For those passionate about traditional Japanese culture through manga or anime, the affection towards virtual characters is not an uncommon phenomenon. However, the case of Akihiki Kondo (born 1983) has left many astonished, as this young man not only admires but has also decided to marry the virtual character Hatsune Miku.
Hatsune Miku is a famous virtual idol developed by Crypton Future Media. Although she is a product of technology, for many years, Hatsune Miku has remained one of the most beloved and influential figures in Japan. This character even made an appearance during Lady Gaga’s tour in 2014.
Akihiki Kondo’s unique affection for Miku
In 2018, Kondo decided to spend up to 2 million yen (over 300 million dong) to marry Hatsune Miku after a long period of searching for peace and inspiration from this “virtual diva”.
Kondo shared that he first encountered Miku while working, and listening to her songs made him feel revitalized. Notably, the company that created and produced Miku issued a marriage certificate for Kondo and Miku, indicating that Kondo is one of 3,700 people who have received such a certificate.
The marriage certificate of Kondo and his “virtual wife” stirred up quite a scene
After holding a private wedding ceremony with 39 attendees, Kondo still cherishes the life he shares with his virtual model, Hatsune Miku, who is represented as a 3D figure, and the two always appear together. Moreover, on special occasions, Kondo even customizes outfits and accessories suitable for Miku.
“Miku has been my companion during the most difficult times in my life, helping me escape from depression and reintegrate into society. Between me and her is an exceptionally close emotional connection; she does not judge, does not age, or fade away,” Kondo shared during an interview.
Through the Gatebox device, Kondo can interact with Miku’s 3D projection as if they were two real people. Via Gatebox, Kondo can communicate and share simple moments, making their relationship feel more tangible.
Kondo regularly interacts with Miku’s 3D image via Gatebox
However, as Kondo’s life with his “virtual wife” unfolds, new challenges began to arise. In 2020, due to the impact of the pandemic, Gatebox announced that it would cease providing services for Miku. This means that Kondo will no longer have the opportunity to interact with Miku in the future.
On the day Miku officially “retired” from Gatebox, Kondo expressed his final farewell to his beloved and went home. When he returned that evening, Miku’s image had been replaced with a message indicating “service termination”.
Kondo used a Miku figure the size of a real person after Miku 3D ceased to operate
This situation has left Kondo feeling quite empty for a long time. However, at the age of 39, Kondo also expressed that his feelings for Miku would never change. Furthermore, Kondo has since decided to delve deeper and understand the societal issues related to virtual characters, as well as the rights associated with them, such as linguistic rights and human rights. Subsequently, Kondo was accepted into the Law Faculty at Komazawa University and began his studies in April 2021 to continue learning and researching issues surrounding virtual characters from manga and anime.
Source: Manichi, ET Toda
