Gian and Suneo have made Nobita cry countless times through their teasing and bullying. Yet, strangely enough, the very next day, the group often gathers to play together as though nothing ever happened.
In the world of Doraemon, Nobita frequently finds himself at the receiving end of Gian and Suneo’s troublesome behavior. Gian relies on his physical strength to intimidate others, while Suneo often joins in, sometimes even coming up with ways to embarrass or upset Nobita. Whenever things get out of hand, Nobita usually runs home to seek Doraemon’s help.
Given how frequently these incidents occur, many viewers have wondered why Nobita never simply distances himself from the two boys. However, their relationship involves more than arguments and bullying. It is also shaped by years of growing up together, shared experiences, and moments when they genuinely depend on one another.
Nobita Has Limited Choices Within His Circle of Friends
Nobita, Gian, Suneo, and Shizuka live in the same neighborhood, attend the same school, and regularly spend time together after class. They play baseball, go on outings, explore unfamiliar places, and embark on extraordinary adventures using Doraemon’s futuristic gadgets.
For Nobita, Gian and Suneo are not merely two boys who frequently cause him trouble. They are also familiar companions who have been part of his everyday life for years. Childhood friendships are not always easy to end after a few conflicts, especially when everyone continues to see one another at school and around the neighborhood.
Furthermore, Nobita is naturally timid, lacks confidence, and struggles with confrontation. When Gian intimidates him or Suneo makes fun of him, he typically runs away or turns to Doraemon rather than confronting the problem himself. This makes it difficult for Nobita to establish clear personal boundaries with his friends.
However, Nobita’s willingness to continue spending time with them should not be interpreted as acceptance of their bullying. In many stories, he becomes angry, protests their behavior, and attempts to defend himself. The fact that the children can meet again the following day also reflects how childhood friendships sometimes work: they may be furious with one another today but still want to play together tomorrow.
Gian and Suneo Do Not Always Treat Nobita Badly
If viewers only consider the occasions when Gian steals Nobita’s belongings, forces him to follow orders, or when Suneo shows off his possessions to make others jealous, it becomes difficult to understand why Nobita would want to remain friends with them. However, across numerous adventures, Gian also demonstrates courage and a strong desire to protect his companions.
For example, in the animated film Doraemon: Nobita’s Great Adventure in the Antarctic Kachi Kochi, Gian refuses to give up searching when Nobita goes missing. In dangerous situations, he is often willing to confront opponents stronger than himself to keep his friends safe.
Similarly, Suneo is more than just a wealthy child who constantly brags and follows Gian’s lead. Although he can be selfish and cowardly, he still participates in the group’s adventures, shares memorable experiences with his friends, and occasionally offers help when it truly matters.
Of course, these positive actions do not excuse their repeated mistreatment of Nobita. Gian may bravely defend his friends during a crisis while continuing to behave aggressively toward them in everyday situations. Likewise, Suneo may contribute to the group’s success while deliberately making Nobita feel inferior on other occasions.
These contradictions make their friendship more complicated than it initially appears. Although the children frequently engage in petty conflicts, they also share meaningful experiences that make it difficult for them to completely separate from one another.
Childhood Friendships Are Not Always Perfect
Another important factor is the relationship between Gian and Suneo themselves. Gian typically assumes the role of the group’s leader, using his strength and dominant personality to decide what everyone should do. Suneo, meanwhile, comes from a wealthy family, owns numerous expensive toys, and frequently suggests activities designed to attract attention. Their personalities complement each other in some ways, although they also disagree from time to time.
Nobita occupies a more vulnerable position within the group, but he also possesses qualities that make his friends want to keep him around. He is easily persuaded to join their activities, has a vivid imagination, and frequently becomes involved in unpredictable adventures that bring the entire group together.
More importantly, Doraemon is a story about children whose personalities and values are still developing. Gian sometimes acts selfishly, Suneo occasionally follows others into bullying behavior, and Nobita often lacks the courage to solve his own problems. Nevertheless, each character has opportunities to grow, change, and reveal positive qualities under different circumstances.
Still, Nobita’s continued friendship with Gian and Suneo should not be taken as evidence that bullying is an unavoidable or acceptable part of friendship. In real life, relationships that repeatedly leave someone feeling frightened, hurt, or pressured deserve serious attention. What ultimately keeps the children in Doraemon connected is their shared history, memorable adventures, and occasional displays of genuine care—not the bullying itself.
Sources: gamek