Bullying is a prevalent theme in anime, yet it often remains an uncomfortable subject. Despite its frequent representation, the portrayal of bullying can be problematic. Therefore, anime that successfully addresses bullying in a thoughtful and enlightening manner truly deserves recognition. These series not only engage with significant issues affecting young people but also present stories that resonate on an emotional level.
With few anime tackling the topic adequately, the ones that do stand out as invaluable contributions to the medium. Here’s a look at some of the most impactful anime about bullying.
Updated February 11, 2025, by Mark Sammut: The Winter 2025 anime season introduced a new series focusing on bullying, in addition to including a notable isekai title. Let’s explore these series and others that sensitively handle the subject.
Honey Lemon Soda (Winter 2025)
While Honey Lemon Soda may not be the standout hit of Winter 2025, it does offer a commendable narrative arc about bullying in its initial episodes. The protagonist, Uka, faces the ghosts of her troubling junior high experience as she attempts to navigate high school. Unfortunately, her former bullies still loom in her life, complicating her fresh start.
The bullies serve predominantly as a narrative device to consolidate Uka’s relationship with Kai, lacking depth in characterization. However, the depiction of their dismissive behavior reflects a sense of realism.
18. I’m in Love with the Villainess
In the world of villainess isekai, most stories allow the protagonist to escape their character’s bullying tendencies. However, I’m in Love with the Villainess takes a unique approach, depicting Rei’s transformation into Rae, the game’s protagonist. Rae develops an infatuation for Claire, the domineering antagonist who relishes bullying.
Although Claire’s attempts to assert dominance fail against Rae’s unwavering affection, the narrative mostly leans into humor rather than offering a serious examination of bullying.
17. Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki
Confronting The Bully
First aired in 2021, Bottom-Tier Character Tomozaki chronicles the journey of an introverted gamer as the confident Aoi encourages him to embrace life beyond the screen. While the first season adeptly illustrates Tomozaki’s personal growth, the second season delves into a bullying subplot that significantly impacts several characters.
This arc illustrates the harsh realities of social dynamics in school and showcases Tomozaki’s evolving perspective as he mentors a classmate, Hanabi, who finds herself ensnared by bullying, ultimately aiding her in reclaiming her voice.
16. A Little Princess Sara
Social Victim
For those willing to appreciate classic anime, A Little Princess Sara imparts timeless lessons. The series follows Sara, a formerly affluent and beloved girl whose life unravels after her family faces bankruptcy, subjecting her to bullying from peers and adults alike. This poignant narrative explores themes of isolation and despair, resonating powerfully even decades after its release.
15. Peach Girl
Toxic Power Dynamics
Peach Girl delves into the complexities of bullying rooted in insecurity. The story follows Momo Adachi, a girl whose struggle with self-image stems from societal beauty standards exacerbated by her friends’ betrayal and malicious rumors. This narrative poignantly captures the tumultuous landscape of teenage romance amid harsh judgments.
14. Oshi No Ko
Online Harassment & Mass Bullying
A notable mention, Oshi no Ko explores bullying beyond classroom settings through Akane’s arc. During a reality show production, she faces intense online scrutiny after an edited confrontation misrepresents her actions. This storyline emphasizes the realities of digital harassment that often permeate modern society.
13. My Clueless First Friend
Laughing Through The Pain
Spring 2023’s My Clueless First Friend offers a surprisingly heartwarming take on bullying. Akane, known as the “Grim Reaper, ”faces relentless teasing in Elementary School until Taiyou arrives. His cheerful nature fosters a genuine friendship, transforming Akane’s isolation into connection, showcasing the power of companionship amid adversity.
12. Dear Brother
Not One Of Us
Dear Brother portrays the challenges faced by Nanako Misonoo at Seiran Academy, an all-girls school where she experiences bullying primarily due to her socio-economic status. This high-stakes psychological drama explores the intricacies of belonging and the injustices faced by those on the outside.
11. Fighting Spirit
Inspiring Change
Hajime No Ippo illustrates the transformation of its protagonist, Makunouchi Ippo, who rises from severe bullying to become a boxing champion. By overcoming his past without seeking revenge, Ippo exemplifies emotional strength and maturity, setting an inspirational standard for both bullies and victims alike.
10. Eyeshield 21
Inspiring Change Part 2
Eyeshield 21 follows Sena Kobayakawa, a timid boy who escapes bullying through running, ultimately excelling as a running back. His journey reflects resilience and sow seeds of inspiration not just for his peers but also for his former bullies, who find their own paths to self-improvement through involvement in sports.
9. Flowers Of Evil
Blackmail
With a distinctive artistic style, Flowers Of Evil presents a darker, psychological take on bullying. Focusing on Takao Kasuga, who finds himself in a precarious situation after being caught in a compromising act, the narrative explores the ramifications of power dynamics in relationships, highlighting the torment that can emerge from psychological manipulation.
8. Naruto
Marginalized & Feared
Before his ascent to greatness, Naruto Uzumaki faced relentless ostracization stemming from his status as an orphan harboring a destructive beast. His narrative illustrates the profound impact of bullying, as he navigated a childhood filled with solitude, ultimately leveraging these experiences to foster resilience and emotional growth.
7. Viral Hit
A Bullied Teenager Fights Back (And Profits)
Viral Hit centers on Yoo Ho-bin, who faces extreme bullying before learning to fight back. Through a series of encounters that are both raw and emotionally charged, Ho-bin navigates the complexities of standing up against his aggressors while exploring the precarious nature of power in the online world.
6. Hell Girl
A Supernatural Horror Twist
Hell Girl explores the psychological aftermath of bullying and vengeance. While presenting a darker lens, it delves into the haunting consequences of such experiences, accentuating the inner turmoil faced by victims and the desire for retaliation—essentially capturing the chilling effects of unresolved grievances.
5. Lookism
The Influence Of Appearances
Based on a popular manhwa, Lookism examines how societal perceptions based on appearance can drive bullying. The protagonist, Park Hyung-Seok, experiences relentless teasing about his weight, until he gains the ability to transform into a more attractive version of himself, confronting the narrative of beauty and its inherent biases.
4. Fruits Basket
The Many Faces Of Bullying
Fruits Basket intricately weaves together various themes, including bullying. The titular game symbolizes Tohru’s alienation, while the series tackles a myriad of harmful relationships that exemplify the complex nature of bullying, transcending mere classroom dynamics into broader social issues.
3. A Silent Voice
Easy Target
A Silent Voice (Koe no Katachi) eloquently depicts the consequences of bullying through the character Shouya Ishida, who bullies Shouko Nishimiya, a deaf girl. As he grapples with guilt and self-loathing years later, the film emphasizes the enduring impact of bullying on all involved, making it a poignant exploration of remorse and friendship.
2. March Comes In Like A Lion
Standing Up For What Is Right
Initially focused on shogi, March Comes In Like A Lion evolves to address bullying in its second season. Hina’s courageous stand for a friend attracts negative attention, but her unwavering conviction illustrates the importance of standing up for justice, even amidst adversity.
1. Great Teacher Onizuka
Shocking & Heartbreaking
Great Teacher Onizuka follows a reformed Yakuza who becomes a teacher. Eikichi Onizuka focuses on addressing bullying and the emotional struggles of his students, recognizing that bullies often stem from troubled backgrounds. This insightful narrative brings forth a nuanced exploration of social dynamics and healing.
Leave a Reply ▼