Things You May Not Understand or Be Getting Wrong About Killing Stalking:Chapters 3-4
I’ve watched a lot of videos and read a lot of blogs/threads where people are consistently misunderstanding or getting some things wrong about Killing Stalking and I hope to clear up some misconceptions. I may also throw in some of my observations. There will be some spoilers, so bail this post if you have not read Chapters 3-4 yet.
Chapter 3:
1. When Sangwoo tells Yoonbum to smile, he is using a tactic that many abusers use to exert dominance over their victim. Abusers like to have control, sometimes down to the smallest detail, like controlling the victim’s mood. I don’t think this is a tried and true method for Sangwoo, mostly because he probably has never kept his victims around long enough, but he enjoys the response Yoonbum gives him, because it makes him feel superior. The fact that Yoonbum does smile when ordered, also lends support to the theory that he’s suffered abuse before. He knows the things to do to placate an abuser. This is most likely why he’s still alive at this point.
2. Again, I’m not certain that Sangwoo has experience in continued, long-term manipulation of a victim. (I suspect he has some) When he orders Yoonbum to smile, then praises him for it, it smacks of a tactic abusers will use to make their victims compliant. It’s negative/positive reinforcement tactic. If done correctly, it will make the victim so grateful for the praise/affection/kindness, that they will momentarily forget the abuse and bask in the reward.
Chapter 4:
1. The small table, that Yoonbum sits at on the floor in the kitchen, is not a kiddie table or a tv tray. This is a small dining table/tea table. A lot of Korean homes have them, especially when space is limited. Students will also use them to sit on the floor and study. Often the legs will fold, so it can be put away.
By forcing Yoonbum to sit at the small table, while he sits at the big table, Sangwoo is playing out the scenario of his childhood. The submissive, weak mother vs the dominate, abusive father. It’s another way to display his strength and control. He’s no longer the one at the small table, therefore he is powerful.
2. The chair Yoonbum sits in is a rolling desk chair, not a wheelchair. Come on people! You’re not even trying here! Just look at it!!! Look at it!!!!!
3. Many are debating if Sangwoo ate the stew or not. He did not eat the stew. He puts the spoon up to his mouth, but then puts it down. He knew it was poisoned. I believe he knew the rat poison was in the pantry and was testing Yoonbum. He knew by Yoonbum’s reactions, that he had poisoned it and expects him to refuse to eat it, therefore confessing his deed. This would give him a valid reason to punish Yoonbum. (Like he needs a reason) He is toying with Yoonbum. It’s a dangerous cat and mouse game. It’s a sick little way to trick Yoonbum into believing he has regained some sense of control. Giving hope, then yanking it away. This is the stuff psychopaths live for.