I don't think he's in love with her. I don't think he even likes her in a romantic way, I genuinely see platonic affection, and mutual respect between them. If the author/artist was trying to convey love well,,,,,,, idk what to tell you. It's like he explains it in this chapter, she sees him, she hears him out, and he's appreciative of that because no one has ever done that with him. That's why I think what they have is a very special bond, but it's not romantic.

Well, that's my opinion at least. 

I get that people want to excuse their actions by saying “they’re just kids,” but let’s be honest—they’re in high school. That means they’re old enough to know the difference between right and wrong, and they’re capable of thinking critically and making choices. So no, I don’t think we should brush off their behavior as childish or harmless.

Yes, Jin-hyeong wasn’t exactly kind to Seong-rik, but that doesn’t justify what Seong-rik did in return. He exposed Jin-hyeong’s vulnerabilities and made him a target. That’s calculated. That’s betrayal. And while I understand that Seong-rik has been through a lot—especially with a father as cruel and damaging as his—what he did still caused real harm. It’s possible to acknowledge his pain without excusing his actions.

I’ve honestly never felt this conflicted about a character I once liked. It’s hard to watch someone you care about cross a line like this. And no, bullying isn’t cute or redeemable just because it comes from a fan-favorite or a “traumatized” character. These choices have weight, and they shouldn’t be dismissed.