[Spoiler Warning]
There seems to be some tension about the merit of Killing Stalking due to a toxic fanbase and relatively questionable content, so there are a few things that should be made clear right off the bat: Killing Stalking is NOT a Romance.
Yes, the series centers around a pairing is gay. Yes, it is sexually explicit. But it is NOT cute. It is NOT hot. It is not about the romance, if you can even consider it that.
What it IS is a Psychological Thriller manhwa that truly excels in every category, and I’ll be addressing some of the discourse surrounding it first.
Yaoi is a
...
very loaded genre in terms of both content and fanbase—There are some (a lot) of BL (short for boy’s love, i.e. everything male x male no matter how explicit or not explicit the content) that are extremely fetishizing and problematic, perpetuating a “female fantasy” of what gay relationships are like with tropes such as rape and pedophilia. A good portion of the fanbase would also consider themselves diehard fujoshis/yaoi fans (fujoshis literally meaning rotten girl, as in “I'm rotten for reading about gay relationships” which isn’t homophobic at all of course) that glorify such tropes and deny any criticism that comes their way. This portion of the fanbase also tends to be the loudest and most unapologetic, which is why they’re looked down upon by non-BL readers as they should be.
However, many non-BL readers then go to label all BL and BL readers according to these trends because these trends are the most “loudest” (cringey and vocal fujoshis, notorious rape and pedophilia yaoi series). Do you see where this is going?
So now we have Killing Stalking, a twisted story about two mentally unstable people in an incredibly toxic and unhealthy relationship, and those two people are male. So not only is it now labeled as a Yaoi and inheriting all the stereotypes that come with that genre, but it’s also now inherited a fanbase that definitely has a few crazies that will see that relationship as hot.
And so then non-BL readers have this opinion, or at the very least a preconception, about what Killing Stalking is: a gay torture porn that is the epitome of fucked up yaoi.
Just to be clear, the blame doesn’t fall just on the crazy fujoshis. If you have a Thriller with straight, ‘normal’ romance it’s still a Thriller. If you have a Thriller with gay romance, like Killing Stalking it’s suddenly become Yaoi. When series have gay (particularly male x male) relationships, that series will suddenly get the “Gay label.” It’ll be placed on a special Gay bookshelf where all the other books with The Gay are placed. Even if there is a substantial amount of gay content (like with Killing Stalking), the main genre is far overshadowed by the fact that it’s Gay.
With Killing Stalking, I imagine that a lot of people see the Yaoi tag and automatically turn away, or are at least somewhat deterred. Then they hear about or see the violence/abuse/psychological aspect and they tie the two together and think, “oh, so it’s weird gay torture porn,” whereas if the couple was straight it would just be “an abusive relationship.”
To reiterate what I said before, Killing Stalking is first and foremost a Psychological Thriller. The story centers around Yoon Bum, a loner with attachment issues, who falls in love with Oh Sangwoo, a popular, charismatic, attractive guy that he finds out is also secretly a serial murderer (you learn all this in the prologue and first chapters don’t worry). For some reason Sangwoo decides to spare his life after Bum confesses to him and thus an incredibly complex relationship/character dynamic ensues and evolves.
There is gore, sex, murder, and some fucked up themes surrounding all of those. I don't want to reveal too much because the reveals are worth experiencing, but does get a little heavy at times, but if you can handle it then it’s definitely worth the read.
The characters, their development, and their relationship are for sure the winning point of Killing Stalking. I don’t think I’ve ever seen it as well done as in KS. Koogi does a masterful job in this aspect in multiple ways: first, both Bum and Sangwoo have extreme emotional depth, the complexity of which is slowly revealed throughout the story. While Bum seems like and is a quiet, socially anxious stalker and Sangwoo seems like and is a manipulative psychopath/sociopath, the degree to which these characterizations are true and how they change throughout the story as the two characters interact and develop is the most interesting part.
From the first several chapters, we already learn that Sangwoo has several sides to his personality and is able to project and manipulate a certain image of himself based on his audience. This leads to a variety of questions: which Sangwoo is the “true” Sangwoo, what triggers him to act a certain way/shift personalities, do more sides exist, why all these different sides of him exist, and how they originate. At the same time, we begin to see how these sides of him change and develop as other characters and events impact his psyche.
With Bum, our understanding of him is totally different. The story is told mainly from his point of view and so the reader is let in on his thoughts and feelings from the start. However, as the story progresses, the reader learns that what Bum hides from the readers and consequently, himself, reveals just as much about him as what we are otherwise shown and told. This also means that one of the driving forces of Bum’s character development is how he changes and evolves, whereas with Sangwoo, the focus is primarily on unearthing his already existing complexity. These two different modes of character development are a testament to Koogi’s ability to create characters that aren’t just interesting and complex, but also complex in different ways.
This leads into the second thing Koogi does really well in terms of characters, which is the execution of their development. More specifically, Koogi is a master of storytelling, subtlety, and a slow, bit-by-bit reveal that isn’t too vague nor too explicit. Especially in the second half of the series, each new chapter begins to feel like an additional puzzle piece in the larger puzzle that is what the hell is going on. The foreshadowing is also very well done. This is particularly true for Sangwoo’s past, which becomes more complicated than anyone could’ve imagined at the beginning. There are definitely a lot of “woah” and “oh shit” moments throughout the story that are credited to the way Koogi is able to build suspense and execute reveals.
Playing into that is the way the characters’ relationships reveal more about each character while simultaneously flowing completely naturally. Nothing feels forced and everything slots together truly like a puzzle, creating a seamless and immersive experience. Even the sexually explicit scenes have a purpose and are rarely just for the sake of appealing to fans.
Another thing that makes KS so seamless is how interconnected the plot is with the characters. Plot events happen because it makes sense for the characters. It’s as if the characters are deciding the plot, which is how it is in real life and how it should be in non-fantasy, real-world manhwa.
The suspense and story are especially gripping because Sangwoo’s mysteriousness and mental state make him unpredictable and able to take the story anywhere. This is established from an early point onward and keeps the story from falling into cliches. The plot never gets boring for the majority of the story.
However, because of the focus on the characters, the last third-ish of Killing Stalking ends up becoming not as plot driven as some other Thriller/Horror series near the middle and end. This isn’t necessarily a good or bad thing and is pretty expected given the large psychological aspect of KS. There are also some times when the plot does slow down a little. It usually makes sense later on in establishing a certain image/mood, but can feel flat in the moment.
The art is stellar. The style is pleasing while avoiding same face syndrome and the color palette nicely complements the mood of the manhwa. Art plays a large part in the quality of storytelling through things such as perspective, angles, and progression of panels, and it’s safe to say both are top notch.
I will say that it does get explicit, both with sex and with gore. It’s definitely not the worst I’ve seen and it’s artfully done so that it’s not “depictions and close ups of gore/sex for the sake of gore/sex.”
Finally, I highly HIGHLY suggest you read the chapter reddit threads for the later chapters when it becomes more subtle and confusing. I only did it from chapter 55/67 onward and a few random chapters before then that I was confused about. This is because sometimes you might miss out on crucial foreshadowing and they usually pick up on it in those threads. People also have some interesting theories and predictions that enhance the experience a lot, given that so much is left to be implied/not explicit until much later.
Go onto reddit.com/r/killingstalking and search “chapter ##” and you’ll get the discussion thread for each chapter when that chapter was released. There most usually won’t be spoilers because future chapters haven’t been released yet at the time the thread is made.
TL;DR:
Do NOT read this if:
- You’re here for the Yaoi/a “dark but cute” romance. Sorry but the only ships you should shipping are Yoonbum x Therapy and Sangwoo x Prison. If you ultimately think the main pairing is cute or hot you need to stop fetishizing gay couples and you probably also some need help.
- You can’t handle gore, murder, physical and psychological abuse
DO read this for:
- The best characters + character development I’ve ever seen, hands down
- Unique, suspenseful story that avoids cliches
- Amazing storytelling through pacing, foreshadowing, etc
- Amazing art
Even if you’re deterred by the Yaoi tag, give it a shot. It’s not a Yaoi with Psychological Thriller aspects, it’s a Psychological Thriller with Yaoi aspects.
Read the chapter discussion threads on Reddit.
*******Also! if you do plan on reading it, here are some things to think about/watch out for while reading:
- Placement and types of injuries (won't be hard to miss)
- Clothing (won't be hard to miss)
- Who has power, and what actions or objects show that (becomes very interesting near the end)
- Significance of the different floors of the house (interesting to think about)
Alternative TitlesJapanese: 킬링 스토킹 More titlesInformationType: Manhwa
Volumes: 8
Chapters: 67
Status: Finished
Published: Mar 3, 2016 to Mar 22, 2019
Theme:
Psychological
Serialization:
Lezhin Comics Webtoon Authors:
Koogi (Story & Art) Statistics Ranked: N/A2 2 based on the top manga page. Please note that 'R18+' titles are excluded. Popularity: #225
Members: 76,429
Favorites: 3,298 Available AtResources | Reviews
Filtered Results: 47 / 80
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Your Feelings Categories Aug 16, 2019
[Spoiler Warning]
There seems to be some tension about the merit of Killing Stalking due to a toxic fanbase and relatively questionable content, so there are a few things that should be made clear right off the bat: Killing Stalking is NOT a Romance. Yes, the series centers around a pairing is gay. Yes, it is sexually explicit. But it is NOT cute. It is NOT hot. It is not about the romance, if you can even consider it that. What it IS is a Psychological Thriller manhwa that truly excels in every category, and I’ll be addressing some of the discourse surrounding it first. Yaoi is a ... Sep 6, 2019
"If I die first, I want you to die, too. If you fail, just keep trying. Don't let me down. Ever."
Woah,first review. I remember hearing about Killing Stalking for the first time from a friend who was obsessed with yaoi manga ... I did my research the next day and there it was. What an interesting manhwa i said to myself.. I don't read yaoi, but i found this one very different and interesting from any manhwa or yaoi stories out there. I will be spoiling some stuff. Let me just start off by saying that it's not a romantic story. ... May 24, 2023
This is one of my favorite things to re-read. It is not a fetishy BL that most people think it is. It is a psychological horror manhwa that has actual depth to the plot and I think its very well written and the author is very talented at showing mental illness and PTSD. The story is unpredictable and had me hooked when I first started reading; I finished it in one day. I recommend this to people who enjoy reading dark stories with no happy ending
You can see the art style slowly get better and better throughout the manhwa, I love it at its ... May 30, 2020
This story was a fairly enjoyable read, and if you have the time, I highly recommend it! However, keep in mind that although some sites may have it under "Yaoi" or "BL" tags, it should NOT in ANY WAY be considered as such. Yes, there are sexually explicit scenes and the two main characters share sentimental moments, however one is a killer, kidnapper and rapist and the other is a victim. Don't let the fujoshis and toxic fandom fool you, this is a psychological thriller. Secondly, there are a few things that left me confused, specifically why he started killing after his mother's death. However,
...
Feb 7, 2020 --The review contains spoilers-- First things first, this manhwa was mindblowing. I don't normally read psychological horrors but this made me more intrigued in the genre. It worked in so many different ways, by that i mean there are little details that just caused you to actually use your brain and think of the story more deeply. More to what meets the eye. Theory inducing. That's the main reason why i loved this, the writing and storyline, instant 10/10. Now, for the characters... erm. There are mixed opinions on them. Well for me, boi, some points i hated Sangwoo's guts, as most people do, but it's ... Aug 5, 2020
i really enjoyed reading this story. its very different from anything i've ever read which made it interesting to read. the characters are well designed and unique in my opinion but it really bothers me how people romanticize their relationship in any way shape or form. this story is a NOT a romance so i dont understand why people have the need to ship them together. both the main characters are mentally ill. sangwoo does not love bum. bum thinks he loves sangwoo but in reality he just craves love and affection and when he got that from sangwoo he caught feelings and thought that
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Dec 21, 2019
Killing Stalking... I was wondering why MAL hadn't added you to the database being this one of the most popular Manhwas at the time of its publication but well things that only MAL will know, first English is not my strong point, there will be mistakes if you don't come to me privately saying “You have mistakes here, here, there” insert image of genius meme .jpg, I'm human, I learn English alone by my own means obviously I'm going to make mistakes so don't come to fill your stupid messages with that, second there will be Spoilers, third in the conclusion there will be 2
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Jun 23, 2020
oof i cant give like a pro review but im just gonna say what i thought of it. You know when you watch something about crime and it gets exciting everytime they are on to something or shit happens? Well from reading all of killing stalking id say i got the same feeling but just consistently throughout the whole thing. Like it is so fucked up and just totally insane because of the killing and abuse etc but i CANNOT help feeling attached to the characters, both yoon and sangwoo made me feel so much pity at the fact that they are both flat out
...
May 20, 2020
This manhwa has been critiqued a lot and I do understand why. However, I found it interesting and wanted to share some thoughts.
Art shouldn't be defined by its fanbase. I think Killing Stalking has many similarities with "Lolita" by Vladimir Nabokov. If you find Lolita disturbing, you have a right to. If you see it as romantic story about forbidden love, then you do. But the story isn't famous for being controversial only. I watched the movie when I was underage and didn't understand why it even was made. I didn't like and felt like it wasn't something I should be watching. About five years ... Sep 19, 2020
*** SPOILERS ***
*****DISCLAIMER: This manga contains graphic scenes of violent sex, rape, murder, self-harming and suicide. If you are sensitive to these topics, please don't read this manga*** This manga is a suspenseful thriller through and through. Every time I turned a page, I was gripping the edge of my seat. I wanted to know what happened next. Also, the characters are fascinating. There is no black and white. Sangwoo and Bum live in the grey area. For a minute, I think I have figured out Sangwoo. But then the next minute, I am left confused about his intentions and who he is. Neither character is ... Feb 21, 2024
First of all this isnt Boys love/yaoi, it's horror. This isn't recommended for people who are under 18. If your looking for somthing deranged and actually uncomfortable read it. It contains r@pe, abuse, gore, and all that.The art style is so good and it makes the story so much instresting. Its like a movie when a character does something dumb and youre screaming at them. Almost every character has issues. The characters react realistcly you can see it in their expressions alot. The story is so good too. Do not get emotionally attached trust me. Also don't read the comments.
Apr 19, 2020 --The review contains spoilers-- This was a roller coaster of thoughts for me.. Because I'm a big story lover and passionate reader, this raw story wasn't such a blow up for me. But I'm still convinced this story is probably too much for someone (torture gory scene, painful sex scene to look at, rape, murder and much more!). I'm gonna be clear, I read this because of YAOI element. I thought that I would got a story about man with crush on murderer. The murderer would realize that he likes the guy too and than they would kill people together, you know, classic harsh love story. But ... Jun 18, 2020
Im going to make this short.
I went into this series thinking I was just going to read another yaoi. But it was definitely wrongly tagged. It is a psychological thriller, and a really good one. The opinion of many people may have been influenced by the fandom this series has, which I'm definitely not proud of in some aspects. You see, what is bad is always what gets the most attention, thats how its like with every single fandom. Putting that aside, Im going to write some SPOILERS so be careful!! What one has to understand is that this is a character driven story, what is the ... Aug 1, 2020
Spoilers within--
Although I gave it a 7, the art, characters, and enjoyment are around an 8. Starting off with some cons, I felt that it being called BL was quite misleading as it's much more of a thriller as other reviewers have said. Additionally, the chapters centering on that guy from the police force always seemed to be placed poorly. Like I'd reach the end of a good chapter focusing on Yoon and Sangwoo and then it would go over to that other guy which was annoying especially since he wasn't very interesting. It has an open ending which I'm normally not a huge fan of. ... Jul 14, 2020
I think there is one main problem with Killing Stalking. It was marketed as, the crazy fans treated it as and it is even marked as a yaoi. It is a psychological horror with gay people. That does not mean it has to be a yaoi/bl. It does not have to be labled seperatly. If you treat it as a psychological horror I think it will fix some of the problems people have. I cannot speak on if you don't like the plot, or disturbing images which is perfectly alright.
( sorry it's less of a review and more of a public service announcement) Sep 23, 2020
A friend of mine posted a meme of a main character on instagram so I asked what this manga was. While reading it I was slightly uncomfortable because there are some gay things but I just kept reading because it was interesting and the buildup of "tension" was pretty cool. Besides, ik the point isn't the "sexy" situations but there are some t1tties there so it makes me feel a little better about it. Yes the drama was good. I would end there but MAL wants the review to be longer so I added this sentence hoping it would let me submit the review now.
...
Oct 22, 2020
this is NOT a yaoi but i did enjoy it for what it is. i liked the creepiness of it and i dont think we should rate stuff based on their fanbase... i liked the characters and the art a lot. i could not stop reading,i was wandering what whould happen next. i think i might be a bit biased because it was one of my first mangas/manhwas. overall it was a great read and i would recommend it, only if u want to read it because of the action and not the shipping. i do not recommend this if u are a victim of
...
Nov 14, 2020
Words cant explain how much i love this. Its so beautiful and painful in all the best ways.
Lets just get one thing straight. Its NOT romance,NOT BL,not at all to be fantasised about. The author did NOT intend for this to be romantic or anything of the sort. Sangwoo and Yoonbum are not a couple and they never will be. They should not be shipped with each other! Both have their toxic, terrible traits. That being said,the read will break you mentally if you arent careful. Please take your time reading it and if you have a weak mentality please reconsider reading it. Jan 10, 2021
now look, before someone jumps the gun and decides to call me crazy for genuinely liking this comic, let me explain a few things to you. no, i am not one of the weirdos that likes to romanticize sangwoo- or any of the things that he did throughout the series. in fact, i hated the guy. his character was done so well by the author that i hated him so much- but somehow still had an inkling of compassion for the dude.
this comic deals with very serious and triggering topics, like abuse, kidnapping, rape, torture, assault, self-harm, suicide... the list goes on and on. i ... Dec 29, 2020
(May contain bad english very sorry)
Okay, I think at this point we should all know this is not a yaoi or a romance. It is a psychological horror and to see people calling this a yaoi? I do think before you read it you should know if you really don't despite the fact that everyone else who has read this series has said this but this manhwa does not hold back on anything and I mean ANYTHING. Not to mention it including Nudity,Borderline Personality Disorder,murder,tramua and more. Though despite all that the series is surprisingly very good. The art was amazing! the story and character ... |


