The film focuses exclusively on heteronormative social structures and masculine bonding. There is no discernible presence of LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisnormative identities.

The narrative operates within a hyper-masculine framework where agency belongs almost exclusively to male protagonists. Women occupy secondary, supportive roles that do not challenge traditional hierarchies.

The film reflects the demographic homogeneity of its South Korean setting. It focuses on a localized, culturally specific experience of working-class life during rapid modernization.

The story disrupts conventional morality by embracing situational ethics and moral relativism. It portrays anti-social behavior as a byproduct of harsh socioeconomic environments rather than simple criminality.

Physical trauma is used as a narrative device to illustrate boxing's brutality. However, the film does not center characters with disabilities as agents of their own stories.