Hiroko Seto is a tall and beautiful woman with an athletic build. She has straight, shoulder-length black hair with a single strand hanging in front of her face, swept to the left, and striking navy blue eyes.

In the past, before the death of Saki Arima, Hiroko had longer, mid-back length hair with a thicker fringe, giving her a softer and more youthful appearance.

Hiroko Seto is an upbeat and exuberant individual who often exudes a lively and positive energy. However, beneath her spirited exterior lies a warm-hearted and deeply sensitive person who genuinely cares for those around her.

She takes a nurturing role in Kousei Arima’s life, supporting him as he decides to return to playing the piano after years of emotional struggle. Hiroko feels partly responsible for the immense pressure placed on Kousei during his childhood, as she encouraged Saki Arima to shape Kousei into a pianist. This decision inadvertently contributed to Kousei’s hardships, leaving Hiroko with a lingering sense of guilt.

Despite this, Hiroko is unwavering in her support for Kousei, always standing by his side and encouraging him to make his own decisions. Her guidance and compassion play a crucial role in helping him rediscover his love for music and navigate his emotional journey.

Background

During her high school years, Hiroko Seto met Yuriko Ochiai, a fellow pianist, and the two became close friends. Their friendship endured well into adulthood, with both women maintaining their shared passion for music and supporting each other’s careers.

Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso

Hiroko re-entered Kousei Arima’s life after hearing about his return to the piano. Alongside her daughter, Koharu Seto, she attended Kousei’s performance at the Maihou Competition and witnessed his emotional rendition. It was the first time Hiroko had seen Kousei in two years, and she immediately noticed the profound emotions in his music. She deduced that Kousei was playing for someone he deeply cared about, likely someone he loved.

Understanding the weight of Kousei’s emotional struggles, Hiroko offered to become his mentor and guardian, stepping in to guide him as he rekindled his relationship with the piano. Hiroko played a pivotal role in helping Kousei reconcile his negative feelings toward his late mother, Saki Arima, by assuring him that “no mother hates her children.” Her support allowed Kousei to see his mother’s strict teachings in a new light, helping him heal from the pain of her loss and rediscover his love for music.

As a world-leading pianist, Hiroko possesses exceptional skill in piano, having performed in prestigious concerts. With her experience as both a pianist and a tutor, Hiroko excels in guiding and inspiring her students. She has a unique ability to help relieve their stress and stage fright, particularly before competitions. Hiroko’s support and encouragement have been pivotal in the development of students like Kousei Arima and Nagi Aiza, providing them with the motivation to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

• (To Saki Arima) “Saki, you have to teach Kousei how to play the piano! He is a prodigy.”

• (To Kousei Arima) “Which one do you like better, long hair or short hair?”

• (To herself) “After losing Saki, Kousei… met someone who means the world to him.”

• (To Kousei) “No mother hates her children.”

• (To Kousei Arima) “Which one do you like better, long hair or short hair?”