what's wrong with secretary kim manga

2 min read 23-12-2024

What's Wrong with Secretary Kim? A Critical Look at the Popular Manga

What's Wrong with Secretary Kim? is a popular romantic comedy manga that spawned a successful K-drama adaptation. While undeniably entertaining for many, the manga also presents some problematic aspects worth discussing. This article explores those issues, examining the narrative choices and character dynamics that fall short of modern expectations.

The Problematic Power Dynamic

The central relationship between Lee Young-joon and Kim Mi-so hinges on a deeply unbalanced power dynamic. Young-joon, a narcissistic and controlling CEO, relies on Mi-so's unwavering devotion and competence to manage his life. While their relationship evolves into romance, the initial dynamic feels exploitative. Mi-so's dependence on Young-joon, both professionally and emotionally, is a recurring theme that raises concerns. The manga often downplays or ignores the potential negative aspects of this power imbalance.

The Lack of Consent Exploration

While the manga portrays a developing romantic relationship, the initial stages lack a clear exploration of consent. Young-joon's pursuit of Mi-so often crosses boundaries, and his actions aren't always framed as potentially problematic. The narrative focuses more on the comedic aspects of his possessive behavior rather than examining the ethical implications. This lack of nuance can be unsettling for readers accustomed to more thoughtful depictions of romantic relationships.

The Stereotypical Characterization

Some characters are portrayed through harmful stereotypes. Female characters often exist solely in relation to the male leads, lacking independent agency or complex motivations. Similarly, certain male characters embody exaggerated tropes of arrogance and immaturity, further reinforcing problematic gender dynamics. The lack of diverse and well-rounded character development weakens the overall narrative.

Repetitive Humor and Plot Devices

The manga relies heavily on repetitive comedic tropes. Young-joon's narcissistic tendencies, though intended to be humorous, become predictable and tiresome after a while. Similarly, the constant misunderstandings and contrived situations feel less like organic plot progression and more like convenient tools to extend the narrative. This leads to a sense of stagnation and prevents the story from achieving its full potential.

The Idealization of Wealth and Power

The manga presents a romanticized view of wealth and power. Young-joon's privileged background and immense wealth are often portrayed as desirable qualities, overshadowing the potential negatives associated with such privilege. This idealization can be problematic, especially for younger readers who might not have a fully developed understanding of social and economic inequalities.

Conclusion: Enjoyment vs. Critique

What's Wrong with Secretary Kim? remains a popular and widely enjoyed manga. However, acknowledging and discussing the narrative flaws is crucial. By critically examining the power dynamics, consent issues, character stereotypes, and repetitive plot devices, we can engage in a more thoughtful conversation about the manga's impact and limitations. While enjoying the comedic aspects, it's important to be mindful of the problematic elements and their potential influence. This allows for a more nuanced appreciation of the story and its place within a broader context of modern romantic narratives.