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Yu Ishigami

Yu Ishigami (石上 優, Ishigami Yū) is one of the main protagonists in the Kaguya-sama wa Kokurasetai  series. He is a second-year student at Shuchi’in Academy and serves as the Treasurer of both the 67th and 68th Student Councils. Yu is also a former member of the Cheer Club and Culture Festival Committee, and later becomes the Vice President of the 69th Student Council.

“
Telling people what to do isn’t really my thing. Something like this is only noble if you do it without saying anything.
 ”
— Yu Ishigami

Origin

Yu Ishigami is inspired by Isonokami no Maro (石上 麻呂), the fifth suitor from The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter. His melancholic and depressed personality stems from his counterpart’s fate in the story, where he tragically falls to his death while trying to retrieve a cowry shell from a swallow’s nest, only to end up with bird droppings in his hand.

Appearance

Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

Yu’s full appearance.

Yu Ishigami is a tall, slim teenager with a perpetually somber expression. His black hair falls to his chin, usually obscuring the left side of his face, giving him a withdrawn look that matches his reserved demeanor. His dark eyes often convey a sense of detachment, adding to his generally gloomy appearance.

In his earlier years, Yu had a more athletic build and kept his hair shorter, resembling his classmate Tsubasa Tanuma. However, as his lifestyle became more sedentary, his physique noticeably changed, and he lost much of the muscle he once had.


Personality

Yu Ishigami is a reserved and introverted student who often avoids attending student council meetings, preferring the solitude of working from home. Much of his time is spent alone, playing video games, as he tends to be unpopular with his peers due to a past incident that significantly damaged his reputation.

Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

Yu playing video games.

Yu carries a deeply cynical and pessimistic view of life, frequently venting his frustrations about youth and “normies,” his term for students who appear carefree and socially successful. His bitterness is rooted in his own feelings of isolation and jealousy towards those who are more popular, especially those who manage to find romantic relationships. This negativity, combined with his socially awkward nature, sometimes causes him to make off-putting comments that lead others to perceive him as strange. Nevertheless, his sharp wit and sarcastic humor frequently emerge in conversations, allowing him to make snide remarks in response to the situations he finds himself in.

Despite his gloomy outlook, Yu has a kind heart and a strong sense of morality. His inferiority complex often causes him to doubt his self-worth, but he consistently proves his willingness to help others, even at the cost of his own pride. He once even advised Kaguya Shinomiya to avoid associating with him, believing it would negatively impact her reputation.

Yu is also an avid gamer and manga enthusiast, with a deep knowledge of otaku culture, including the intricacies of anime production and popular manga tropes. However, he keeps his passion for anime and manga a secret, fearing the stigma of being labeled an otaku, only confiding in Miyuki Shirogane about his interests. He enjoys listening to anime soundtracks as well, but like his other hobbies, he keeps this side of himself hidden from most.

History

Yu Ishigami is the second son of a small toy company president, and he gained entry to Shuchi’in Academy through the hard work of his father. Unlike his family, Yu is the only one with a high school education. Although he lacks a strong academic drive, he excels in areas that capture his interest, showing exceptional observational skills. Unfortunately, this talent often leads him to notice the hidden insecurities of others—vulnerabilities they would rather keep buried. While Yu avoids obvious social taboos, he has a habit of unintentionally triggering sensitive topics, not always recognizing the emotional landmines he steps on.

In his early school years, Yu often skipped class until he was recruited by Miyuki Shirogane, who saw his potential and invited him to become the treasurer of the student council. This role forced Yu to attend school more regularly, though his past continued to haunt him.

During middle school, Yu confronted Ko Ogino, the president of the drama club, for cheating on Kyoko Ootomo, a girl Yu deeply cared for. After a physical altercation, Ko falsely accused Yu of attacking him out of jealousy, leading to widespread rumors, ostracization, and a long suspension. The incident severely damaged Yu’s self-esteem and strained his relationship with his family. He refused to write an apology letter, believing that doing so would mean admitting fault. However, Miyuki investigated the matter and discovered the truth, becoming the first person to believe in Yu’s innocence. Thanks to Miyuki’s support, Yu was brought onto the student council for his impressive data analysis skills.

Yu also briefly participated in the track club, where he was known for his speed. Eventually, under pressure to join a school club, he decided to join the Cheer Club, led by his senior Kazeno. It was here that Yu met Tsubame Koyasu, a third-year student known for her kind and positive demeanor. Yu quickly developed a crush on her and, during the school’s cultural festival, unknowingly confessed his feelings by giving her a heart-shaped gift, a gesture traditionally seen as a confession at Shuchi’in. Although Yu remained oblivious to the significance of his actions, the rest of the student body interpreted it as a clear romantic declaration. After some encouragement from Kaguya Shinomiya, Tsubame agreed to consider Yu’s feelings seriously, though her initial intention had been to gently reject him. It wasn’t until Yu watched Tsubame’s performance in a traditional play during the festival that he realized the unintended weight of his actions, though even then, his dense nature prevented him from fully understanding that he had made a direct confession.

Relationships

Student Council

Miyuki Shirogane
Miyuki Shirogane shares a close friendship with Yu. Their bond began when Miyuki investigated an incident where Yu was wrongfully accused. Upon uncovering the truth and standing by Yu, Miyuki’s actions fostered a strong sense of trust between them. They even spent time together at an aquarium after Miyuki was rejected by Kaguya, deepening their connection.

Kaguya Shinomiya
Kaguya Shinomiya, an upperclassman of Yu, initially has a contentious relationship with him. Yu mistakenly believes that Kaguya intends to harm him, but over time, their relationship evolves into a sibling-like bond, despite occasional fear on Yu’s part. His fear began to fade when he joined the Cheer Club and needed a female uniform; Kaguya stepped in to assist him. As exam season approached, Kaguya noticed Yu’s crush on Tsubame Koyasu and dedicated herself to helping him pursue her by aiding his studies to improve his academic standing. During the exams, Yu realizes that his motivation to study stems not from fear or his feelings for Tsubame but from the knowledge that someone like Kaguya believes in him. Their relationship flourishes as Kaguya continues to provide advice and encouragement regarding his feelings for Tsubame, and Yu expresses gratitude for her support.

Yu holds Kaguya’s opinions in high esteem, often seeking her advice on romantic gestures for Tsubame, many of which Kaguya finds unsettling. He also asks for her help to improve his volleyball skills to impress Tsubame. Upon learning that Kaguya has feelings for someone, Yu casually mentions that he would intervene if he believed that person might harm her or was unworthy of her affection.

Miko Iino
Miko Iino has been a classmate of Yu since middle school. Their relationship resembles that of cats and dogs, with Yu frequently breaking rules and Miko serving on the Discipline Committee. Despite their differences, they care for each other without seeking recognition. Yu transformed the Presidential Debate format from speeches to an actual debate, helping Miko conquer her stage fright. Miko also played a role in protesting the disciplinary actions taken against Yu in middle school, leading to his enrollment in Shuchi’in Academy. Additionally, she was the first to comfort him after he lost a relay race.

After a bonfire, Miko finds herself developing feelings for Yu after he gifts her a heart-shaped pendant he discovered at the archery range, initially intending to turn it in as lost property. Yu, however, remains unaware of the implications of his gesture—a direct confession of sorts.

Following an incident at Tsubame’s party, where Miko injured her arm while saving Yu, their relationship begins to shift significantly. Guilt motivates Yu to spend more time with Miko, assisting her with homework and sharing meals. He follows Chika’s advice to be kind to Miko, revealing her sweeter side and improving their rapport.

In Chapter 188, their relationship faces a minor setback as they argue about Yu’s date with Tsubame. Yu is frustrated by Miko’s and the rest of the Student Council’s probing into his love life. However, they quickly reconcile after some interjections from their peers.

At the end of Chapter 192, Yu is exposed by Kobachi for giving Miko her cherished Sutera flower, which he admits he did out of deep concern for her well-being.

On Valentine’s Day, Miko presents Yu with chocolate, insisting that it’s merely an obligation. Nonetheless, Yu appreciates her gesture and teases her about her defensiveness regarding the gift.

As Yu copes with his heartbreak from Tsubame’s rejection, he begins to develop romantic feelings for Miko, pondering, “Just who exactly is Iino to me?” after chasing her out of concern for her well-being. He feels protective and even slightly jealous at the thought of Miko dating an older man and potentially putting herself in danger.

In Chapter 238, Yu acknowledges his growing feelings for Miko, reflecting, “Even though I thought I’d never fall in love again, that feeling has slowly been fading away. The person I always thought hated me, Miko, has started to look at me with kindness, and that makes me happy.” He then asks Miko to the dance.

Following Kaguya’s disappearance, Yu’s interest and awareness of Miko deepen. He becomes increasingly concerned about her absence from the Student Council, even questioning if he misinterpreted her feelings towards him. This leads to a spiral of negative thoughts, wondering if he truly knows her or if she has a secret boyfriend.

His romantic feelings become evident as he walks Miko home, mindful of her fears that she is being watched. While internally grappling with how to reassure her, he worries that comforting her might seem opportunistic, as if he is scoring “affection points.” Yu reprimands himself for viewing the situation like a dating sim. This burgeoning awareness of his feelings becomes clearer as Miko holds onto his clothes during their walk, leading him to think, “If I were to hold Iino’s hand right now, I feel like she’d hold mine too.” At the end of the chapter, upon arriving at Miko’s apartment, she expresses a desire for him to stay, fearing solitude. Yu internally acknowledges, “Iino is cute,” recognizing that he has felt this way for a while. He realizes their arguments stem from genuine care for each other. He affectionately rubs her head, and she moves his hand to her face, resulting in a blush from both.

In the next chapter, they hold hands while sitting on the sofa, discussing the future of the Student Council. Yu blushes intensely while she grips his hand and feels disappointed when she stands to offer him food, which he declines, worrying about her eating enough later. He reflects, “The fact that I’m holding hands with a girl is making my heart race like crazy,” and he feels a sense of sadness when she releases his hand. Yu then praises her for her growth within the Student Council, becoming flustered as he strokes her hair, remarking on its silkiness and wishing he could do so indefinitely. When Yu comments that she gets lonely easily, Miko leans against him, resting her head on his chest. This prompts Yu to hug her, culminating in an almost-kiss at the chapter’s end.

After Miko is elected the 69th Student Council president, Yu agrees to be her vice president.

In a short story released alongside the final fan book, which occurs just before the series concludes, it is revealed that Yu is aware Miko kept the heart-shaped keychain he returned to her during the previous year’s culture festival. He recognizes that their relationship would change if either of them confessed, but he hesitates to make a move out of fear of rejection.

The series concludes with Miko and Yu in a scenario reminiscent of Miyuki and Kaguya’s early relationship, both eager to date each other but hesitant to initiate a confession.

In Hayasaka’s final chapter, after returning from her travels in America, the group reunites, and Yu and Miko appear to have grown closer. She sits next to him, and he teasingly calls her a drunkard.

Chika Fujiwara
Chika Fujiwara is another member of the Student Council. Their relationship is often tense, characterized by mutual criticism (she calls him creepy, and he catches her cheating at games). Yu often finds himself countering Chika’s chaotic tendencies, while she enjoys teasing him at every opportunity.

As their dynamic develops, it becomes evident that they share a fondness for each other. Chika shows sympathy for Yu’s situation, and he acknowledges her intelligence. Their interactions reveal a genuine friendship beneath their playful banter.

Friends

Tsubame Koyasu
Tsubame Koyasu, a fellow Cheer Club member for the Sports Festival, becomes the object of Yu’s affection. After the Sports Festival, Yu develops a crush on her, which does not go unnoticed by the other Student Council members. He admires her outgoing nature and her willingness to assist those in need.

During the Culture Festival, Yu wins a giant heart cookie, which he gifts to Tsubame, leading her to perceive it as a confession due to the festival’s theme of expressing affection. Although she initially intends to gently decline, after speaking with Kaguya and witnessing Yu’s actions contradicting the rumors about him, she asks if she can provide him with an answer after getting to know him better.

On Christmas, Yu finally confesses his feelings to Tsubame directly, but she rejects him due to her fear of commitment. Heartbroken, Yu nearly falls down a flight of stairs, only to be saved by Miko. Despite this setback, Yu remains determined to become someone worthy of Tsubame’s affection and begins working out with Kazeno’s guidance.

After impressing Tsubame during the intramural volleyball tournament, Yu secures a date with her at the Tokyo Skytree. He describes their date as successful, and they schedule another outing together. Yu also receives Valentine’s Day chocolate from Tsubame, which he accepts with enthusiasm.

At the graduation ceremony for the third-year students, Tsubame finally responds to Yu’s previous proposal. Despite Yu’s best efforts to persuade her, Tsubame ultimately turns him down, assuring him they will remain friends. He bids her farewell with a smile and a bouquet, but afterward, he breaks down in tears, experiencing the pain of heartbreak for the first time.

Maki Shijo
Maki Shijo, an upperclassman, forms a friendship with Yu through her frequent visits to the Student Council room. Their relationship mirrors that of Kaguya and Yu, with Yu genuinely considering Maki a good person. He supports her during her moments of despair, particularly in dealing with her own crush on her best friend, while also inviting her to various events like the Sports Festival.

Yu’s relationship with Maki takes an interesting turn during the Culture Festival when he introduces her to Chika. While there is no significant romantic tension, Yu’s kindness toward Maki enhances their friendship.

Kazeno
Kazeno is Yu’s friend from the Cheer Club. They share a close bond, with Yu admiring Kazeno’s strength and enthusiasm. He often seeks Kazeno’s advice, particularly regarding his workouts and dating life.

Kazeno serves as a mentor to Yu, offering encouragement and guidance as Yu navigates his feelings for Tsubame. Their friendship is characterized by camaraderie and shared interests, as they support each other through challenges.

Etymology

The given name Yu (優) conveys meanings such as “excellence,” “superiority,” and “gentleness.” His surname, Ishigami, is composed of two elements: 石 (ishi), meaning “stone,” and 上 (kami or gami), meaning “above,” “top,” or “upper.”

Trivia

    • Yu’s long bangs act as a physical barrier, helping him avoid unwanted sights and serving as a reflection of his fear of social interactions.
    • His left eye is rarely seen due to his bangs, though it is visible during the sports festival in Episode 23.
    • He has a significant fear of Kaguya Shinomiya, believing she might one day harm him.
    • Yu once proposed the idea of a “happiness tax” for couples, leading some fans to humorously refer to his romantic pursuits as taxes.
    • He mentioned that he was quite athletic during his middle school years.
    • Yu possesses a strong problem-solving ability, exemplified by his repeated success in uncovering why Nagisa Kashiwagi was upset with Tsubasa Tanuma.
    • His LINE icon features an anime character.
    • Initially wearing briefs, Yu switched to boxers after feeling embarrassed by Chika Fujiwara.
    • Despite being highly analytical and adept at processing information, Yu struggles with exams, a result of prolonged periods of isolation after being unable to write a letter to Ko, which left a lasting impact on his studies.
    • Yu’s parents run a toy manufacturing business, while his mother also works as a florist.
    • In the first 72 chapters of the series, Yu’s speech bubbles have a rough edge, similar to other male characters. From Chapter 73 onwards, they adopt a smoother, rounded box shape, suggesting a shift towards a softer yet masculine voice.
    • Yu plays as Crypto in Apex Legends, ranking in the Diamond tier of its Ranked Leagues.
    • His preferred squad composition of Crypto, Revenant, and Wraith was notably popular during Season 5 ofApex Legends. Interestingly, Season 6 launched around the same time the corresponding chapter was released, resulting in a nerf to their synergy.
    • Although Yu is often reclusive, he demonstrates intelligence and can quickly become temperamental if something feels off.
    • Yu shares his birthday with Chika Fujiwara.
    • He references The Shawshank Redemption in Episode 32.
    • His favorite flower is Sultera, the same flower he gifted to Miko Iino.
    • Throughout the manga, Yu exhibits remarkable academic growth, improving from 197th place at the start to 8th place by the conclusion.