Meaning of "Setter"
This term refers to a type of male supporting character who, despite playing a significant role and remaining close to the protagonist, is either pushed to the sidelines in the narrative or never ends up forming a romantic connection with the protagonist, leaving the audience hoping for such a connection.
"It was even more disappointing that the drama focused on the protagonist’s rival as a secondary love interest, building up emotional tension, only to never bring them together in the end."
Related slang words
Sly GuyRefers to a person or personality type who takes the lead in setting the tone by gauging others' reactions with a relaxed and easygoing demeanorMainThe central character who is ultimately chosen from among several candidates and forms a relationship with themYounger male partnerAlthough young, this is a "top" character (or persona) who pushes forward without hesitation, skillfully handling older partners or taking the lead.KkugumA cute play on the term "19+" (restricted to adults), used to describe content with sexual themesLim Sin-suRefers to a male character who, despite having a male body, is capable of becoming pregnant within the story's settingYeon Sang-sooThis is a figurative expression used to describe a situation where, despite one’s age, one is unable to properly respond to another person’s aggressive displays of affection and ends up getting swept up in them.KeyholderThis refers to a plot device commonly found in web novels and webtoons where a character who has been cared for since childhood goes on to gain control or establish a romantic relationship once they grow up, following the narrative trope of “gaining dominance over a partner through nurturing (or caring for them).”Rolling numberA person or being who is subjected to harsh physical or mental treatment or abuse in the face of harsh environments or pressure and control from those around them