Who Is the Liar? (also known as The Circumstances of an Idiot or Trashy Situation) is a South Korean manhwa that blends drama, romance, and psychological elements with mature themes. Written by Jin Soye and illustrated by Myung, this ongoing webtoon, released in 2024, has garnered attention for its compelling narrative and complex characters. It appeals to readers of the josei genre, focusing on emotional depth and intricate relationships. This article explores the plot, characters, themes, and reception of the manhwa, providing a comprehensive overview for fans and new readers alike.
Plot Summary
The story follows Jeong Eun-Gyo, a woman who has found peace running a café with her friend Kim Hae-Da after a tumultuous breakup with her toxic ex-boyfriend. Her tranquil life is disrupted when Lee Jae-Heon, a young and charismatic man, enters the scene, boldly confessing, “Sunbae, I like you. I fell in love with you at first sight.” Despite his charm, Jae-Heon harbors a mysterious, possibly manipulative side that unsettles Eun-Gyo. As she grows attracted to him, her stable life begins to unravel, with new relationships and past wounds stirring greater turmoil. The narrative teases questions of trust, deception, and hidden motives, keeping readers guessing about who the true “liar” is.
The manhwa unfolds through a mix of romance and psychological tension, exploring how Eun-Gyo navigates her feelings and the chaos Jae-Heon brings. With themes of betrayal and self-discovery, the story delves into the complexities of human relationships, making it a gripping read for those who enjoy emotionally charged dramas.
Main Characters
- Jeong Eun-Gyo: The protagonist, a café owner seeking stability after a painful breakup. Eun-Gyo is relatable, cautious, yet vulnerable to Jae-Heon’s advances. Her journey involves confronting her past and questioning her trust in others.
- Lee Jae-Heon: A young, handsome, and enigmatic man who claims to love Eun-Gyo at first sight. His bold approach and hidden complexities suggest he may not be entirely truthful, making him a central figure in the story’s mystery.
- Kim Hae-Da: Eun-Gyo’s close friend and business partner, who provides emotional support and helps ground the story in moments of calm before the storm.
Themes and Style
Who Is the Liar? tackles themes of trust, deception, and the emotional aftermath of toxic relationships. The manhwa examines how past traumas shape present decisions, particularly through Eun-Gyo’s hesitation to embrace new love. The psychological tension surrounding Jae-Heon’s intentions adds a layer of suspense, inviting readers to question who is manipulating whom. The story also incorporates mature themes, including smut and age-gap romance, which intensify the emotional stakes.
Visually, Myung’s art is a standout, with detailed character designs and expressive panels that enhance the story’s emotional and dramatic moments. The full-color webtoon format, read top-to-bottom, aligns with modern manhwa trends, making it accessible and visually engaging. The pacing balances quiet, introspective scenes with bursts of conflict, keeping readers hooked.
Reception and Popularity
Since its release in 2024, Who Is the Liar? has gained a strong following, with 133.9K monthly views reported on some platforms. Its mature themes and psychological depth have drawn comparisons to other manhwa like Tears on a Withered Flower, particularly for its intense romance and complex male leads. Fans on platforms like Reddit praise its art and storytelling, with some noting its “yandere” vibes due to Jae-Heon’s potentially obsessive behavior. The manhwa’s 18+ rating and high-quality art have contributed to its buzz, with readers eagerly awaiting new chapters.
The series is available on platforms like Ridibooks (R19 and R15 versions) and has been translated into English, broadening its reach. With an average rating of 4.6/5 from 13 votes on some sites, it resonates with readers who enjoy josei, romance, and psychological drama.
Author and Context
Jin Soye, the author, is known for other works like Dilettante and Please Be Patient, Grand Duke, showcasing her knack for crafting emotionally layered stories. Myung’s illustrations complement Soye’s writing, bringing the characters’ emotions to life. The manhwa’s 2024 release places it within a wave of josei webtoons that explore mature, relatable themes, appealing to readers seeking more than traditional romance tropes.
Where to Read
Readers can access Who Is the Liar? on platforms like:
- Ridibooks (R19 and R15 versions): Offers the original Korean webtoon.
- ManhwaDen and Bato.To: English translations, with chapters released periodically.
- Manhwa Crush: Another source for English readers, with ongoing updates.
As of April 2025, the series remains ongoing, with new chapters fueling anticipation for how Eun-Gyo and Jae-Heon’s relationship will unfold.
Conclusion
Who Is the Liar? is a captivating manhwa that combines romance, drama, and psychological intrigue. Its focus on trust and deception, paired with stunning artwork and complex characters, makes it a must-read for fans of josei and mature webtoons. As Jeong Eun-Gyo grapples with her past and the enigmatic Lee Jae-Heon, the story promises twists and emotional depth that keep readers invested. Whether you’re drawn to intense romances or stories that probe the human psyche, this manhwa delivers a compelling experience.
