Kong’s Evolution and Shift in Perception of Humanity

Kong, the ancient and colossal gorilla, has a complex relationship with humanity. His stance towards us is multifaceted and evolves as he interacts with different individuals and groups. This transformation is driven by various factors such as the actions of those around him, his personal experiences, and the relationships he forms.

Actions and Reactions

Kong's perception of human actions is shaped by the way those actions impact his environment. For instance, the inhabitants of the Iwi island do not despoil the land, which aligns with Kong's protective instincts. He respects and protects them, indicating a positive view towards those who treat the natural world with care.

On the other hand, Kong has a strongly adversarial relationship with the Sky Devils. These skyborne antagonists not only destroy wildlife but also awaken the monstrous Skullcrawlers and target Kong directly. Kong's response to this group is swift and severe; he destroys them because their actions threaten his and the island's safety.

Another important factor that influences Kong's behavior is the actions of individuals such as Weaver and Conrad. When Weaver tries to save a Sker Buffalo, Kong protects her, marking her as someone who respects and interacts positively with the natural environment. Similarly, when Packard sets off charges and Kong sees them off, he implies a mild sense of understanding, at least in the context of parting ways.

Friends and Enemies

Kong's relationship with certain humans, such as Weaver and Conrad, evolved over time. They are not only friendly but also peaceful, and these interactions foster a sense of mutual trust. Kong respects them and even hopes that Suko can stop being violent and suspicious, indicating a growing sense of empathy and desire to form enduring friendships.

The relationship with Monarch and Jia, especially Jia, is particularly significant. Kong tolerates captivity because of the chemical sedation and Jia's reassuring communication. Jia assures Kong that he will be okay and explains that he is freed from his habitat but must find a new home. This trust is so strong that it inspires Kong to fight Mechagodzilla and save Godzilla's life. Kong recognizes Jia and Monarch as friends and trusts them to help him with his infected tooth in New Empire.

Turning Points and Betrayals

There are instances that break this trust, primarily involving Maia and Apex security. When Maia and the Apex security threaten Jia and shoot at Kong, he responds with threats and ultimately reacts violently when Maia shoots him, recognizing her as the one who threatened his friend. This event serves as a turning point, highlighting the complexity of Kong's relationship with humanity and the impact of betrayal on his perceptions.

The final proof of Kong's nuanced view of humanity comes when Godzilla recognizes the need to ally against the Skar King. This indicates that Kong's evolution is not just in understanding the concept of friendship, but also in recognizing the importance of strategic alliances to combat greater threats.

Conclusion

From Kong’s perspective, humans are not monolithic: there are those who are friends, and there are those who are enemies. As time progresses, Kong becomes more cautious about forming new relationships, hoping to prevent those he cares about from experiencing betrayal. However, his core belief in the essential goodness of some humans remains intact. This evolving perception not only reflects Kong's character but also provides a poignant commentary on the complex nature of human-animal relationships and the challenges of maintaining trust in an often hostile world.