My Hero Academia: How Did Koichi Become Shunned By Everyone Around Him?

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Summary

  • Koichi became isolated due to a college misunderstanding.
  • Koichi’s hero spirit remains steadfast despite past events and loneliness.
  • Episode 5 of My Hero Academia Vigilantes sheds light into Koichi’s character development.

Observing the fresh spin-off series, “Vigilantes” from the world of “My Hero Academia”, I find the protagonist Koichi to be surprisingly solitary, despite his cheerful and benevolent demeanor. At first glance, he resides in a humble abode, tucked away from the reach of many, living a life of seclusion. Yet, the story doesn’t immediately divulge how this man with a heroic spirit found himself in this predicament.

How did this aspiring vigilante hero wind up so secluded and friendless, shunned by others despite appearing kind-hearted and optimistic? Episode 5 of the anime offers a more comprehensive look at how past experiences have molded Koichi’s personality, resulting in his current situation.

Koichi’s Failed College Debut

A Misunderstanding Set Him Up for Isolation

In the fifth episode of “My Hero Academia: Vigilantes,” I’m taken back to a time when Koichi was quite the social butterfly, unlike the introverted individual we see today. The scene unfolds as I, the newcomer among a crowd of college peers, join them following an all-night pub crawl. Despite the group’s apparent inebriation, I, with my clear head, propose that we continue the evening at my nearby residence.

Hey there! I’m just around the corner if you’d like to drop by! Sound good to you folks?” (In the style of an enthusiastic individual, Koichi Haimawari in Episode 5)

At first, everyone appears keen on Koichi’s idea after he proposes it. They show interest in visiting where he lives. However, their enthusiasm fades as they approach his apartment, which is located atop a spooky, seemingly forsaken structure. The ominous appearance of the building seems to bring them back to reality rather abruptly. Unfortunately, Koichi doesn’t seem to pick up on their evident unease.

Don’t worry about being timid. There are plenty of treats here, specially selected for you, and tea so delicious it’s to die for! Let me guide you inside.” – Koichi Haimawari inviting a college girl towards the building’s entrance.

The words spoken by Koichi prove unhelpful, causing the anxious group to interpret them literally. One of the college females even cried out for assistance as the narrative shifts to the following day. Rapidly, whispers about the incident sweep through campus, labeling Koichi as a “freshman oddity” or “creep.

Hi there. Look who’s that? It’s the latest problem child on campus, Haimawari, the new freshman. I’ve been hearing whispers that he persistently tried to lead a girl into an abandoned building and ignored her refusals. Quite concerning, isn’t it?

After enduring the quiet murmurs and suspicious glances, Koichi retreats to his apartment, regretting his unsuccessful college introduction and feeling grateful that he at least has a roof over his head. Despite finding it roomy, this only deepens his sadness as it underscores the solitude even more.

A Pattern of Unfortunate Events

Koichi’s Unlucky Circumstances

In the beginning of the “My Hero Academia” episode, Koichi’s reason for feeling lonely transitions into a central theme. We discover that Koichi narrates an account of another misfortune that prevented him from participating in the hero exam. On a stormy day, he paused to save someone who was about to drown in a river, which caused him to arrive late for the test. This event is shared with Pop Step, but she reacts angrily when he narrates it.

I find that astonishingly unfortunate, Koichi. So engrossed in the act of mimicking greatness, you overlooked the opportunity to truly embody it and realize your dream as a genuine hero.

Since meeting the vigilantes, Koichi’s old dreams are finally coming true. He seems content to have both Pop Step and Knuckleduster in his apartment, a place that used to be empty. Moreover, their assistance has allowed him to take on the role of a vigilante hero, something he couldn’t do before. Despite being ostracized due to misunderstandings and unfortunate events, Koichi never lost his heroic spirit. This perseverance eventually led him back to the path of a hero, serving as an inspiration for Pop Step and Knuckleduster in their own unique ways.

My Hero Academia can be streamed on Crunchyroll and Hulu.

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2025-05-29 15:14