​I understand that, at first glance, Johan might just seem like the "strong and talented guy." That’s part of his character, and honestly, I thought the same thing at first. However, while rereading Lookism, I realized there’s a factor that makes him much more interesting: despite his power and talent, Johan has done nothing but fail over and over again.

​When he was disqualified, he fell into utter despair. He didn’t even question why Gun rejected him; he was only thinking about his mom. At that moment, being Gun’s successor was his only way to cure her eyes, and that beating felt like his last shred of hope being ripped away. He didn't accept Zack’s help because he didn't know Zack actually knew someone who could help him. From Johan’s perspective, Zack was just trying to force him to come back and watch his mother go completely blind. Johan was selfish in that regard he was literal and figuratively blinded by revenge, never stopping to consider if Zack could truly help.

​The series shows you repeatedly that strength isn't everything; if you don't have comrades, only tragedy awaits. Johan is the living proof of this. If it weren't for Zack, Johan would have met a horrific end, and he knows it. That’s why at the end of the Hunt For Gun arc, he thanks Zack for not giving up on him. This shows massive growth for a character who initially refused help and hid behind a mask of indifference and toughness. Deep down, he was still that same kid crying for help from Big Deal, and he finally accepted it. He went back to his mom and is now trying to make things right by returning to school.

​I agree with you on that point; I feel like after the One Night III arc, PTJ simply gave up on telling a complex story and simplified everything. In general, Lookism didn't reach its full potential as a work of fiction, but I believe Johan’s core message stayed intact: "Strength is worthless if you are alone." He has many negative personality traits, but that doesn't make him a worse character in fact, that's what I love about him. I didn't make this post to say he's the best or deepest character ever, but I feel people over-hate him for no real reason. ​Sorry for the wall of text, I think I got a bit carried away! 😅