Please support the authors by reading Manhwas on the official websites. This is where you can read the Manhwa: Jinx But be aware that the Manhwa is a mature Yaoi, which means, it is about homosexuality with explicit scenes. Here is the link of the table of contents about Jinx. Here is the link where you can find the table of contents of analyzed Manhwas. Here are the links, if you are interested in the first work from Mingwa, BJ Alex, and the 2 previous essays about Jinx Only Wanted Me For My Body (locked) and Blooming Muscles
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The Commodification of the Body
Throughout Jinx, the concept of value is inextricably linked to the body. 
(chapter 27) This aspect becomes particularly evident in Kim Dan’s perception of himself and his interactions with Joo Jaekyung. 
(chapter 62) In episode 62, Kim Dan reproached the champion for only being interested in his body, reflecting his own inability to see his body as something valuable. Hence he never wondered about the true cause for such a huge bruise. 
(chapter 61) While with his words, he implied that his fated partner was a man obsessed with sex, his complaint reveals his mindset. First, he is the one longing for human warmth 
(chapter 59), hence he felt terrible sleeping alone. Secondly, he does not attribute worth to his own physical being beyond its utility for others. This explains why he has consistently neglected himself—avoiding food, disregarding his own injuries, and refusing to seek medical help when necessary.
This cyclical pattern suggests that Kim Dan’s actions are not just self-sacrificial but deeply ingrained behaviors passed down from his upbringing. Mingwa’s decision to portray Kim Dan’s declining health is crucial. 
(chapter 60) It underscores the reality that without his body, he cannot work. In this way, his physical deterioration forces him to confront an undeniable truth: 
(chapter 59) his body is not just a tool for others, but the very foundation of his survival. I would even so far to say that his sick and stressed body would question his identity as PT and caregiver.
As my avid readers can sense, the doctor is going through a similar path than the celebrity’s. Both Kim Dan and Joo Jaekyung struggle with their own worth, but their journeys take vastly different paths. While the champion has learned to commodify his body, turning strength into currency and dominance into power, he has also been conditioned to disregard his own well-being. MFC viewed him as a commodity, using him as long as he remained valuable in the ring. Once his body is worn out 
(chapter 43), they will replace him with a new ‘doll.’ This exploitation shaped his relationship with his own body—one that prioritized its use over its care.
Unconsciously, Joo Jaekyung projected this treatment onto his partners 
(chapter 2), using sex as an extension of combat, mirroring the way MFC dehumanized him. His encounters were never about intimacy but about exerting control, reinforcing the notion that his body—and by extension, others’—only mattered as long as it served a purpose. Under this new light, Jinx-philes can grasp why the identity of the sex partner didn’t matter in the past too, for the champion avoids to fight against the same opponent in the ring.
Kim Dan, on the other hand, internalized a different form of self-neglect, seeing his body as an instrument of service rather than a source of personal value. As I analyzed Jinx, I noticed striking parallels between episodes 26 
(chapter 26) and 62 
(chapter 62) that highlighted a crucial shift in how each of them perceives their own worth—and, more importantly, each other’s. The mirroring of these two episodes suggests a deliberate narrative structure that showcases their evolving dynamic, with each character taking on a role the other once held. This realization led me to explore how their perspectives on strength, vulnerability, and agency transform over time.
Episode 26: The Submission and the Challenge
Episode 26 presents a crucial turning point in Kim Dan’s journey, one that lays the groundwork for the mirrored themes in episode 62. Several common denominators connect these two episodes: the imbalance of power, the nature of the challenge faced, the poor health condition of the doctor 
(chapter 26) 
(chapter 62), Kim Dan’s smile (genuine versus fake) and the characters’ shifting roles in confrontation and protection. The numerical structure of this episode—where Joo Jaekyung (2) represents dominance (chapter 26) and Kim Dan (6) embodies the nurturing, protective role—establishes a foundation for their evolving dynamics. 
(chapter 26)
But there’s a reason why I connected these two episodes together. Beyond the nature of their respective battles, another common denominator is Joo Jaekyung’s implicit care for Kim Dan, which is evident in both episodes despite his usual harsh demeanor. In episode 26, this care is symbolized by the red protective gear Joo Jaekyung gives Kim Dan before their sparring session. 
(chapter 26) This small yet significant act reveals that the champion does not see Kim Dan merely as a ‘sex doll’ but as someone worth protecting, even when challenging him. The protective gear is a contrast to Joo Jaekyung’s usual treatment of his one-night stands, reflecting an unconscious distinction between how he views Kim Dan versus his other partners. Finally, this sparring day exposes the doctor’s biased perception about the athlete in episode 62 once again. (chapter 62) Though he is portrayed as an arrogant man who had no respect for Kim Dan as doctor, he was only invited for sex services. 
(chapter 62) It was, as if he had no real talent. But let’s return our attention to the safety gears. The latter underline the high sense of responsibility of the champion, which readers could detect in episode 62. With the red accessories, Joo Jaekyung was showing his respect to the doctor as a man. In that scene, Kim Dan could choose his destiny. It is clear that “the hamster” has long forgotten this happy day 
(chapter 26) – he was smiling genuinely here- , and has reduced his time spent with Joo Jaekyung to sex:
One of the clearest parallels lies in the nature of the trial each character undergoes. In episode 26, Kim Dan was pushed to face his biggest fear 
(chapter 26) —a powerful, intimidating man who mirrors the threat of Heo Manwook 
(chapter 16) and his minions. At the beginning of the fight, the doctor was not fighting for himself but for someone else, reinforcing his deep-seated belief that his worth was tied to service and sacrifice. However, during the match of the century, there was a short change. Kim Dan was reminded of his own past and fears. Thus, I deduce that in episode 62, it is Joo Jaekyung who must face his own greatest challenge—not a physical opponent, but the emotional vulnerability that comes with loss and uncertainty. Though he helped others, his generosity remained unnoticed by Kim Dan. Hence the latter was still unwilling to return to Seoul. 
(chapter 62) On the surface, it looks like Joo Jaekyung lost. 
(chapter 62) More importantly, Kim Dan’s words (chapter 62 push Joo Jaekyung to confront his deepest fear—his own self-perception. Kim Dan has depicted him as a ruthless, inconsiderate man who views him purely as an object, reducing him to someone fixated on sex and control. This challenges Joo Jaekyung’s fragile self-worth, compelling him to question the unsettling possibility that this is how others and in particular Kim Dan see him. That’s why it was important for the champion to help the inhabitants during that day. The genuine admiration and constant requests from the community could only boost his ego. Thus he remained calm, when he heard the doctor’s blame. If Kim Dan’s accusations hold truth, then Joo Jaekyung has indeed been embodying the ‘spoiled brat’ Kim Dan claims he is (chapter 62) —exploiting people without genuine regard. This reckoning is not solely about emotional vulnerability but about identity itself. If Joo Jaekyung wants to validate his worth beyond his physical abilities, he must present his authentic self, proving his depth not just through his body, but through his emotional sincerity.
And what happened in the ring? The celebrity talked to Kim Dan, 
(chapter 26), was happy to demonstrate his talents and kept smiling all the time: 
(chapter 26) For the first time, fighting had become a source of joy for the athlete. He felt not only good, but confident about his skills, as a teacher and fighter. In both instances, this moment serves as a turning point, pushing each character to redefine their role and perception of self.
Though in episode 26, Kim Dan took on a maternal role toward Joo Jaekyung and Potato, prioritizing another’s well-being over his own, it is important to recall that the starting point for the challenge was “envy”. 
(chapter 25) Kim Dan was interested to know more about this sport for the protagonist’s sake, whereas Potato was jealous of Kim Dan’s closeness to the star. How did the celebrity react, when he heard the doctor’s desire to learn fighting moves? He was totally pleased, hence he lowered himself smiling 
(chapter 25) before returning to the ring: 
(chapter 25). Notice that he employed the word “happy” here. This shows that the athlete liked to be a teacher and mentor to a novice.
Later, Kim Dan knelt before Joo Jaekyung 
(chapter 26), reinforcing his belief that his worth lies in service, and he requests an opportunity for someone else. The physical challenge that followed, in which the champion invited him into the ring, was meant to teach Kim Dan to overcome fear, though the original idea was to learn jujitsu moves for the champion’s sake. As you can see, there was a switch in the intentions for the “lesson”. This moment also highlights Joo Jaekyung’s approach to the body—power, physicality, and dominance, which will later be subverted in episode 62 when emotional resilience becomes the true test of strength.
However, Joo Jaekyung forced Kim Dan to step into the ring, forcing him to confront this fear head-on. 
(chapter 26) Though the doctor was initially immobile and passive, the experience became a significant lesson: fear was something that could be faced and overcome. From that moment on, he became more proactive (chapter 26), though he lacked speed, strength and endurance. 
(chapter 26) This is a moment of physical initiation for Kim Dan, teaching him resilience. Nonetheless, he was still fighting for someone else, still locked in his pattern of self-neglect.
To conclude, though Kim Dan was taught an important lesson, he didn’t drop his belief that his body existed for others. His actions were still revolving around providing care, whether for his grandmother or, in this case, for Joo Jaekyung or Potato.
Episode 62: The Reversal of Roles
Episode 62 inverts the roles established in episode 26. Here, Kim Dan (2) and Joo Jaekyung (6) switch positions, with the champion now assuming a protective and caring role 
(chapter 62), although he has yet to fully recognize the reason behind his behavior. He is now imitating the doctor, as if his body is there to provide assistance and care for others. The people of the small town rely on Joo Jaekyung, placing him in an unfamiliar caretaker position. 
(chapter 62) This shift highlights a deeper irony: while Joo Jaekyung has always prided himself on his physical strength, he is now being tested in a way that cannot be resolved with fists.
Unlike episode 26, where Kim Dan was forced to confront his greatest fear, Joo Jaekyung must now face his own test: emotional resilience and identity. Just as Kim Dan had to fight an opponent he thought he could never defeat, Joo Jaekyung is confronted with a battle he cannot physically win—the fear of loss, rejection, and self-worth. His low self-esteem is linked to the ghost from the past, something he has not revealed to anyone yet.
(chapter 54)
(chapter 62) Joo Jaekyung is caught by surprise with such a comment, because he always saw himself as a victim of “exploitation”. People approaching him were only interested in his money or status. More than just vulnerability, this moment exposes a deeper layer of his insecurities. Until now, his body has been admired for its strength 
(chapter 34), wealth 
(chapter 42) and title
(chapter 55), not for its attractiveness or desirability. His reputation in bed has been poor; 
(chapter 33), he was never seen as a man with sex appeal or sensuality, but merely as a fighter who could endure. Sex was another form of exertion, a display of control and dominance rather than a pursuit of pleasure.
Now, Kim Dan’s words and request introduce a shift in perspective. (chapter 62) By implying that Joo Jaekyung can ‘use’ him as a sex doll, Kim Dan indirectly introduces the idea of sensuality—foreplay, caresses, enjoyment rather than performance. Sex is no longer work, but fun and entertainment. It is not for the doctor’s sake 
(chapter 13), but for his own pleasure. The defy incites the fighter to make a conscious choice contrary to the day, when both main leads took the day off: 
(chapter 27) 
(chapter 29) On the other hand, this suggestion challenges Joo Jaekyung’s previous experiences, forcing him to realize that he has never had to woo or seduce anyone before. This was the only time, where Jinx-philes could see him using his sex-appeal- 
(chapter 34) He got confident, because he had played a trick on his room mate. His physicality has always been his defining trait, but for the first time, he is being confronted with the question: does he have more to offer beyond brute strength and money? If he wants to prove his worth, he must do more than rely on his body—he must reveal his true self.
On the other side, Kim Dan’s actions reinforce this dynamic shift. No longer seeking validation through self-sacrifice, he is finally fighting for himself. He does not kneel (chapter 26); he stands. 
(chapter 62) He does not plead; he challenges. This reversal is significant because it places Joo Jaekyung in the uncomfortable position of emotional uncertainty. In episode 26, the champion was confident in his control over the situation. In episode 62, he is on the verge of losing control—not over a fight, but over a person. Hence he can no longer control his erection. 
(chapter 62)
The problem is that his “doctor” and partner has a rather negative opinion about him. This means that the star needs to change his mind and heart. In addition, money is now used against him: (chapter 62). Even if they have sex, he can not expect feelings or attachment from Kim Dan – though it is clear that the doctor is deceiving himself. Through this suggestion, the physical therapist is not realizing that he is learning how to love properly: unconditional love. Having feelings without any expectation. He won’t give anything to Joo Jaekyung, he will be passive and actually receive affection. But naturally, here it just represents the first step to unconditional affection. To conclude, through the challenge, Joo Jaekyung is incited to question the nature of his feelings for Kim Dan. 
(chapter 61) Why does he want him to return to Seoul? Is he really looking for a physical therapist or something else? It is clear that he is longing for companionship.
This shift reinforces the idea that true strength is not just physical but emotional. In episode 26, Kim Dan learned how to face his fears. Now, in episode 62, it is Joo Jaekyung’s turn to confront his own weaknesses. The outcome of this “fight” remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: for the first time in his life, Joo Jaekyung is facing an opponent he cannot simply overpower—his own emotions and past believes.
But there exists a huge difference between 26 and 62: the location. Whereas the physical therapist entered the ring for the first time 
(chapter 26), which represents the MMA fighter’s world, the wolf is now the one penetrating Kim Dan’s world: the treatment table! 
(chapter 62) 
(chapter 62) The latter was brought to the hostel. I know, here I am more speculating about the next episode. However, keep in mind that the hamster brought up the past to his destined partner. (chapter 62) He mentioned their first night together forgetting their first true interaction at the gym. 
(chapter 1) The blue treatment table is the witness and proof that the champion never saw Kim Dan as a sex doll. So far, they never had sex on it, a sign that he respected not only Kim Dan as PT, but also the profession as such 
(chapter 27) Here, the champion suggested to have sex at home, and not on the table. On the other hand, Jinx-philes will certainly recall this scene where the doctor begged on his knees for money: 
(chapter 11) That’s how I discovered a strong connection between this item and sexuality. First, the one fantasying about the champion’s body on the treatment table had been Kim Dan 
(chapter 1). 
(chapter 1) The massage must have felt like caresses to Joo Jaekyung. So when the main lead made this mistake 
(chapter 1), it is very clear that Joo Jaekyung could have interpreted it as a sign for seduction later. Moreover, don’t forget the mysterious incident concerning the previous physical therapist: 
(chapter 1) It is no coincidence that Park Namwook’s words have a sexual connotation reviving my theory that a doctor might have made sexual advances there. Here, I feel the need to add another observation which came to my mind, the moment I focused on the blue treatment table. 
(chapter 37) In the States, the athlete received his treatment on the floor, a sign of a disrespect for that profession from the manager and even MFC. They somehow knew that the fighter had brought his “sex partner” for his jinx, but they had no idea about his identity. By paying attention to the blue treatment table, I realized that this item stands for power, secret, courage and vulnerability.
It is important for the two characters to clear up the misunderstandings from the past, especially if you recall the champion’s reaction, when he heard the doctor’s reproach: 
(chapter 62) According to my interpretation, Joo Jaekyung had interpreted the mistake for some advances and keep in mind that the fighter felt also attracted to the physical therapist. 
(chapter 56) In other words, he projected his own desires onto the “hamster”. But since he was still with the green-haired guy, he needed to mask his true intention: 
(chapter 1) -thus he asked for a treatment. He was about to drop the man.
So if they don’t move to a different location or remove the treatment table, the latter will serve as a place for a new experiment. Joo Jaekyung could become a “PT” and Kim Dan is the “patient” who receives a full body massage. 
(chapter 1) However, contrary to their first encounter, the champion would be talking to his neighbor. While the doctor is thinking, he will relive his first night in the penthouse, the other might reproduce his first treatment, though it should be certainly combined with the intercourse on the couch: . 
(chapter 29)
Finally, since the doctor brought up sex in front of the treatment table (chapter 62), it actually reveals the doctor’s lack of respect for his own profession and low self-esteem. I believe that he has the impression that he never improved the champion’s form and skills. He came to this perception because the athlete has expressed the following wish: once he wins back his title, they go separate ways. 
(chapter 62) But he made such an offer, because he thought, he was respecting the doctor’s wish. This shows that the athlete needs to converse properly with the doctor and not just make assumptions (MO from his manager). Moreover, the star has never expressed his gratitude and admiration towards Kim Dan concerning his talents and efforts openly. The problem is that he can not compliment him yet, because Joo Jaekyung is trying to “forget” the past and as such he is repressing the fight with Baek Junmin. I feel like the champion is on his way to discover the medical world and chapter 62 represents a prelude.
The Importance of Balance
Just before his suicide attempt, the doctor was plagued with regrets and remorse. He felt guilty because of his grandmother’s illness. 
(chapter 57) He should have sent her to the hospital and ensure that she received treatment. Notably, after the sea incident, Joo Jaekyung took Kim Dan to the hospital, but the latter rejected the champion’s advice and help. (chapter 60) Later, when Joo Jaekyung expressed concern over his bruise, Kim Dan once again pushed him away. (chapter 61) Should Kim Dan eventually fall ill, he cannot place blame on his fated partner—he is ultimately responsible for his own well-being. On the other hand, through his own circumstances, Kim Dan may come to understand that he was never responsible for Shin Okja’s health issues as well. As an adult, she should have taken responsibility for her own medical care, rather than relying entirely on him.
However, Kim Dan would not be truly responsible for his illness, because the physical therapist doesn’t know about Cheolmin’s intervention and recommendation. 
(chapter 13) So it dawned on me that if the doctor gets sick, Joo Jaekyung will be fueled with regrets and guilt, as he didn’t listen to Cheolmin’s advice. So this could lead him to apologize to Kim Dan. On the other hand, his illness could serve as a reminder to the fighter that he needs to treat his physical therapist and friend better. He only sent for the doctor because of “sex”. To conclude, both would be responsible for this terrible situation, a balance of responsibility.
I have to admit that thanks a student, I had a huge revelation. I discovered that human body has 6 senses in reality: hearing, sight, touch, taste, smell and finally sense of balance. That’s how I realized that a crucial theme in Jinx is the sense of balance, both physically and metaphorically. Kim Dan’s dizziness 
(chapter 57) is not just a symptom of overwork and lack of sleep—it symbolizes the deep imbalance in his life. His world consists only of work 
(chapter 62), without fun, rest, or emotional fulfillment. He has no hobby, no personal joy, and no real human connections. He is suffering from depression. Interestingly, the sense of balance is directly tied to the ear, which aligns with his emotional “deafness”—his lack of true contact with others. 
(chapter 61) His mind and heart are no longer listening; he is trapped in his own darkness. His dizziness and fainting spells mirror this imbalance, making his physical weakness a reflection of his emotional detachment.
Similarly, Joo Jaekyung experiences his own imbalance, reflected through his headaches 
(chapter 54) and drinking habits. 
(chapter 54) His entire life has been dedicated to work and physical prowess, leaving no space for genuine happiness or emotional well-being. His drinking is not just an escape—it is a manifestation of his need to silence his thoughts and emotions. In episode 44, when Kim Dan expressed admiration for his body, he patted his head
(chapter 44), he caressed his cheeks 
(chapter 44) and kissed his ear 
(chapter 44) —a moment that could be seen as an attempt to restore balance, to bring warmth to the parts of Joo Jaekyung that had been ignored emotionally. However, during that night, Joo Jaekyung was drunk, further disconnecting himself from reality.
After Kim Dan’s departure, Joo Jaekyung instinctively turned to drinking. 
(chapter 54) His headaches intensified, and he isolated himself, mirroring Kim Dan’s earlier state of detachment. His drinking hadn’t just become a habit—it was mourning, a sign of his internal loss. It was, as if deep down he wanted to forget this intoxicating feeling of happiness from that night in the penthouse. The departure of Kim Dan caused both of them to lose their already fragile balance, reinforcing the idea that their dynamic, as unhealthy as it had been, was stabilizing them in ways they never acknowledged.
Joo Jaekyung’s needs and desires
While the doctor said such words (chapter 62) to his fated partner, the celebrity was turning his back to the doctor. He was not looking at his physical therapist. However, if you recall his request to the manager, he expressed the desire to see Kim Dan’s face. 
(chapter 56) It was, as if the champion no longer needed to see his former room mate. Note that he even waited for the evening before approaching doc Dan again. (chapter 62) How do we explain this evolution?
Though in episode 56, he claimed to Park Namwook that just seeing Kim Dan’s face would be enough, the moment he saw the doctor’s visage in the photo 
(chapter 60), he immediately went to the town. This contradiction reveals that mere visual presence was never sufficient—what he truly longed for was something deeper. And as soon as he saw him, he felt much better, 
(chapter 61) hence he could remove his splint. That’s how powerful drug Kim Dan is. 😉
Secondly, his experience at the hospice solidified his need for companionship. 
(chapter 61) While undergoing treatment, he saw Kim Dan every day, yet he remained unsatisfied due to the silent treatment. It was not enough to simply observe him; what Joo Jaekyung truly craved was conversation, interaction, and recognition. This explains his decision to move into the town, settling near Kim Dan as his neighbor. 
(chapter 61) It also sheds light on why, during their latest encounter, he chose to turn his back on Kim Dan—he no longer needed to ‘see his face,’ he wanted acknowledgment and his return to the penthouse. He has not grasped it yet, but he already views the protagonist as his family and home.
The problem is that the champion has never had a companion before. Besides, Park Namwook in that aspect is no role model. 
(chapter 46) He is full of prejudices and not willing to listen to his boss. Therefore Joo Jaekyung doesn’t know that in order to become close, conversations must never be one-sided and have to be free from prejudices and assumptions. Joo Jaekyung needs to listen and show an interest in his partner. And now, observe the communication between the two main leads in the room. (chapter 62) He only talks about himself and his future. This stands in opposition to the doctor’s exchange in front of the hospice: 
(chapter 62) He asked a question, while the other did not! He just made assumptions from his part, hence he suggested “separate ways”. It was naturally his way of being considerate. That’s why I have the feeling that two words could move Kim Dan’s heart: “HOME” and “HYUNG”. If he calls him that way, the doctor is now recognized as a family member, even as a senior. Hence he needs to be treated with respect.
Inside the room, Joo Jaekyung is compelled to admit a truth 
(chapter 62) he had previously ignored—he is undeniably attracted to Kim Dan’s body, particularly his nipples, which have repeatedly 
(chapter 27) triggered strong reactions in him. (chapter 62) This moment directly ties back to Kim Dan’s earlier reproach: ‘You only want me for my body.’ However, the irony is that this confession forces Joo Jaekyung to recognize that his attachment is not just physical. His actions—moving closer, watching over Kim Dan, seeking his presence—reveal a much deeper longing. In acknowledging his attraction, he also faces the realization that his desires are no longer as simple as they once were. He is no longer in control of his body, he has now become dependent on Kim Dan physically and emotionally. And now, you comprehend why I connected this episode to chapter 29 too: 
(chapter 29) That’s the moment he expressed his interest in the doctor’s nipples for the first time. This even became a habit: 
(chapter 44). And what did the doctor whisper during that magical night? 
(chapter 44) He wanted him to treasure his body!! In my eyes, Kim Dan’s suggestion in episode 62 is hiding another intention, though it is definitely unconscious: 
(chapter 44) He wants to relive that night
(chapter 44), though in his mind, he desires to have a bad experience so that he can erase him from his mind. Finally, what do the nipples symbolize? Motherhood and nurturing. 
(chapter 57)
Emotional Growth and the Concept of Losing
The ultimate irony is that while Joo Jaekyung has spent his life proving his worth through his body, Kim Dan is the one who now forces him to confront what lies beyond it. Episode 26 showed that losing a bet was no great tragedy; it is about timing and seizing the opportunity. 
(chapter 26) Moreover, it was thanks to a trick that Kim Dan won: 
(chapter 26)
Thus I deduce that it is now the champion’s turn to bite the bullet. If he wants to understand his sex partner, he needs to talk to him and ask questions. And this brings me back to episode 26. Back then, the fighter’s comments were full of bias. 
(chapter 26) He felt superior and strong, whereas his rival was weak. Moreover, he imagined that Kim Dan would ask for money for the bet. 
(chapter 26) That’s why I believe that in the next episode, the roles should be switched. Kim Dan always saw himself morally superior and caring to the star, but in truth, his care was rather superficial, for he also showed no interest in the champion’s past and family. Thus I come to the following deduction that episode 62 suggests that arguing is not about losing or winning, but about listening. The champion has unknowingly become a caretaker, not only to the people of the town but, potentially, to Kim Dan himself. The question remains whether he will recognize that Kim Dan’s provocation is not just another fight lost (cutting off ties) —it is a seductive challenge to redefine his understanding of worth and their relationship. What are they to each other? A client and a prostitute? A fighter and a doctor? Or simply two men who are longing for the same: belonging and love. Nevertheless, due to their past, they are unable to detect the true source of their misery: their lack of reflection, own bias and anxieties.
The Path Toward Mutual Understanding
Kim Dan’s trembling fist (chapter 62), his voice speaking up for himself, his refusal to negotiate his body’s worth (chapter 62) —these are not just acts of defiance but of transformation. He is becoming proactive sexually (initiative, seduction). By stepping away from Joo Jaekyung, he forces the champion to consider whether strength and money alone are enough to hold onto what truly matters. And in this, Jinx presents its most profound challenge yet: can a man who has spent his entire life fighting with his body learn to fight for something greater?
PS: I am expecting in episode 63 reflections from episode 29, 36, 39 among others.
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.
(chapter 62), as his actions increasingly reflect a willingness to embrace his own fragility and build meaningful ties with those around him. Through his growing interactions with others and his immersion in the rhythms of town life, the champion begins to redefine his sense of identity and purpose, moving beyond dominance to discover the power of connection. From a man defined by strength, dominance, and transactional relationships 
(chapter 55), he evolves into someone deeply connected to others 
(chapter 62) 
(chapter 62) Thus in this essay I will explore the symbolic meaning behind his actions in the town, the interplay of nature and community in his transformation, and how these moments reflect his internal growth. The analysis begins with his transformative experience in the ocean during his rescue of Kim Dan 
(chapter 60), followed by his newfound attentiveness to his surroundings—jogging in silence and responding to the natural rhythms of life. 
(chapter 62) This heightened awareness paves the way for his burgeoning integration into the town through labor 
(chapter 62) and community service. His gradual acceptance of simplicity, represented by his clothing and the symbolism of cucumbers and potatoes, signals his reconnection to nature and humanity. 
(chapter 60) In many ways, this moment functions as a symbolic baptism, reflecting a deeper narrative of renewal and change. In Chapter 28, Kim Dan’s immersion in water during a pool scene 
(chapter 28) was symbolic of his acceptance of intimacy, reshaping his view of sex from something “filthy” 
(chapter 20) into something natural and human. 
(chapter 29) Similarly, Joo Jaekyung’s dive into the ocean can be interpreted as his baptism into a new “religion”: love and vulnerability. 
(chapter 60) His gesture is not just about saving his loved one, but also showing care to humans in general. He can no longer be indifferent to someone in pain or in danger.
(chapter 62) He might complain, but in the end he accepts the presents. This change is reinforced by his willingness to accept gratitude in the form of vegetables and food rather than monetary gain, showing a newfound appreciation for simple, heartfelt exchanges over transactional relationships.
(chapter 59) caused by his grandmother’s neglect, indifference and rejection. The rescue, while focused on saving Kim Dan, also represents the birth of a new understanding for Joo Jaekyung—a recognition of the transformative power of vulnerability and connection. 
(chapter 60) At the time, his eyes were fixed solely on Kim Dan 
(chapter 60), not the natural world around him. The rescue planted a subconscious seed, setting the stage for his later behavior. When Kim Dan denies his assistance in Episode 60
(chapter 60), it’s as if the doctor erases that defining moment, refusing to acknowledge the champion’s care. Yet Joo Jaekyung does not react with anger or frustration. Instead, he takes the doctor’s rejection as challenge. 
(chapter 60) However, contrary to the past, money and influence seems to have no impact on the physical therapist’s mind and heart. He is keeping the athlete at arms-length. 
(chapter 62) For the first time, he is not merely running for fitness or competition; he is paying attention to his surroundings. 
(chapter 62), and the natural rhythm of life around him. 
(chapter 62) Running along the ocean, a setting that profoundly influences his state of mind, Joo Jaekyung demonstrates a newfound openness. 
(chapter 62) This moment underscores his growing ability to connect with others sincerely, without suspicion or defensiveness. His willingness to engage reflects a broader transformation—one that prioritizes meaningful connections over dominance or transactional relationships. This newfound awareness signifies a major shift in his character. His senses are becoming attuned to the world beyond himself, and he is learning to differentiate between what truly matters and what does not. 
(chapter 10), seeing only the “overpowering stench of poverty.” 
(chapter 10) At that time, his perception was clouded by indifference and a focus on material circumstances. Now, however, his response to the elderly woman’s request reflects empathy and an awareness of human vulnerability.
(chapter 10), evoking a sense of cold detachment and judgment. In contrast, the moment where Joo Jaekyung is asked to repair the roof is bathed in daylight 
(chapter 62) Thus I deduce that he never accepted any kind of compensation in the end. But none of the inhabitants could accept such a generosity, therefore they brought vegetables or dishes. Unlike his previous life, defined by detachment and impermanence, these acts of community-oriented labor mark a significant shift in how he values his strength—not as a tool for control 
(chapter 62), but as a way to support and uplift others. The admiration from the inhabitants is genuine 
(chapter 62) One might think, he is doing all of this against his will and heart. In my opinion, it is related to his past behavior: 
(chapter 62) The champion feels really bad for his rejection after the incident with the spray. And since he believes that Kim Dan comes from that town, he thinks that he can redeem himself by helping his “community”.
(chapter 47), she rarely prioritized Kim Dan’s nourishment. The grandmother’s actions were driven by financial survival. Joo Jaekyung, on the other hand, receives food as a form of gratitude and recognizes the significance of nourishment beyond monetary gain. 
(chapter 58) with the reality of his evolving personality and his behavior toward others. Choi Heesung’s dismissive remark that Joo Jaekyung would “flip his shit” if he knew the living conditions of Kim Dan implies a static, unchanging view of the champion, one that aligns with a superficial understanding of him as merely ruthless and violent. However, this chapter reveals the fallacy in such an interpretation, exposing the actor’s arrogance and lack of true insight into Joo Jaekyung’s character.
(chapter 23), they could have succeeded. Potato, the youngest member of the team, embodies this missed opportunity. 
(chapter 9) His nickname, “Potato,” while intended as lighthearted and affectionate, is something he despises because he perceives it as demeaning. Yet the reality is quite the opposite—nicknames like these often carry affection and camaraderie. Yet he rejects it out of insecurity or an internalized belief in its inferiority.
(chapter 52) reveal a missed opportunity for bonding. The champion, who is evolving into a more open and empathetic individual, might have been an unexpected source of support and connection had Potato not listen to others and chosen to embrace this chance instead of harboring negative assumptions. 
(chapter 62) underscores the gap between perception and reality, showing how preconceived notions can prevent genuine relationships from forming. It also reinforces the theme of growth and transformation, as Joo Jaekyung continues to break away from the static image others have of him, proving that even the most misunderstood individuals can surprise us with their capacity for change. The interplay between the nickname “Potato” and its underlying affection further echoes the theme of finding value and beauty in simplicity—a motif central to the champion’s journey as he embraces humility and authenticity.
(chapter 62) , while he had put on his expensive jeans and CK tee-shirt. 
(chapter 62). This stands in opposition to the previous scene in front of the hospice: 
(chapter 61) The focus on Joo Jaekyung’s feet 
(chapter 62) The hospital or Kim Dan’s presence may provide him with a sense of stability and calmness, allowing him to adopt a more casual and relaxed appearance. Additionally, the contrast between his expensive jeans and branded t-shirt and his unassuming sandals reveals a division between his public image and private self. While his clothing aligns with his status as a wealthy and successful individual, the casual footwear hints at a simpler, more authentic side of him that is emerging in this setting. It reflects his willingness to shed some of the societal expectations tied to his identity.
(chapter 62) Feet often represent movement or progress, and wearing casual footwear like sandals might signify that he is in a state of personal transformation. The lack of socks further emphasizes this shedding of layers—he is slowly allowing himself to be more vulnerable and introspective, stepping away from his usual, controlled persona. Finally, sandals reflect his connection to the environment. His footwear choice underscores that the hospital is a place where he feels secure and unthreatened. The focus on his feet could symbolize his groundedness in the moment, highlighting that this environment allows him to pause and reflect, rather than act or defend.
(chapter 62), he is immediately approached by the town chief. 
(chapter 42), where appearances and dominance once took precedence over community and connection. 
(chapter 02) The penthouse, perched high above the city, served as a symbol of isolation and self-reliance—an ivory tower of sorts, detached from the world below. In contrast, the town’s hostel 
(chapter 62) reflects shared experiences and human connection, embodying a shift toward groundedness and humility.
(chapter 30) This evolution from animalistic aggression 
(chapter 30) to floral gentleness mirrors his inner journey—from a man who thrived on dominance to one who values connection and vulnerability. By choosing practicality over intimidation, he signals a readiness to embrace his humanity and shed the pretensions of his past. Moreover, the hat has here a different function: it serves as a real protection from the sun, hence his neck is covered. 
(chapter 62) “Jaegeng.” While this may initially appear as a simple mistake due to the landlord’s poor hearing, it holds deeper symbolic weight. This renaming can be interpreted as part of Joo Jaekyung’s rebirth in the town—a reflection of his evolving identity.
(chapter 52), spoiled rich brat: 
(chapter 7) Yet here, in the quiet simplicity of the town, he is seen not for his image but for his actions. The landlord’s care and warmth 
(chapter 54) Like mentioned above, his stay in this little town is teaching him to become immune to manipulations in the end. His self-esteem is getting boosted, hence he doesn’t mind being called “Jaegeng”. 
(chapter 19). This creates a fascinating parallel between the two characters: both grapple with the idea of belonging, but from opposing starting points. While Kim Dan longs for acceptance in a community 
(chapter 56) that has continually rejected him (parents, students, hospital; Team Black), Joo Jaekyung is learning how to stop running—physically and emotionally—and to establish a sense of permanence for the first time in his life.
(chapter 61) 
(chapter 59) Hence I have the impression, she could be the one leading him there, if not Kim Dan. Let’s not forget that the doctor’s deepest wish is to go on a walk through the woods: 
(chapter 47) Another interesting aspect is that the trip to the forest is connected to rest in the physical therapist’s mind. Striking is that though the champion helped the community, he still worked. So technically, he has never had a day’s rest either. But this is what he said to the landlord: 
(chapter 62) It was a mixture of white, purple, pink and orange, a sign that not only the champion’s life has become more colorful, but also the night stands under the sign of love, enlightenment and life. At the same time, it reminded me of the night when the puppy was buried:
(chapter 59) Thus I am expecting another huge transformation in the next episode.
(Chapter 61) However, this moment is not isolated—it reflects patterns in his personality that have appeared throughout the series. 
(Chapter 11) 
(chapter 18) This essay delves into the significance of Kim Dan’s physical and emotional bruises, examining how they symbolize his suffering, internal conflict and transformation. I will examine Kim Dan’s conflicted emotions surrounding gratitude and debt, contrasting his interactions with Joo Jaekyung and his grandmother, Shin Okja. Additionally, I will explore how Kim Dan’s conditioned identity as a caregiver drives his choices, even in his current living situation with the landlord, where he unconsciously replicates past dynamics. Ultimately, I will elaborate how Kim Dan’s newfound awareness could reshape his identity and relationships moving forward.
(Chapter 61) His unexpected reaction catches Kim Dan off guard, further emphasizing how disconnected the doctor has become from his own well-being. However, contrary to the past 
(chapter 11), Kim Dan is truly responsible for the contusion. He caused the injury by removing the needle from the drip. 
(chapter 60) By taking this action, he absolved Joo Jaekyung of any responsibility for the injury, but this is merely a superficial conclusion. 
(Chapter 61) On the hand the circumstances surrounding the bruise, where Kim Dan removed the needle on his own, provide insight into his psyche. The deeper cause of the bruise lies in Kim Dan’s declining health, which is intrinsically connected to his malnutrition and the neglect he faces from those around him. It is important to recall that Joo Jaekyung was explicitly informed that Kim Dan needed rest 
(chapter 61), he forced the physical therapist to keep working, adding even more strain than before. Though the physical therapist attempted to voice his disapproval, 
(chapter 61), he ultimately had no choice but to comply, as his order came from the hospice director. 
(Chapter 61) And why did the director override Kim Dan’s need for rest? Money and free PR. Joo Jaekyung’s influence secured the director’s approval, disregarding the doctor’s well-being in favor of business interests. This conversation at the director’s office makes one thing clear: words hold no power against profit. An d that realization led me to another connection—every one of Kim Dan’s bruises is linked to exploitation, whether by authority, obligation, or financial influence. 
(Chapter 41) It is clear that she was inciting him to work harder than before. This displays that Kim Dan was not allowed to rest. During this encounter, she didn’t ask him about his well-being either. And what is the link between these 3 episodes? The grandmother and her poverty. The latter was responsible for the loan. 
(chapter 56) Kim Dan has only visited the hospital once, and this was solely due to Joo Jaekyung’s intervention. The latter needed medical attention himself 
(chapter 18) and took Kim Dan along, ensuring he was seen as an emergency patient. However, this visit was brief and lacked any comprehensive medical examination—no blood samples were taken, and his underlying health concerns remained undiagnosed. This omission further underscores the neglect Kim Dan has suffered, as even in a medical setting, his long-term health issues were overlooked. 
(chapter 21) He had never been healthy and strong. Moreover, when he joined them, at no moment the senior asked if he had gone to the doctor, though he had been sick before. 
(chapter 21) But back then, the champion didn’t pay too much attention to it. In my opinion, her response will likely reflect her established pattern of emotional detachment and deflection of responsibility. Rather than admitting her lack of concern for his well-being, she may shift blame onto the staff or Kim Dan himself 
(chapter 57). In the last case, she will downplay the severity of his condition, insisting that he has always been stubborn and independent. She could even mention her conversation, when she tried to convince Kim Dan to return to Seoul, but the latter refused to listen to her.
(chapter 5), or his general reluctance to ask for help. He rejected the athlete’s help and concern. 
(chapter 57). She blamed the main lead, because she imagined that Shin Okja would worry about him. However, it becomes clear that the halmoni is not worried about her grandson at all. She is acting like a fan in front of the athlete. 
(chapter 61) One might argue that based on this scene, the grandmother didn’t see him with the bruise on his arm. 
(chapter 61) He only remained at the door. However, observe that there was a cut between this image 
(chapter 61) and the conversation between the main couple in front of the hospice. 
(chapter 61) So he could have made his presence known to his relative before asking Joo Jaekyung to follow him because of his treatment. To conclude, I believe that she had the time and occasion to see her grandchild and his bruise.
(chapter 13) He is the only doctor who has ever examined the protagonist so closely and even paid attention to his fingernails! 
(chapter 13) At the same time, the chingu from the club was the first one pointing out that his wounds were never treated!! Furthermore, I realized that the doctor’s lies from episode 11 
(chapter 13) The latter was the cause for the severe exhaustion. However, like mentioned above, the doctor is not blameless either, because he never questioned why his wounds on the hand were bleeding again. 
(chapter 43) He thought, it was related to the massage, yet the reality was that this incident showed that he had coagulation issues. To conclude, all the bruises could have always been noticed by people due to their locations (eyes, hands, arm)! 
(chapter 61) and his relationship with Joo Jaekyung. 
(chapter 61) That’s how I recognized why these women’s warm welcome and curiosity about Kim Dan were rather superficial. 
(chapter 56) His arrival stands for novelty and a breath of fresh air at the institution. However, with this change, the female staff is forgetting their original duty: they need to pay attention to their colleagues. They are behaving like the grandmother
(chapter 61): fangirling over the handsome guys visiting their little town. That’s why Mingwa drew flowers in the last two images. No wonder why no one around Kim Dan is observing the bruise and his deteriorating condition. Moreover, since the physical therapist has a relative at the hospice, the staff is envisioning that Shin Okja is doing “her work”, she is paying attention to Kim Dan’s mental and physical conditions. On the other hand, there is no doubt that the grandmother has already delegated her own responsibility onto others, Kim Dan and the hospice. It is a medical institution, therefore they should pay attention to his working conditions. In other words, since no one feels responsible for the protagonist’s health, no one is worried about Kim Dan at all. At the end of episode 61, he is even so pale and breathless 
(chapter 61) that I am anticipating a terrible incident leading to a rude awakening for everyone.
(chapter 47) For Shin Okja, raising him to adulthood marked the completion of her duty, and his current struggles are no longer her concern. This perspective becomes evident in her words from Chapter 57, where she tells him, he can’t stay here forever, and it’s not like he’ll stick around after she dies.
(chapter 57) By declaring that Kim Dan is now responsible for his own life, she emotionally detaches herself, absolving herself of any accountability for his deteriorating condition. However, she is forgetting 
(chapter 56) that she is still relying on him, as he is the one paying her hospice bills. Besides, she still doesn’t know that the loan is no longer existent. It was, as if he had to clean up her mess before her death. At no moment, she asks about the loan or the doctor’s future. She is not thinking about his future at all.
(chapter 57) — reinforces her conviction that she has fulfilled her role. In her mind, his rejection of her advice places the burden of care entirely on him, allowing her to dismiss any further involvement. This emotional withdrawal directly connects to the symbolism of the bruise: 
(chapter 18) In episode 18, when Joo Jaekyung confronts Kim Dan about the loan, the doctor has a bruise on his left eye, symbolizing his entrapment and helplessness. This earlier injury highlights how Kim Dan has been conditioned to view himself as responsible for burdens that are not his own, perpetuating a cycle of sacrifice and self-neglect. And a new bruise appeared just after the athlete reminded the physical therapist of his past promise: 
(chapter 61) His grandmother’s disregard for his well-being amplifies the injustice of this situation; she allowed him to shoulder the debt despite knowing it was never truly his to bear. The bruise becomes a recurring motif, a visual representation of how others have imposed their responsibilities on Kim Dan, leaving him physically and emotionally scarred. 
(chapter 60). The juxtaposition of the vibrant environment with Kim Dan’s deteriorating health underscores the neglect he faces. The hospice is meant to be a sanctuary, yet it becomes a space where Kim Dan is further burdened by the champion and his grandmother’s expectations 
(chapter 55) This line “I finally feel like I can breathe again”, written by Kim Dan, reveals a subconscious acknowledgment that his relationship with the champion represents a breath of fresh air, a chance to escape the suffocating expectations and burdens he has carried for so long. The bruise, a physical manifestation of his struggle, signals the breaking point of his role as a selfless caregiver. It challenges the illusion of invulnerability that Kim Dan has maintained and forces those around him to confront his vulnerability.
(chapter 60) The beach, with its open and untamed expanse, symbolizes freedom and a return to the self. It foreshadows that Kim Dan’s true journey toward healing will require him to step outside the roles and confines imposed upon him, finding solace not in what is expected but in what feels authentic and liberating.
(chapter 18) His grandmother, Shin Okja, played a significant role in this mindset by fostering the illusion that hard work and sacrifice would erase the debts. However, as revealed in episode 18, this was a lie. Shin Okja made the choice to take on the loan and not to seek help 
(chapter 5), yet she burdened Kim Dan with it, using his sense of duty and gratitude against him. Her statement in episode 57 
(chapter 18) —or, more accurately, the lack thereof. The champion’s actions were motivated by a desire to help 
(chapter 18), hence the star was waiting for a smile from Kim Dan. Yet the latter perceived it as meddling. His immediate response 
(chapter 53), leaving a note when he moved out that promises to settle the debt. However, by Episode 61, Kim Dan is no longer mentioning the debt, signaling a shift in his priorities and a possible breaking point in his adherence to his grandmother’s expectations. 
(chapter 47) The physical therapist’s entire existence had revolved around fulfilling her needs, from managing the debt to taking care of her health. With her now approaching death and actively pushing him away, Kim Dan is left grappling with a profound sense of meaninglessness. 
(chapter 60) He had never been given the opportunity to develop dreams or ambitions of his own, as his life was entirely defined by his grandmother’s circumstances. This lack of agency further explains his rejection of Joo Jaekyung’s generosity in Episode 18 and his later promise to reimburse the loan. Clinging to this promise was Kim Dan’s way of creating purpose and meaning in a life that had otherwise been dictated by others. It highlights how deeply entrenched his self-sacrificing tendencies are, as even his attempts to assert independence are rooted in his conditioned need to serve others. That’s why I come to the following prediction. Kim Dan needs to get confronted with illness and death (he could lose his life) so that his will for life comes to the surface. Right now, he imagines that since he is young, he will outlive his relative, but the death of the puppy was a warning to him that youth is no guarantee for a long life. 
(chapter 59) Death can take away anyone and at any moment. In my eyes, if Joo Jaekyung uses his own body to save the doctor again (like for example blood transfusion and CPR), this time Kim Dan would feel truly grateful towards the champion. So far, the doctor has not recognized the star as his savior yet. By removing the needle, he denied the protagonist’s intervention on the beach: 
(chapter 60) Hence his arm got bruised. The contusion was a reminder that something had happened during that night, but Kim Dan chose to ignore the incident. He never questioned why he was on the beach, he acted, as if Joo JAekyung had lied. 
(chapter 60) 
(chapter 18) Deep down, Kim Dan knows that the debt was never truly his responsibility, making it difficult for him to view the champion’s actions as a genuine act of kindness. This inner conflict is compounded by his suicidal disposition, which renders the concept of repaying the debt meaningless. 
(chapter 53) and guilt to manipulate Kim Dan into fulfilling her wishes, framing his sacrifices as acts of love and duty. Her neglect and disregard for his well-being, even as he deteriorates physically and emotionally, highlight her selfishness. Through his past memories, readers can get a glimpse of his misery.
(chapter 59) He worked so hard, was even beaten, but he could never voice his torment. 
(chapter 59) Why? It is because the grandmother was no longer by his side and she never talked to him either. The absence of communication indicates her lack of interest in Kim Dan. And it becomes comprehensible why during that night, he felt the need to go to the ocean and drown himself. It is because he was gradually realizing his loneliness. With his relative’s death, he would only keep living a terrible life determined by work and nothing else.
(chapter 60) 
(chapter 11) and even uses his own words against him: 
(chapter 22) The loan was the result of his grandmother’s decision. He never helped him, rather his grandmother. 
(chapter 11) However, he never explained his circumstances to the generous athlete. By keeping him in the dark, he reinforced his negative disposition about the doctor. And chapter 61 exposes this reality. His suffering was the result of his own decision. 
(chapter 61) Do you recognize the room? That was the doctor’s 
(chapter 19) 
(chapter 53) His decision to allow Joo Jaekyung into his bedroom in episode 61 demonstrates that he consented to the relationship, even if begrudgingly. 
(chapter 61) However, his reaction afterward (regret) suggests that he struggles to take ownership of his choices. The fact that he recalled this sex scene in the restroom divulges a certain resent towards the athlete. The latter abandoned him right after their interaction. Hence I come to the following deduction. In reality, he is projecting his frustrations onto Joo Jaekyung, masking his true feelings about his grandmother, who is the root cause of his conditioned self-sacrifice. And this observation brings to my next remark. People wondered when this intercourse took place. One might think that this took place rather early in the story because of the way Joo Jaekyung acted. He didn’t remove his pants 
(chapter 61) and acted like in episode 6. 
(chapter 6) or 8 
(chapter 8) where he would abandon the protagonist right after the climax and not care about his partner’s conditions and feelings: 
(chapter 61) I might be wrong, but for me, it took place much later in the story, around the time the athlete was about to face Alfredo. Why? First notice that they had sex in the doctor’s bedroom. This means that Kim Dan was already living in the penthouse. The words from the champion implied that he would return to his own bedroom, where the doctor’s thoughts implied that he was standing close to his bed. However, so far, they only had sex in the champion’s bedroom, when it was the evening before the match: 
(chapter 13) Since the doctor mentioned that a match was right around the corner 
(chapter 61) It leaves us four possibilities. Randy Booker, Dominic Hill, Alfredo 
(chapter 47) and Baek Junmin. However, for the intercourse took place in the doctor’s bedroom (he wished to be carried to his own bed) 
(chapter 36), for they had sex every day. However, in episode 53, we discover their night before the match against the Shotgun
(chapter 53) So this scene can only have taken place in chapter 47, when the match with Angelo got canceled and Kim Dan had been confronted with the terrible news about his terminally ill grandmother. 
(chapter 47) In the previous part of this essay, my avid readers could see the strong parallels between 61 and 47. But there exists another reason why I am inclining to think that the sex scene took place later in the story. It is because during that “magical night” (44), Kim Dan learned the notion of “consent”. 
(chapter 44) During that blue hour, Kim Dan discovered that he could say no! And notice that in his memory, he clearly thought that he could have rejected the athlete’s advances. 
(chapter 46) He should mistrust the members from the gym and keep his distance from people. So during that time, Joo Jaekyung did follow his hyung’s advice 
(chapter 47), yet I can’t imagine that this man could become abstinent like in episode 19. Hence at some point, he must have felt the urge to possess Kim Dan, a mixture of fear and dominance. He imagined that way that he could impose his will onto the doctor and control his “loyalty”. With this submission, he would force the doctor to remain by his side. But naturally, this sex as “power play” could increase the gap between the main leads.
(chapter 53) doc Dan was copying the champion’s behavior from episode 61. Right after the sex, he would leave the bed and return to his bedroom. How did Joo Jaekyung recall this night? 
(chapter 53) He saw his attitude as a sign of disloyalty and “abandonment”. And that’s how Kim Dan is feeling in the restroom: 
(chapter 61) The darkness around the eyes is a metaphor for his resent and anger. And the moment you contrast the two memories (53 and 61), you can detect the hypocrisy of the two main leads. They only recall scenes where they were hurt and felt betrayed. However, in reality, they were both victims and perpetrators, because none of them chose to open up and talk to each other. Why? It is because both chose to listen to their “guardian” and their “favor”. Like mentioned before, in a quarrel, no one is right and wrong. The purpose of an argument is to listen to the counterpart and view incidents from their perspective. Finally, the physical therapist’s recollection serves as an important evidence that he had never been powerless and helpless. He could have refused all the time because their deal was never official.He could have used the contract as a shield. But the best evidence of Kim Dan’s power is this rejection: 
(chapter 61) I had already pointed out the increasing resistance and resilience from Kim Dan in episode 60: 
(chapter 61) My prediction came true. In the past, he could have denied the existence of the deal, Joo Jaekyung was free to seek another physical therapist. He never realized that he had some leverage. Yet he still followed the athlete’s requests. He saw himself bound by obligations. However, this was just an illusion. Hence in episode 61, we see him legitimating his consent that there was an imminent fight. 
(chapter 61) He is expected to work despite his declining health, his suffering dismissed by those around him. 
(chapter 40) He is paid to receive bruises, to push his body past its limits 
(chapter 50), to endure pain while the public watches and profits are made. His suffering is entertainment, a spectacle that fuels the business of MMA. Though he is a champion, he is still a commodity, expected to perform regardless of his condition. 
(chapter 61) He understands, better than anyone, what it means to be physically used for the sake of others, yet he remains blind to the fact that he has placed Kim Dan in the same position. While one has no file about his health condition, the other has many files, but they are not studied, because this would push the manager to question his decision and even ruin the business: 
(chapter 17) I doubt that Park Namwook studied them, and notice that the recently hired PT didn’t ask for the champion’s files first: 
(chapter 54) Thus I deduce that the champion’s files are in reality a subterfuge. They give the impression that the doctors and Park Namwook truly care for his well-being, but it is not correct. They are only interested in his body because of wealth and reputation. But let’s return our attention to episode 61 and the champion’s attitude towards Kim Dan.
(chapter 54) It is clear that the manager wants Joo Jaekyung to return to the ring as soon as possible to erase the last “debacle”. In my opinion, the doctor’s illness could serve Joo Jaekyung as an excuse to delay his return to the ring and even not to accept the next challenge. 
(chapter 57) is another manifestation of his conditioned role as a caregiver. By living with an older man, he creates the illusion of a familial bond, mirroring the dynamic he shared with his grandmother. This decision highlights his struggle to break free from the identity imposed on him—one defined by servitude and selflessness. He assumes that he should take care of the landlord, offering to cook and expressing guilt for not fulfilling this perceived duty. Yet, the landlord subtly challenges this narrative. By inviting Kim Dan to eat breakfast 
(chapter 57) and dismissing his apologies, the landlord treats him as an equal rather than a caretaker. This dynamic forces Kim Dan to confront his false perception of himself.
(chapter 57) Despite this, Kim Dan rejects the advice, demonstrating his resistance to being cared for. This moment underscores his internal conflict—he craves independence yet clings to the role of the selfless provider. The landlord’s actions expose the fallacy of Kim Dan’s identity, revealing that his caregiving is not always necessary or effective.
(chapter 61) is indicating the increasing resent and anger towards the star. Joo Jaekyung is no longer seen as a celebrity and idol, but as a inconsiderate man. This transformation is subtle but meaningful, as it reflects his burgeoning awareness of his own worth and the unjust treatment he has endured. For the first time, Kim Dan acknowledges himself as pitiful 
(chapter 53) 
(chapter 13) and the fragility of Kim Dan’s existence. For Kim Dan, it challenges his self-perception as an indestructible caregiver. This realization could lead him to an inevitable conclusion: his own needs and well-being are just as important as those of others.
(chapter 61) to the champion’s expensive car 
(chapter 61), which symbolizes his personal and emotional odyssey. The car embodies a dual symbolism: on one hand, it represents his quest for happiness, freedom, and purpose; on the other, it signifies civilization and his disconnection from nature. Each frame highlights not just his physical travel but the deeper changes he undergoes along the way.
(chapter 61) marks a pivotal moment: his journey reaches its destination at the hospice. This “final stop” symbolizes his decision to live closer to Kim Dan and find a sense of rest and belonging. However, the screeching wheel also represents an unconscious choice by the fighter. At this stage, he perceives his visit as temporary, limited to his rehabilitation. 
(chapter 61) This explains why, later, the athlete is shown honking at Kim Dan while driving in the opposite direction, illustrating that his mindset had not yet shifted fully. 
(chapter 61) In the final scene, the car is no longer present, symbolizing the completion of his journey, as he settles near Kim Dan and redefines his purpose. By settling near Kim Dan
(chapter 61), Joo Jaekyung shifts his focus from external accomplishments to internal growth and emotional connection.
(chapter 61) and superficial assumptions 
(chapter 61) Park Junmin, displays a striking lack of empathy and a clear focus on self-interest in his interactions with Joo Jaekyung across two pivotal chapters. In Episode 54, he highlights Joo Jaekyung’s prolonged recovery, urging him to rest but failing to show genuine concern for his well-being. 
(chapter 54) 
(chapter 40), the other considered him as a baby. 
(chapter 49) And what is the other common denominator between these three characters? 
(chapter 56), the lawyer, and the manager from the entertainment agency, who all used similar tactics. 
(chapter 36) They all had expectations on him.
(chapter 61) While we do not see his gaze, his expression oozes dissatisfaction, revealing that he is fully aware of the manipulation at play. This moment mirrors his reaction in Chapter 6 
(chapter 6), where he recognized how Kim Dan like the others were exploiting him for his money and reputation. However, this time, his awareness reflects growth: thanks to the doctor’s polite refusal 
(chapter 60), Joo Jaekyung now knows about the sincerity and humility of Kim Dan in contrast to those who treat him like a commodity. Thanks to Kim Dan, he is able to reject the pseudo-suggestion and instead prioritize a more genuine and respectful dynamic. He instinctively rejects the offer by stating that he will receive treatment elsewhere, a decision that catches the surgeon off guard and further showcases Joo Jaekyung’s resistance to being controlled. Turning away from the hospital, Joo Jaekyung unknowingly embarks on a journey shaped by his emotional needs, though he remains unaware of the full implications of this decision.
(chapter 61) marks a period of superficial introspection 
(chapter 61) where he begins to rationalize his actions. 
(chapter 61) In his mind, this scenario is nothing new; he is simply leveraging his resources to secure treatment from Kim Dan 
(chapter 61), much like he has done countless times before in other contexts. However, this rationalization obscures a critical difference: he is no longer in control of the dynamic.
(chapter 61) That’s why Kim Dan can leave his side right away after the treatment. Moreover, the main lead feels no longer obliged to talk to his fated partner. He interacts as little as possible with the MMA fighter. 
(chapter 32) 
(chapter 32), the “hamster” learned to be cautious about such “generous offers”. 😂 That’s why the physical therapist is rejecting any assistance from the athlete. Because of this reminder 
(chapter 61), it reinforces Joo Jaekyung’s subconscious pursuit. The honking scene represents reality—Joo Jaekyung knows what he wants (here his attention) and continues to follow Kim Dan, yet he does not recognize the emotional dependency forming through these actions.
(chapter 35) Living above everyone else, like a god, further emphasizes his disconnection from the world around him. Seoul itself, as a city of anonymity, amplifies this isolation. The penthouse’s grandeur and emptiness serve as a stark reminder of his solitary existence, where material success failed to provide fulfillment.
(chapter 61) Drawing from past experiences, the champion believed that treating Shin Okja well would win Kim Dan’s favor. In earlier episodes, Kim Dan expressed gratitude with a gentle smile 
(chapter 22) when Joo Jaekyung made efforts to bring a smile to his grandmother’s face, even going so far as to cook him breakfast afterward. 
(chapter 22) Having missed Kim Dan’s meals and the intimacy they symbolized, Joo Jaekyung unconsciously imagines that this approach will recreate that connection. 
(chapter 61) which gives the impression that she is including Kim Dan in her sense of community. However, in Episode 57 she had expressed the exact opposite. For her, home is deeply tied to family and childhood, while Kim Dan, who spent most of his time in Seoul, represents a disconnection from that shared history. So when she utilized this idiom, she was referring to the community in general. 
(chapter 60), unaware of the rejection Kim Dan experiences from his grandmother. Joo Jaekyung may even believe that the old man in the town is a relative of Kim Dan, further solidifying his misunderstanding. Note that he doesn’t investigate Kim Dan’s life, he judges him based on impressions and appearances, especially since he can no longer talk to him. These interactions underline a crucial misalignment: while Joo Jaekyung interprets Shin Okja’s words as inclusive and warm, Kim Dan can only be reminded of his exclusion and estrangement. Shin Okja’s conversation with Joo Jaekyung will undoubtedly play a significant role in the future: a point of no return.
(chapter 61), but seems to have forgotten that Kim Dan is in a similar situation. 
(chapter 61), the reality is far more complex. Kim Dan’s insistence on maintaining professional boundaries forces Joo Jaekyung to confront the limitations of his influence and the necessity of respecting Kim Dan’s autonomy. The daily routine of seeking treatment 
(chapter 61) This means that his move announces a change in their relationship: privacy. They are neighbors and as such acquaintances. 
(chapter 61) So unconsciously, they came to develop the following belief: only elderly people can get sick. This explicates why the doctor and the nurse recommended rest to Joo Jaekyung 
(chapter 59). He didn’t make the distinction in the end.
(chapter 61) Joo Jaekyung’s sincere concern, however, is short-lived for two reasons. 
(chapter 61) who serves as a symbol of motherhood and nature. Boksoon’s own experiences, including the loss of a puppy 
(chapter 59), highlight the impact of nurturing and loss, shaping her behavior toward both her puppies and humans. She should become more attentive and reliant on humans, notifying them if something is wrong. Her heightened sensitivity positions her as a potential bridge between Kim Dan and Joo Jaekyung, subtly training the champion’s nurturing instincts. Hence in front of the house, she stands between the main couple. 
(chapter 57) This missed opportunity underscores the consequences of neglect, in contrast to Boksoon’s increased attentiveness. On the other side, the old man paid attention to Kim Dan’s odd behavior (his alcoholism
– chapter 57 ) Hence I am assuming that he will be a source of information for the champion. And now pay attention to their position in front of the house: 
(chapter 37), Joo Jaekyung now operates within a framework where he must respect boundaries and take responsibility for his actions. This transition signifies his understanding that money cannot shield him from the realities of interpersonal relationships and the consequences of his past behavior. To conclude, he can no longer cross the line and return to his old self.
(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) 
(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 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. 
(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: 
indicates that this regret is beginning to fester. While he has not yet voiced these thoughts directly to Joo Jaekyung, the flinching hands 
(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.
(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 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 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 54) reveals a deeper issue: his belief that drugs can compensate for his mistreatment of his own body. 
(chapter 7) and the number 62 mirrors the famous fight in episode 62: 
(chapter 60) — challenges this notion. The photographs from episode 60 subtly introduce the fifth puppy’s death as a poignant symbol of Kim Dan’s precarious fate. 
(chapter 60) The puppy’s appearance in only one photo (the second one from left) among many mirrors Kim Dan’s fragile existence, 
(chapter 60) deepening the parallel between them. This connection becomes even more striking when recalling that the grandmother once likened Kim Dan to a puppy 
(chapter 53), emphasizing his vulnerability and dependence on others.
(chapter 60) reflected not only his uncertainty about whether the hospice could offer assistance but also the sheer urgency of his actions. This moment underscores the physical and emotional toll of his determination to save Kim Dan. Jaekyung risked worsening his own physical condition, driven by the hope that help would be available Yet the irony of this moment lies in the true purpose of the hospice: it is not a place for treatment or healing but a program dedicated to end-of-life care. 
(chapter 57)
(chapter 58), such as two older women 
(chapter 58). Yes, there were two small details, yet full of meaning. Even the landlord 
(chapter 58) nicknamed “old man” 
(chapter 59) by Heesung, symbolizes this demographic trend. The hospice’s focus on senior care reflects a broader societal issue in South Korea: a declining birth rate coupled with an increasing elderly population. 
(chapter 57) In addition, the empty bedroom where Kim Dan is staying—with its untouched guitar, furniture, and books—suggests it once belonged to a teenager who left home and never returned. The unchanged state of the room symbolizes the stagnation and loss felt in these regions, further highlighting the broader societal issues at play. This shows that Jinx is not merely a classic love story; it also paints a nuanced portrait of South Korean society and its challenges. By prioritizing elder care without addressing the needs of the youth, the hospice embodies a false promise of hope—one that may ultimately exacerbate the very demographic crisis it seeks to alleviate. 
(chapter 59), indicating their capacity for medical intervention. However, this approach reveals an underlying paradox: while the hospice caters primarily to an aging population, it lacks a sustainable strategy to address the exodus of younger generations, whose departure threatens its long-term viability. This issue is further illustrated by the hospice director’s decision to allow the facility to be used as a location for a movie shoot, 
(chapter 41), yet we never got to hear where the money went. This potential transformation underscores the underlying complexities of the hospice’s current operations, as it navigates between providing care for the elderly and responding to broader societal challenges. By situating Jaekyung in this dynamic, the narrative subtly hints at his capacity to influence change, bridging the gap between the hospice’s limitations and the community’s evolving needs.
(chapter 53) However, this hope was met with disappointment 
(chapter 57) – which he never expressed -, reflecting the deceptive promise of the hospice itself. Kim Dan’s fate seems to mirror not only the unnoticed death of the fifth puppy 
(chapter 59) but also his grandmother’s diminishing expectations of him. 
(chapter 57) However, all this time, she had been his motivation and reason to live. Once likened to a puppy, Kim Dan’s vulnerability and struggle for recognition remain central to his story, highlighting the fragility of his existence. His malnutrition, possibly linked to a deficiency in vitamin K and compounded by his alcohol dependency, exacerbates his fragility, making his situation increasingly perilous. Vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health, is derived primarily from leafy green vegetables and produced by gut bacteria. A deficiency can result in symptoms such as dizziness 
(chapter 13), excessive bleeding and slow wound healing—all of which align with Kim Dan’s deteriorating condition and the trail of blood he left after removing his IV needle. 
(Chapter 54) Like mentioned before, this logo could be referring to a pharmaceutical company. 
– episode 59), suggesting a temporary space for patients nearing the end of life. Moreover, observe that the colors of the curtains in the patients’ room is orange 
(chapter 56) 
(chapter 56) and not white. This observation aligns with the assumption that this room is reserved for those on the verge of dying, shielding terminally ill patients from witnessing another’s death. 😨 
In the drama, a character searches for his CEO and friend Kang by pulling back closed curtains in an emergency room, 
discovering different patients behind each one until finding the right person. 
This reinforces the notion that closed curtains signify the presence of others, even if their identities remain hidden. In addition, when the doctor treated the patient Park Jinchul, the curtains were closed. 
(chapter 52) to signify absence of confidentiality, contrasting with the closed-off nature of this space. This comparison not only exposes the manipulation of the staff at the health center, but also reinforces my interpretation that the emergency room at the hospice stands for danger and challenge. This detail underscores Joo Jaekyung’s assumption that he and Kim Dan are alone, but it also raises the possibility that their conversation could have been overheard by someone lying behind the curtains, such as the patient from Episode 57. 
(chapter 57) or the mysterious Park Jinchul 
(chapter 56)
(chapter 51), they should remember that people were listening to their conversation behind the closed door, but they chose not to intervene. 
(chapter 53) That’s the reason why I am inclined to think that someone was /is present behind the curtain, but chose to remain silent. However, contrary to Team Black, such a person should intervene, if my theory is correct. And there is another evidence for this hypothesis. Since in episode 60 Joo Jaekyung offers a new contract 
(chapter 6) Nevertheless, back then, the deal was made without any witness. That’s the reason why I come to the conclusion that someone else was present in that room, yet contrary to the past, this person will intervene which stands in opposition to the symbolism of the room: death, secrecy and abandonment. And that can only be a patient who experienced the talent and care from Kim Dan. Joo JAekyung has never met any previous patient from Kim Dan before, but this is what readers got to hear from the nurse: 
(chapter 21) which would push him to have a change of heart and show his vulnerability. What can he fear from a dying or terminally ill person? Nothing… hence he can only listen to the confidence and advice from such a patient. 
(chapter 53) is indeed an illusion and deception, for the senior on the paper is portrayed as being accompanied by a nurse. The reality is different, for the patients are facing death alone. 
Their conversation begins with Kim Dan’s simple yet loaded question about how Jaekyung discovered his whereabouts. This moment, better captured in the Japanese, and Spanish translations, underscores Kim Dan’s curiosity and underlying desire for clarity. In the Japanese version, Kim Dan asks, “どうしてここがわかったんですか？” (“How did you find out about this place?”), while the Spanish translation reads, “¿Cómo es que usted acabó aquí?” (“How did you end up here?”). Both translations emphasize Kim Dan’s direct inquiry about how Jaekyung discovered his whereabouts, making Jaekyung’s evasive response even more significant. It is clear that he is trying to protect Potato here. However, Jaekyung’s response 
(chapter 60) immediately sets the tone for their interaction. His refusal to answer and his deliberate avoidance of Kim Dan’s gaze reflect a lie by omission. This evasive behavior not only highlights Jaekyung’s reluctance to reveal his vulnerability but also creates a significant divide between them, making it clear that they are not functioning as a unified team. 
(chapter 60) Initially, he avoids Jaekyung’s gaze, signaling his own fear and insecurity. This avoidance reveals his worry about rejection and his deeper emotional vulnerability. On the one hand, he hopes deep down that the athlete would admit that he came looking for him, yet their last two interactions were arguments and rejections which the doctor didn’t forget. 
(chapter 60) He is still in love with Joo Jaekyung, but he is no longer hoping for any attachment and feelings from the fighter. On the other hand, his words are reflecting a different opinion: he is no longer trusting the athlete. This means that when the champion admitted his mistake indirectly, it was already too late. 
(chapter 60) He doesn’t want this fake generosity, since the athlete is reminding him of his “debts” towards him: 
(chapter 60) This evasive remark suggests that Jaekyung believes keeping Kim Dan ignorant of his intentions is for the best. By withholding the truth, he feels he is protecting himself and Kim Dan from unnecessary burdens or complexities, reinforcing his perception that their relationship is better managed with clear boundaries. However, this attempt at concealment only deepens the divide between them, as it denies Kim Dan the clarity and emotional connection he seeks. In fact, he is not realizing that he is even afflicting more pain on his fated partner. 
(chapter 6), with Kim Dan ending up on the floor—a physical manifestation of his subservience. Later, in the locker room, both were shown facing each other 
(chapter 51), symbolizing a superficial moment of equality. In Episode 60, however, both are seated: 
(chapter 60) Kim Dan in bed and Jaekyung on a chair. Yet, this apparent parity hides a reversal of dependency. While Kim Dan is physically and mentally weaker, neglecting his own health to leave the bed, 
(chapter 55) That’s why he imagined that once he made his offer, the other would agree immediately. However, what he failed to realize is that he read the note too late. Besides, there were these erased words which left the fighter in the ignorance. Finally, he continues to misunderstand Kim Dan’s motivations 
(chapter 60) I would even add, he believes to know Kim Dan so well, hence he mentions his grandmother: 
(chapter 60) However, Jaekyung is terribly wrong because he never talked to his lover. His interest and curiosity were quite superficial. Therefore he fails to grasp that Kim Dan’s longing is not for material wealth or familial obligation, but for genuine companionship and a place to call home. Kim Dan’s rejection of a boss-employee dynamic 
(chapter 60). Moreover he got to hear from the doctor that Kim Dan needed rest: 
(chapter 35) for his own “happiness”. Through Potato, the author is criticizing the attitude of fans who are only projecting their own emotions onto their idols. Their wish for happiness is quite rather superficial. This subtle oversight reflects Potato’s growing detachment, as his focus shifted to capturing moments for posterity rather than addressing the realities in front of him. The absence of the fifth puppy becomes a poignant symbol of unnoticed fragility and foreshadows Kim Dan’s own vulnerability. And how did Kim Dan react to the death of the small dog? 
(chapter 59) Deep down, Potato does not expect Kim Dan to come back, reflecting his resignation to their fading relationship. Notably, Potato only asked for a picture of Kim Dan at the very end, never taking photos of him during their time together. 
(chapter 60) When he got caught with his silence, Mingwa never showed us Potato’s justification. Yet, it becomes clear that the young fighter decided to give the following explanation: he respected Kim Dan’s wish to remain undiscovered 
(chapter 58) The reason for this interpretation is the champion’s reaction, when he was asked how he knew about his whereabouts 
(chapter 59) and Joo Jaekyung’s rescue of Kim Dan. 
(chapter 60) Though he is the one left behind, he is not realizing that by not following him, he is failing to protect Kim Dan. 
(chapter 57) Cheolmin already warned his friend in episode 13: 
(Chapter 15) and the life-saving kiss on the beach 
(Episode 60). Both moments carry significant emotional weight but reflect different facets of their dynamic, from selfishness to selflessness, secrecy to openness, and miscommunication to recognition. The setting and circumstances surrounding these kisses not only highlight the characters’ growth but also underscore the unresolved struggles they face.
(chapter 14), acted particularly rough with Kim Dan 
(chapter 14), only snapping back to reality when he felt Kim Dan’s body trembling. 
(chapter 14) This moment of realization, coupled with the doctor’s tears and plea 
(chapter 14), served as the trigger for Joo Jaekyung to recall Cheolmin’s recommendation 
(chapter 14) of using foreplay and gentler methods, such as a kiss. While the kiss reflected care in the moment 
(chapter 14), selfish motives lingered in the shadows, as Joo Jaekyung sought to prevent causing visible harm that could lead to questions or even a scandal. It was, as if he wanted to silence his partner. Moreover, this decision was influenced by external suggestions, particularly from his friend, and not entirely by his own intentions. It was a calculated action to prevent immediate harm but lacked genuine emotional depth. 
(chapter 16) Moreover, he never wondered why Joo Jaekyung had asked for sex in the locker room, which represented a change in his behavior. If he had done it before, then he would have forced the physical therapist to travel with him to Busan. 
(chapter 13) As you can see, through the comparison with the kiss on the beach, I realized the doctor’s passivity and lack of critical thinking in season 1. He never asked why the athlete was so rough during sex. He took this for a normality. His attitude exposed the doctor’s biased perception of his boss: a spoiled and rough man obsessed with sex. I would even add that the kiss had a positive effect on the protagonist 
(chapter 15), because for the first time, Kim Dan made a request. With his remark, he implied that the kiss was strongly associated with emotions. However, exactly like Joo Jaekyung pointed out 
(chapter 15), the physical therapist omitted something important in the locker room. First, he didn’t share all his thoughts about the athlete, in particular his prejudices. Finally, he should have talked about his behavior before the kiss. What was he thinking, when he was having sex with him? In verity, he had been used as a substitute. In other words, the champion’s selfishness was rubbing on the doctor. Both were selfish, both had their heart and mind closed. And this remark brings me to the kiss on the beach. 
(chapter 15), a confined space symbolizing Joo Jaekyung’s need to keep his relationships private. Picking up partners at a VIP club 
(chapter 14) was always filled with people surrounding the champion. However, once Kim Dan entered his life, this dynamic began to change. In Episode 14, Joo Jaekyung asked everyone to leave the locker room, 
(chapter 14) even excluding Park Namwook, who was even seen before stationed outside the bathroom door, 
(chapter 14) signaling a gradual exclusion of others from his private life and emotions. By Episode 15, Joo Jaekyung explicitly sent away his manager to have a private conversation with Kim Dan. 
(chapter 14) This shift highlights the increasing importance of Kim Dan in Joo Jaekyung’s personal sphere. Interestingly, this progression is contrasted by Episode 49, where Joo Jaekyung deliberately ensured 
(chapter 49) he was not left alone with Kim Dan. This means that this place was no longer the synonym for privacy and secret. This reflects why director Choi could intrude with his minions. Following the incident with the switched spray, Kim Dan was left behind 
(chapter 50) in the locker room twice 
(chapter 51) From that moment on, the main lead won’t show his vulnerability and pain to others. This gesture announces the return of his “blue friend”, the depression. 
(chapter 57) Shin Okja must have felt uncomfortable with his tears and pain, therefore the doctor internalized not to show his struggling and burdens in front of his grandmother. This explicates why he denied his weeping in front of her first. 
(chapter 47) And now, you are wondering how this is relevant to the scene on the beach. Joo Jaekyung got shocked and scared, but he didn’t cry later and it is the same for Kim Dan. Hence the latter could deny his presence on the beach and even ignore the athlete’s words: 
(chapter 51), his lack of loyalty, his greed and obsession for money. 
(chapter 51) Though the champion was restraining himself, he didn’t realize that his words were like punches to Kim Dan. The latter got to hear what he didn’t know. 
(chapter 51) Despite living together in the penthouse, he didn’t trust his room mate. After divulging his mistrust and anger to the physical therapist in the locker room, the former left Kim Dan behind and went to the health center with his hyungs. 
(chapter 52) The conversation in the locker room symbolically announced the champion’s private struggles to the media, as his bad temper was made public shortly after. 
(chapter 15) , representing his need for mental and emotional support, which his team and entourage failed to provide. While the CPR kiss could be dismissed as a rescue, it symbolically represents a step toward Joo Jaekyung revealing his true self. The kiss marks a moment where he unconsciously begins to acknowledge his feelings and his homosexuality, even in a setting where others could witness it.
(chapter 60) This means that on the beach, Kim Dan could only detect one thing: Joo Jaekyung’s presence. But he didn’t sense his kisses and hear his words. That’s the reason why I come to the conclusion that this scene stands under the sign of “dream and illusion”. 
(chapter 60) Hence he came to reject his “intervention” as a lie and deception. The reality is that Joo Jaekyung does care for him, but he doesn’t know how to show it. He fears attachment. Because of his misjudgement, Kim Dan is not capable to notice the transformation in his former boss. 
(chapter 49) His muscles are less pronounced. He is also wasting away. 
(chapter 49), who believed that physical strength alone would solve his problems. This environment denied him the mental and emotional support he truly needed. 
(chapter 54) Because Joo Jaekyung saw it in a vision, it becomes clear that the athlete is still in denial about his wrongdoing. Therefore he didn’t apologize for his false accusations and his bad perception of the physical therapist: 
(chapter 60) The lies and miscommunication fade in the face of the life-and-death situation. However, this recognition is short-lived, as the events at the hospice reveal Joo Jaekyung’s lingering selfishness 
(chapter 27) and mental well-being. 
(chapter 51) He never wished to never see Joo Jaekyung again. Moreover, he never regretted their meeting either. 
(chapter 43) No wonder why he thought that it was time to get to know the fighter during that night: 
(chapter 44) 
(chapter 58) Where are the parents? Who is the man where he is staying? Where did he plan to go after his stay there? The idiom “temporarily” could be perceived as an evidence that the doctor plans to end his life. According to my interpretation, Heesung believed that the landlord was Kim Dan’s grandfather. He was just denying his origins out of shame. 
(chapter 9) The athlete has now every reason to stay there and that’s how he will discover all the doctor’s secrets and misery.
(chapter 15) kiss represents selfishness, secrecy, and miscommunication, while the beach kiss 
(chapter 23) Potato initially admires the champion, aspiring to be like him 
(chapter 23) and dreaming of recognition as his sparring partner. 
(chapter 23) Joo Jaekyung, much like the prince in Andersen’s story, projects an image that masks the reality of his life. His success, while celebrated, represents years of hard work and immense personal sacrifices. At the gym, Park Namwook undermines these efforts by slapping the athlete 
(chapter 52), the amateur starts distancing himself from his former idol. This exposes the fragility of Potato’s dream. Therefore it is not surprising that he starts taking a different path: acting, though I still think, it is temporary. However, behind the glamorous facade of the show business, there exists a dark side as well. 
(chapter 59) Heesung’s fate is similar to the champion’s. Despite his popularity, the actor is deeply unhappy. He feels lonely, for people only know the actor and not the man behind the mask. That’s the reason why he is looking for his soulmate. 
(chapter 33) That’s how I realized why Potato and Heesung are destined to be together. They are both self-centered, dishonest and blind, but more importantly they are chasing after an illusion which is strongly intertwined with immortality. In addition, my avid readers should keep in mind what Potato truly expressed, when Mingwa introduced this “chow chow”. 
(chapter 23). In reality, he wanted to use the athlete as his servant. The closeness 
(chapter 23) he was seeking was self-serving. While the amateur and the actor are searching for the “perfect companion”, the other couple has no expectation from others. They both have no longer any dream or hope. That’s the reason why Kim Dan was putting this vision of Joo Jaekyung behind a veil: 
(chapter 58) He was giving up on his dream expressed in the birthday card, 
(chapter 55) My newest theory is that he wanted Joo Jaekyung to teach him fighting, but not for himself, but in order to help the fighters and in particular to protect the champion’s body: 
(chapter 25) 
(chapter 25) To develop a training where injuries are minimized. In season 2, it is clear that Joo Jaekyung and Kim Dan have reached the bottom. Both feel empty and exhausted. They were crushed by harsh reality, and they had no one by their side to listen to their pain. Therefore it is not astonishing why the doctor could not confide to the actor and the amateur fighter. They arrived too late. 
(chapter 58) Their presence definitely diverted the doctor’s attention, lessening his pain. 
(chapter 25) he learns the true nature of the relationship between Kim Dan and Joo Jaekyung. This revelation forces him to confront his own repressed feelings, as he unconsciously realizes his attraction to the fighter. 
(Chapter 25) Heesung’s involvement further complicates matters, as Potato confesses his love for Joo Jaekyung 
(chapter 35) while simultaneously vowing to sacrifice his feelings for the sake of the couple’s happiness. This act demonstrates Potato’s pure and selfless definition of love, 
(chapter 52) and the switched spray the 
(chapter 52) which is strongly intertwined with the departure of disloyal members from Team Black marks another step in his journey toward disillusionment. While Potato initially views this as an isolated incident, it exposes the broader corruption within the MMA world, including the betrayal, greed, and lack of loyalty that undermine its integrity. While he views himself as loyal to doc Dan and Team Black, for he remained at the gym, his heart was not. He is becoming like his hyungs, Park Namwook and Heesung. In Andersen’s tale, the mermaid’s journey to the sea witch represents a pivotal moment of transformation. By sacrificing her voice and enduring physical pain, she gains entry into the human world, but at the cost of her identity. Similarly, Potato’s journey is marked by painful discoveries that force him to confront uncomfortable truths. Through Kim Dan, he will begin to see his own flaws before he is able to recognize them in those he once trusted. 
(chapter 23) 
(chapter 25) 
(chapter 35) The latter doesn’t mind breaking social norms by yelling or causing a fight at a restaurant. But let’s return to the actor’s confession at a bar. It’s not surprising that Heesung appears indifferent to the affection of those who cared for him. The last partner was described as too clingy. This means that Heesung places himself as the judge. In addition, it was, as if he was a god destined to live forever. He is forgetting his human condition, just like his partner’s. And that’s exactly how the prince in The Little Mermaid views life.
(special episode 1) With this request, he implies that he will never become responsible for the amateur fighter. Therefore he can hide his homosexuality behind the young fighter. He used Potato’s mistake to his advantage. 
(special episode 1) By asking Potato to take care of all his needs and desires, Heesung placed himself in a position where he had power and could control Potato. That’s how the young fighter made a dangerous deal with the gumiho. No wonder why his sex role play was a prince interacting with a guard. 
(special episode 2) Hwang Yoon-Gu didn’t realize that by taking responsibility for the actor, he lost his freedom and as such his voice. Is it a coincidence that Mingwa portrayed the young maknae as someone who would raise his voice due to his emotions in the past? 
(chapter 58) his behavior is totally different than with the actor: 
(chapter 58) Tears, touch, raising his voice with Kim Dan, but not with the comedian. With the actor, he looks more calm, distant and mature. Heesung’s selfishness is evident in his treatment of Potato, whom he manipulates into becoming an extension of his own image. Hence he is no longer wearing shorts and tee-shirts. 
(chapter 59) One might say that he is gradually elevating Potato’s status through his suggestions.
(special episode 2) By encouraging Potato to work as an actor and shaping him into a version of himself, Heesung prioritizes his own desires over Potato’s individuality. He is not asking what Potato’s true dream is. But this was his dream originally: 
(chapter 23) Why? It was due to his low self-esteem. 
(chapter 23) He was not confident enough, for he was the only one with such a weight-category.
(special episode 2) played a huge influence in Potato’s decision to take the offer as an extra. It was, as if one of his dreams had come true. But is this what he truly wanted? 
(chapter 59) as a signal that he is not truly happy. 
(chapter 58) However, this is about to change. Heesung who likes novelty and change is not realizing that his wish is becoming true. The picture with his last work announces the end of his “friendship” with Potato. How so? 
(chapter 29), drawing a connection between the character’s innocence and loyalty. 
(chapter 35) This shows that Heesung has long internalized this pattern: assistance will be only given, if he is called. That’s why he has no true friend in the end. He shows no interest in others. But by doing so, he is putting the whole responsibility on his counterpart. Through the actor and the manager’s behavior, the former errand boy has long adopted this pattern. Hence he didn’t call Kim Dan in the end. He waited for a signal from his part. This behavior mirrors the little mermaid’s sisters, who only realize her absence when it is almost too late to act. Similarly, Potato’s casual farewell highlights a betrayal of Kim Dan’s friendship, further emphasizing Potato’s struggle with emotional awareness. That’s why I mentioned above that Potato is about to discover his true nature: he is also a sinner. This growth parallels the biblical narrative of Adam and Eve, where the acquisition of knowledge leads to the loss of innocence. Heesung, like Eve, introduces Potato to a new world of experiences, including his sexual orientation. However, this newfound knowledge comes with its own burdens, as Potato must reconcile his identity with the harsh realities of the world around him.
(chapter 5) Heesung could no longer express his needs and desires.
(chapter 58) Just because one is happy, this doesn’t mean that the other is. For that to happen, communication and honesty are necessary. 
(chapter 59) Potato’s journey is to discover and embrace the principle of “self-reliance” and autonomy. Only when Potato becomes independent in his thoughts and decisions, can he truly help the main couple.
(chapter 47) and 52. Initially, he believed in his hyungs’ description of Joo Jaekyung as a thug, but later he criticized the same fighters for abandoning the athlete 
(chapter 52), accusing them of lacking loyalty and dismissing their claim that they had nothing to learn from him. Yet, in episode 52, Potato does not reproach Park Namwook or Yosep for their passivity and naivety, 
(chapter 43) This absence highlights how Potato has missed key moments of reflection and acknowledgment, which are essential for his growth. It suggests that Potato is destined to detect the flaws in his hyungs—Park Namwook, Yosep and Heesung’s superficiality, passivity, hypocrisy and selfishness—before he can achieve true independence and contribute meaningfully to the lives of Joo Jaekyung and Kim Dan.
(chapter 23) —taking over his tasks and noticing his unhappiness 
(chapter 25) —demonstrates his capacity for genuine care. This contrasts sharply with Heesung’s selfishness and serves as a reminder of the value of mutual support in relationships. Potato’s potential return to the place where he met Kim Dan could symbolize a rediscovery of authentic connections, marking the beginning of his path toward independence and self-realization. 
(chapter 58) And like mentioned above, this could become a serious problem for Yoon-Gu. He could be perceived as someone selling himself for a gig. And Heesung is not even realizing the consequences of his intervention and meddling. That’s why it is important for Yoon-Gu to become independent. This lesson resonates with Potato’s journey in Jinx. By recognizing Heesung’s selfishness and breaking free from his influence, Potato has the potential to rediscover his own dreams and individuality. Like Erich Fromm mentioned it, true love is respect, care, knowledge and responsibility. However, Heesung has no idea about the importance of these notions, as everything is evolving around his own needs and dreams. 
(chapter 58) That’s how it dawned on me that little by little Yoon-Gu had been losing his senses: 
(chapter 31), his smell, then his ears 
(chapter 52) and finally his eyes: 
(chapter 58) He forgot the danger coming from Heesung’s words, he could not hear the suffering from the champion due to his bias, and finally he couldn’t see Kim Dan’s distress due to his own feelings and prejudices. We could say that because of the influence from others, he was no longer able to see reality. However, like mentioned before, I sense the return of Potato’s senses in the following panel: 
(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.
(chapter 54), performance, and the longing for a deeper connection.
(chapter 41), and the mermaid, as he grapples with voicelessness and the pressures of his world. 
(chapter 36) 
(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.
(chapter 53) Joo Jaekyung, representing the “new world,” acts as both a source of transformation and a mirror reflecting Kim Dan’s sacrifices.
(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 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) 
(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.
(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.
(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 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 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. 
(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.
(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.
(chapter 22) and a “neglected child” 
(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 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.
(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.
(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.
(chapter 59) They imagined that Kim Dan would be better off without Joo Jaekyung 
(chapter 59) finding light not in others but within himself. Through his hardships, he gains the strength to pursue his own identity and agency.
(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 57) She wondered if this nickname “MAMA” was not a spelling mistake, and that the translator might have meant “MMA fighter Joo Jaekyung.” Intrigued by this possibility, I sought clarification, and indeed, in the Japanese version 
(episode 57) the reporter introduces the main lead differently: “Next, we have news regarding Joo Jaekyung.” This subtle difference is significant for three reasons.
(chapter 41) the complicity of the doctors who cleared Joo Jaekyung to fight despite his evident injuries as another example of the corruption within this world. Moreover, by avoiding any mention of the suspension
(chapter 52) 
(chapter 52), is not only a protective measure for MFC but also shields the medical professionals who facilitated the situation. Doctors at the health center failed to report the ankle injury caused by the sabotage 
(chapter 50), further implicating them in a network of complicity and greed. Their decision to place the two fighters next to each other without proper privacy measures, such as curtains, reveals a disregard for professional ethics in favor of spectacle and profit. I would even add, the decisions from the health center’s medical staff, played a significant role in escalating the situation. By placing Joo Jaekyung and Baek Junmin next to each other post-fight, without appropriate measures like curtains to ensure separation, the health center created an environment ripe for conflict.
, (chapter 52) as the provoked champion lashed out in an unregulated setting. The decision to ignore these systemic failures and instead to suspend Joo Jaekyung suggests a deeper layer of complicity from the medical world, where doctors and nurses prioritized organizational demands and reputational interests over ethical responsibilities. Their failure to report the provocation and the ankle injury caused by the switched spray further highlights their alignment with MFC’s corrupt practices.
(chapter 47) and favored by MFC’s CEO, Baek Junmin has now been discarded, his relevance extinguished the moment he ceased to serve the organization’s agenda. 
(chapter 47) His background, combined with his visible association with MFC’s CEO, positions him as a key figure who could potentially expose the organization’s darker practices.
(chapter 49) reveal a man who overestimated his position within the organization.
(chapter 57) holds significant weight in the context of Kim Dan’s storyline, as it appears to be strategically 
(chapter 57) serves as a harsh wake-up call, forcing him to confront his own shortcomings and reevaluate his behavior.
(chapter 41), drawn boundaries, and made his expertise known. I would even add that he never felt responsible for the champion’s reputation in the media 
(chapter 36) Hence he remained passive all this time. His negligence becomes more obvious, when the media released this wave of articles: 
(chapter 41) In addition, while many Jinx-Philes are blaming the champion for his outburst, 
(chapter 50) rejection and
(chapter 50) accusations,
(chapter 54) Unlike the newly hired PT, who likely has the backing of a hospital or organization, Kim Dan operates independently. This independence, while offering a degree of freedom, also makes him vulnerable. He lacks the institutional support that could shield him from the manipulative tactics of MFC. Moreover, his independence places him in direct contrast to the systemic corruption that permeates MFC and its associated entities. As someone who has already been victimized by two major deceptions—the drugged nutrition shake 
(chapter 37) and the switched spray 
(chapter 57) —Kim Dan stands as a figure who threatens to expose the cracks in MFC’s carefully constructed facade. Let’s not forget that the incident with the poisoned beverage was swept under the rug by framing haters.
(chapter 11) Here, she offered him a sweet bread as present, but since it was his birthday cake, he had to share his “own present” with his grandmother. The little he possessed was given to his grandmother, a new form of this scene 
(chapter 43) In other words, he was the one sharing his food with her. But there exist more conclusive evidences. 
(chapter 5) When he visited her in episode 5, the main lead was the first one to bring up the topic “dinner”. How did the grandmother respond to his question? “You know your granny never skipped a meal”. Her statement is implying that someone else skipped his meals before. That can only be the doctor. So she knows that he has not been eating on a regular basis. And what is the opposite of “never”? ALWAYS! Yet, observe that she is smiling, when she is saying this. It exposes that she never saw the doctor’s skipping meals as worrisome. She must have probably thought that her grandson was a picky eater. 
(chapter 57) So she was not sitting down to a meal with her grandchild literally. In addition, when she suggested snacks to console him, she didn’t realize the terrible consequences of her decision. Once it was dinner time, Kim Dan would no longer feel hungry. With the introduction of such a ritual (eating became the synonym for repressing negative emotions), it is normal that the little boy would stop eating with his grandmother. That’s how the routine of eating on a regular basis got dropped, as it was strongly intertwined with his negative emotions and terrible incidents. 
(chapter 5) Thus she offered him two sweet yogurts. 
(chapter 57) yet at no moment she shares her food or questions him if he has already eaten. For me, this scene exposes her neglect. Her focus lies elsewhere: 
(chapter 57) She asks this question, because she has already witnessed him sleeping next to her. She associates tiredness with lack of sleep, but she is not making the connection between malnutrition and his exhaustion. 
(chapter 57) It took them days before the nurse noticed that he shouldn’t be there. Interesting is that the nurse “Mind” is starting to put the blame on the physical therapist 
(chapter 57) And why did he think that Kim Dan had left for good? First, I can imagine that the doctor looked for a place without deposit. 
(chapter 16) But more important, it is because the physical therapist only arrived on the West Coast with two small bags. 
(chapter 53) And now pay attention to the PT’s departure on the day he was sent back: 
(chapter 57) He had gone to the hospice with all his belongings, a sign that he had planned to stay with his grandmother until his “death”. In other words, his “workplace” would have become his tomb. This means that the landlord already noticed that the main lead only had a few belongings, and the moment he didn’t see the black bag with the halmoni’s picture, he assumed that Kim Dan had returned to the city. Thanks to the introduction of the new landlord, my interpretation about the champion’s biased judgment got confirmed. 
(chapter 19) When Joo Jaekyung saw the huge Wedding Cabinet, he thought that Kim Dan had many clothes. Thus he saw it as a sign of “greed”, Kim Dan was poor, because he was not able to save money. And this observation brings me back to the landlord: 
(chapter 57) Care, curiosity and responsibility. Here he is asking for help as well. Nevertheless the nature of his request is different, for it is not about himself, but about Boksoon and her puppies. As you can see, he is making sure that she gets the best environment to raise her puppies. On the other side, Shin Okja used to prioritize herself and her own suffering. Notice that the doctor was resting under a tree in the yard 
(chapter 57), until the owner appeared. Thus I couldn’t restrain myself thinking that this man is strongly associated with the sun (fatherly figure) and life, whereas the grandmother stands for darkness 
(chapter 57), night and death. 
(chapter 37) Kim Dan has never associated food with pleasure, love and happiness. Yet, for the first time, someone paid attention to his eating habits and suggested him to drink this nutrition shake. So the food became “poison” to him, this could only reinforce his negative disposition about eating. Is it a coincidence that soon after, he is seen sleeping and skipping meals? 
(chapter 57) That’s the reason why I don’t think that Kim Dan’s ARFID can be suddenly cured, the moment Potato reveals the truth about the incident. He has to develop a routine around eating. Someone has to put food right into his mouth, to feed him literally. On the other hand, I can imagine that a change will take place, when he sees his fighter totally diminished. He would serve as a reminder and reflection to himself.
(chapter 52) He was the only target and victim. Therefore it was reduced to the work of a hater and rival. Nevertheless, they didn’t interrogate the real victim of the crime correctly. Either he was about to get framed or his involvement was totally denied. It was, as if he had not been present. By not taking the physical therapist’s psychological damages into consideration, they actually expose their true nature. They don’t care about mental health at all. This explicates why the athlete had to prove his worth constantly. We should see these comments as a new form of bullying 
(chapter 36), which were supported by MFC, the Entertainment agency and Park Namwook. Joo Jaekyung had to prove them wrong: his career is not finished yet. So when the couple meets again, they should quickly realize the importance of mental health, as both are definitely at their lowest point in their life. In other words, the mental issues from Kim Dan serve a purpose in this story: people close to him should come to the realization that mental health is essential in life, something they neglected before. Either they didn’t feel concerned or they were biased or simply ignorant. Thus the athlete in the illustration for season 2 is looking at his fated partner’s face : 
He is now paying attention to his facial expressions and trying to discover his thoughts. Moreover, note that he is also grabbing his wrist, which could be interpreted like this. On the one hand, he is attempting to stop Kim Dan from working, as the symbol of a PT is the helping hand. He should relax and rely on the fighter’s care and protection. He is his shelter and home. On the other hand, it could be seen as his attempt to stop Kim Dan from using his wrist against the sinners and criminals: Kim Miseon who used her halmoni as guinea pig, Choi Gilseok who tricked him etc… Yes, I have the impression that at some point, the physical therapist could end up feeling like his fated partner: 
(chapter 41) Kim Dan is looking for light, because he has been trapped for too long in that darkness: 
(chapter 56) in Jinx serves as a powerful symbol and narrative device, encapsulating the themes of observation, communication, and truth, as reflected in the title “Unspoken Gifts, Unveiled Truths in the Light of Hope.” Its name evokes images of enlightenment and clarity, which stand in stark contrast to the gym Team Black and the grandmother’s internal state of denial and her rejection of responsibility. This tension between the hospice’s symbolic essence and the grandmother’s actions deepens the narrative’s exploration of personal accountability and transformation.
(chapter 35), where people’s actions and words can go unnoticed, the hospice fosters an environment of close-knit relationships and mutual observation. 
(chapter 56) In this communal setting, actions carry weight, and behaviors are scrutinized. Thus the door to the meeting room is made of translucent glass. 
(chapter 56) While in the previous essay, I pointed out that this door reflected Kim Dan’s emotional entanglement—he is physically present but emotionally excluded from his grandmother’s world, highlighting the imbalance in their relationship -, in verity this transparent door offers an opportunity for the main lead. How so? The glass door stands not only for transparency, but also for “emotional distance”. The glass allows visibility but creates a barrier, symbolizing a balance between openness and detachment. This is essential in a hospice environment, where the focus is on providing care and support without becoming overly attached to the inevitable outcome: death. For the staff, maintaining a degree of detachment is necessary for their well-being, as becoming too attached could make the emotional toll of their work unbearable. Therefore I am suspecting that the two nurses 
(chapter 56) Her hypocrisy, particularly in her treatment of Kim Dan, remains hidden behind the guise of socially acceptable behavior. Within the hospice, residents maintain a positive opinion of her, which enables her to mask her neglect and selfishness effectively. But since the two nurses are sharing their thoughts and working as a team, it signifies that Shin Okja’s wrongdoings could be detected this time. Or better said, they will realize the true suffering from the protagonist. Nurse Heart and nurse Mind will do their best to protect their new mascot and give him what he truly needs: 
(chapter 26) The reality is that he still has no idea why the champion was acting that way. He tried to explain his odd behavior by jumping to conclusions (prejudices: a spoiled child) and by listening to others. He never used his heart and mind, rather his ears and eyes. And this brings me to my next part.
(chapter 5) And the other laughed. Then the coach seems to have no cellphone. Maybe he believes to have no need for it, for he goes to the gym every day. This signifies that he expects to be informed by his hyung Namwook. However, like mentioned in the previous essay, I believe that the manager has been sweeping under the rug the terrible condition of his “boy” from the coach and the team members. To sum up, Team Black embodies the opposite of the hospice’s values. There is no transparency, because the conversation took place not outside, but behind closed door. The door might be translucent, the reality is that they sent away all the members. 
(chapter 36) The gym, while ostensibly a team environment, is ruled by indifference, anonymity, and a lack of genuine camaraderie. The heart and the mind are not working together. Why? It is because the coach is trusting the manager, as he views him as the heart of the gym. What he fails to see, is that Park Namwook is neither the heart nor the mind, for he is more reflecting his surroundings: money. Secondly, the manager is easily influenced and is using conformity and social norms to avoid responsibility. He fears making decisions and lets others become proactive. Joo Jaekyung, the leader, relies exclusively on Park Namwook, the manager, who undermines team spirit by fostering distrust and misinformation. 
(chapter 46) The member’s loyalty got questioned, but the irony is that they had the real insight. 
(chapter 47) Thus rumors about Baek Junmin being an illegal fighter never reached Jaekyung’s ears. That’s why the author made fun of the main lead here: 
(chapter 52) The man acted, as if he had been the biggest victim. Moreover, Namwook’s actions often reflect a lack of genuine loyalty, as seen in 
(chapter 22) episode 22, when he falsely claims ownership of the gym and again in episode 56 when he reminds the champion of his absence from the gym, behaving as though he were the boss. 
(chapter 56) Hence he is seen talking over the phone and not face to face, unlike the nurse. He knows that his boy is struggling, but he acts, as if he didn’t know. This contrast validates my previous interpretation of the manager. His question “Is everything okay with you?” exposes his lack of genuine concern. He uses work not to praise his “boy”, but to blame him for his “negligence”. He downplays the champion’s struggles while still recovering from surgery. This lack of care creates an atmosphere of apathy, anonymity, and selfish expectation, sharply contrasting with the hospice’s values of dignity and communal care. But how do we explain this huge divergence? First, the main principles of the hospice are dignity and care, and not primarily money. Therefore the institution offers free health check once a month: 
(chapter 1) The fighter with the head injury received treatment from the members (self-medication) and Kim Changming had a shoulder injury which got neglected. 
(chapter 7) These incidents reflect the gym’s underlying indifference and mismanagement. This disparity explains why Jaekyung’s mental health suffered under Namwook’s leadership, as the gym lacked the supportive and transparent environment required to nurture emotional resilience. Jaekyung’s stay at the hospice is likely to open his eyes to this overlooked aspect, prompting him to reconsider his leadership style and the values governing Team Black. But it is the same for Kim Dan, especially if he sees how weak and neglected the fighter looks: 
(chapter 16) Despite its substantial value, the grandmother never sold the cabinet to pay off the debts, prioritizing its preservation over the survival of her home and family. On the one hand, this reveals her immaturity and selfishness, as she put up with her grandson’s suffering. On the other hand, her decision created the impression to Kim Dan that this belonging had just a sentimental value and nothing more. So when the champion saw that huge Wedding cabinet, he judged it as „junk“ and that’s how the doctor got this perception validated. 
(Chapter 53) Finally during her move to the Light Of Hope, she did not ask about the whereabouts of her belonging which could only reinforce the impression that this item had no real value. It had even lost its sentimental value, as she was no longer thinking of her former home. Her ignorance and forgetfulness are once again outlining her superficiality, self-centeredness and lack of empathy. The sentimental value of her Wedding Cabinet was rather shallow. But the tragedy is that when the furniture was moved the penthouse, the champion noticed this item for the first time and came to associate this cupboard with the doctor. 
(Chapter 41) as she employs the expression „spoil to death“. By wearing the scarf with flowers, she appears wealthy, but also vain! Since I detected that Kim Dan likes pink flowers, my interpretation is that this gift mirrors the doctor’s taste indicating that he was slowly regaining his identity and confidence.. 
(chapter 31) And notice that the bouquet of pink roses pushed Kim Dan to talk to Joo Jaekyung about his taste. That’s how I detected a strong connection between presents and communication. Notice that on the champion’s birthday, the manager sent a message while the presents were delivered. 
(chapter 45) This aspect gets even validated with the doctor’s keychain. The latter not only caused an argument between the two room mates
(chapter 45), but also encouraged the doctor to convey his thoughts and expectations in the card. On the other hand, he didn’t expose the whole truth 
(chapter 55) Another interesting aspect lies in the doctor’s shaking hands which the champion noticed, when he offered the present: 
(chapter 55) This scene reminded me of their first encounter: 
(Chapter 56) So the man must have recognized the doctor‘s fear, which explains why the champion could voice his anger later. But back then, he never wondered why the doctor‘s hands were shaking like leaves. It is because the doctor feared rejection. The present had the following meaning for the physical therapist: recognition and acceptance. The gift was the symbol for „conditional affection“ which he had long internalized due to his grandmother. But this doesn‘t end here. The shaking hands appeared in a different scene: 
(chapter 49) The common denominator between these three scenes is the mistake. Kim Dan feared to have made a mistake with the present, because he was afraid of the champion‘s reaction: will he accept him or not? But let‘s return our attention to the gifts from the doctor. 
(chapter 31)
(chapter 55) implies that as soon as the main couple meet each other, they will have to discuss this matter. To sum up, a gift encourages the couple to communicate, yet contrary to season 1, both should be more honest to each other at the Light Of Hope. Every word and action will appear in a different light. Another aspect is that none of them takes things for granted, which stands in opposition to hyung Namwook and the grandmother. This explicates why the latter have no problem to spend money.
(chapter 56) This dichotomy in season 1 is vividly illustrated in a scene where Kim Dan, under the dappled light of a tree
(chapter 41), experiences a profound moment of awakening. As his hand seems to reach towards the leaves
(chapter 41), his senses come alive—he sees the light filtering through, feels the breeze, and hears the faint rustling sound. It is, as if in that moment, he reconnects to his true nature. Like a tree, Kim Dan is deeply rooted, yet capable of growth and resilience. 
(chapter 41) Nature awakens something within him— his heart and as such his third eye —allowing him to realize his affection for Joo Jaekyung. This quiet yet powerful moment emphasizes how nature offers clarity and purity, serving as a contrast to the suffocating, impersonal urban world where Kim Dan often found himself lost. Striking is when Joo Jaekyung met Kim Dan for the first time, he compared him to a “leaf,” shaking and fragile—an unconscious recognition of his true nature. 
(chapter 55) However, note that the main lead isn’t stretching his hand to the sky and sun. He is almost immobile. Just before, he was holding the cellphone in his hand: 
(chapter 55) Another divergence to the scene in episode 41 is that Jinx-philes couldn’t see his face. It indicates that the doctor reverted to his old self, and as such he is not true to himself. Therefore I come to the following conclusion. Mingwa uses nature as a mirror to Kim Dan’s emotional and spiritual state. While moments of connection with nature reflect clarity and self-realization, the juxtaposition in this scene underscores the opposite. Here, Kim Dan sits surrounded by trees and bathed in sunlight, yet his attention is consumed by his cellphone—symbolizing his entanglement with money, duty, and his ongoing struggles. Just moments prior, he wired money to the champion, a decision rooted in his past traumas and present desperation. The irony of the setting cannot be overlooked: though nature surrounds him, its purity and tranquility remain unnoticed, emphasizing how Kim Dan is still trapped in patterns of survival, burdened by his circumstances. He has become a ghost once again. This disconnect reveals how the weight of his past prevents him from embracing the present moment and reconnecting with his true nature, contrasting starkly with earlier scenes where his senses came alive under the trees. 
(chapter 56) The empty beach scene, with its sunlight and tranquil beauty, reflects peace, but also unfulfilled connections. Kim Dan’s absence from this moment underscores his failure to keep a heartfelt promise to his grandmother: 
(chapter 56) Abandoned once again, Kim Dan is consumed by the weight of his trauma, isolating himself emotionally and excluding himself from others.
(chapter 56) When approached and complimented, such as when the nurse praises him and encourages him to take a break for lunch, Kim Dan pointedly ignores the praise and instead chooses to return to work. His inability to engage with others reflects the same disconnection that prevents him from connecting to nature. Mingwa subtly reveals a painful truth: Kim Dan’s fixation on his suffering not only blinds him to the solace and clarity offered by nature, but also hinders his ability to nurture relationships. 
(chapter 56) and, symbolically, to the moon, Kim Dan remains oblivious to what has always been there for him: the enduring forces of love, stability, and healing.
(chapter 56) the ocean and celestial elements like Saturn (Kim Dan stands for this planet). These forces, outside human control and independent of Kim Dan’s struggles, offer opportunities for renewal and clarity. Yet Kim Dan, consumed by his pain, remains trapped in patterns of survival and alienation. Nature’s constancy mirrors what he needs most—connection, healing, and presence—yet his inability to see it reflects his broader struggle to connect with others and himself.
(chapter 37) The puppy symbolizes not only nature, but also innocence. Let’s not forget that he was moved by the actor’s flowers in the past: 
(chapter 21) Yes, by offering him a puppy! Is it a coincidence that the author made the champion jog next to a dog owner? I don’t think so. Until now, nothing could move Kim Dan’s heart: 
(chapter 44) In other words, Kim Dan feels a strong connection to animals, but he could never have one due to his poverty and his grandmother. By taking care of a dog, he would be forced to pay attention to nature and in particular to trees. Naturally, I believe that Potato will play a similar role in the future, for Mingwa associated him with a dog. 
(chapter 47), the nursing attendant 
(chapter 21) or the reporters: 
(chapter 37) 
(chapter 40) However, Manhwa-worms will notice a significant distinction: in Season 1, these women were all tied to the world of work. Even Kim Dan’s grandmother, though she represents a familial figure, falls into this category.
(chapter 56) Moreover, the grandmother’s choice of words, “Why don’t you turn in?”, implies that she sees Kim Dan’s presence as a form of “work” or duty. This phrasing is often associated with someone finishing a day’s tasks or obligations before going to bed, which fits into the broader dynamic between Kim Dan and his responsibilities. In my eyes, it shows that she is seeing her grandson more as a caretaker than as a family member. We shouldn’t forget that she was the reason why the main lead became a PT. It was, as if her dream had come true. Nevertheless, the verity is that his grandmother is receiving treatment from his colleagues. 
(chapter 7) before she got reassured. Then she made this request 
(chapter 55) and later brought the doctor’s present: 
(chapter 55) And what is the common denominator with these two images? The woman’s hand. In the previous essay, I explained that her intervention signalized that the champion would stop drinking and was starting acknowledging Kim Dan. The zoom on the cleaning lady’s hand is a powerful visual cue that encapsulates many of the symbolic meanings associated with a woman’s hand, reinforcing the themes of care, healing, humility, and transformation.
(chapter 19) He is not capable to take care of himself well. 
(chapter 55) Observe how she smiled to him by saying goodbye. This is a sign that her respect and care are genuine. One might think that this nameless cleaning lady was unfortunately portrayed as eyeless: 
(chapter 56) I don’t think, we should see it in a pejorative light, like for an example of blindness or manipulation. In my eyes, the absence of her eyes are mirroring the nature of their relationship between the champion and the cleaning service. So far, he never met these people, as he was always away. In other words, the absence of the eyes is showing that the sportsman doesn’t know her that well. But it could change and this because of Kim Dan.
(chapter 56) in the illustration. It is because I realized that the champion first looked for Kim Dan at Sports Therapy Centers 
(chapter 56) before realizing that his fated partner might have switched the focus in PT, geriatrics. And what did the PT say at the Light Of Hope Hospice? 
(chapter 56) Male physical therapists like this one 
(chapter 54) prefer specializing in treating athletes because it brings more money and fame, whereas female PT ends up at hospices due to their nature (nurturing, family). This means that by going to the hospice, the athlete will enter a whole new world. The appearance of the woman with glasses was indicating that the athlete was slowly broadening his horizon. As you can see, little by little, the fighter is opening his mind to new things. So how will he react, when he sees that his beloved “hamster” is withering again? This time, he can not blame the doctor. Since I detected similarities between Kim Dan’s current attitude and the champion’s past behavior, I have the feeling that the fighter will recognize himself in his loved one or someone will give him some advice. He will have the answer to this: 
(chapter 13) He is neglecting himself to the point of exhaustion, because he is living as a PT non-stop. While the champion was fighting with his bad shoulder, the other is using his hands for treatment, hence he is not eating.
(chapter 56) and 
(chapter 56) While in the first picture, Joo Jaekyung is calm, concentrated and silent, in the second one, the fighter is agitated, lost, breathless and yelling. These two mental dispositions are reflected in the location. In the first image, the MMA celebrity appears behind the steering wheel, which is a symbol for power, determination and control, whereas in the second panel the champion is wandering alone in the street. This running is no longer part of his training and routine, but it exposes his powerlessness, loneliness and despair. He has no idea where to go contrary to the first picture. This means that the latter embodies goal and destination, whereas the second image represents the opposite values: beginning, start, ground zero and source. In other words, the end of episode announces the athlete’s rebirth or better said, the start of a new life. I will elaborate further below. But let’s return our attention to the symbolism of the auto. 
(chapter 56) 
(chapter 35), Joo Jaekyung succeeded. He is just a passerby. In other words, the avenue indicates not only his failure to find Kim Dan, but also his loss of power and status. He has just become a nobody. Thus we should consider this as the athlete’s karma for thinking that Kim Dan could be replaced, because he was just a nobody: 
(chapter 55) It is no coincidence as well that the author showed us the star’s back, when the latter called his hyung Park Namwook. 
These two chapters are similar, for they convey the same emotions: anger, anxiety, frustration and despair of the fighter. In the car, the champion attempted to control the doctor’s libido. 
(chapter 33) On the one hand, he appeared calm and concentrated like in 56, yet deep inside, he was burning up. The pink dildo was used as a tool to voice his negative emotions (abandonment issues, insecurities and jealousy). With the release of episode 56, another reason came to my mind why the athlete proposed to drive the physical therapist to Choi Heesung. 
(chapter 32) First, he switched the car in order to demonstrate his wealth and status. It was, as if he wanted to show off to his fated companion, which reminded me of the actor. The latter would bomb doc Dan with “presents”, an indirect demonstration of his fortune. In addition, Jinxphiles will certainly recall that during the same day, the comedian came to fetch the physical therapist with his white Porsche. 
(chapter 32) Consequently, I came to the following deduction. The man selected the gray car in order to distinguish himself from his rival, to impress his companion.
(chapter 42) And what was his attitude there? He would not listen to his passenger. Moreover, he would separate his job from his roommate’s. It looked like they were living in two different worlds, though they were sharing the car. This scene exposes miscommunication, lack of faith, stubbornness and prejudices. The fighter was not willing to accept the physical therapist’s doubts and chose to go through with the training and match. 
(chapter 2) 
(chapter 37) with arrogance and weakness, but this is not true. [For more read this 
(chapter 54) 
(chapter 5) He allows the coach to drive the car and the manager to sit in the front. Thus they represent the higher authorities. However, so far, the doctor had only been his passenger. Thus a new idea popped up: what if the athlete let the physical therapist drive his car? Let’s not forget that the loner wolf shouldn’t be driving on his own, for his shoulder has not healed properly yet. I already pointed out the wrongdoings from the two hyungs. 
(chapter 5) Then in episode 49, the champion kept The Shotgun’s words as a secret, while his coach confessed his trust in his “boy”
(chapter 49). Yet, he revealed his true thoughts at the hospital: 
(chapter 37) He was using the landline telephone. This observation is relevant, because it exposes the coach’s dependency on Park Namwook. The latter’s task is to keep in touch with his boss and champion, for he has his cellphone number. Nevertheless, how do we explain the absence of the coach’s cellphone? I have the feeling that this could be related to his divorce. 
(chapter 19) Thus this observation made me think that the coach could have something in common with Kim Dan. And that’s how the champion will demonstrate his strength to his hyung. Contrary to him, he didn’t accept the divorce so “easily”. In fact, he is fighting for the doctor in his own way. The problem is that he is his own worst enemy.
(chapter 49), Jinxphiles could never view the driver. 
(chapter 13) His question “Is everything okay with you?” is purely mechanical and as such meaningless, for he doesn’t inquire, when he hears a silence from the other side of the line. I would even say that he doesn’t really wait for his boy’s answer as well. 
(chapter 56), he could end up in the same situation than the protagonist. And keep in mind that the coach Yosep is actually relying on the manager. Thus I reckon that the champion’s other source of power is actually his cellphone! Without him, he has no connection 
(chapter 5), no money 
(chapter 32) and no power. His call to the manager during that evening represents his last resort. Thus he is calling the manager “Namwook hyung” contrary to episode 5.
(chapter 5) This title is indicating that the champion is opening up, and willing to show his vulnerability and despair. On the other hand, this change also implies “expectations” from the fighter, 
(chapter 46) Keep in mind that at the gym, the athlete denied the relevance of information. Though both hyungs were warned, the reality was that they got off scot-free. They never received any blame for failing to protect him and this twice. And now, he is looking for intel about the doctor. Indirectly, fate is teaching him to recognize his error. In fact, information can procure a good insight about people’s behavior and as such fears. Let me give you an example: if Joo Jaekyung were to hear about Kim Dan’s first employment as PT, he should understand why the PT made mistakes, why he took odd jobs and why he “left” Seoul. If he wanted to work as PT, he needed to go elsewhere. 
(chapter 56) He somehow expected doc Dan to listen to his words and accept them. That was it. Then at the end, it is just about seeing doc Dan and nothing more. At no moment, he voiced the desire to get to know his partner or to listen to his side of the story. Why? It is because he had strongly internalized that the man was a liar. He never questioned his perception and detected his own prejudices. It is important to recollect how Jinx-philes could sense a positive change in the physical therapist: 
(chapter 22) Yes, it is the view with the star’s back. The author selected such a position on purpose. The face represents the character’s identity and as such his personality. By showing the back, Mingwa is implying that the beholder is full of prejudices and doesn’t know his partner that well. That’s why I judge this image 
(chapter 7) 
(chapter 32) 
(chapter 37) 
(chapter 40) 
(chapter 43) 
(chapter 45) 
(chapter 46) 
(chapter 47) Looking at his face had become his new secret ritual and as such his source of joy. Naturally, his heart and unconscious were the causes for this new habit. This explicates why he hated hearing the doctor leaving the penthouse during the night: he feared that he would no longer be able to see his cute face. That’s also the reason why Joo Jaekyung got angry/upset, when he saw the doctor turning his head away 
(chapter 56), when he imagined that she had died. In reality, he helped financially more the grandmother than Kim Dan himself. Kim Dan is the one he should really empathize with. He has always been a victim of circumstances.
(chapter 17) and 
(chapter 11). In season 1, the athlete stands for golden hour, whereas Heo Namwook embodies blue hour. “Entre chien et loup” is the time of day when the light is such that is becomes difficult to distinguish between a dog and a wolf, between friend and foe, between known and unknown. Hence I am thinking that if the next episode represents a continuation of that nightfall, it signifies that the champion is on his way to meet someone from the past. Moreover, I detected that the pavement is the same than in front of the gym: 
(chapter 48) As you can see, this detail made me realize that the next chapter should contain reflections from episode 35 and 48, the meeting with an old/new acquaintance. I am writing new and old together on purpose, for Director Choi Gilseok had been the halmoni’s loan shark, but the “hamster” had no idea. Choi Gilseok is the boss of Heo Manwook. If this encounter takes place, it signifies that on the one hand, it will cause pain and suffering to the athlete, on the other hand, this incident will become a “blessing in disguise”, for it will push the champion to reflect and mature. That’s how I had the following revelation. Why did the author ensure that the MMA fighter’s shoulder would get badly injured? 
(chapter 52) That’s how he felt right into the trap of the schemers. So by having his splint, Joo Jaekyung is indirectly coerced to meditate on his feelings., as he can no longer use his shoulder and as such his fist. His physical injury represents in reality his “lucky charm”, for it helps him to transform, to overcome his trauma and face the shadows from his traumatic past. Notice that for the first time, the athlete came to accept the existence of feelings for Kim Dan. 
(chapter 5) He is much calmer. He is not oozing red and remaining silent. He is not burning up inside, in fact he is expressing his thoughts and emotions: 
(chapter 5) In both cases, the athlete asked for his manager’s help. However, as Jinx-philes can sense, there exist two huge differences between the past and present. Back then, Park Namwook didn’t care for Kim Dan. He was just a PT like any other doctor. He didn’t even care that Joo Jaekyung would lose his temper and ruin the sandbag. 
(chapter 5) It was not worrisome in his eyes, because his day would consist of training and punching the sandbag. The problem is that the fighter is no longer coming to the gym and he is not even calling him: 
(chapter 56) This shows that the athlete is using more and more his intelligence, he is forced to interact with people. He is gradually developing his social skills which stand for COMMUNICATION. And how did he get deceive in the past? 
(chapter 48) He got manipulated by his eyes! They used a trick to deceive the athlete: delivering the truth in delay. Joo Jaekyung didn’t confront Kim Dan, because he saw the pictures as proofs! He never tried to hear his side from the story. And now, you comprehend why I am expecting that the champion will suffer another “blow” in the next episode. In my opinion, he will hear an important information. The fire in the illustration is there to indicate “Tabula Rasa”, a clean state. Joo Jaekyung has to lose all his principles and his bias about doc Dan. But for that he needs to face his own past and mistakes. Only through this effective anguish, he can become a better man, a new man.
Bebebisous33s' analyses in K-Dramaland and Manhwas 