Bad Thinking Diary: A Review
Introduction
Are you a fan of ecchi manga or erotic manhwa and are looking to dive into the world of GL and BL comics? Park Do-han’s “Bad Thinking Diary” is the perfect place for new readers to start off. We even recommend it if this is your first time getting into manhwa altogether. But if you are new here, then be sure to check out our What is a Manhwa blog post to get started.
Are you ready to explore the best adult GL manhwas of 2024 with our in-depth review of “Bad Thinking Diary?”
In the ever-evolving landscape of manhwa, Park Do-han’s “Bad Thinking Diary” stands out as a captivating exploration of friendship, unrequited love, and the intricate dance between platonic and romantic relationships. In this review, we’ll delve into the plot, character dynamics, thematic elements, and the reception of “Bad Thinking Diary.”
Plot Summary
Published by Lezhin, this manhwa dives deep into the complexities of human emotions, particularly those that surface when friends become something more. “Bad Thinking Diary” follows the lives of Min-ji and Yu-na, two best friends who have shared a deep bond since high school. Min-ji, who has always admired Yu-na’s kindness and beauty, finds herself yearning for something more than friendship. As they grow older, the subtle shifts in their relationship become more pronounced, particularly when Min-ji starts having vivid dreams about Yu-na that are anything but innocent.
These dreams mark the beginning of a transformation in their relationship, leading Min-ji to confront her feelings head-on. The manhwa intricately portrays the evolution of their bond, highlighting the tension and confusion that arise when the lines between friendship and romance become blurred. Throughout the story, readers are taken on an emotional journey as Min-ji grapples with her unspoken desires and the fear of losing her best friend.
“Bad Thinking Diary” is an LGBTQ+ portrayal showing that love knows no bounds, and the passion between Min-Ji and Yu-Na is as meaningful and profound as any other.
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Character Analysis
Min-ji
Min-ji is the protagonist of “Bad Thinking Diary,” and her character is a captivating mix of vulnerability and determination. Her admiration for Yu-na is evident from the beginning, but it’s her internal struggle that forms the crux of the story. Min-ji’s dreams about Yu-na serve as a catalyst for her to explore her feelings, pushing her to navigate the murky waters of unrequited love and friendship.
Min-ji’s character is relatable, particularly to readers who have experienced the pangs of unreciprocated affection. Her journey is marked by moments of introspection, confusion, and longing, making her a multi-dimensional character that resonates with the audience.
Yu-na
Yu-na, on the other hand, is portrayed as kind-hearted and beautiful, the quintessential object of admiration. Her character, while less deeply explored than Min-ji’s, serves as the focal point of Min-ji’s affections. Yu-na’s interactions with Min-ji are layered with warmth and care, but there is an underlying tension as the story progresses.
The dynamic between Yu-na and Min-ji is one of the most intriguing aspects of the manhwa. Yu-na’s responses to Min-ji’s subtle advances and the eventual evolution of her own feelings add depth to the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of emotions and interactions.
Thematic Elements
Unrequited Love
At its core, “Bad Thinking Diary” is a story about unrequited love. Min-ji’s feelings for Yu-na are intense and all-consuming, but the fear of rejection constantly plagues her. This theme is explored with great sensitivity, capturing the heartache and longing that accompany unreturned affection. The manhwa delves into Min-ji’s internal conflict, her dreams serving as a reflection of her deepest desires and insecurities.
Friendship
The foundation of Min-ji and Yu-na’s relationship is their long-standing friendship. This theme is central to the story, highlighting the strength and fragility of their bond. The manhwa beautifully portrays the highs and lows of friendship, from moments of unwavering support to the tension that arises when boundaries are tested. Yu-na is initially weary of going any further with Min-ji, and the two must spend time working out their day-to-day problems as they start to feel out what it may look like to be a couple. The depiction of their friendship is both realistic and poignant, resonating with readers who have experienced similar dynamics in their own lives.
Blurred Boundaries
One of the most compelling aspects of “Bad Thinking Diary” is its exploration of blurred boundaries. The line between friendship and romance is often challenging to navigate, and the manhwa captures this ambiguity with finesse. Min-ji’s dreams about Yu-na serve as a metaphor for the confusion and uncertainty that come with blurred boundaries. The story raises important questions about the nature of love and the challenges of defining relationships that don’t fit neatly into conventional categories.
Reception and Reviews
“Bad Thinking Diary” has received mixed reviews from readers, reflecting the diverse range of reactions to its storyline and characters. Some readers have praised the manhwa for its beautiful artwork and the emotional depth of its characters. The intricate portrayal of Min-ji’s internal struggle and the nuanced depiction of her relationship with Yu-na have been highlighted as strong points.
However, the manhwa has also faced criticism, particularly regarding its storyline and character development. Some readers have expressed frustration with the lack of communication between the main characters, leading to repetitive and frustrating plot points. While compelling, the tension between Min-ji and Yu-na sometimes feels drawn out, leaving readers yearning for resolution. And some people just don’t get into GL sex scenes as much as others.
Despite these critiques, “Bad Thinking Diary” has managed to capture the attention of a dedicated LGBTQ+ audience. The manhwa’s exploration of complex themes and its relatable characters continue to resonate with readers, making it a noteworthy addition to the genre.
Artistic Style
The artwork in “Bad Thinking Diary” is one of its standout features. Park Do-han’s illustrations are elegant and expressive, capturing the subtleties of the characters’ emotions and the tension in their interactions. The dream sequences, in particular, are rendered with a floating dreamlike quality that enhances the storytelling. The visual style complements the narrative, adding depth and nuance to the story.
The character designs are also distinct and memorable, reflecting the personalities and inner struggles of Min-ji and Yu-na. The backgrounds and settings are also well-crafted, creating an immersive experience for readers. Overall, the artistic style of “Bad Thinking Diary” is a significant factor in its appeal, drawing readers into the world of Min-ji and Yu-na.
Personal Reflections
As a fan of GL manhwa, “Bad Thinking Diary” struck a chord with me. The story’s exploration of unrequited love and the complexities of friendship resonated deeply. Min-ji’s internal struggle and her journey of self-discovery were portrayed with great sensitivity, making her a relatable and compelling character. The tension between her and Yu-na kept me engaged, even when the storyline felt repetitive at times.
“Bad Thinking Diary” portrays that love knows no bounds, and the depiction of gay love between Min-Ji and Yu-Na is just as meaningful and profound as any other. This manhwa captures the struggles and joys of navigating a shifting relationship, making it a compelling read for those interested in stories of love and personal growth. I feel that we need more gay pride in the manga and manhwa community as a whole, and this story is leading by example by tackling girl love in such a mature way.
The manhwa’s artwork is undeniably beautiful, and Park Do-han’s ability to capture the nuances of the characters’ emotions added depth to the narrative. While I understood some of the criticisms regarding the lack of communication between the main characters, I appreciated the realism in their interactions. Relationships, especially those with blurred boundaries, are often messy and complicated; “Bad Thinking Diary” portrays this with authenticity.
Conclusion
“Bad Thinking Diary” by Park Do-han is a thought-provoking manhwa that delves into the complexities of unrequited love, friendship, and blurred boundaries. Despite its mixed reviews, the manhwa offers a rich and emotional journey for readers who appreciate stories that explore the intricacies of human relationships. The elegant artwork and relatable characters make it a standout in the genre, drawing readers into the world of Min-ji and Yu-na.
If you’re looking for a manhwa that challenges conventional notions of friendship and romance, “Bad Thinking Diary” is worth reading. Its exploration of love, longing, and the gray areas that lay in any relationship makes it a compelling and memorable experience.
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