exam too, he is not able to fulfil his father’s wish either. (chapter 86) They lack support now because of the treason. The families close to the Yoons got executed. But there’s more to it. The youngest son had first betrayed his father by giving the petition to Yoon Seungho, (chapter 118) His intention was to protect not only his brother, but also their family. It was to ensure that lord Song would get blackmailed. That’s how this investigation (chapter 37) got stopped in the end, and the Yoons escaped any punishment. However, by doing so, Yoon Seungwon turned his brother into a blackmailer. Thanks to him, Yoon Seungwon could keep his reputation intact. In fact he never lost his father’s trust. However, in season 4, we can witness a change of heart in the brother. (chapter 118) It is because he knows that with the petition in his brother’s hands, lord Song represents a hindrance to his own career. The latter can only see the Yoons as a threat. Besides, he can only resent the family, if they are able to gain reputation and power, while he can not return to Hanyang and occupy a high position. As you can see, the young master’s success can only irritate lord Song. You can sense a rivalry between Seungwon and lord Song Haseon (chapter 116) in this scene: (chapter 116) The latter has already sensed that the traitor is sitting next to them, thus he raised this question. That’s why I come to the following conclusion that the young master must have realized that he also needed his brother’s assistance. First, if Yoon Seungho returns the petition to the father, the investigation about the traitor in the mansion would be no longer necessary. Secondly, Yoon Seungwon needs to create new connections in Hanyang, but he can only achieve it with his elder brother. Under this new light, you comprehend why Seungwon asked his relative to move on from the past and as such “forgive their father”. (chapter 118) In other words, the young man embodies the notion of “fake forgiveness, fake promise, fake understanding”. He is an opportunist, exactly like the scholar. Yet, there exists a huge divergence between them. His affection for Yoon Seungho was not fake. He is feeling sympathy for his brother. But that’s it. This explains why he didn’t help his brother before. In my eyes, Seungwon represents a different notion of family: bloodline. In my eyes, he embodies traditions and Confucianism. His goal is to turn his father’s dream and life motto into a reality: glory and power for the Yoons. Besides, he must have experienced himself the downfall for the family. And this observation leads to my next interpretation. This means that Yoon Seungwon must have lied to his father by omission as well. (chapter 86) In my opinion, he must have promised to fulfil the patriarch’s wish, but reality made him realize that this was not possible. He couldn’t do it alone. However, I doubt that he confronted the elder with reality.

Let’s not forget that he is only the second son. So he can not inherit the family’s properties. Remember that once the main lead succeeded the civil service exam, he received many marriage proposals. (chapter 128) What about Yoon Seungwon then? Though he succeeded too, there is no mention about engagement or marriage proposals. However, it is clear that this achievement is connected with adulthood and marriage, therefore the elder Song Haseon brought up the topic sex! (chapter 107) It is because Yoon Seungho is the first son who will inherit the title and properties. Yoon Seungwon’s success can only work with his brother’s presence. This means that thanks to the last episode, I could finally find the answer from Byeonduck’s question: What was the reason for Yoon Seungwon’s embarrassment? First, it is because his brother selected the backward place, though he had passed the exam with flying colors. Yoon Seungwon imagined that once his brother had passed the exam, he would get married and establish new connections. That way, Seungwon would be able to get married with a properous and famous family. In other words, Yoon Seungho would turn the father’s dream into a reality: the return of the Yoons’ glory and power. And Seungwon would benefit a lot from this. So in the gibang, his advices might have sounded well meant, (chapter 118), in verity he was also motivated by his own desires. He wanted to get the help from his older brother. This means that the moment the main lead lost his father, Seungwon’s words became true. Yoon Seungho followed his advice: he cut off ties with his past and as such with his family. He was no longer obliged to fulfil the family traditions and the father’s dream. This means that Yoon Seungwon is now on his own. I find it funny that he blamed his brother for his debauchery, but what did he do during this time? Nothing… he waited, until he received pressure from his own father. Moreover, since Yoon Seungwon didn’t help the artist and allowed him to take the fall for the massacre (chapter 126), his karma is not only to end up alone, but also not to receive any support from his brother.

To conclude, Yoon Seungwon tried to convince his brother to change his behavior (chapter 117), because his career was still insecure due to lord Song’s influence. He needed his brother’s help in the end. At the same time, Seungwon had already long internalized the values from his father: Yoons’ honor and reputation were top priorities. In other words, the younger brother stands for social norms and fake righteousness. He desires to maintain his perfect image (loyalty, filial piety),

(chapter 118), hence he left the document at the mansion. He wanted his brother to return the papers on his own so that his past action would remain undetected. Returning the paper was like an admission that he had stolen it in the first place. Yet he still barged in his brother’s house twice. (chapter 117) Here, he exposed the existence of the “petition” to Baek Na-Kyum for one reason. The latter should be used as a way to pressure the main lead to give up on the paper. Notice that this topic was brought up in the gibang: (chapter 119) However, the reality is that Seungwon is not just trying to fulfil his father’s dream, but also he has his own ambition. He wants to make a name on his own. That’s why he confessed this to his brother: (chapter 119) He doesn’t associate himself with the father and his sins. In his eyes, he is blameless. The reality is that he is guilty like his father, for he failed to care for Yoon Seungho. He failed to listen to him and his suffering. He didn’t try to understand him. Like mentioned above, he only sympathized with him and that’s it. Thus he condemned him for his debauchery in the gibang, but this was no longer the case.

When the father confronted his own son with reality (he had no power without him), Yoon Seungwon was once again absent!! The latter is the evidence of his “neglect”. It is important, because when the main lead bowed in front of the patriarch, (chapter 127) (chapter 127) the former only made a promise to his father and not to the brother. With his death, Yoon Seungho is no longer bound by a promise. Since the main lead had been living properly for 3 years and even passed the civil service exam, it is clear that for the brother, Yoon Seungho must have forgotten his past lover. He must have judged his brother based on appearances, just like he was behaving himself. However, this was just a subterfuge. He was waiting for the right time too. He had no change of heart, he had just been copying his brother’s behavior.

To conclude, the main lead abandoned Yoon Seungwon in the end for his loved one. It happened, when he not only rejected the marriage proposals, but also moved to that “poor region”. The sibling received his punishment for his lack of loyalty and his dishonesty. Funny is that the main lead actually followed his brother’s advices: 8chapter 118) He cut off ties with the past and the family!! This means that his words in the lord’s bedchamber came true: (chapter 78) Let’s not forget that at the gibang, Yoon Seungwon never revealed his true intentions towards his brother. The latter always said that his advices were for his best interests. He should become involved in the government. But everything was for the Yoons, or better said, for Yoon Seungwon’s sake. And there exists another reason why the sibling must have been embarrassed: This marriage! To conclude, Yoon Seungwon embodies the opposite values of Baek Na-Kyum and Yoon Seungho: ambition, corruption, forgetfulness, hierarchy/social norms, traditions and reality versus understanding, forgiveness, simplicity, closeness, modern family and happiness. Selfishness versus Selflessness. This explicates why the main lead gave up his success for the artist. However, though it looks like an exile, the reality is that he will gain popularity and admiration among the inhabitants. Why? It is because he is no longer making distinctions between nobles and commoners, he doesn’t see this place as a punishment, but as a heaven and as such he has a better perception of humans in general. In my eyes, he is bringing progress and change in the region. Baek Na-Kyum is already teaching the kids how to draw… so it is only a matter of time, until his lover takes care of the education for these children. This means that these words will become a reality: (chapter 6) He will think of the futures of those children because of his lover.

PS: Tell me, if you are interested in another essay. The question would be: how did lord Yoon die? Was he poisoned 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-Tumblr-Twitter account is: @bebebisous33. Thanks for reading and for the support, particularly, I would like to thank all the new followers and people recommending my blog.

Jinx: Passions in Purple💜: Jealousy and Joy 😄 in Jinx – Part 1

1. Purple in Jinx

The new special episode reinforced my interpretation about colors in Jinx. The shades are not just beautiful, but also full of symbolism and insight. They indicate the characters’ personality, their mood and transformation. As my illustration is indicating it, purple was predominant in the new special chapter. (special episode 2). This pigment is a combination of blue and red/pink. And now pay attention to the last panel. Potato is blushing while wearing dark-green clothes, his lover is standing in front of the blue sky and his skin is rather pale. His hanbok has purple and white shades. As you can see, this wonderful night represents their union: white meets black, blue meets red and yellow (hence purple and green). The light from outside contrasts to the darkness of the shelter. That’s how purple came to shine. On the other hand, since Heesung is acting as the master, and the maknae is relegated to the role of a male servant, the actor is exposing his inner darkness. He is longing for dominance and possession. (special episode 2) To conclude, Heesung is gradually showing his true colors: the hidden black spot behind his perfect white skin. However, dark shouldn’t be reduced to evil, for in Taoism, black has another signification. It represents yin, the feminine energy. This means that thanks to that night, Heesung could display his motherly and caring side. Therefore he kissed, hugged Yoon-Gu and stroke his cheek. But this doesn’t end here. After the intercourse, he caressed his lover’s head. (special episode 2). One might argue that in the last picture, he was not entirely honest, for his eyes were closed. Besides, he was just paying him a compliment. Nevertheless, this gesture is still exposing that the actor is opening up his mind and heart to the chow-chow. He is no longer indifferent like in the past! This stands in opposition to his gifts to the members from Team Black and Kim Dan. (chapter 31) The latter reflected his superficiality and detachment. How so? It is because he had bought them. Moreover, his manager was tasked to carry the presents. (chapter 31) It was, as if the manager was cursing him and his gifts. As you can see, there was no direct contact between him and the beneficiaries of his generosity. Money was between them in the end: Heesung, the manager and the members from Team Black. This could only corrupt their relationship. However, the pat on the head between the two second leads symbolizes genuineness and real gratitude. (special episode 2) Therefore it is not astonishing that Potato feels so moved by such a caress that he starts blushing. His dream has always been to be patted on the head. (chapter 23) This signifies that the comedian fulfilled one of the young fighter’s dreams. Yet, the color in the last panel is not purple, but coral peach. Why? The reason is simple. The emperor is linked to red (anger, blood thirst), whereas the maknae embodies yellow. The pigment exposes the young stan’s ignorance, for he was not able to detect his hero’s true colors and as such his flaws. In his eyes, he was just a “god”, as he embodied perfection. Thus he had a pink version of his idol. Moreover, observe that this dream is connected to light, day and publicness, while the other is linked to darkness, night and privacy. (special episode 2) The young fighter and his lover are slowly discovering the existence of a double life (public/professional versus private life). This signifies that Potato is learning to distinguish between image (hero) and reality. In fact, he only knows the MMA fighter Joo Jaekyung and not the private man with his troubled past. As for the actor, with his blog (chapter 30), pictures and sponsoring (chapter 31) he never drew a line between his private and professional life either. He acted, as though he had no secret. That’s the reason why his manager knew about his tragic love life. This explicates as well why he used the “deal” with Park Namwook to go on a date with Kim Dan. (chapter 32) The gumiho never felt the need to hide his sexual orientation, it was never a taboo. It indicates that he felt safe among his colleagues and agency. Therefore the manager could talk so freely about his love life in front of others. (chapter 30) There was no secrecy and privacy. Manhwaphiles should keep in their mind that homosexuality in MMA world and boxing is a huge taboo. So if Potato’s homosexuality were to be exposed to the netizens, this could ruin his career. This is also valid for Joo Jaekyung. Other fighters could question their manhood. And this brings me back to that night. Purple is strongly connected to yin and as such to the moon, like you can detect in the illustrations below.

We have a perfect illustration of this flow of colors in Jinx. In episode 20, yang was dominant in the bathroom scene. It was about the doctor’s first ejaculation and as such about his manhood. The fighter (yang) acted like the teacher. Hence (chapter 20) the main pigments were yellow, rosa, red and orange, whereas on the bed, the roles and topics were switched. Kim Dan’s feminine side was the dominant one. His motherly and caring instincts were so strong that he had no problem to challenge his sex partner. (chapter 21) Here, black and purple were the dominant pigments, similar to the sex scene from the special episode. The moon stands for softness, quietness, but also mystery and receptiveness. And during the night of episode 21, the doctor taught to Joo Jaekyung the importance of family. Besides, the athlete discovered a secret from the physical therapist. Though the former was pushed away, he didn’t react violently. Joo Jaekyung remained passive. This was the influence of Kim Dan’s yin. (chapter 21) And the next morning, the emperor chose to show his motherly and caring side to Kim Dan and the halmeoni. (chapter 21)

And now, it is time to return our attention to the scene in the shelter. (special episode 2) First, the person associated with purple is not Heesung, but Potato. 😮 It is because we need to differentiate between interior and exterior. We can detect this in many panels during that night, (special episode 2) Potato is literally glowing, while the other is just wearing a purple hanbok (disguise). One might wonder why. The answer is simple. Potato stands for innocence, reflection and ignorance. Contrary to his new role model (Kim Dan), he has no real prejudices against sex. He doesn’t view it as dirty. This explicates why Potato is always surprised by his own pleasure and always claims his ignorance. (special episode 1) (special episode 2) He doesn’t make quick conclusions. The irony is that by expressing his ignorance and as such denying the existence of his own pleasure, he is actually challenging his gumiho. The latter is not recognized as a good lover! 😂 Moreover, it was, as though the young man had not been thrilled and excited contrary to his partner. This means that the maknae is pushing his companion to become more creative in sex. He is hoping that Potato would come to confess his joy and excitement as well. This means that Heesung has to find new ways to impress and woo his companion. Innocence and ignorance are the best weapons to tame the mythological creature. Simultaneously, it implies the actor’s underlining desire: he wishes to share his happiness with others!! As you can see, though Heesung is indeed a red flag [Further explanations are below], he shouldn’t be simply reduced to the stigma “jerk”. Exactly like the terrible emperor, he also has redeeming qualities. Moreover, this made me realize that his words are turning into a reality: (special chapter 1) Potato has become his “fuck buddy”. By developing friendship through sex, he is not realizing that he is falling for the young fighter. Thus I am suspecting that in the past, he paid too much attention to emotions and less to sex… he was not trying to give pleasure to his sex partners in the first place. Now, he is doomed to find ways to give pleasure to his “fuck buddy”. And that’s how he is learning to become a responsible person.

But there exists another reason why this night stood under the sign of purple. It is because Yoon-Gu became the actor’s perfect lover. (special episode 2) That’s why the actor was glowing like a star after their passionate role-play. The presence of “stars” indicates his excitement and joy. His heart is racing, hence he is full of joy and feels rejuvenated. Moreover, the Webtoonist already implied the link between Potato and purple in the following scenes: (special episode 1) The young sportsman’s innocent statement brought Heesung to another galaxy. It was, as if he had entered a new world. Then we see Potato carrying a purple towel, when he is alone with Kim Dan and Joo Jaekyung. (chapter 23) Don’t forget that his family name is Hwang which means yellow in Chinese. That’s the reason why I don’t think, the purple towel is random. One might argue that the towel belongs to the gym, and they got changed later: (chapter 36) Park Namwook selected black towels, a sign that he was taking over the gym. But the purple towel announces the moment, where the doctor and Potato gets closer to each other. (chapter 23) For the first time, the young fighter showed a certain curiosity towards the physical therapist: the beginning of “Enlightenment” and friendship. Under this new light, Manhwaworms can grasp why Heesung was under Potato’s spell during this intercourse. (special episode 2) But we have another evidence that Heesung has always been looking for a “purple” person. It is because he picked up a purple suit for Kim Dan. (chapter 32) This means that this night stands under the sign of Yoon-Gu! The latter came to shine to the point that he affected his lover… that’s how the actor blushed more and more. (special episode 2) This observation brings me to my next interpretation.

Thanks to Potato, Heesung became closer to his true self: a yang with a black spot. And what is the opposite to purple? Dark red… full of passion. The actor could expose his possessiveness and jealousy, though he masked it behind a role-play. (special episode 2) (special episode 2) Remember my previous analysis about the actor. The latter has always longed to be recognized and admired as a man and not as a god or star. And now, you comprehend why after this intercourse, the gumiho made the following suggestion: (special episode 2) This exposes his desire for companionship and his loneliness. Additionally, it shows that he desires to get closer to his sex partner, to include him in his life. Once again, Manhwaphiles can detect the absence of boundaries between private and professional life. However, by making such a suggestion, he is not realizing that he is ignoring the MMA fighter’s career. But wait …notice that they had sex in a shed. But this was just an illusion, for they were having sex in the actor’s white bedroom. (special episode 2)

2. Purple between dream and reality

This image (special episode 2) brought the readers back to reality. In fact, this picture indicates that all this wonderful sex session in the shelter took place in the comedian’s head. (special episode 2) With that, I am implying that the actor imagined a scene from a historical drama (Joseon, hierarchical society and the shed). It was interesting, because for the first time, the author allowed us to penetrate Heesung’s mysterious inner world. It shows his “creativity”, inspired by his last shooting (special episode 2) and his own desires. As you can see, the sex session is a mixture of dream and reality which is reflected in the color purple.

It shows that the purple from Yoon-Gu pushed Heesung to become creative and meditate. Under this new light, it becomes understandable why Heesung became more honest and genuine after that spicy night. Sincerity is strongly connected to spirituality. In addition, in my previous essay, I stated that this night corresponds to the revival of the second lead. (special episode 2) He is blushing, he is enjoying this moment with his partner. He has the impression that his dream has come true. In his mind, he was breaking rules. A prince has sex not only with a man, but with a guard, a commoner. Secondly, they were having sex in the shed, hence they could get caught. He felt like he was playing with fire. This shows that the man enjoys thrilling situations. This explains his blushing in this scene: (chapter 34) He was not shocked or disgusted, when he saw Kim Dan having sex with the champion (chapter 34). In fact, he got aroused. Hence I am suspecting that Heesung’s life lesson in this scene was to respect “privacy”, he can not meddle in people’s life and relationships, just because of his belief “soulmate” and selfish desires. (chapter 33) Under this new light, his visit in the sauna appears like an intrusion. (chapter 34) He knew about the emperor’s schedule, a sign that he was somehow “monitoring” the main lead’s moves. Here, I feel the need to include this video exposing Heesung’s dark side.

0:31 overwhelming affection – love bombing (chapter 31) 1:07 too much quality time 1:33 saying “I love you” too soon (chapter 35) 2:13 constant texting 2:49 constant monitoring (special episode 1) With this statement, he is actually taking over Potato’s schedule and life 3:19 jealousy and possessiveness (special episode 2)

And now, it is time to explain why Heesung fell under Potato’s spell. It is because Potato listened to all his requests without protesting. He allowed him to be the one leading the sex session. He made no request either. That’s why Heesung patted Potato’s head. (special episode 2) He not only had so much fun, but also he felt powerful. I believe that his possessiveness comes from his social status. His wealth comes from his family, therefore he feels like he doesn’t possess anything on his own. Everything is related to “money”.

This sex session symbolizes “transgression”, whereas in verity, it just took place in the bed. Here, my avid readers can sense the actor’s inner conflict. Though he likes transgressing social norms, he is still preferring conformity. He doesn’t want to stand out too much. [For more read the essay La Vie En Rose ] This interpretation leads me to my next statement. Their first night together also stands under the sign of “infraction”. He disliked to have sex with virgins (special episode 1). Then he still chose to have sex with Potato, though he knew that the young sportsman was drunk. (special episode 1) The irony is that though Potato had said, he was a virgin, the actor chose to ignore it. Hence he got shocked later, when he realized Potato’s age.. (special episode 1) There’s a huge gap, he appears as a “seductive” wolf like in the fairy tale “The Little Red Riding Hood” That’s how it dawned on me why Heesung will have problems in his relationship with Potato. It is related to his dishonesty and mistrust which he projects onto others. This explicates why he doubted about Yoon-Gu’s virginity. (special episode 1) And what is the synonym for “truth”? Reality and Real World!! And now, you understand why Heesung created a historical drama in his mind for the sex session. It was his way to avoid truth and honesty. He used the role play to expose his jealousy (special episode 2) and possessiveness. (special episode 2) He fears to expose his true self to others and especially to Potato. He could scare him, as he is much younger and less experienced. To conclude, this sex session was a combination of truth and lie. No wonder why Potato’s answer was “I don’t know”. (special episode 2) He was not swayed by this role-play, for he didn’t feel it genuine. He couldn’t see the vision Heesung had in his mind. On the other hand, this night exposes the emergence of feelings from the actor’s side. But contrary to his past, he is not saying “I love you” too quickly and easily. It is because his initial thought was to seek fun and entertainment and not fated love! (special episode 1)

3. Purple, Green and Rejection

At the same time, since this night (special episode 2) stands under the sign of dream and illusion, we should compare it to this love session: (chapter 44) After this wonderful moment, Kim Dan came back down to earth. His present got rejected, he was just viewed as a physical therapist and nothing more. (chapter 45) We also have a refusal in the special episode. Potato initially rejected the offer from his sex partner: (special episode 2) He refused saying that he would be “embarrassed”. However, here is the thing. When he proposed to visit his lover on set, he was running away and turning his back to him. (special episode 2) Moreover, his words were definitely spoken more softly with a lot of hesitations. Hence I am doubting that Heesung saw his offer (visit to the set) as an acceptance. From my point of view, we should envision that the comedian saw it as a rejection. Potato was actually refusing to become an actor like him, then he employed the word “embarrassment”. It was, as if he was ashamed to be seen close to the actor Heesung. Finally, we should compare the last panel with this one: (chapter 34) He was also running away after getting threatened and rejected. In other words, Potato didn’t realize that with his behavior, he had triggered Heesung’s jealousy, insecurity and anger. That’s why he has this cold gaze. (special episode 2) It is the same glaring than Joo Jaekyung’s (chapter 7) who was full of jealousy here! Thus I conclude that this special night ended on a bad note, though Potato had no idea. The fox is no longer amused. Because Heesung is not happy deep down, he is planning something!! (special episode 2) Moreover, Manhwaphiles should keep in mind that he is talking in the past: “I had a ball”.His joy was just short-lived.

Since he is displeased, I believe that this scene should be compared to this one! (chapter 33) Observe the parallels: (chapter 33) (special episode 2) Both seme are holding a cellphone in bed. While the emperor had already bought sex toys, the onomatopoeia “music note” is indicating that the gumiho sent a message. In my opinion, he must have ordered some sex toys. But why? It is because Potato brought him back to reality. Heesung has a false notion of love. Like mentioned in a previous episode, Heesung has a romanticized version of love, inspired from movies and fairy tales.

I am including this short video, because it reflects Heesung’s mentality perfectly. At the same time, it reminds us a little of Potato, though the latter is actually the positive version of the fox.

And now, you comprehend why Heesung stated, he had no problem to go after people who were in a relationship. (chapter 33) Simultaneously, Manhwaphiles can grasp why Heesung is now targeting Yoon-Gu, who only had eyes for “Joo Jaekyung”.

Potato put boundaries, when he said this: (special episode 2) He would be the one determining the type of visit. He is not giving up on his career as MMA fighter. He doesn’t want to become an extra, dependent on the actor’s generosity. (special episode 2) As you can see, Mingwa played with the contrast “dream versus reality”. And what is the color for jealousy? Green!

And when did this color appear in the special episode? It is related to the costumes of the guards. (special episode 2) Yes, we need to question ourselves what triggered Heesung’s fantasy for the role-play. (special episode 2) IT is not just because of the costumes. My hypothesis is that the guards are working as an item, you can observe this in the following two panels: (special episode 2) Two guards are following the prince Heesung. Then in this one, (special episode2), there are 4 guards working as two teams. In my opinion, Heesung noticed his loneliness which contrasts so much to the situation with the other actors. , (special episode 2) This scene triggered his envy and jealousy. He wanted to have someone by his side whom he could talk to. , 8special episode 2), Here, he thanked everyone, yet he was standing in the middle of the scene, far away from everyone. In reality, his “gratitude” was superficial, for his thank was addressed to no one in particular. Just empty words. Under this new light, Manhwalovers can understand why he made such a suggestion after the intercourse: (special episode 2) It is, because he really wanted to have someone by his side on set. He hoped to lose this sense of loneliness. He longed for companionship too. Therefore it is not surprising that the actor got upset, when Potato didn’t accept his offer so blindly. Like mentioned above, I am even doubting that he heard Potato’s suggestion. For him, it was a rejection, especially if you take his words in the shed seriously: (special episode 2) Turning his back to Heesung is like a disobedience, he is not looking at his lover.. But the color green is not just connected to negative connotations. This shade stands for growth, hope and restoration.

Note that the costume from the guard has different shades of green: dark-green, grey-green and pale green. (special episode 2) Each pigment of green has a different signification: dark green can symbolize balance, drive, money, greed and fertility, while pale green symbolizes peace.

In my opinion, the color green affected the young comedian on the set as well. He associated it with positive notions like calmness, hope, companionship and motivation. (special episode 2) That’s why the author created such a panel. Here, the color takes a bigger place than the costume itself, for you only see a part of the disguise. And this observation brings me back to Taoism and the colors. The green color corresponds to sunset or sunrise which makes me think of a moment of transition. This corresponds to the notion of change and as such growth. Moreover, it stands for balance between yin and yang, like quoted above. The shade implies an equity between female and male energy. And now, you comprehend why Mingwa used green light in the car scene: (chapter 33) On the one hand, it was an allusion to the emperor’s hidden jealousy. The latter had masked it as a challenge and game: But the shade is implying that the fighter was slowly calming down. He accepts the doctor’s embrace, he even grabs his phallus in order to give pleasure to his partner. (chapter 33) In the end, he did show a caring side to the doctor. (chapter 33) He knew that his lover was sensitive to his touch. He desired to give pleasure to his companion. Yes, I see some parallels between the sex scene in the car and the one in the shed: public place, the connection between work and love life, the miscommunication, the importance to satisfy his partner sexually, a challenge, the grabbing of the phallus: (special episode 2), the jealousy, the possessiveness… making sure that the companion is not looking elsewhere… but more importantly, both seme are and were unaware of their growing affection towards their “fuck buddy”. Yet, there exists a huge difference between these two sex sessions: THE KISS! (special episode 2) In the car scene, the champion never smooched the physical therapist. Nevertheless, Heesung knows the signification of a kiss, but since he was acting in the role-play, he didn’t pay too much attention to it. IT was part of the “game”.

Thanks to the color green, I had a new revelation. That’s why I selected this image (chapter 33) The points of suspension from Joo Jaekyung are exposing his “ignorance”. He doesn’t know what to do, when he sees Kim Dan like this. (chapter 33) The emperor has now regained control of his emotions, but he couldn’t interpret his emotions correctly (jealousy, longing for love, insecurities). Moreover, we shouldn’t forget that he has not associated the kiss to love yet. In the locker room, he kissed the “hamster” in order to protect him. He had been simply following his friend’s advice. Then in the swimming pool, he felt attracted towards him. (chapter 27) He had acted instinctively… but in the car, his emotions were clouding his judgement. The ejaculations brought him back to reality. He had somehow achieved his goal. He had no idea what to do after the intercourse. That’s why I believe that in this panel (chapter 33), we should see the older version of Potato: “I don’t know … Why did I act like that?” The color indicates a change within the figure. He had not sex like that with Kim Dan in the past (he was only focusing on his partner’s pleasure). Don’t forget that the doctor had begged him for help: (chapter 33) He had admitted his defeat. However, this sex scene had the opposite effect on the champion. It didn’t bring him any Enlightenment, he was still clueless and worried, because he felt, he was losing control of his life. (chapter 34) As a conclusion, he came to “deny” this reality. He rejected his own emotions, until he was challenged once again in the sauna.

And now, you comprehend why I am envisioning Heesung ordering sex toy in order to tame and even punish his chow-chow, similar to the scene in the car. There the pink dildo played a huge role in the car scene, a mixture of pleasure and punishment. If you read my previous essay about the second couple. you are aware of my hypothesis that Heesung enjoys BDSM deep down. And note that in the shed, Heesung talked about punishment. (special episode 2) In addition, I noticed that the fighter’s buttocks are red (special episode 2), a sign that Heesung must have grabbed and even slapped his lover’s butt: From my point of view, the actor has a different attitude than the champion on the bed: (special episode 2) He wants to renew the intercourse, he wants to prolong this fantasy…don’t forget that this man is trying to escape from reality. His belief “soulmate” is strongly intertwined with eternity. But happiness can only exist, when pain and misery are there. Without them, people wouldn’t be able to feel any joy and happiness. In other words, the actor has to internalize the notion of time and temporality as well. Humans are not eternal, thus they can get sick or even die.

5. Time and purple

Since Yin and Yang are connected to time, it signifies that colors are also connected to the moon. link Purple announces a new moon, while red symbolizes full moon. Interesting is that during that purple night, readers can’t see the moon at all. (special episode 2) This means that this sex session took place during the new moon. Hence we have the color purple… This corresponds to the actor’s transformation. He is revived… he has finally found his soulmate, but he is not aware of it yet. And now, pay attention to this scene: We have the color blue, (chapter 53) (chapter 53) There is no moon, only the artificial lights from the city. Hence I deduce that the couple is now entering in a new phases, there is a new moon soon. The absence of the moon corresponds to the doctor’s departure. Don’t forget that these panels took place on two different days. One thing is sure. The dominance of the blue symbolizes the dominance of Kim Dan in Joo Jaekyung’s life, but also the loss for the two characters. There is no warmth… yet calmness and softness. Joo Jaekyung is not throwing a tantrum. He is not breaking any sandbag or throwing away the letter. It shows the calming influence of Kim Dan over the champion. With his departure, he is pushing the athlete to face his own emotions and to analyze them. And now pay attention to the last panel from season 1: there are glimpses of purple: (chapter 53) It announces the start of Joo Jaekyung’s Enlightenment. He is on his way to recognize the source of his joy and happiness: Kim Dan as his companion. This signifies that Potato’s vision should come true in the end: (chapter 23) He will find joy by training other sportsmen, he is also longing for a “sparring” partner… He will recognize that friendship and family can be a source of joy. He needs to stop mistrusting people… And it is the same for Heesung. The latter chose dishonesty and manipulations out of fear and mistrust towards people.

Since yin and yang are connected to time, it reinforces my prediction that Joo Jaekyung will have a revelation in front of the sunset: (chapter 53) Red and yellow are strongly connected to Yang. The latter is conceived of as heaven, maleness, light, activity, and penetration..And now, you comprehend why I am expecting an Enlightenement from the athlete on the beach. Hence I am expecting that the champion will come to recognize the doctor’s true character there: he is strong, brave, manly and so selfless. He is not a baby like in the bathroom. Yes, I am expecting a new version of this scene (chapter 53), where both roles are switched. And now, it is your turn to reread the first season and interpret the sex scenes under the yin and yang aspects, like in this scene: : (chapter 39)

However, like you could see it in the title, I am planning to compose a second part… I left clues about the focus in the illustration.

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

Jinx: Reluctant Moving 🚗🦽

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.

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
closureemptiness
beautiful – impressed Hates this moment – sadness
Companionship – she doesn’t feel isolatedloneliness
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.

Jinx: Jinxed: Behind The Scenes 🎬

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.

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

Jinx: Kiss me 💋 (Podcast)

Gustav Klimt The Kiss

Though the woman appears smaller and more submissive, it is important to notice that she is on her knees. So if she stood on her own feet, she would appear taller than the man. It indicates that the woman is stronger than she appears. Both persons are enjoying the moment, forgetting their surrounding. They are surrounded by nature, creating an association between love and nature. The couple is forgetting society and social norms. It is important to know that Klimt’s paintings were criticized back then, they were considered as Pornography. Though Jinx contains explicit content, the story is more than just sex. It is about maturity and giving a meaning to life and as such to find happiness.

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.