Anime isn’t just for entertainment; it’s also a powerful medium that explores deep social issues. One common theme is bullying, especially in high school settings.
These anime don’t shy away from showing how cruel behavior can damage lives, but they also provide hope and inspiration for viewers to stand up against such injustice.
In many of these shows, bullying is more than just a side plot it’s a central issue that shapes the characters’ journeys.
By focusing on the emotional toll it takes, these anime help raise awareness about the serious impact bullying can have on a person’s mental health and future. T
They often show characters struggling to overcome their pain while also highlighting the importance of friendship and resilience.
Through these stories, anime not only reflects real-world struggles but also encourages viewers to be more empathetic and courageous.
Whether it’s through a protagonist fighting back against their tormentors or a group of friends rallying around someone in need, these shows offer powerful messages about standing up for yourself and others.
1) A Silent Voice
A Silent Voice shows how deeply bullying can hurt both the victim and the bully. The story follows Shouya, a boy who bullies a deaf girl named Shouko in his class.
His actions eventually come back to haunt him when he becomes the target of bullying himself, leading him to experience the same pain he once caused.
The anime highlights how bullying isn’t always about physical harm; it’s often a mental wound that can have lasting effects.
A Silent Voice (Kyoto Animation)
A Silent Voice explores the emotional struggles of both Shouya and Shouko, showing how self-hate and regret can silently destroy a person.
It’s a powerful reminder of how the consequences of bullying can affect both sides, leading to guilt, isolation, and a long road to healing.
Despite the darkness in the story, A Silent Voice also offers hope. The anime suggests that redemption is possible, but only for those who are willing to face their mistakes and truly understand the harm they’ve done.
By showing the intertwined fates of the victim and the bully, the story emphasizes the importance of empathy and taking responsibility for one’s actions.
2) Fruits Basket
Fruits Basket is known as a classic shojo anime, but it also deeply explores the theme of bullying. The anime portrays bullying not just from peers but also from family and society.
Tohru, the main character, often becomes a target because of her cheerful and kind nature, but she is far from the only one affected.
The Sohma family, central to the story, faces intense bullying and oppression. Akito, the head of the family, keeps the members in constant fear and isolation.
Fruits Basket (TMS Entertainment)
In addition to this, some Sohma family members are bullied by outsiders for their unique traits. For example, Saki is picked on for her psychic abilities, and Kisa is taunted for her different hair color.
Yuki and Kyo endure severe psychological abuse from Akito, who inherits these cruel behaviors from her own mother.
This ongoing torment highlights the dark side of the Sohma family’s curse and the broader theme of how bullying can deeply impact individuals.
Through these experiences, Fruits Basket sheds light on the emotional pain caused by bullying and the struggle to overcome it.
3) Oshi no Ko
Oshi no Ko is an anime that takes a dark turn quickly. What begins as a hopeful story about a young idol soon transforms into a tragic murder plot, with Aqua seeking revenge.
Beyond the personal story of Aqua, the anime also explores the darker side of the entertainment industry.
It highlights the intense pressure actors face to be perfect and the heavy burden of public expectations, which can lead to devastating consequences, such as cyberbullying.
One of the most powerful examples in the anime is Akane, a typical teenager who becomes famous after joining a reality show.
Oshi no Ko (Doga Kobo)
However, her popularity brings a wave of online harassment and trolling, pushing her to the breaking point. The bullying becomes so severe that Akane feels her only escape is to end her life.
This tragic storyline offers a raw and emotional portrayal of the dangers of cyberbullying and its impact on mental health.
The anime also touches on the troubling world of child actors and the looming presence of social media.
As young stars handle their careers, they face the constant pressure of public scrutiny, which can lead to a downward spiral.
Oshi no Ko sheds light on these harsh realities, showing that the glamorous facade of fame often hides a much darker and more dangerous side.
4) March Comes in Like A Lion
March Comes in Like a Lion provides a realistic and powerful look at bullying. Unlike stories focused on appearance or social status, this anime highlights a more common but often overlooked form of bullying.
The protagonist, Rei Kiriyama, faces constant bullying because he is an introvert and highly intelligent.
He suffers from harsh treatment and jealousy from his adoptive sister, who resents the attention he receives from their father.
Rei’s life is challenging and filled with loneliness until he meets two kind-hearted sisters who support him and help him find the strength to stand up for himself.
March Comes in Like A Lion (Shaft)
Despite the anime’s heavy and sometimes somber tone, it goes beyond just depicting suffering. It offers a message of hope and resilience, showing that even in the darkest times, there can be light and support.
The series not only portrays the pain of bullying but also provides a journey towards healing and bravery.
It encourages viewers to face their own struggles and shows that standing up for oneself is possible with support and courage.
March Comes in Like a Lion is both a moving and inspiring story about overcoming adversity and finding strength through difficult times.
5) Hell Girl
Hell Girl explores the theme of bullying with a unique twist. Instead of focusing on the emotional and physical harm experienced by victims, the anime explores the consequences of holding grudges and seeking revenge.
It reveals a dark reality where both the bully and the victim who seeks vengeance end up facing severe repercussions.
The story revolves around a mysterious website where people can name their tormentors, and those bullies will be condemned to hell.
Hell Girl (Studio DEEN)
In return for this revenge, the person seeking justice agrees to be sent to hell themselves after they die. This setup creates a morally complex situation, highlighting that vengeful actions come with a heavy price.
Hell Girl challenges viewers by showing that every action has consequences and that seeking revenge can lead to one’s own downfall.
The anime underscores the idea that morality has strict boundaries and that even attempts to right wrongs through harmful means can result in damning consequences.
6) I Got a Cheat Skill in Another World and Became Unrivaled in The Real World, Too
I Got a Cheat Skill is an isekai story that focuses on the trauma of bullying. The main character, Yuuya, is an average guy who is often picked on because of his looks and poor background.
His constant mistreatment by others leaves him deeply hurt, and at times, it seems like he may be pushed to a breaking point.
Everything changes for Yuuya when he finds a gateway to another world that gives him incredible powers and a more attractive appearance.
I Got a Cheat Skill in Another World and Became Unrivaled in The Real World, Too (Studio Mir)
As the story shifts to his new life, where he is physically transformed, Yuuya begins to experience the drastic change in how others treat him.
Now that he’s acceptable by society’s standards, people who once ignored or bullied him suddenly start to show him respect.
Despite his new life, Yuuya can’t help but reflect on how shallow society is, treating people differently based solely on their looks.
The anime highlights the unfairness of judging others by their appearance and the painful impact it can have on those who are seen as different.
7) Peach Girl
Peach Girl is notable for its early exploration of body shaming and subtle racism. The anime shows how bullying can come from jealousy and unfair judgments rather than just direct harassment.
The main character, Momo Adachi, faces criticism and negative behavior from others because of her appearance.
Momo’s tanned skin and bleached hair, a result of her frequent swimming, lead to her being unfairly labeled as too easy compared to her lighter-skinned peers who are seen as more proper.
Peach Girl (Studio Mir)
This unfair comparison and the harsh judgments she faces contribute to her feeling isolated and attacked by those around her.
In addition to these issues, Momo also deals with backstabbing and manipulation from a supposed friend. Peach Girl challenges unrealistic beauty standards and highlights the judgment people face based on their looks.
It sheds light on how such standards can lead to harmful and unfair treatment of individuals who don’t fit the conventional mold.
8) Lookism
Lookism explores a common issue many people face: being judged based on appearance. The anime, adapted from a popular manhwa, follows Park Hyung-Seok, a boy who is often bullied because of his weight.
Society’s tendency to define people by their looks is a major theme in the story, showing how deeply appearance can influence others’ perceptions and behavior.
Things change for Park Hyung-Seok when he gains the ability to switch between his usual body and a more conventionally attractive one during the day.
Lookism (Studio Mir)
This transformation opens his eyes to the complete contrast in how people treat him when he’s beautiful.
Suddenly, the same people who bullied him start to treat him with kindness and respect, highlighting the shallowness of societal standards, especially in high school environments.
Through Park’s experience, Lookism shines a light on the harsh realities of how appearances affect social interactions, particularly among teenagers.
The anime critiques the toxic beauty standards that lead to exclusion and bullying, revealing how damaging it can be when people are valued solely for their looks instead of who they truly are.
9) Viral Hit
Viral Hit explores the dark side of bullying, showing how it can become violent and disturbing. The story focuses on Ho-bin, who suffers brutal attacks from his peers for no clear reason.
With his mother gravely ill and financial problems weighing him down, Ho-bin’s life becomes even harder as he endures relentless bullying from people who present a fake, perfect image on social media.
As Ho-bin hits rock bottom, he decides to fight back against his bullies. He starts to use the situation to his advantage, realizing that standing up for himself can also bring some benefits.
Viral Hit (Okuruto Noboru)
The anime explores morally complex territory, showing how Ho-bin’s actions, while not perfect, reveal the hypocrisy of those who use their social status to mistreat others.
Viral Hit highlights the harsh reality of how some people exploit and bully others while maintaining a facade of superiority.
It presents a grim picture of the double standards in society and the impact of violence and hypocrisy.
The anime makes viewers question the ethics of using personal struggles for gain and exposes the cruelty behind seemingly perfect public personas.
10) Dear Brother
Dear Brother follows the emotional journey of 16-year-old Nanako Misonoo, who is accepted into a prestigious all-girls school.
To fit in with the elite students, Nanako joins a sorority that only admits the most beautiful girls. This decision exposes her to the harsh reality of the school’s rigid social hierarchy and deepens her feelings of insecurity.
While Nanako doesn’t face direct bullying, she experiences a lot of pressure to meet high social standards and be accepted.
The constant need to fit in and maintain a certain image weighs heavily on her, leading to a growing sense of inadequacy and self-doubt.
Dear Brother (Tezuka Productions)
The anime is emotionally powerful and explores themes of self-acceptance, friendship, and the effects of social pressure.
Dear Brother shows the painful consequences of being in the spotlight and how not everyone views such attention positively.
It serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and emotional toll that come with trying to conform to high social expectations.
Memes of the Day
Sauce Pixiv : 121670756
Sauce : Pixiv 121624532
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Sauce : Pixiv 121456572
Masochist
Illya to Iri no Maryoku Kyoukyuu
Natsu no Senpai no Oshiri*
Blend S Bonyuubu
Gal na Imouto to Onsen Ryokan ni Tomattara Shojo Soushitsu Saseru Koto ni Natta Hanashi
Uraaka ga Class no Joshi ni Barete Gakkou de Shuuchi Play Saserareru JK
Murasaki no Yume | Purple Dream
Kagirinaku Toumei ni Chikai B.B – Almost Transparent B,B =TLL + mrwayne=
GTS – Great Teacher Sayoko
Tonari no Onee-san | My introduction to adulthood
Ippatsu Niizuma Nanaka no Roshutsu Jitaku
Fugou Ichizoku no Muko
Star Rail:Maid
Onozomi no Tamago Umimasu – Bagu Chekku de
Body Bind
One Time Gal Zenpen
Yarechau Onsen Ryokan
Kuppuku ~Fuuki Iinchou wa Odosarete Netorarete…~
Good for Eating! Immoral Fruit | Tabegoro! Haitoku no Kajitsu
The 1980s were a golden era for manga, especially in the romance genre, creating stories that have left a lasting impact on readers and the manga industry.
Even with the continuous influx of new manga, certain series from this period stand out, evoking feelings of nostalgia for their heartfelt stories.
These classic tales of love, laughter, and even sorrow have a timeless quality that keeps them relevant, inspiring both readers and creators today.
One of the most beloved manga from this era is Maison Ikkoku, a story that captures the complexities of romance and everyday life.
Its influence is profound, with many modern works, such as Love Hina, drawing inspiration from its themes and character dynamics.
The story’s relatable portrayal of love and relationships has made it a timeless piece, cherished by fans across generations.
Maison Ikkoku isn’t the only classic from the 80s that continues to inspire. The decade was rich with romance manga that set the foundation for many of the tropes and storytelling techniques used in contemporary works.
These manga have not only stood the test of time but continue to serve as a source of inspiration for new authors, showing that the emotional depth and plot strength of the 80s still resonate with audiences today.
1) Maison Ikkoku
Maison Ikkoku is a classic romance manga that beautifully portrays the complexities of love. The story follows Yusaku Godai, who falls in love with Kyoko Otonashi, a widow still mourning her late husband.
Despite his feelings, Godai understands Kyoko’s pain and chooses to start as her friend, offering her support and understanding as she struggles to move on.
As their relationship develops, Kyoko attracts the attention of a wealthy man named Mitaka, who becomes a rival for her affection.
Maison Ikkoku (Big Comic Spirits)
This new love interest creates tension and makes Godai fear losing Kyoko. However, his deep love for her drives him to persist, even when misunderstandings and obstacles arise that strain their relationship.
Through many ups and downs, Godai and Kyoko’s bond is tested, but they manage to overcome every challenge together.
In the end, their love prevails, and they finally achieve their happy ending, showing that true love can endure even the most difficult circumstances.
2) Video Girl Ai
Youta is heartbroken after discovering that the girl he has a crush on is in love with his best friend. The pain of this revelation is overwhelming, leaving Youta searching for a way to escape his sadness.
On his way home, he stumbles upon a mysterious video game store and, hoping for a distraction, decides to buy a game.
What Youta doesn’t realize is that the games from this shop are unique they have the power to bring the girls within them to life.
Video Girl Ai (Shounen Jump (Weekly))
When Youta starts playing, he meets Ai Amano, a video girl who emerges from the game to help cheer him up. Ai’s appearance in Youta’s life becomes a turning point, helping him move past his heartbreak.
As Youta spends more time with Ai, he begins to heal from his emotional wounds and finds himself falling in love with her.
Ai helps him rediscover what it feels like to love and be loved, allowing Youta to experience a new chapter in his life, far from the heartbreak he initially faced.
3) Touch
Touch is an award-winning manga that follows the emotional journey of twin brothers Tatsuya and Kazuya, who both develop feelings for their childhood friend, Minami.
Tatsuya, the older brother, has always stepped back, allowing Kazuya to shine in everything, including baseball, where Kazuya excels.
Despite Tatsuya’s feelings for Minami, his selflessness keeps him in the background, letting Kazuya and Minami grow closer.
Touch (Shounen Sunday)
Kazuya’s success in baseball and his shared love of the sport with Minami brings them together as a couple, with Minami dreaming of becoming a champion alongside him.
However, tragedy strikes when Kazuya dies in a sudden accident, leaving both Minami and Tatsuya devastated by the loss.
In their grief, Tatsuya and Minami find comfort in each other, slowly forming a bond that grows deeper over time.
The story explores how they handle their pain, moving forward while honoring Kazuya’s memory, and ultimately finding solace and love in one another.
4) Magic Kaito
Eight years after his father’s death, Kaito discovers a shocking truth: his dad was the famous phantom thief known as Kaito Kid, and his death was actually a murder.
Determined to seek justice, Kaito takes up his father’s mantle as Kaito Kid while trying to track down those responsible for his father’s death.
When he’s not planning his next move as Kaito Kid, Kaito is just an ordinary teenager, focused on winning the heart of his crush, Aoko.
Magic Kaito (Shounen Sunday)
However, life gets complicated as Aoko’s father, a police officer, is determined to capture Kaito Kid and stop his activities.
Unbeknownst to Aoko, the Kaito Kid she despises is actually Kaito, the boy she cares about.
As Kaito balances his double life, a romance slowly blossoms between him and Aoko. Despite the challenges of keeping his secret and the danger of getting caught by her father, Kaito finds himself drawn to Aoko, who also has feelings for him.
This mix of adventure, mystery, and budding romance makes their relationship all the more complex and exciting.
5) Tokimeki Tonight
Tokimeki Tonight is a long, epic manga that tells the story of the Etou family across three generations.
The first part focuses on Ranze, a high school girl with a unique background: her father is a vampire, her mother is a werewolf, and she has magical powers herself.
The family, exiled from the Magic World, now lives among humans and guards the gate between the two worlds.
Ranze’s life takes a turn when she falls in love with a human boy named Makabe-kun, something her parents strictly disapprove of.
Tokimeki Tonight (Ribon Magazine)
This romance is a central plot point and adds tension to the story, as Ranze struggles with her feelings and her family’s expectations. The series also explores the lives of Ranze’s brother and daughter in later story arcs.
The anime Tokimeki Tonight is a delightful watch for fans of supernatural and family-themed stories.
It portrays the challenges of a vampire werewolf family living among humans and explores Ranze’s journey in balancing her magical heritage with her love for a human.
6) Kimagure Orange Road
Kimagure Orange Twist is a well-known romance manga with a touch of the supernatural. The story centers around Kyosuke, a young man who has various supernatural abilities.
These powers have forced him and his family to move frequently, finally settling in a new town after their seventh relocation.
At his new school, Kyosuke meets Madoka, a fellow student, and feels an instant attraction to her. However, Madoka’s strong reputation makes Kyosuke nervous about approaching her, despite his deep feelings for her.
What Kyosuke doesn’t know is that Madoka also likes him but keeps her feelings hidden because he is now dating her best friend.
Kimagure Orange Road (Shounen Jump (Weekly)
Hikaru. Madoka’s loyalty to Hikaru prevents her from expressing her true feelings, even though she wishes she could be with Kyosuke.
This situation creates a complicated love triangle, with Kyosuke caught between the two girls, unsure of how to handle his feelings for both of them.
As the story progresses, Kyosuke’s struggle with his emotions becomes more intense. He has to figure out his feelings for Madoka and Hikaru.
All while dealing with his supernatural powers, which add even more challenges to his life. The manga explores themes of love, friendship, and the confusion of young romance, as Kyosuke tries to find balance in his relationships and his unique abilities.
7) Boyfriend
Boyfriend is an award-winning manga, written and illustrated by Fuyumi Souryo, tells a touching love story between two characters, Masaki and Kanako.
Masaki is a troubled teenager who has developed a reputation as a delinquent, with even his own father losing hope in him.
His rebellious behavior has caused him to stray from what could have been a promising basketball career, leading to a series of poor decisions that result in him being expelled from his previous school.
Masaki’s life takes a turn when he transfers to a new school, where he meets Kanako. Kanako, despite being a kind and determined young girl, faces her own challenges due to a serious heart condition.
Boyfriend (Sho-Comi)
This condition has forced her to miss two years of school, setting her behind her peers. However, her health issues do not stop her from connecting with Masaki and forming a meaningful relationship with him.
Their story is one of healing and growth, as Masaki finds hope and direction through his bond with Kanako.
She, in turn, discovers companionship and support in Masaki, despite the difficulties she faces with her condition.
They handles their struggles, showing how love and understanding can help two people overcome their individual challenges and find solace in each other.
8) Rough
Rough is an amazing manga that follows the journey of Keisuke and Ami, who start off as rivals but gradually grow closer, eventually falling in love.
Their families have been at odds for generations, but Keisuke and Ami are unaware of this long-standing feud. Despite their families’ differences, their shared passion for swimming brings them together.
As they get closer, Keisuke and Ami begin to face various challenges, not only in their sport but also in their personal lives.
Rough (Shounen Sunday)
The rivalry between their families creates tension, testing their budding relationship. Their connection, however, deepens as they handle these obstacles, balancing their love for each other with the difficulties they encounter in their respective sports and family dynamics.
The manga draws readers into a world where sports, romance, and family drama intertwine.
The story explores how Keisuke and Ami’s relationship evolves from rivalry to love, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy stories about overcoming differences and finding common ground.
9) Lady!!
The story begins with five-year-old Lynn traveling with her Japanese mother to England to reunite with her father.
Tragically, they are involved in a car accident, resulting in her mother’s death. After recovering from her injuries, Lynn moves to her father’s grand manor, as he is an English nobleman.
Lynn, now motherless, struggles to adapt to her new life in high society while seeking acceptance from her older step-sister, Sara. Sara, who has also lost her mother, initially appears cold and distant.
She is worried that Lynn’s cheerful and outgoing nature might draw their father’s affection away from her and attract the attention of a handsome young man who lives nearby.
Lady!! (Hitomi)
As Lynn handles her new life and tries to fit in with her step-sister and the high society around her, she faces many challenges but remains hopeful.
Her journey is one of personal growth and adjusting to a new family dynamic.
10) The Kabocha Wine
Aoba Shunsuke, a new transfer student, arrives at Sunshine School only to find it deserted. He is initially excited to be the first one there, but soon realizes it’s Foundation Day, a day off for the school.
While wandering around, Shunsuke meets Natsumi, a tall and striking girl, and despite their contrasting appearances, they quickly become friends.
The Kabocha Wine (Young Magazine (Weekly)
Shunsuke’s mother runs a women’s clothing store but is short on help. Shunsuke decides to assist at the shop, though he struggles with interacting with the female customers.
Natsumi steps in to help, which makes Shunsuke’s mother happy and showcases her supportive nature.
The Kabocha Wine is a unique romance story about a small boy and a large girl, highlighting their special bond. The manga not only tells an interesting love story but also promotes body positivity and unconditional love.
This theme of accepting and loving each other despite differences is a key message of the story.
