Who Did Kiryu Kiss? Unraveling the Romantic Entanglements of Kazuma Kiryu
Kazuma Kiryu, the stoic and honorable protagonist of the Yakuza (now Like a Dragon) series, isn’t exactly known for his romantic escapades. While his life is filled with intense battles, intricate plots, and deep-seated loyalty, love isn’t typically at the forefront. However, one significant romantic moment stands out in his history, a passionate kiss that has fueled discussions among fans for years. The woman who shared this kiss with Kiryu is Kaoru Sayama. This kiss occurs in Yakuza 2 (and its remake, Yakuza Kiwami 2), during a critical moment when both characters believe they are about to die from a bomb explosion. This seemingly final act was a powerful expression of their connection and the unspoken feelings that had grown between them. It was a moment of shared vulnerability and a testament to the deep bond they forged amidst the turmoil of the narrative.
Kiryu’s Complicated Love Life
While the kiss with Sayama is the most explicit romantic interaction we witness, it’s crucial to understand Kiryu’s general approach to love and relationships. Unlike many of his colleagues and friends, Kiryu is not a womanizer. His heart is largely reserved for two women who shaped his life: Yumi Sawamura, whom he loved deeply, and Kaoru Sayama.
Yumi Sawamura: The Love Lost
Yumi was Kiryu’s childhood sweetheart and the woman he intended to build a future with. Her tragic death in the first Yakuza game deeply impacted him, leaving a void that is palpable throughout the series. This profound loss contributed to Kiryu’s guarded approach to future romantic relationships.
Kaoru Sayama: The One Who Got Away
Kaoru Sayama, an Osaka detective, enters Kiryu’s life in Yakuza 2. Their relationship is complex, marked by both professional collaboration and growing personal affection. The kiss, mentioned earlier, is a culmination of their shared trials and tribulations, a moment where feelings were laid bare despite the dire circumstances. After the events of Yakuza 2, Sayama disappears, and Kiryu never explicitly pursues any relationship again despite offers like from Mayumi Madarame.
The Kiss in Detail: Yakuza 2
The kiss between Kiryu and Sayama occurs when they are trapped in a building rigged with explosives by Terada. Believing their end is near, Sayama, battered and bruised, attempts to help the weakened Kiryu escape. However, Kiryu is too weak to move. In this moment of despair, Kiryu kisses Sayama before they brace for what they believe is their imminent demise. Fortunately, it’s later revealed that the bomb was a fake, a deception orchestrated by Terada. This allows both to survive; however, their romance isn’t pursued further.
This scene is particularly significant because it showcases a rare moment of vulnerability from Kiryu. The typically stoic and reserved “Dragon of Dojima” allows his emotions to surface, revealing the depth of his affection for Sayama. This act is a clear departure from his usual guarded persona and underscores the strength of their bond.
15 Frequently Asked Questions About Kiryu and His Love Life
Who is Kiryu Kazuma in love with?
Kiryu’s two main love interests throughout the series are Yumi Sawamura and Kaoru Sayama. While he held deep affections for both, Yumi’s tragic death shaped much of his attitude toward romance, and Sayama’s disappearance left their relationship ambiguous.
Does Kiryu and Sayama get together?
Despite the strong feelings they share, and their shared kiss, Kiryu and Sayama do not officially get together. After the events of Yakuza 2, Sayama vanishes from Kiryu’s life, and they do not rekindle their relationship in the games that follow.
Did Ryuji know it was Kiryu?
Yes, Ryuji Goda recognizes Kiryu immediately when they meet in Yakuza 2. He recognizes Kiryu as the “Dragon of Dojima,” leading to their rivalry and climactic battle.
Does Kiryu adopt Haruka?
Yes, Kiryu adopts Haruka after the death of her mother, Yumi. He takes on the role of her adoptive father and raises her, and their bond is central to the series’ emotional core.
Who did Haruka have a baby with?
Haruka’s child, Haruto Sawamura, is the son of Yuta Usami. This reveal takes place in Yakuza 6: The Song of Life.
Is Haruka in love with Kiryu?
No, the relationship between Haruka and Kiryu is strictly a father-daughter one. Their bond is founded on love and familial responsibility, not romantic attraction.
Who betrayed Kiryu?
Reina, a bar owner, betrayed Kiryu by acting as a mole for Nishiki. She was motivated by her feelings for Nishiki, but ultimately regretted her actions.
Why did Majima stalk Kiryu?
Goro Majima stalks Kiryu because he wants to test and push Kiryu’s strength and boundaries. He wants to fight him and views Kiryu as his ultimate rival.
Who is in love with Ryuji?
In the Toradora series, Ami Kawashima develops feelings for Ryuji Takasu. Note, this is not related to the Yakuza universe.
Does Kiryu ever lose his virginity?
The answer to this question remains ambiguous, however, throughout the series he is implied to be a virgin until recent teases that imply that he may have a family at some point.
Who framed Kiryu?
Dojima hired Lao Gui to frame Kiryu for murder so that he could eliminate Kazama’s power in the clan.
How old is Kiryu in Yakuza 6?
Kiryu is 48 years old in Yakuza 6.
Is Majima obsessed with Kiryu?
Yes, Majima’s obsession with Kiryu is a recurring theme throughout the series. His interest is centered around their rivalry and the challenge of fighting Kiryu.
Who would Kazuma marry?
In the Konosuba series, Kazuma will marry Megumin and Iris. Again, this is not related to the Yakuza universe.
Has Kiryu killed anyone canonically?
Despite his intense battles and violence, it’s canonically stated that Kiryu has never killed anyone throughout the entire series.
Conclusion
The kiss between Kazuma Kiryu and Kaoru Sayama in Yakuza 2 is a pivotal moment that highlights the depth of Kiryu’s feelings and offers a glimpse of a romantic connection that could have been. However, much like his relationship with Yumi, their romance is cut short by circumstances. This scene adds an emotional layer to Kiryu’s character, demonstrating that behind his stoic exterior is a man capable of profound love. While he doesn’t often express it, the impact of his relationships with the women in his life significantly shapes his journey, making Kiryu more than just a powerful fighter, but a complex and compelling character.