Does 'Everyone Else Is A Returnee' Have A Romance Subplot?

I've been following 'Everyone Else is a Returnee' for a while, and while it's primarily an action-packed fantasy with intense dungeon crawling and system-based progression, there's definitely a subtle romance subplot woven in. The protagonist Yu Ilhan's relationship with the archangel Lee Jaerin evolves slowly but meaningfully throughout the series. Their bond starts as a mentor-student dynamic but gradually develops into something deeper, filled with mutual respect and unspoken affection. The romance never overshadows the main plot, but it adds emotional weight to their interactions, especially during high-stakes battles. Other female characters like the dragoness Nayuna also show romantic interest, creating a harem-esque tension without explicit relationships forming. The author handles these elements with restraint, keeping the focus on survival and growth while allowing just enough romance to satisfy readers who enjoy that dimension in their stories.

As someone who analyzes storytelling structures, 'Everyone Else is a Returnee' presents an interesting case study in balancing genre expectations. The romance subplot exists but serves more as character development fuel than a central narrative driver. Yu Ilhan's connection with Lee Jaerin stands out because it defies typical tropes—their relationship grows through shared trauma and centuries of isolation rather than superficial attraction. The archangel's initial role as his guide shifts into a partnership where their emotional intimacy becomes his anchor against the loneliness of being the last human on Earth.

The series cleverly uses romantic tension to highlight Ilhan's personal growth. His initial social awkwardness from years of solitude makes any romantic progression feel earned rather than forced. Scenes where Jaerin teaches him human interaction or worries about his safety carry subtle romantic undertones without veering into melodrama. Other potential love interests like the dragonkin Nayuna or elf princess Erta serve more as foils to explore Ilhan's values than serious romantic contenders.

What makes this approach refreshing is how it mirrors real-life relationships—understated, complicated, and evolving naturally over time. Readers craving explicit romance might find it lacking, but those who appreciate nuanced emotional connections will enjoy how these elements enhance the larger narrative about resilience and connection in a fractured world. The light novel format allows for more introspection about these dynamics than the web novel version, particularly in later volumes where Jaerin's feelings become more apparent during pivotal moments.

If you're picking up 'Everyone Else is a Returnee' hoping for sweeping romance, temper those expectations—but don't dismiss the emotional connections entirely. The series focuses hard on its overpowered protagonist grinding through dungeons and outsmarting gods, yet the quiet moments between Ilhan and Jaerin hit differently. Their relationship builds through small gestures: her preserving his favorite foods for centuries, him risking everything to protect her despite her angelic strength. It's less about confession scenes and more about showing care through actions.

The harem elements are present but downplayed. Female characters are drawn to Ilhan's competence and loyalty, but the story avoids typical fanservice traps. Even Nayuna's dragon form crush feels more like a running joke than serious competition. What stands out is how romance factors into Ilhan's humanity—his connections keep him grounded despite becoming ridiculously powerful. Later arcs explore this beautifully when Jaerin's angelic restrictions create bittersweet tension between duty and desire.

For similar blends of action and restrained romance, try 'The Novel's Extra' or 'Second Life Ranker'. Both mix strategic combat with emotionally charged relationships that develop organically over time, though with different narrative focuses.