Naoya is a character who appears in the story The Bully, which is part of the anime Junji Ito Maniac: Japanese Tales of the Macabre. He first appears as a shy, gentle boy who becomes the target of relentless bullying by a girl named Kuriko. As a child, Naoya is timid, easily frightened, and unable to defend himself. He endures physical and emotional abuse from Kuriko, who vents her own frustrations on him, and he is manipulated into dangerous situations, such as being bitten by a dog. Despite his suffering, he does not retaliate or report the abuse, which suggests a passive and vulnerable nature.

Years later, Naoya returns as an adult. He has undergone a significant transformation, both in appearance and behavior. He is no longer the meek victim; instead, he presents himself as a charming and charismatic man. This adult version of Naoya deliberately re-enters Kuriko's life, and despite her past cruelty toward him, he successfully pursues a romantic relationship with her. They eventually marry and have a son named Hiroshi. However, Naoya's true motivation is revenge. After the birth of their child, he disappears, abandoning Kuriko and Hiroshi without explanation. His actions are calculated to inflict lasting psychological damage, forcing Kuriko to raise a son who strongly resembles him. By leaving, Naoya ensures that Kuriko will be reminded of him every day, and he sets the stage for her to repeat the cycle of abuse on their son, just as she once did to him. His disappearance is a cold and deliberate act, exposing a manipulative and vengeful side that contrasts sharply with his childhood innocence.

Naoya's key relationship is with Kuriko, who transforms from his childhood tormentor into his wife. The dynamic is deeply toxic and rooted in unresolved trauma. Another significant relationship is with his son, Hiroshi, whom he leaves behind as a tool for his revenge. Naoya does not develop any supernatural abilities; his power lies in psychological manipulation and his ability to exploit Kuriko's guilt and unresolved feelings. His role in the story is that of a catalyst: his return and subsequent abandonment trigger Kuriko's descent into madness and abuse, mirroring the torment she once inflicted on him. Through Naoya, the narrative explores themes of revenge, the cyclical nature of abuse, and the long shadows cast by childhood trauma.