Oshi no Ko Ending, Explained

Explore the bittersweet ending of Oshi no Ko, the main characters’ fates, the possibility of a spin-off, and much more.

Ai Hoshino as seen in the anime (Image via Studio Doga Kobo)

Aka Akasaka’s Oshi no Ko manga recently came to an end on November 14, 2024, with the release of chapter 166. The chapter marked the end of the beloved Seinen series that captivated fans with an interesting premise, captivating storytelling, layered characters, and a realistic depiction of the entertainment industry’s dark side.

Toward the conclusion of the series, Aqua’s relentless quest for vengeance reaches its climax when he confronts Hikaru Kamiki, his mother’s murderer and his biological father. The climax of the series left the majority of the fanbase divided due to the untimely death of a fan-favorite character, which was followed by a rather bittersweet ending that saw Ruby Hoshino becoming a successful pop idol and honoring her mother’s legacy.

How Does Oshi no Ko End

Aqua as seen in Oshi no Ko (Image via Studio Doga Kobo)

Hikaru Kamiki was a manipulative instigator who exploited multiple women in the entertainment industry by having them commit murders on his behalf and then discarded them. After accusing him of his heinous crimes, Aqua told Hikaru that he was worse than a murderer.

Given that Hikaru had attempted to get Ruby killed the same way he had Ai murdered, Aqua was determined to end Hikaru’s life himself. To ensure that he stayed out of Ruby’s life, Aqua planned to stab Hikaru to death. However, when Hikaru reasoned that by killing him, Aqua would only tarnish Ruby’s reputation as the “sister of a murderer,” Aqua reconsidered his plan. Eventually, Aqua decided to stab himself and threw Hikaru and himself off a cliff, sending them plunging into the cold waters of the sea below.

Both Hikaru and Aqua passed away from drowning in the sea. After their bodies were discovered, Hikaru was framed for Aqua’s murder. Aqua’s passing took a heavy toll on the people closest to him, including his sister Ruby Hoshino, Kana Arima, and Akane Kurokawa. However, each one of them eventually picked themselves up and moved on with their respective lives and careers.

Fates of the Main Characters As of Oshi no Ko Ending

Ruby Hoshino and Kana Arima as seen in the Oshi no Ko anime (Image via Studio Doga Kobo)

As mentioned above, the finale of the Oshi no Ko manga saw the series’ protagonist, Aqua Hoshino, sacrificing himself and killing Hikaru Kamiki for the sake of Ruby’s future. On the other hand, Ruby became an even bigger pop idol following Aqua’s death, as her story resonated with people worldwide.

Although Aqua’s death still had its effects on everyone, characters like Mem-Cho, Kana Arima, Akane Kurokawa, Miyako Saitou, and Ichigo Saitou eventually got on with their daily lives. Despite being burdened by his loss, each one of these characters chose to search for the meaning of their own lives. By believing in doing their very best in the things they did, each one of them found a reason for living. The series ended with Ruby going off to work at another performance, determined to walk her path to the future that both her mother Ai and her brother Aqua had illuminated for her.

Why the Oshi no Ko Ending Is Controversial

Aqua and Akane as seen in Oshi no Ko (Image via Studio Doga Kobo)

The ending to Aka Akasaka’s Oshi no Ko series is widely considered to be controversial, and for good reason. Fans all over the world voiced their dissatisfaction with how the mangaka executed Aqua’s death and the subsequent ending of the series. According to them, Aqua was planning to die for the majority of the story but eventually realized that it would be a mistake. He had clearly changed his views on dying and was planning to live instead.

As such, by abruptly killing off Aqua in Oshi no Ko chapter 164, Aka Akasaka caused a massive uproar among the fans. Many frowned upon the abrupt decision to kill off the series’ protagonist for mere shock value. Some even claimed that Aqua’s demise would not have been a major problem for them if only Akasaka had executed it properly instead of rushing it.

Is There Room for a Spin-Off or Sequel

Ai Hoshino in Oshi no Ko season 1 (Image via Studio Doga Kobo)

With the way the Oshi no Ko manga concluded, a spin-off or a sequel to the series is certainly a possibility. A continuation could explore Ruby’s life as a pop idol in the future. It could also shed light on her future relationships and personal growth.

Additionally, a spin-off series centered on Kana Arima, Akane Kurokawa, or the lives of Miyako and Ichigo Saitou managing the next generation of Strawberry Production’s stars might also be welcomed by fans who were let down by the series’ ending.

Conclusion

Ai as seen in Oshi no Ko season 1 (Image via Studio Doga Kobo)

The ending to Aka Akasaka’s Oshi no Ko manga is divisive, to say the least. Aqua’s death subverted almost every fan’s expectations, given that he had previously expressed his desire to live and pursue his own dreams. However, before he passed away, Aqua had at least managed to accomplish his desire of avenging his mother’s death and securing his sister’s future, which certainly gives meaning to his death.


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